A recent documentary, “Kingdom Uncovered,” reveals that over 21,000 laborers have died since the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, highlighting severe human rights abuses and unsafe working conditions. The film features testimonies from workers who describe their experiences as akin to slavery, facing unpaid wages and excessive hours. As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushes for ambitious projects like NEOM, concerns grow about the exploitation of migrant workers, with reports indicating that many have gone missing during construction. The documentary has prompted international human rights organizations to call for accountability and reform.
Voices of Despair
The documentary sheds light on the grim reality faced by laborers from countries like India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Many workers report feeling like “trapped slaves,” with some waiting up to ten months for unpaid wages. Nicholas McGeehan from FairSquare highlights the long hours and hazardous conditions that lead to frequent accidents, with nearly five crashes occurring monthly due to fatigue. Families of deceased workers share harrowing stories, emphasizing the urgent need for reform in labor practices. One worker’s family recounted how they received only a fraction of his wages after his tragic death on site, leaving them in financial ruin.
Background on Saudi Vision 2030
Launched in 2017 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Vision 2030 aims to transform the kingdom into a global tourism hub through massive projects like NEOM and The Line. However, human rights organizations warn of potential exploitation and displacement of local populations. Reports indicate that approximately 100,000 migrant workers have gone missing during these developments, raising serious ethical concerns about ambitious plans overshadowed by human suffering. In response to the documentary’s findings, the Saudi government has yet to issue a substantial statement addressing these allegations, leading to increased scrutiny from international bodies.
International Reactions and Future Implications
The revelations in “Kingdom Uncovered” have sparked outrage among global human rights advocates, prompting calls for accountability from both governments and corporations involved in these projects. Critics argue that without significant reforms, future investments in Saudi Arabia could be jeopardized as international pressure mounts. As discussions around labor rights gain momentum, there is a growing demand for transparency and ethical practices in construction projects worldwide.
