Qatar has pledged to introduce new labour legislation by early 2015, offering more protection to migrant workers.

The country’s current legislation limits the rights of foreign workers and has led to accusations of widespread exploitation.

New legislation is “currently under review”, according to a statement from Qatar’s labour and social affairs ministry.

“We expect to make announcements about new legislation by early next year,” it said.

Under Qatar’s current sponsorship system, employers can prevent migrant workers from leaving the country or changing jobs.

This is expected to be replaced with a contract system where workers can leave the country without needing a certificate signed off by their employer.