Why Does Amnesty International Accuse Carrefour in Saudi Arabia?
On Monday, October 21, 2024, Amnesty released a report condemning the working conditions of migrants at various Carrefour locations in Saudi Arabia, raising questions about the potential consequences of these revelations.
Amnesty Highlights Concerns at Carrefour in Saudi Arabia
Published on October 21, 2024, an Amnesty International report highlights troubling working conditions for migrants at various Carrefour stores and warehouses in Saudi Arabia.
Serious Allegations
The report details workweeks exceeding 60 hours, violating Saudi laws, unpaid overtime, and even suspicions of “forced labor” on rest days. The implicated facilities are operated by Carrefour’s longstanding Middle East franchisee, Dubai-based Majid Al Futtaim (MAF).
Based on interviews with 17 workers, primarily from Asia, one former employee, Anand, stated, “At Carrefour stores, workers are not treated like human beings.”
Carrefour Disputes Claims and Requests Internal Investigation
In response to these charges, Carrefour has requested an internal investigation by its partner MAF. In a statement to AFP, Carrefour noted that the initial probe “did not confirm the issues raised by Amnesty’s alert” but did uncover other problems. Corrective measures have reportedly been initiated.
Previous Issues at Amazon
It’s important to note that in 2023, Amnesty had already criticized the “dreadful treatment” of migrant workers at Amazon’s warehouses in Saudi Arabia. Following these allegations, Amazon reimbursed $1.9 million to over 700 contract workers who were subjected to illegal recruitment fees and other abuses.
The Saudi authorities, contacted by AFP, have yet to respond to Amnesty’s latest report regarding Carrefour.