Saudi Arabia reinforces commitment to eradicate forced labor

RIYADH: Reinforcing its commitment to eradicate forced labor, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced that it will soon approve a national policy on combating the practice.

Details of the new policy were shared on the sidelines of the 111th International Labor Conference in Geneva organized by the ministry, said the MHRSD.

MHRSD Vice Minister for Labor Dr. Abdullah Abuthnain opened the event, highlighting the Kingdom’s initiatives and proactive measures to tackle this issue head-on.

The new national policy on combating forced labor will be the first of its kind in the Gulf Cooperation Council region and will build on extensive initiatives to be implemented in Saudi Arabia over the next three years.

Developed in consultation with international partners, the policy will bring into force new requirements, including more stringent monitoring of labor conditions and tougher punishment of abuses.

The policy will integrate all government sectors to combat forced labor and create effective coordination mechanisms.

It will also take a thorough and collaborative approach to guarantee that victims receive justice and have access to the support necessary to recover and rebuild their lives.

Sattam Al-Harbi, deputy minister for control and development of work environment at the MHRSD, said: “The scourge of forced labor is a global issue which demands a global solution. Only through international collaboration can we tackle forced labor at scale with the urgency required.

“Saudi Arabia has long prioritized this issue and has taken great strides forward, joining international commitments and setting new standards in the region. The new national policy on combating forced labor is a testament to the importance of this issue to our government.