Since the embarkation of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative on Saudi Arabia’s strategic economic shift by the crown prince in the year 2017, criticisms have been escalating due to the claims that this construction work has resulted in more than 21,000 deaths of South Asian workers. As a way of diversifying the kingdom’s economy and turning the country into a global center for tourism and business, Vision 2030 incorporates enormous and futuristic endeavors like The Line and NEOM; however, it has emerged that these developments have come at a great cost in terms of human life, especially that of migrant labor.
Documentary Highlights Labor Conditions
The recent documentary, Kingdom Uncovered, has drawn attention to tormenting labor conditions in the Vision 2030 framework, pointing to an array of findings on the alleged human rights violations and working environments. Most of the deceased workers were migrant laborers from the countries like India, Bangladesh, and Nepal who immigrated to Saudi Arabia in search of better opportunities. However, most of them found themselves in inhumane working conditions, with some having to work for as long as 16 hours a day and going for about ten months without being paid.
Numerous research has shown that migrant laborers, most of whom are from South Asia, are subject to extremely unsafe and degrading working conditions. Workers report long hours, wage theft, and substandard housing, often referring to themselves as ‘trapped in’. For instance, some workers have reported working even up to 16 hours, with weekly hours surpassing the legal limits, enduring physical and mental stress. This includes reports of several workplace accidents and other injury incidences that are due to tired workers and the lack of adequate safety precautions, resulting in injuries and even death. Other reports claim that “NEOM” sites alone get up to five road accidents a month caused by the workers’ extreme tiredness.
There has been a worldwide outcry over perceived abuses of human rights about Saudi Vision 2030. Human rights activists condemn the lack of openness and accountability, urging Saudi Arabia to investigate allegations of exploitative practices and improve working conditions. The documentary has brought attention and criticism regarding the labor practices within the kingdom, leading to a call for change by the concerned authorities and corporations. However, there has been no extensive answer provided by the Saudi government which has led to more questions on the international level regarding the question of ethical labor in the region.
Impact on Saudi Arabia’s Global Image and Investment
This disclosure darkens the transformative aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030. While the project aims to elevate the country to the global stage, the escalating number of casualties may hamper future foreign investment and tourism as investors and advocates demand ethical practices. As this project progresses, it is yet unknown if Saudi Arabia will respond to such labor concerns or whether it will carry on with its vision in the face of growing opposition.
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