Report shows increasing vulnerability of Nepali migrant workers

As reported by the Kathmandu Post, a new research report titled 'Chunautiko Chapeta' highlights the persistent exploitation of Nepali migrant workers in Qatar, despite the government's claims of abolishing the Kafala system. The report, based on thousands of case files and interviews, reveals that workers continue to face debt bondage due to exorbitant recruitment fees and interest rates ranging from 36 to 60 percent. Furthermore, employers in Qatar are alleged to be actively obstructing workers' attempts to change jobs, effectively maintaining the restrictive nature of the old sponsorship system. The investigation notes that despite regulations prohibiting the confiscation of passports, many employers continue to hold workers' documents, leaving them vulnerable to abuse and unable to return home.