KUWAIT CITY, March 26: Unlicensed domestic workers continue to present a significant challenge for licensed recruitment agencies, in addition to causing substantial economic damage. Their presence results in the loss of state revenue through fees associated with medical examinations, residency renewals, flight operations, and other indirect financial contributions, such as economic stimulus.

The harmful impact of these unlicensed workers is multifaceted. In addition to being a health risk to families, many of these workers are paid as little as 280 dinars per month. Musaed Al-Hajri, head of the Domestic Labor Disputes Department at the Public Authority for Manpower, discussed the dangers posed by unlicensed labor, the harm it causes to families, and the wastage of state resources in an interview with Kuwait TV.

Al-Hajri explained that licensed recruitment offices pay an annual renewal fee, which contributes to the state's revenue. He emphasized that families who hire unlicensed workers create an additional burden, as these workers are often expensive and lack proper sponsorship. He pointed out that licensed domestic workers not only stimulate the local economy by covering the costs of food and clothing but also contribute to air traffic, medical examination fees, and residency transfer fees.

Munir Al-Asimi, owner of a domestic labor agency, further explained the issue. He stated that many unlicensed entities, posing as recruitment agencies, operate without an official office or a license. These "agencies" typically advertise on social media and rely on their networks to smuggle workers from their original sponsors’ homes. These workers, lacking proper documentation, often demand high salaries, sometimes reaching 250 or 280 dinars per month.

Al-Asimi also warned of the dangers associated with these workers, noting that they might carry contagious diseases or have criminal backgrounds, which pose a risk to both citizens and residents.

Bassam Al-Shammari, another domestic labor agency owner, called for the formal legalization of recruitment processes through new memoranda of understanding with various countries. He emphasized the importance of setting a minimum wage of 120 dinars and proposed the creation of a faster, more efficient mechanism for resolving labor disputes. This new system would focus on recovering dues stipulated by law and ensure the enforcement of regulations regarding financial obligations, weekly leave, end-of-service bonuses, and annual leave. Al-Shammari also recommended activating a blacklist for non-compliant employers.

The consequences of unlicensed domestic workers on citizens and the government are significant. Al-Asimi identified three key harms to citizens:

- The possibility of the worker committing a crime and fleeing, making it difficult for the citizen to preserve their rights.

- The risk of the worker carrying contagious diseases that could be transmitted to family members.

- The legal implication of concealing a criminal, which could result in charges for the employer.

- For the government, the negative impacts include:

- The difficulty in tracking unlicensed workers inside homes.

- The health risks posed by the potential spread of diseases.

- The wastage of resources that could have benefited the state.

Addressing the issue of unlicensed domestic workers is crucial for protecting both public health and the country’s economic resources. Ensuring legal and regulated recruitment processes will help minimize these risks and promote a safer environment for families and society at large.