Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Lebanon's Migrant Workers Face Modern-Day Slavery Conditions

4/17/2025

49 5

Summary

Story summary

Migrant workers in Lebanon endure harrowing conditions under the kafala system, often likened to "modern-day slavery." Overworked and underpaid, they face abuse and restricted access to healthcare, with sponsors seizing their legal documents to limit their freedom. Yet, many stay, driven by the need to support their families or the absence of better options.

1 of 1

Story summary

Migrant workers in Lebanon endure harrowing conditions under the kafala system, often likened to "modern-day slavery." Overworked and underpaid, they face abuse and restricted access to healthcare, with sponsors seizing their legal documents to limit their freedom. Yet, many stay, driven by the need to support their families or the absence of better options.