Somali and Saudi Labor Organizations Sign Landmark Agreement to Strengthen Protection of Somali Workers in the Kingdom

GOOBJOOG NEWS|RIYADH: A major milestone has been reached for Somali migrant workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the signing of a historic cooperation agreement between the Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU) and the Saudi National Committee of Workers Committees (SNC).

The SOCOTU delegation, led by President Mohamed Osman Haji and Secretary General Mohamud Hassan, concluded a two-day mission in Riyadh that included high-level discussions with SNC Chairman Eng. Nasser Aljaryad and other labor officials.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Abdiaziz Sheikh Abdirahman, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Somali Embassy in Saudi Arabia, who praised both parties for their commitment to improving the protection and welfare of Somali workers across the Kingdom.

According to SOCOTU, the agreement represents a significant advancement in strengthening the rights and safeguards of Somali workers already employed in Saudi Arabia, as well as those expected to arrive under the newly established bilateral labor recruitment arrangements between the two governments.

Discussions during the mission focused on deepening institutional cooperation, sharing trade union experience, and enhancing mechanisms to address challenges faced by Somali workers in various sectors. The partnership also establishes new channels for continuous dialogue, joint initiatives, and coordinated efforts to promote fair labor standards and decent working conditions.

SOCOTU President Mohamed Osman Haji described the agreement as a “historic achievement” for Somali workers, noting that their rights will now be better protected through structured cooperation with key Saudi labor institutions. He emphasized the Saudi side’s readiness to work closely with SOCOTU in strengthening worker support systems and ensuring fair treatment.

The cooperation framework aligns with international labor standards endorsed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and reflects the shared commitment of both nations to safeguard migrant worker rights, promote social justice, and enhance labor governance.

Officials from SOCOTU, SNC, and the Somali Embassy highlighted that this renewed partnership will continue to expand through programs and initiatives aimed at protecting rights, improving working conditions, and upholding the dignity and safety of all Somali workers in the Kingdom