Qatar’s rapid economic development, driven by its oil and gas industry, has attracted a large number of migrant workers. These workers, primarily from Africa and Southeast Asia, are employed in various sectors, with women predominantly working as domestic helpers. Despite recent labor reforms aimed at improving conditions for migrant workers, many women still suffer from exploitative practices, including wage theft, excessive working hours, and restricted freedom of movement.
Migrant women in Qatar often face physical and sexual abuse from their employers. According to Amnesty International, domestic workers are particularly vulnerable to such abuses due to their isolation in private homes and lack of access to support networks. These women frequently endure physical assaults, verbal abuse, and sexual harassment, with little to no recourse for justice. The Kafala system, which ties a worker’s legal status to their employer, further exacerbates their vulnerability by making it difficult for them to leave abusive situations without risking arrest or deportation.
The Guardian reports female migrant workers employed in hotels during the 2022 World Cup also faced harassment and exploitation. These workers reported incidents of sexual harassment and abusive working conditions, highlighting that even in high-profile sectors, protections for migrant women remain insufficient.
Despite some legislative reforms, Qatar’s legal system continues to fall short in protecting migrant women from gender-based violence (GBV). Laws against domestic violence are weakly enforced, and the legal system often prioritizes the rights of employers over those of workers. Many migrant women are reluctant to report abuse due to fear of retribution, lack of trust in the legal system, and potential repercussions such as detention or deportation.
Moreover, according to Amnesty International, societal norms and discriminatory laws further perpetuate violence against women. The absence of comprehensive shelters and support services for victims of GBV also means that many women have nowhere to turn when they experience abuse.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and the International Organization for Migration, urge the Qatari government to implement stronger protections for migrant women. This includes fully abolishing the Kafala system, ensuring legal protections against GBV are effectively enforced, and providing accessible support services for victims. Additionally, there is a call for greater international scrutiny and pressure on Qatar to uphold the rights of migrant workers, especially in light of global events such as the World Cup.
Gender-based violence against migrant women in Qatar is a deeply entrenched issue that requires urgent attention and action. While some reforms have been made, significant gaps remain in the protection and support of these vulnerable women. Comprehensive legal reforms, robust enforcement of existing laws, and the establishment of supportive services are essential steps towards ensuring the safety and dignity of migrant women in Qatar.