The Kingdom was at the forefront when it allowed foreign businessmen the right to sponsor themselves. That was an advanced step that has helped a great deal in expanding investments. It was the case prior to this for investors to hide behind Saudi citizens. The step has put an end to the phenomenon of concealment and defined the responsibilities of foreign investors.
I hope the Kuwaiti minister did not describe the abolition as a “gift” to expatriates in his country. In fact, it is a right that has been realized after studies proved that, according to international laws and norms, the sponsor system degrades human dignity. Islam has long before that ensured the dignity of man over all of God's creatures.
The issue of foreign manpower is a hot one. It not only involves two countries — the ones exporting and importing manpower — but also a number of international human rights bodies that closely follow developments. I am certain that the Saudi Labor Ministry’s drawers are replete with practical studies on how to best deal with this thorny issue. The ministry and other involved parties, topped by the Ministry of Interior, should get together as soon as possible to deal with this issue.
The abolition of the sponsor system and the organization of the affairs of foreign manpower in a way that clearly defines the duties of the employee and the employer will protect the rights of foreign workers and bring an end to citizens trading in work visas.
