Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced Thursday that Kuwait’s government has agreed to assist Canadians seeking to depart the Gulf nation amid difficulties obtaining exit permits from their employers.
Escalating Attacks Prompt Departure Requests
Recent Iranian missile and drone strikes on Kuwait have prompted some Canadians to seek exit. Foreign workers, including Canadians employed by Kuwaiti firms, require employer-issued exit permits to leave. Several employers have ignored or rejected these requests.
One Canadian stranded in Kuwait described the ordeal as “a hostage-like situation.” The individual added, “Our emails are being ignored and issues are not being addressed,” expressing concerns over potential employer reprisals.
Impact of Recent Strikes
Kuwait has endured more than half a dozen attacks since U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. Over 100 missiles and 300 drones have targeted the country, striking the airport, port, and office towers. Reports indicate four deaths and nearly 70 injuries.
Global Affairs Canada confirms awareness of Canadians unable to secure exit permits from employers but has not disclosed the exact number affected.
Diplomatic Intervention
In response, Anand contacted her Kuwaiti counterpart. “During times of crisis, diplomacy is a powerful tool,” Anand stated Thursday.
Controversy Over Exit Permit Laws
Kuwait’s requirement for expatriates to obtain employer exit permits remains contentious. Human Rights Watch researcher Michael Page noted last July that it violates international human rights law. “Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country,” Page wrote. “Restrictions can only be applied on a case-by-case basis for a legitimate and proportionate purpose, such as during a criminal investigation.”
