The Impact of Working Conditions under the Kafala System on the Experiences of Kenyan Domestic Migrant Workers in Saudi Arabia (2018-2022)

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dc.contributor.authorMwangi, Winnie Wambui
dc.date.accessioned2024-07-19T07:07:20Z
dc.date.available2024-07-19T07:07:20Z
dc.date.issued2023-10
dc.descriptionMASTER OF ARTS In Diplomacy, Development, and International Security
dc.description.abstractThere is a high unemployment rate in Kenya (7% in 2022). Consequently, many Kenyans have been driven to seek job opportunities abroad. Many unskilled workers travel to Middle Eastern countries to work in unskilled labour. Many migrants, however, report about exploitation, harassment, and physical violence. This qualitative study sought to explore the challenges Kenyan domestic workers face in Saudi Arabia, the role played by decisions made by the Kenyan and Saudi governments, and the obstacles to accessing justice. A qualitative research methodology was employed to collect data. The study relied on purposive sampling, whereby returnee workers were selected through snowballing (n =13), Kenyan Foreign Affairs officials and Saudi Embassy officials (n = 3), and human rights groups (n = 2). Primary data was gathered qualitatively through interviews, and secondary data was amassed through a thorough examination of published records. These interviews were recorded and later transcribed verbatim. Subsequently, coding was conducted, followed by thematic analysis. The study clearly shows that the Kafala system is a key reason for the mistreatment and abuse of Kenyan workers in Saudi Arabia. Official statements from governments do not match the real, often harsh, experiences of these workers. The study also finds that these workers face significant challenges in accessing legal help. These results point to serious gaps in both policy and its execution. The implications of these findings are immediate and far-reaching, suggesting an urgent need for protective mechanisms for current workers and serving as a basis for long-term policy reforms. The study concludes that a multi-pronged approach involving an overhaul of the Kafala system and strengthened bilateral agreements is essential for mitigating the challenges faced by Kenyan labour migrants. Recommendations include immediate policy review and leveraging the best international practices for labour protection.
dc.description.sponsorshipSchool of Arts and Humanities of Daystar University
dc.identifier.citationMwangi, W. W., (2023). The Impact of Working Conditions under the Kafala System on the Experiences of Kenyan Domestic Migrant Workers in Saudi Arabia (2018-2022): Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
dc.identifier.urihttps://repository.daystar.ac.ke/handle/123456789/4768
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherDaystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
dc.subjectWorking Conditions
dc.subjectKafala System
dc.subjectKenyan Domestic Migrant Workers
dc.subjectSaudi Arabia (2018-2022)
dc.titleThe Impact of Working Conditions under the Kafala System on the Experiences of Kenyan Domestic Migrant Workers in Saudi Arabia (2018-2022)
dc.typeThesis

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