Bipartite Conference on the Doha Dialogue

Labor migration between Africa and the GCC countries (including Lebanon and Jordan) has a longstanding history – be it formally or informally. Deeply rooted in commercial, social and cultural ties Africa – Gulf migration has also had significant benefits to both regions. In recent decades, the relationship has expanded through large-scale migration from African countries to Gulf region contributing essential labor force to receiving countries and contributing to household economies, remittances and employment opportunities for sending countries. However, this migration route has also been marked with recruitment abuses, irregular migration, exploitation of migrants by employers and gaps in migrant protection including loss of wages. 

Recognizing this policy gaps, the two regions launched the Doha Dialogue in May 2024 under the leadership of the government of Qatar and the African Union. Building on the GCC’s experience in the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, an agreement was reached to establish a dedicated, voluntary and non-binding platform for addressing shared labor mobility challenges. The inaugural meeting resulted in the Doha declaration, thus creating a framework for continued interregional cooperation and dialogue on issues such as fair recruitment, decent work, migrant rights and other shared challenges. The second Doha dialogue meeting is expected to take place in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on 5-6 October 2026

Ahead of the Dialogue, trade unions from across Africa came together with representatives of recruitment agencies in Nairobi to identify key priorities for strengthening labor migration governance between Africa and the Gulf. The bipartite discussions highlighted the importance of fair and ethical recruitment, reliable information for prospective and migrant workers, enforceable bilateral labor migration agreements, access to social protection and effective remedies, and stronger safeguards for women and other workers facing heightened risks.

The consultations also underscored the importance of involving workers, trade unions, recruitment agencies and other stakeholders in shaping, implementing and monitoring labor migration policies. Participants emphasized stronger social dialogue, freedom of association and representation, alongside greater cooperation across migration corridors. They further highlighted the need to connect labor mobility with skills development, recognition of qualifications, social protection and decent employment opportunities, ensuring that migration can serve as a safe and sustainable pathway rather than a source of increased vulnerability.

Trade Unions are key and longstanding partners of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung and continue to play a vital role in advancing workers’ rights and shaping fair labour migration policies. FES AMPC will continue to work closely with trade unions to strengthen their voice, cooperation and engagement across Africa and destination countries.

Please consult the outcome document of the dialogue for further information here.