The Community Leaders Forum (CLF) is back after a two-year pause, to revamp dialogue and drive change for workers' rights in Qatar. The event, held on 21 April, gathered more than 200 representatives from 18 migrant communities, workers’ representatives, women of the CLF and domestic workers represented by the International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF). The broad participation signaled a strong desire by migrant workers to revive a critical platform that has been silent since before the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The CLF, originally launched in 2018 by the Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI) in partnership with the Ministry of Labour (MoL), has played a crucial role in bridging the gap between migrant workers and high-ranking government officials. Participants looked forward to addressing with concrete proposals pressing policy issues with regards to the labour reforms, occupational safety, and domestic workers' rights.
Chaired by Sheikha Najwa Al Thani, Assistant Undersecretary for Migrant Workers' Affairs of the Ministry of Labour of Qatar, and Ambet Yuson, General Secretary of the BWI, the CLF underscored the significance of collaboration. Both leaders acknowledged the tireless advocacy of migrant workers’ representatives and community associations in advancing workers' rights and welfare in Qatar. Community leaders and workers’ representatives engaged in an open forum discussion, expressing gratitude for reform efforts while highlighting remaining enforcement gaps. The Ministry of Labour provided insights into current labour policies and programs, aiming to address participants’ concerns and outline future steps.
In light of the renewed cooperation and dialogue, Yuson said: “The CLF's return is more than just a meeting—it's a signal of an ongoing commitment by the BWI and the Ministry of Labour to address the needs of migrant workers in Qatar. With renewed momentum focus, this forum promises to set a new course for meaningful dialogue and tangible outcomes for workers”.
