Labor ministry calls for applying “humanitarian norms” in dealing with women migrant workers

Despite the fact that Labor Minister (MoL), Sajaan Azzi, is one of the fierce defenders of the inhuman sponsorship (Kafala) system, that reinforce human enslavement, and notwithstanding his refusal to legally approve the formation of the trade union of migrant women domestic workers (MWDW), the Lebanese Ministry of Labor reminded in a statement issued on Friday the Lebanese of the need to observe principles of human rights and to apply the provisos of relevant labor laws in dealing with migrant women domestic workers MWDWs on Lebanese territories. These conditions, the statement mentioned, include “provision of a decent working environment and residence with the employer family, as well as protection of any potential risks the MWDWs might experience.” The ministry said it attaches great importance to compliance to the above principles by households who have a live-in domestic worker, “as that reflects our respect to humanity”, warning of taking appropriate measures against any violating party. (Al Diyar, July 16, 2016)