Kuwait emphasizes unwavering backing for International Labour Organization's endeavors; spotlights labor improvements and human rights undertakings.
Firing Up Kuwait's Fair-and-square Labor Revolution
Kuwait's Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Nasser Al-Hayyen, echoed the country's relentless dedication to the International Labor Organization (ILO) and global unity in crafting a fairer, more eco-friendly labor landscape. During the 113th International Labour Conference, Al-Hayyen shared Kuwait's frontline involvement with international labor standards and its crusade for social justice via legislative and policy overhauls, as per Al-Rai's daily reports.
In the face of the interwoven global hurdles the labor market confronts – such as biological perils, digital transfiguration, and the burgeoning platform-based economies – Ambassador Al-Hayyen underscored the urgency for collaborative action grounded in flexible, evolutionary laws. These legal frameworks, as he explained, are indispensable for maintaining social protection and bridging the gap in labor sectors' equity.
Ambassador Al-Hayyen outlined Kuwait's initiatives to harmonize its labor regulations with the vision of its development scheme "New Kuwait 2035," chiefly concerning its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 8 in fostering decent work and economic advancement.
Key reforms include:- The Private Sector Labor Law (No. 6/2010), designed to enhance labor conditions and workers' rights in the private domain.- The Domestic Workers Law (No. 68/2015), focused on safeguarding the rights of domestic helpers.- The Foreign Residence Law (No. 114/2024), aimed at protecting foreign residents.
In an attempt to strengthen labor protections, prohibit forced labor, and ensure equal opportunities, a committee has been constituted to evaluate labor laws and recommend improvements.
Beyond domestic labor reform, Kuwait abides by international human rights obligations. Ambassador Al-Hayyen underscored Kuwait's endeavors to quash human trafficking and the illicit migration of workers, including the formation of a national committee and the hosting of the Sixth Regional Government Forum in April 2025. Kuwait has also spearheaded public awareness campaigns as part of its national anti-crime strategy (2025-2028), titled "Towards Protecting Rights and Promoting Justice."
The heart of Kuwait's effort for labor reformation extends to the welfare of foreign workers. Specialized shelters have been established since 2015 (one for female workers), with another for male workers opening in February 2025. These facilities offer medical, legal, and psychological support, and partnerships with civil society organizations exemplify Kuwait's team-spirited approach to labor sector growth.
On a more diplomatic note, Ambassador Al-Hayyen reinforced Kuwait's resolute support for the Palestinian people, chiding violations of Palestinian workers' rights in the territories. He welcomed the ILO draft resolution on Palestine's participation status, linking it to Kuwait's ardent backing for Palestinian rights at the UN and other international platforms. Concluding his speech, Al-Hayyen celebrated the robust 62-year alliance between Kuwait and the ILO.
Enrichment Insights:
- Kuwait is aggressively pushing for labor reform, with a primary focus on legislative changes to improve working conditions and employee rights in various sectors.
- Key legislative alterations include reforms under the Private Sector Labor Law, the introduction of Ministerial Resolution No. 74 of 2025, new work permit regulations, and increased emphasis on national participation in the private sector.
- Beyond domestic lawmaking, Kuwait is intensifying international cooperation to promote a fairer global labor landscape and reinforce human rights initiatives, such as the International Labor Organization (ILO) Support and the fight against human trafficking and illegal migration.
- The Ambassador Al-Hayyen's speech at the 113th International Labour Conference emphasized Kuwait's commitment to policy-and-legislation overhauls in various sectors, such as the Private Sector Labor Law and the Domestic Workers Law, as part of its broader push for fair labor practices within the general-news context of global labor landscape evolution.
- Beyond domestic policy-and-legislation changes, Kuwait is also actively involved in politics, like its ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and promote the international human rights obligations in collaboration with organizations like the International Labor Organization (ILO), as demonstrated by its involvement in regional forums like the Sixth Regional Government Forum.
