Employment Policy on Modern Slavery, Forced Labour, and Child Labour

Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) is committed to maintaining an ethical, safe, and responsible working environment that respects human dignity, protects fundamental employment rights, and rejects all forms of labor exploitation. In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, GUST affirms its institutional commitment to preventing forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor across its employment practices and operations.

Code of Conduct Policy

GUST’s Code of Conduct Policy, first issued in October 2013 and revised in April 2022, clearly outlines the University’s stance on human rights and fair treatment. Under the section Our Commitment, the policy states that GUST opposes corruption, respects the environment in which it operates, and upholds the human rights of all employees. The Code affirms GUST’s dedication to ensuring that forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor do not take place within the organization. This policy reflects GUST’s adherence to international human rights principles and the Kuwait Labor Law, which regulates fair and ethical employment practices across the country.

Employment Policy and Prevention of Child Labor

In addition, GUST’s Employment Policy reinforces these commitments by establishing clear hiring standards and ethical employment conditions. The policy explicitly requires that no candidate under the age of 18 may be employed and that all candidates must demonstrate good conduct and behavior, ensuring transparency and fairness in the recruitment process. For matters relating to child labor, GUST adheres strictly to Article 19 of the Kuwait Labor Law, which prohibits the employment of anyone below the age of 15.

Commitment to Responsible Employment Practices

Together, GUST's Code of Conduct and Employment Policy establish a framework for responsible recruitment, ethical employment, and respect for employee rights. The University recognizes the importance of extending these principles throughout its employment relationships and institutional partnerships, supporting a working environment free from exploitation, coercion, and abuse. These commitments contribute to GUST's broader efforts to advance decent work, responsible institutional governance, and sustainable economic development.