On the occasion of International Domestic Workers Day observed on 16 June, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Kuwait, organized a series of events to celebrate domestic workers in cooperation with the Social Work Society (SWS).
The first event was an outreach activity that involved IOM staff distributing cards reading ‘Thank you’ to employers of domestic workers at the avenues mall on 14 and 15 June. The initiative encouraged employers to pass the cards to their domestic employees as a sign of appreciation. Domestic workers, who also visited IOM’s booth, received flowers and colorful frames to keep the cards. This outreach activity was the first of its kind and was well received by the public.
The second celebration took place on the day of International Domestic Workers Day (16 June ) at the Public Authority for Manpower’s (PAM) Kuwait Government Shelter for female Migrant Workers. Several entertainment activities were organized for the shelter residents including group motivational sessions, yoga classes, art classes and two types of dance classes. Shelter residents enjoyed these ongoing activities from 10am until 1pm.
In parallel to both events, a social media rollout was implemented to highlight the domestic workers’ law 68/2015. The selected articles tackled the most common misconceptions among households, such as withholding documents and transferring employment of domestic workers. The rollout targeted households, with the aim of raising their awareness about the domestic workers’ law so that they respect the regulations when recruiting.
Kuwait is committed to protecting the rights of domestic workers. In 2013, an anti-trafficking law was officially established, which ensures that the rights of domestic workers are fully protected. An integral part of IOM’s mission is to provide services and advice concerning good migration governance and to support migrant workers.
IOM’s mission in Kuwait continues to provide any needed support to the government shelter by providing assisted voluntary return and reintegration (AVRR) to vulnerable workers and organizing entertainment events which aim to provide positive support for their emotional wellbeing.
For more information please contact: Dana Al-Othman, External Relations & Project Assistant at dalothman@iom.int.
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