Recent discussions between Kuwait and the Philippines aimed at resolving the ban on sending domestic workers have faced challenges, according to a report by Al-Jarida Daily. The talks, which involved the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Public Authority for Manpower, and a visiting Philippine delegation, did not yield positive results.
While there was initial progress and a friendly atmosphere, the negotiations hit a roadblock when the Philippine side insisted on the continued operation of embassy shelters. However, Kuwait deemed this request illegal. Bassam Al-Shammari, a specialist in domestic worker affairs, expressed disappointment at the lack of positive outcomes from the discussions.
In an attempt to resume bilateral discussions, the Philippines plans to invite Kuwait for an official visit to Manila. However, Kuwait remains firm on its position regarding the closure of the shelters as a precondition to considering the lifting of the ban on Filipino workers.
If the Philippine side continues to insist on the operation of these shelters, the negotiations could fail, and the situation may revert to square one. The moratorium decisions issued by both countries earlier remain in effect.
During the negotiations, the Philippine side raised concerns about the functioning of expatriate worker shelter centers affiliated with the “Manpower Force.” These concerns included issues such as workers remaining absent for months without returning to Manila and the lack of a clear mechanism for ensuring workers’ financial rights.
Al-Shammari stressed the need for Kuwait to sign more memorandums of understanding with labor-exporting countries such as Nepal, Indonesia, and Ethiopia, rather than relying on just a few countries. He emphasized that having a diverse pool of labor-exporting countries would help reduce recruitment costs and facilitate the hiring of domestic workers, especially as the holy month of Ramadan approaches and the demand for their services increases.
The ban on visas for the Filipino community in Kuwait was imposed in May last year due to a number of violations observed by the Public Authority for Manpower. These violations included housing workers in private homes or unauthorized accommodation centers, workers in violation of residency laws, and reports of worker absenteeism.
The decision also highlighted instances where domestic worker recruitment offices intervened in the withdrawal of workers from citizens’ homes under the pretense of contract completion, which is against laws and regulations. The Philippine embassy faced criticism for pressuring employers to comply with contractual clauses they did not desire and for inappropriate treatment of citizens when visiting the embassy.
It is crucial for both Kuwait and the Philippines to find a resolution to the ban on sending domestic workers. The negotiations between the two countries have faced challenges, particularly regarding the operation of embassy shelters. However, to ensure a successful outcome, it is important for both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and find common ground.
Kuwait should consider signing more memorandums of understanding with a diverse range of labor-exporting countries to reduce recruitment costs and meet the increasing demand for domestic workers, especially during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. At the same time, the Philippines should address the concerns raised by Kuwait regarding violations and ensure that workers’ rights are protected.
By finding a mutually beneficial solution, both countries can ensure the well-being and rights of domestic workers while maintaining a positive bilateral relationship. It is essential for the negotiations to continue with an open mind and a willingness to compromise in order to reach a satisfactory resolution for all parties involved.
Source: TimesKuwait
