In an alarming event that shook air travel news, five Australian women underwent invasive searches at Doha Hammad International Airport in October 2020 before departing on their flight. The details revealed that these women, along with eight others, were taken off their flights by armed guards upon the discovery of an abandoned infant in the airport restroom. The big question now surrounds Qatar Airways and its involvement in this incident, as the airline faces a lawsuit in Sydney.
The Incident and its Aftermath
The ordeal was particularly distressing for the affected women. They recount being led to ambulances on the airport tarmac and subjected to intrusive examinations to ascertain if any of them had recently given birth. Shockingly, some of them even underwent strip searches, with one woman experiencing this distressing situation while holding her five-month-old baby.
These actions have raised global concerns, particularly considering Qatar’s conservative monarchy, known for its stringent laws concerning women’s rights, including penalties for childbirth and sexual activity outside marriage. The lawsuit, initiated in November 2021, reflects this, with Sydney-based lawyer Damian Sturzaker emphasizing the trauma and continued distress experienced by these women due to the incident.
Qatar Airways’ Defense
In response to the lawsuit, both Qatar Airways and its subsidiary, Matar, which manages Doha’s airport, are seeking to dismiss the claims. They have been quick to clarify that the guards who conducted the searches weren’t their employees or agents, but Qatari police officers acting under the jurisdiction of Qatar’s Ministry of Interior. Furthermore, evidence from the defense includes statements from the flight and cabin crew, emphasizing that the removal orders came directly from the interior ministry officers.
Interestingly, the legal proceedings are taking place in Australia, owing to the Montreal Convention’s provisions. This international treaty dictates airline liability and allows lawsuits in the jurisdiction where a passenger resides. However, Qatar Airways contests this, stating the lawsuit doesn’t fall within the convention’s parameters.
A Broader Perspective
It’s essential to highlight that this incident is not isolated. The event has raised concerns about Qatar’s overall treatment of women. Furthermore, the fact that both Qatar Airways and Matar fall under the ownership of the Qatari government makes the situation even more intricate.
In a related development, the Australian government recently declined Qatar Airways’ request to add 21 return flights per week. Their rationale? The added flights might destabilize the Australian airline industry.
As the legal battle unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of passenger rights and the need for airlines and governments to ensure the safety and dignity of all travelers.
Source: The Guardian
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