Why Gulf Countries Treat Labor Workers, Particularly from India, Terribly

Why do gulf countries, which are predominately Muslim, treat labor workers, particularly those from India, so terribly?

Truth be told, the treatment of these workers is often a reflection of broader geopolitical and social factors. For instance, Nepali and Filipino workers often receive better treatment in the gulf because their embassies and governments are more strict in addressing labor harassment and exploitation. In contrast, the Indian government has faced criticism over not providing adequate support to its workers in the region. While instances of poor treatment undoubtedly exist, many still recognize the stark differences in living conditions and respect shown to foreign laborers.

There are several key reasons behind this phenomenon, ranging from the unique position of the gulf nations to cultural and political dynamics:

The Role of Religious Principals and Human Selfishness

Religious principles often fail to inhibit human selfishness and bigotry, making it easier for wealthy nations like those in the Gulf to exploit a vast pool of low-wage foreign workers. The pool of labor is vast, especially in Asia, where vast regions are underpopulated and impoverished. The countries these laborers come from rely heavily on financial aid and remittances sent home by these workers. This dependency leaves little room for these nations to demand better treatment for their expatriates.

However, it is essential to note that this issue has nothing to do with religion and everything to do with wealth and political structure. Political regimes with a very wealthy and small elite often treat labor poorly due to corruption and cost-cutting. Because the elite control the political system, there is no incentive to implement change unless outside actors intervene.

Political and Economic Dependencies

The situation is exacerbated by the economic dependencies involved. Many small and developing nations in Asia are highly dependent on financial aid and remittances from the Gulf states. In these circumstances, it is difficult or impossible for these nations to demand better treatment for their expatriates. The remittances sent home to families in sending countries play a critical role in the economic stability of those nations.

The Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and others, benefit from an abundant supply of labor from Asia. However, they are notorious for their labor practices, which include abuse, exploitation, and human rights violations. Despite these issues, the Gulf states have a large immigrant pool available to them because the work pays well.

Global Comparisons and Observations

One can observe similar issues in other parts of the world, though the Gulf states have been particularly vocal about their labor practices. The same problems exist in countries with similarly wealthy elites who control political systems. The openness of the Gulf states about their labor issues contributes to a more overt form of exploitation, but the fundamental problems are the same.

Overall, while the treatment of labor workers, particularly in the Gulf, is a complex issue, it is rooted in economic and political factors that go beyond religion. The exploitation and poor treatment of workers are a result of a combination of dependency, lack of political will, and the continuation of a cycle of corruption and cost-cutting.