Saudi Arabia reforms fail to stop abuse of Filipino helpers, Amnesty warns

The human rights organization asserts that the Kafala sponsorship system, which legally binds domestic workers to their employers, remains a primary enabler of these abuses. Despite Saudi Arabia's efforts to reform its labor laws, including the introduction of a new contract and a domestic worker law in 2015, these measures have proven insufficient to protect vulnerable workers.

Workers reported being subjected to long hours without adequate rest, having their passports confiscated, and being prevented from leaving their employers' homes. Many also experienced wage theft, with employers withholding salaries or making illegal deductions. The report emphasizes that the existing legal framework and enforcement mechanisms are inadequate to hold abusive employers accountable.

Amnesty International is urging Saudi authorities to dismantle the Kafala system entirely and implement comprehensive reforms that provide genuine protection for all migrant workers, ensuring they have the right to change employers freely and access justice when subjected to abuse.