“If I had the ability to take back time, I would do it ( and stop my dream of working in Saudi Arabia) . I regret some of the things I did, and it’s too late. It’s now 7 months since I came to Saudi. I didn’t know how hard it is to make money. I would put pressure on my parents asking for money, but now I wish I knew I wouldn’t do it.
One of my friends that I traveled with to Saudi Arabia was poisoned, and she died. From that day, I have been really scared. I lost my appetite, and I am confused. I always ask myself if I will return home safely because these people are hard-hearted. But please, just keep praying for me.”
These heart-wrenching words are from a young girl named Andy ( not real name ), hailing from Masaka, Uganda, who ventured into the unknown world of employment in Saudi Arabia. Her story is just one of many, shedding light on the plight of young girls who leave their homes in search of a better future, only to find themselves trapped in a nightmare.
Working in Saudi Arabia
For many girls like Andy, the decision to work abroad is driven by economic inequalities and the desire to escape unemployment and poverty. The promises of higher wages and a chance to support their families back home seem like a beacon of hope. However, the reality they face is far from what they anticipated.
Upon arriving in Saudi Arabia, these girls encounter a myriad of challenges and dangers. They often become victims of exploitation, abuse, and even human trafficking. The life of working in Saudi Arabia becomes more of a nightmare than the fairytale one envisioned.
Many find themselves working long hours, often in harsh and dangerous conditions, with little or no legal protection. The emotional toll is immense, as they are isolated from their families and support networks, living in constant fear.
Tragically, incidents of illness, accidents, and even deaths are not uncommon among these vulnerable girls. Andy’s story serves as a painful reminder of the risks they face. Her friend’s untimely death from poisoning is a stark example of the dangers lurking in their daily lives.
A Cry for Help
The desperation and fear expressed by Andy highlight the urgent need for action to protect these young girls. It is crucial for governments, both in Uganda and Saudi Arabia, to address the systemic issues surrounding labor migration and ensure the well-being and safety of these workers.
Efforts must be made to streamline the process of labor externalization, from passport acquisition to transportation and remuneration. A comprehensive one-stop center, as suggested by Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, could provide much-needed support and guidance for migrant workers, consolidating the necessary services under one roof.
Furthermore, it is essential to learn from the experiences of countries like Nepal and the Philippines, which have negotiated better labor relations with Arab countries. These nations have managed to protect their workers’ rights and harness the benefits of labor migration, including substantial remittances that contribute to their economies.
Everyone’s Responsibility
In addition to structural changes, there must be a concerted effort to raise awareness about the risks and challenges faced by young girls working in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries.
Education and counseling programs should be implemented to empower potential migrants with knowledge about their rights, redress mechanisms, and the support available to them.
The international community also plays a significant role in addressing this issue. Collaborative efforts between governments, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies can bring about change through advocacy, policy recommendations, and monitoring of human rights violations.
The plight of young girls like Andy should not be ignored or dismissed. Their dreams for a better future should not be shattered by exploitation and abuse. It is our collective responsibility to stand up for their rights, ensuring their safety and well-being. Only then can we build a future where labor migration is a choice, not a desperate gamble, and where no young girl has to utter the words