Forced labour policy has been implemented

At a glance

• A national policy on forced labour and worker's rights has been launched in Saudi Arabia.
• The policy is designed to eliminate forced labour through prevention and protection measures and provide enhanced protections for victims.
• Employers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the key laws and regulations and update their policies in line with them and conduct training programmes where necessary. 

A national policy on forced labour and worker's rights has been launched in Saudi Arabia. This is in response to the ongoing push to make the region a global business hub 

Announced at the end of January, the policy is designed to eliminate forced labour through prevention and protection measures and provide enhanced protections for victims. The policy includes:

• Basic law of governance: Emphasising the states role in facilitating employment opportunities and protecting both employees and employers.
• Labour Law: Includes provisions to prevent forced labour, such as prohibiting undue pressure on employees and ensuring timely payment of wages.
• Anti-trafficking in persons law: Prohibits all forms of human trafficking, including forced labour.
• Child protection law: Protects children from abuse and exploitation, including forced labour.
• Law of protection from abuse: Penalises all forms of exploitation and abuse.
• Anti-harassment law: Aims to combat harassment, with stricter penalties for workplace-related offenses.
• Regulations of domestic workers: Ensures the rights and wages of domestic workers.

Employers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the key laws and regulations and update their policies in line with them and conduct training programmes where necessary.