Amnesty extension welcome, but think long-term solutions

Thousands of happy faces over the last three months prove the success of the UAE’s amnesty scheme that helped them regularise their residency status or move to their home countries without facing any legal action or fine. Expats who were in a dire need of help benefitted— from families living illegally for years, to men and women who continued to work in the shadow economy long after their visas expired. Maids who had abandoned their employers and worked on freelance basis, and many more came forward to correct their status. The amnesty programme shows the government’s commitment towards tolerance and compassion. It pragmatically brought together several stakeholders and ensured the most vulnerable are given a second chance in life. Help from authorities, embassies, NGOs, and the media ensured many returned to their home countries. And now, as the authorities extend the scheme for another month, they will make certain that no one is left behind. The drive, after all, is to allow a dignified living for all.

In the case of this amnesty, compassion took precedence over blind obedience to law. The stories we reported are testament to this. The social impact of these programmes should not be underestimated. However, the UAE should now look at redressal centres that allow people in need to come forward even without the protective amnesty scheme in place. There are many who come to the UAE for better life and work. They pay thousands to unscrupulous agents to secure jobs, but often get a raw deal. Many have been duped by greedy employers, or weren’t paid as promised. Fear of the law and mounting fines often hold such people back. They don’t leave, feel helpless when their debts pile up and there are mouths to feed. Authorities should look at redressing this problem under a long-term plan with the help of embassies and social workers.