If they’re serious about saving lives, the Qatari government needs to act sooner rather than later.

Iain Withers

Last year the squalid and dangerous working conditions for many workers in Qatar’s booming construction sector became front page news around the world, prompted by increasing interest in the Arab nation’s preparations to host the 2022 World Cup. In recent weeks revelations have continued to emerge and last month The Guardian revealed 183 workers from Nepal died in Qatar last year alone.

Attention is now turning to Qatar’s efforts to improve living and working conditions for its workers. Early indications suggest the country’s authorities lack the urgency needed to address these problems promptly.

A Qatari consultant, founded by two British former Davis Langdon partners, tells us this week there is “no quick fix” to the problem due to the country’s inability to bring in a streamlined planning process to speed up delivery.

The Qatari authorities talk a good game on improving the situation, but they need to put their rhetoric in to action fast to make a difference and save lives.

Iain Withers, senior reporter

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