The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) has initiated a campaign to educate employers and domestic workers about their rights and responsibilities. A key highlight of the campaign is the enforcement of the standard recruitment contract prepared by PAM, which safeguards the interests of both parties. Employers are warned against unauthorized practices such as transferring workers to other employers without approval from the Department of Regulating the Recruitment of Labor. Transfers conducted within the six-month warranty period without authorization will result in the warranty being voided.

Authorized Recruitment Practices

Employers must only recruit domestic workers through licensed recruitment offices. PAM stresses the importance of obtaining notarized contracts or official payment receipts from these offices. Informal hiring methods, including those conducted via platforms like WhatsApp or Snapchat, are strictly prohibited.

Reporting and Resolving Issues

Any disputes, such as a worker’s refusal to continue employment, should be promptly reported to the relevant department. This ensures the issue is resolved legally and in compliance with the approved transfer process.

Employers’ Financial and Legal Obligations

Employers are obligated to handle certain financial responsibilities, including repatriating domestic workers at their expense if required. Additionally, workers are entitled to end-of-service gratuities, equivalent to one month’s salary per year, upon completing their contract. Employers must also ensure timely salary payments, with transactions documented through receipts or bank transfers.

Safeguarding Workers’ Rights

PAM emphasizes that domestic workers have the right to privacy and personal freedom, including owning a mobile phone for use outside working hours. Employers are urged to maintain workplace confidentiality and uphold moral standards to ensure a safe and respectful environment.

Overseas Assignments Require Consent

Domestic workers cannot be assigned tasks outside Kuwait without their explicit consent, further reinforcing the campaign’s focus on protecting workers’ rights.

Contact for Assistance

For inquiries or complaints, both employers and domestic workers can reach out to the Department of Regulating the Recruitment of Domestic Labor. PAM has also established a hotline (24937600) to provide support and address concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Employers must not transfer domestic workers without notifying the relevant department.
• Unauthorized transfers within the six-month warranty period void the warranty.
• Recruitment must comply with the standard contract prepared by PAM.
• Informal hiring through social media platforms like WhatsApp or Snapchat is prohibited.