Discrimination Against Migrant Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Passport Confiscation and Denial of Citizenship

Saudi Arabia, home to millions of migrant workers, heavily relies on foreign labor for domestic work, primarily women working as housemaids, nannies, and caregivers, which are a significant part of the country’s labor force. However, despite their essential role in the country’s households, migrant domestic workers, primarily from Southeast Asia and Africa, face widespread discrimination,[…]

Systemic Discrimination and Religious Repression: The Shia Struggle for Equality in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the Shia Muslim community, constituting around 12 percent of the population, has long faced systemic discrimination and restrictions on religious freedom. This marginalization permeates various aspects of life, including religious practices, education, employment, and the justice system. Also, the community has been excluded from certain public sector jobs, and has suffered from[…]

Human Rights For Disabled People In Saudi Arabia

Key Findings Saudi Arabia has made notable progress in establishing a legal framework for the rights of persons with disabilities, driven by a combination of domestic legislation and international commitments. Key milestones include the 1987 Legislation of Disability, the 2000 Disability Code, and the 2023 Saudi Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (SLRPD).[…]

Freedom of Religion for Shia and Other Minorities in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, governed as an absolute monarchy under a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam, has long faced scrutiny for its religious freedom policies, particularly regarding the treatment of Shia Muslims and other religious minorities. As the birthplace of Islam, the kingdom enforces a legal and social framework that prioritizes Sunni Islam, specifically its Wahhabi doctrine.[…]

The systematic exploitation of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia: The Plight of East African Migrants in Saudi Arabia

Context of migration in Saudi Arabia The context of migration in Saudi Arabia is shaped by a complex mix of economic needs, labor dynamics, social policies, and geopolitical factors. Saudi Arabia is one of the largest destinations for migrant workers in the Middle East, with 39 percent of international migrants comprising the total population. Its[…]