Migrant laborers in Dubai tasked with preparing conference facilities for the upcoming Cop28 climate talks have been exposed to hazardous working conditions in scorching temperatures, according to a recent investigation by human rights research and advocacy group FairSquare. The probe unearthed evidence of over a dozen African and Asian workers laboring in extreme heat, reaching up to 42°C (107°F), during the early days of September. Notably, these workers were engaged in outdoor labor on two separate occasions, despite the “midday ban,” a UAE law that prohibits outdoor work during the hottest hours over the summer months to safeguard workers from heat-related risks, which can prove fatal.
The plight of these migrant laborers is particularly alarming given that they make up approximately 90% of the UAE’s private sector workforce, handling the majority of manual labor in the country, including preparations for Cop28. The report from FairSquare sheds light on the harsh conditions faced by these workers, who endure extreme heat while contributing to the infrastructure of an event dedicated to climate change solutions.
Experts argue that this situation embodies a form of climate injustice, emphasizing that the climate crisis becomes even more perilous when labor laws and human rights are not upheld. Despite contractors denying alleged violations, the report has raised concerns about the treatment of migrant workers in the Gulf region.
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The investigation underscores the challenging reality for migrant laborers who often come to the Gulf seeking employment opportunities while fleeing the economic and social impacts of climate change in their home countries. Calls for international bodies like the UN to address human rights violations in host countries, even during major global events, have gained momentum.
Dubai, largely dependent on fossil fuel wealth, is preparing to host Cop28. The UAE is among the top oil and gas producers globally, underscoring the stark irony of hosting climate talks amid a backdrop of soaring temperatures, wildfires, droughts, floods, and storms worldwide.
The UAE’s summer work ban, in place since 2022, attempts to protect workers from extreme heat. However, it has been criticized for not being comprehensive enough, and the Kafala sponsorship system still gives employers extensive control over migrant workers’ lives. While reforms have been implemented, trade unions remain unlawful.
FairSquare obtained evidence from migrant workers laboring at key Cop28 venues, including Expo City, which will host the event. These workers are often forced to work through the night due to tight deadlines and are subjected to intense heat conditions that pose health risks. The report highlights the urgent need to ensure the welfare of these laborers and reiterate the importance of upholding human rights alongside climate change discussions.
Source: theguardian.com
