AUK Students Explore Issues in Labor Migration in Kuwait

AUK students participated in the "Labor Migration in Kuwait” workshop. The event was organized by Dr. Marion Breteau, assistant professor of anthropology, in collaboration with the Integrated Community Center (ICC), a nonprofit organization based in Kuwait focused on migrant workers’ rights in both their countries of origin and labor.  
 
The workshop brought together students, community leaders, and founders of migrant associations to discuss the multifaceted impacts of labor migration in Kuwait. Students who took part in the workshop included Hajer Husain, Asil Al Hadabi, Jowana Essa, Shatha Mutair, and Aayah Saleh. They learned about the importance of family in migration processes and the role of nonprofit organizations in addressing the challenges faced by migrant workers in Kuwait. 
 
Mr. Yousef Al-Shammari, the chairman of ICC, introduced students to the center and its goals. Other notable speakers included Mrs. Mary Ann Abunda and Mr. Chito from Sandigan Kuwait, a civil society organization dedicated to upholding the rights and protection of Filipino domestic workers. A representative from the Nepali Expatriate Taxi Business Association (NETBA) also provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by migrant workers in Kuwait and the work being done to support them. 
 
Dr. Breteau highlighted the significance of the workshop in promoting community engagement, “One of the most significant outputs of the day was certainly the effort to develop a sense of community and empathy amongst the participants. This workshop was a perfect example of the vitality of commitment among our students, as the next generation of citizens they are. The different actors present on that day allowed them to explore the existing diversity of community engagement in Kuwait, as well as to hear firsthand stories of migration journeys in the country.” 
 
AUK students are deeply committed to addressing pressing societal issues, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to becoming well-informed, empathetic, and socially conscious citizens. 
  
  
  

Group photo of participants with Dr. Breteau