The Dark Side of Saudi Vision 2030: A Closer Look at Worker Exploitation and Human Rights Abuses
In the eight years since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched the ambitious ‘Saudi Vision 2030’ project, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has made headlines for its grand plans to transform into a global tourism hub. However, beneath the surface of this glittering vision lies a troubling reality: over 21,000 workers have reportedly lost their lives during this period, raising serious concerns about the treatment of laborers involved in the Kingdom’s massive construction projects.
The Luxury of Neom and the Reality of Worker Conditions
One of the most ambitious projects under Saudi Vision 2030 is Neom, a futuristic urban development located in Tabuk Province, designed to be a beacon of innovation and luxury. Recently, Neom unveiled its luxury Red Sea island, Sindalah, which boasts high-end hotels and restaurants. Yet, this unveiling has been met with skepticism regarding its viability, especially in light of the alarming statistics surrounding worker safety and rights.
Workers involved in these projects have expressed feelings of being “trapped slaves” and “beggars,” highlighting the dire conditions they face. Reports of unpaid wages, illegal working hours, and human rights abuses have emerged, painting a grim picture of the reality behind the Kingdom’s ambitious facade.
A Documentary Exposing the Harsh Truth
ITV’s latest documentary, “Kingdom Uncovered: Inside Saudi Arabia,” sheds light on the dangerous conditions many workers endure. The film features personal accounts from workers and families of those who have died, revealing the alleged illegal practices and serious violations that occur daily in the name of progress. The documentary serves as a stark reminder that while the Kingdom invests trillions into its future, the human cost of these developments is often overlooked.
The Human Cost of Ambition
The statistics are staggering: new figures indicate that 21,000 foreign workers from countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Nepal have died since the launch of Vision 2030. Particularly concerning is the report from Nepal’s foreign employment board, which states that over 650 Nepalese workers’ deaths remain unexplained. These numbers raise urgent questions about the safety and well-being of migrant laborers who are often the backbone of these massive construction projects.
Undercover journalist Noura, featured in the documentary, speaks to workers from The Line—a 100-mile car-free city currently under construction. Many workers report grueling hours, with one individual stating he often works 16-hour days, exceeding the legal limit of 60 hours per week. The toll of such demanding schedules is evident, as workers express feelings of exhaustion and anxiety, with one lamenting, “We are treated like beggars.”
Exploitation and Abuses
Human rights groups have voiced growing concerns about the exploitation of migrant laborers in Saudi Arabia. Nicholas McGeehan from FairSquare highlights the excessive working hours and the serious abuses workers face. Many laborers report not being paid for months, with some waiting as long as ten months for their wages. The lack of adequate food and the inability to leave the country to see their families further exacerbate their plight.
Tragically, the consequences of these harsh conditions can be fatal. A driver for Neom revealed that fatigue has led to numerous accidents, with almost five crashes occurring each month. The documentary also illustrates how long hours, insufficient food, and a stressful environment contribute to serious health problems among workers.
A Call for Change
The plight of workers like Raju Bishwakarma, a Nepalese laborer who called for help before being found dead in his room, underscores the urgent need for reform. Raju’s tragic story, where he was reportedly told he could leave if he paid a fine equal to five months’ salary, highlights the desperate situations many workers find themselves in. Following his death, protests erupted among workers, demanding better conditions and treatment.
Nepali human rights lawyer Anurag Devkota poignantly stated, “Migrant workers come here for a better future for their families, but instead, we are getting dead bodies in wooden boxes.” This sentiment encapsulates the disillusionment felt by many who seek opportunity in Saudi Arabia but instead face exploitation and abuse.
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability
As Saudi Arabia continues to pursue its ambitious Vision 2030, the international community must hold the Kingdom accountable for the treatment of its workers. The stories shared in ITV’s documentary serve as a crucial reminder of the human cost of progress. While the glittering projects like Neom may promise a bright future, it is imperative that the rights and lives of the workers who build these dreams are protected and respected. Only then can Saudi Arabia truly claim to be a leader in global development and human rights.