Who Said Slavery Was Over? Lebanese courts punish a domestic worker who faced abuse

Abused, Exploited, Then Detained

Domestic worker D.G. faced violence and exploitation and was denied her wages. Her employer also kept her passport and failed to arrange her legal residency, according to a complaint filed by KAFA.

Justice Sides With the Powerful

Public prosecutor B.J. ordered D.G.’s detention because she had no valid residency permit and referred her to General Security. Her employer faced no serious investigation into possible human trafficking.

The worker was punished for a situation her employer allegedly caused.

Protection Rules Ignored

In 2025, the government adopted rules to protect trafficking victims. A public prosecutor’s circular also called for protecting them from detention over residency problems linked to their abuse and providing safe shelter when needed.

These protections were ignored in D.G.’s case, despite the reported signs of exploitation.

Slavery Continues Under Kafala

The kafala system gives employers control over migrant domestic workers’ residency and lives. Racism and class prejudice fuel their mistreatment.

When courts punish an abused worker, they encourage abusers and make victims afraid to seek help.

Free D.G. Investigate the abuses against her.