Supporting Migrant Workers in the Gulf  

As I sit down to pen this entry, I find myself reflecting on my recent visit to our partners in the Arab Gulf States. These partners, who are focused on supporting migrant workers in the region, shared a sobering reality about the situation of this critical and vulnerable population. Migrant workers often lack access to essential social protections such as healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pensions. Many are trapped in the Kafala system, which ties their legal status to their employer, creating a dependency that can lead to exploitation and abuse. This system prevents them from changing jobs or leaving unfavorable situations without risking deportation. Imagine the despair of being unable to change jobs or escape a dire situation without the looming threat of deportation.

In my conversations with organizations on the ground, I learned that it is vital that they do not operate in isolation. Building connections and networks among migrant worker organizations can significantly enhance their capacity and advocacy reach. By coming together, they can share resources, best practices, and coordinate initiatives to amplify their voices and advocate for migrant workers’ rights with greater confidence and impact.

At PartnersGlobal, we understand that organizations dedicated to supporting migrant workers are a lifeline in this very difficult environment. Through these organizations, community members can create more resilient and supportive networks for ongoing dialogue about the challenges facing migrant workers. We also know that investing in capacity-building programs is essential for enhancing the skills and resilience of these organizations. Training in areas such as financial management, legal advocacy, health and safety, and strategic planning can empower these organizations to manage their operations more effectively and sustainably. These training programs can also help organizations better understand and navigate the legal and regulatory landscapes in which they operate.

Strengthening the resilience of organizations that support migrant workers in the Gulf is not just a mission for us at PartnersGlobal—it is a vital step towards ensuring the dignity, rights, and well-being of these workers who are essential to the region’s economy and cultural diversity. Through our work, we are committed to creating spaces for dialogue, building robust networks, and enhancing capacity, ultimately fostering a resilient and empowered support system for migrant workers in the Gulf.

 

                                                                                                                – Hasna, the MENA Storyteller