Day 21
Qatar
The kafala system in Qatar is a sponsorship-based employment system that governs the relationship between foreign workers and their employers. It creates a dependency relationship between employers and migrant workers, with employers holding considerable power and control over their employees’ lives. One of the most criticized aspects of the system is its restriction on the mobility of foreign workers. Workers need their sponsor’s permission to change jobs or leave the country. This leads to situations of exploitation and abuse, as workers may be reluctant to report mistreatment for fear of losing their legal status and being deported.
Pray for the ban of the kafala system in Qatar. Pray for the Qatari government to take action to improve the living conditions of the migrant workers in the country (The Holy Bible, Exodus 23:9).
Sovereign LORD, deliver the migrant workers from oppression. Let them have access to all their basic needs and rights (The Holy Bible, Psalm 7:2).
Qatar features at 34th in the Open Doors Persecution Index in 2023. Christians do not have the freedom to practice their beliefs openly. Expat or otherwise, there is no distinction. Immigrant workers face deportation should they try to evangelize Qatari nationals. All social statuses of Qatari citizens depend entirely on their religious identity. Only as Muslims do they have rights. If they convert, they will not only lose their social standing, they will face discrimination and isolation. All church activities and gatherings face scrutiny from local authorities. House gatherings and house churches do not get permission in Qatar. A designated space is available for all Christians to gather and worship together. However, this space is inadequate.