Legal, Policy & Governance

Fact-checking the disinformation campaign making the rounds

Kuwait recently reinstated the exit permit requirement for private-sector migrant workers. The move highlights how Kafala reforms can quickly be rolled back in the absence of a complete overhaul of the region’s labour migration system

Kuwait has enacted a new immigration law, replacing the previous law that had been in place for over six decades. While not a complete overhaul, the law introduces some notable provisions, particularly regarding domestic workers and visa trading, along with stricter penalties.

Saudi Arabia’s recent labour reforms represent some progress, but employers continue to hold significant power over workers, exit visas continue to limit mobility, and most migrant workers struggle to access digital platforms meant to facilitate their rights. Moreover, hundreds of thousands of workers remain excluded from the scope of the reforms.