Lecture Notes: Migrant Workers and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar

Overview

• Qatar is one of the richest countries per capita.
• Hosting the 2022 World Cup has led to a booming construction industry.
• Concerns about extreme heat affecting footballers.
• Major issue: high number of deaths among Nepalese migrant workers.

Migrant Workers in Qatar

• Many workers are from Nepal and other countries.
• They face exploitation and abuse in Qatar’s construction industry.

Living Conditions

• Workers live in camps outside the capital, Doha.
• Example: Over 600 men share just two rooms in one camp.

State-Run Sponsorship System

• Binds each worker to a single employer.
• Workers cannot leave their job or the country without employer's permission.
• Results in forced labor, akin to modern slavery.

Financial Exploitation

• Workers often arrive with huge debts.
• Salaries and jobs often differ from what was promised.
• Many work without pay for extended periods.
• Some have to work illegally if they leave their employer.

Case Study: Ganesh Bishwakarma

• Left Nepal for Qatar, died at age 16 from cardiac arrest.
• Dreamed of earning money for his family.
• Experienced exploitation and deceit.
• His death left his family in deeper poverty.

Issues with Employer Non-Compliance

• Employers fail to pay workers and refuse exit permits.
• Workers without ID become "illegal aliens" and restricted in movement.

Psychological Impact

• Stressful conditions lead to severe mental health issues, e.g., Ram Kumar Mahra losing his hair.

Conclusion

• The 2022 World Cup highlights these labor issues.
• There is a visible divide between the wealthy and the exploited workers.
• Calls for better treatment of migrant workers and adherence to promises made by World Cup organizers.