Why Qatar boycott could be a boon for Asian countries

Asian nations, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Indonesia and the Philippines, whose nationals populate the Gulf’s labour force, have already reaped initial benefits with Qatar, eager to put its best foot forward, significantly reforming its controversial kafala or labour sponsorship regime that required workers to receive permission from employers to change jobs or, in some cases, leave the country.

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Qatar recently became the first Gulf state to introduce a minimum wage, albeit criticised by human rights groups for being about US$200 (HK$1,560) a month – well below what labourers can earn in their home countries.

It has also sought to improve workers’ rights and committed to improving their living conditions.

Qatar was under pressure to reform the kafala system long before the crisis erupted, but the dispute with its neighbours – who have accused Qatar of sponsoring terrorism, an accusation it vehemently denies – strengthened its interest in being seen as doing the right thing.