Amazon repays $1.9 million to Saudi workers over unlawful fees
In response to allegations of worker abuse in Saudi Arabia, Amazon, the global online retailer, announced on Friday that it has disbursed $1.9 million to over 700 contracted workers in the Kingdom. MThe reimbursements were made to rectify unlawful recruitment fees and other violations, the company stated in a release posted on its website. These payments come following an investigation launched by Amazon in October, prompted by accusations from Amnesty International.
Amazon’s investigation uncovered instances where contracted workers were compelled to pay various fees, including recruitment costs, by Saudi recruitment agents and labor supply companies. Furthermore, the probe revealed additional infractions such as substandard living conditions, irregularities in contracts and wages, and delays in addressing worker grievances.
The reimbursements totaling $1.9 million signify Amazon’s commitment to rectifying the injustices faced by its contracted workers in Saudi Arabia. The company emphasized that these payments were made to over 700 workers affected by the identified violations. However, the scope of the issue may extend beyond the reimbursed individuals.
Amnesty International’s report shed light on the plight of migrant workers, particularly from Nepal, employed in Amazon warehouses across Saudi Arabia. The report detailed appalling living conditions, safety hazards, and instances of wage theft. It also implicated recruitment agents and Saudi labor supply companies for deceiving workers and subjecting them to exorbitant recruitment fees.
In response to Amazon’s reimbursements, Steve Cockburn, head of economic and social justice at Amnesty International, acknowledged the significance of the move but stressed the need for broader action. Cockburn emphasized the importance of extending remedies to all affected workers, including those who have already departed the company or the country. He underscored the necessity of ensuring justice and compensation for all individuals who have experienced similar abuses.
As scrutiny intensifies on labor practices within global supply chains, Amazon’s response to the allegations in Saudi Arabia highlights the ongoing challenges faced by multinational corporations in ensuring ethical and fair treatment of workers. The company’s efforts to address these issues represent a step forward, but sustained vigilance and action are required to uphold the rights and dignity of workers worldwide.
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