The Economics of Injuries - A Review of the Worker Environment in Qatar and India

Abstract: FIFA World Cup 2022 is being played in Qatar, which puts tremendous pressure on infrastructure development. To cope, Qatar has brought in more than a million foreign workers, mostly from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Serious concern for their well being has been expressed and Qatar has been accused of having slave-like working conditions. This paper investigates this situation by using the disability-adjusted life year (DALY) metrics on the construction sector and relates that to the wage the workers receive. This estimate is then compared with estimates from India to provide assessment of the relative well being and economic incentives between the two countries. This paper finds a valid economic reason for the migrant inflows to Qatar that is consistent with the reality that is observed.