A delegation visiting Qatar from the European Parliament praised the country for its progress in labour reforms and also for its humanitarian efforts to help Afghan refugees. The MEPs met Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani and a number of other officials and civil society representatives over the last few days.
The European Parliament delegation was led by Marc Tarabella, vice-chair of the delegation for relations with the Arab Peninsula and chair of the Sport intergroup – of the Parliament. Tarabella said in a press conference by the end of the visit that Qatar values the EU inputs and demonstrates that the country willing to work together to achieve the best outcome for workers.
Qatar has recently abolished the rigid kafala system, increased safety measures and provided high standards of protection for all workers. The reforms include a non-discriminatory minimum wage and regulations upon employers.
Tarabella said that the Prime Minister made it clear that the process of reform does not end by 2022 but will continue long after 2022.
Tiziana Beghin, a member of the Committee of the International Trade/Budget, and member of the Sport Intergroup – EU Parliament said she was also impressed by the improvements in workers conditions.
