World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka and Qatar tackle worker protection in labour talks
Officials from Sri Lanka and Qatar have held talks aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the labour sector, with focus on improving worker protections and reforming recruitment practices. The discussions took place during a meeting of the Sri Lanka–Qatar Joint Labour Committee in Doha.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The latest session of the bilateral committee brought together representatives from both nations to address longstanding concerns in their labour relationship, particularly regarding the welfare of migrant workers and the transparency of recruitment processes.
Key agenda items included reviewing existing labour agreements, identifying gaps in worker protection mechanisms, and establishing frameworks to prevent exploitation in recruitment and employment practices. Both delegations emphasised the need for stronger oversight of recruitment agencies and improved channels for worker grievances.
The talks reflect ongoing efforts by Sri Lanka to enhance safeguards for its citizens working abroad, particularly in the Gulf region where a significant proportion of Sri Lankan migrant workers are employed. Qatar, as a major destination for South Asian labour, has increasingly faced international scrutiny over working conditions and employment practices.
Official statements indicated that both countries committed to implementing reforms within their respective jurisdictions and strengthening information-sharing mechanisms to monitor labour standards. The committee is expected to reconvene to review progress on agreed action items and develop additional bilateral protocols addressing emerging labour concerns.