Exploitation of Ugandan Migrant Workers in Saudi Arabia: A Legal, Ethical, and Human Rights Dilemma

Mr. Kayonde Abdallah’s talk focuses on a critical issue affecting Ugandan migrant workers legally employed in Saudi Arabia through bilateral arrangement agreements between the two countries. Despite following all legal procedures and guidelines, these individuals often encounter severe exploitation and abuse once they arrive in their host country. A major concern highlighted is arbitrary deportation of Ugandan workers who face contractual disputes or mistreatment by their sponsors (kafala system).

The kafala sponsorship system grants employers significant power over migrant workers, including control over residency status and exit from the country. This imbalance often leads to abuse of rights as highlighted in Mr. Abdallah’s talk – cases where Ugandan workers face mistreatment but are deported without proper investigation or resolution for their grievances under valid contracts, effectively treating them like criminals instead of victims seeking assistance within the bounds of legally established agreements.

The question arises regarding whether Saudi laws and bilateral arrangements between Uganda and Saudi Arabia are adequately protecting migrant workers' rights, as evidenced by persistent deportations despite legitimate contractual disputes faced by these individuals. Mr. Abdallah urges both governments to scrutinize recruitment processes thoroughly, ensuring proper training and medical check-ups for prospective migrant workers before their departure.

Furthermore, he emphasizes the need for accountability in addressing disputes arising from civil contracts between employers and employees without resorting to deportation as a solution – especially since it often places blame on victims rather than investigating potential perpetrators (Saudi nationals or entities) who lure workers into exploitative situations. There is an urgent call for compensation mechanisms in such cases, ensuring that affected Ugandan migrant workers are not left destitute and without support after returning home due to the lack of proper follow-up by both governments involved.

In essence, Mr. Abdallah’s talk underscores a legal, ethical dilemma involving exploitation and abuse faced by Ugandan migrant workers in Saudi Arabia within an allegedly flawed system that fails to protect their fundamental rights effectively. His appeal for greater accountability from both governments aims at rectifying these issues, ensuring fair treatment of all migrants under international labor standards and human rights conventions.