The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the Cabinet’s decision to adopt the national policy aimed at eliminating forced labor in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This policy seeks to provide a safe working environment, enhance labor policies, safeguard workers’ rights, and support and sustain the labor market.

Besides, Mr. Khalid bin Abdulrahman Al-Fakhri, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, has stated that this policy reinforces the guarantees provided to workers on the ground.  For more illustration, it underscores the commitment to protect the workers’ rights in the labor market by creating a safe and attractive work environment. This contributes to the promotion and protection of human rights, as it includes clear legislative and rights-based principles, in accordance with Articles (8, 26, and 28) of the Basic Law of Governance in the Kingdom. It also aligns with the treaties and agreements to which Saudi Arabia is a party, particularly the Forced Labor Convention No. (29) of 1930, which prohibits all forms of forced or compulsory labor. In addition, the policy ensures numerous guarantees for the right to work, supports the right to equality, and eliminates any form of discrimination, representing a significant human rights milestone in light of the legislative and rights advancements occurring in the Kingdom to protect and promote human rights.

Al-Fakhri has also emphasized that the National Society for Human Rights is ready to collaborate with relevant authorities in achieving the objectives of this policy and supporting its implementation. This includes participating in the development of systems and policies aimed at reducing forced labor, promoting justice and equality in the workplace in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and contributing to the continuous review of legislation related to the eradication of forced labor practices to ensure alignment with the policy. Additionally, the Society will monitor labor practices to ensure their compliance with the policy.

 

The National Society for Human Rights