News
Labour Minister praises Bahraini companies honoured at GCC level in Muscat
22-09-2023
On the sidelines of its ninth meeting held in the Sultanate of Oman, during the period from 19-20 September, the Committee of Ministers of Labour in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), honoured three Bahraini companies within the categories of distinguished establishments in the field of empowering and developing the workforce and the best small projects at the GCC level. These companies are National Bank of Kuwait – Bahrain, Lulu Hypermarket and Excellence Corporation for Import and Export of Foodstuffs. This celebration came in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Head of the Bahrain Delegation, and Their Excellencies the Ministers concerned with labor in the GCC countries. On this occasion, Humaidan expressed his sincere congratulations to the Bahraini companies honoured at the GCC level, which have achieved a qualitative performance in the field of Bahrainisation of jobs within private sector establishments in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The minister also pointed out that the honorees have contributed to supporting the initiatives of the Ministry of Labour in employment within the economic recovery plan, which prioritise on making the citizen the first choice in the labour market. In this regard, he praised the role of the private sector and the contribution of its establishments to the success of these national initiatives in the field of human development, including providing quality job opportunities for Bahrainis in various productive and economic sectors and developing them professionally. The three companies, National Bank of Kuwait – Bahrain (NBK) and Lulu Hypermarket Bahrain (Lulu Hypermarket) were recognized for their excellence in job replacement and localization. At the same time, the Foundation of Excellence for Importing and Exporting Foodstuffs was honored in the category of owners of the best distinguished small project in the Kingdom of Bahrain. For their part, the representatives of the honored Bahraini companies expressed their deep thanks to the Ministry of Labour for nominating their companies and enabling them to receive these appreciation awards at the Gulf level. Moreover, they affirmed their adherence to maintain premium productivity and supporting national initiatives to upgrade Bahraini human resources and provide opportunities for their self-development and career.
Labour Minister presides Bahrain's delegation at GCC Labour Ministers’ meeting in Muscat
20-09-2023
HE Minister of Labour Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan presided on Wednesday the delegation of the Kingdom of Bahrain participating in the ninth meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Labour in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which will be held in the Sultanate of Oman, from 19-20 September. The meeting will be attended by GCC labour ministers. In a statement on this occasion, Humaidan stressed that the participation of the Kingdom of Bahrain in this meeting comes within the framework of its keenness to support joint Gulf action and coordinate efforts among member states in upgrading the Gulf labour markets and exchanging successful experiences, especially relating to the plans and programs for qualifying and employing the national workforce. The meeting also aims to facilitate the movement of GCC workforce amongst GCC labour markets in accordance with their common principles and paths. HE the Minister of Labour pointed to the role of this Gulf meeting in activating and implementing the decisions issued by the Supreme Labour Council and studying the development of legislative tools in the GCC countries to keep pace with labour development. The GCC labour ministers praised the achievements of the Kingdom of Bahrain in maintaining the first level in the US State Department's report on trafficking in persons for the year 2023, for the sixth consecutive year. They noted the level of progress made by the Kingdom in terms of protecting the workforce, in addition to the position that Bahrain enjoys in adhering to international human rights principles and protecting workers. During the meeting, the GCC labour ministers will discuss the measures taken by the GCC States to facilitate the employment and movement of GCC citizens for the purpose of work and what they have done towards their equality with the national workforce. The meeting will also review programs and projects, as well as enhancing coordination among the GCC countries in international forums. The GCC meeting will also discuss the latest developments in the labour market, the effects of technological development, change in work patterns, potential impacts on the workforce, and recommendations to reduce job losses through continuous learning policies and training and rehabilitation programs.
Kheberat Programme concluded
17-09-2023
Manama, Sept. 17 (BNA): Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, Member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Public Administration, stressed the importance of unifying efforts between the public and private sectors to support national plans and initiatives supporting youth, aiming to develop them professionally and raise their competitiveness in the labour market. This came during the closing ceremony of the first edition of Kheberat Programme, which was organized by the Institute of Public Administration in cooperation with a number of its strategic partners in the public and private sectors, represented by the Ministry of Labor, JAFCON, and Hope Talents . The minister explained that the programme targeting Bahraini youth comes as an embodiment of the principle of competitiveness as it is one of the principles on which the government’s 2023-2026 programme is based, which also comes in parallel with the principles of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. Dr. Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Daij Al Khalifa, Director General of the Institute of Public Administration, explained that Kheberat Programme is one of the initiatives that keep pace with the national development aspirations aimed at developing and empowering Bahraini youth, making them the first choice in the labor market. She explained that the institute was able through the programme to provide the participants with the best scientific and applied experience, and professional certificates, as they were able to present 13 projects during their on-the-job training period in private sector institutions, based on the scientific materials that the participants acquired from the workshops and training courses during the program. The director general indicated that the institute, in cooperation with its strategic partners, is working on offering future editions of the programme, in an effort to benefit the largest possible number of Bahraini youth seeking work and experience.
14-09-2023
HE Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, inaugurated a specialized workshop entitled: "Review and discussion of the draft profile for occupational safety and health in the Kingdom of Bahrain", organised by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour, from 13-14 September 2023. This will be done with the participation of government agencies related to occupational safety and health in Bahrain, representatives of the three production parties, major companies that have representation in the Occupational Safety and Health Council, in addition to civil society institutions, training institutes and universities. In his speech, Humaidan stressed that the government of the Kingdom of Bahrain has paid special attention to occupational safety and health and the protection of the work environment. It has entrusted upon itself to adopt systems and legislation and has established qualified and trained regulatory bodies to ensure the proper implementation and compliance of these methods, which are aimed towards more effective levels of labour protection for the workforce. The Minister also pointed to the importance of holding such specialised technical activities as they address all practices related to occupational safety and health at the national level in order to develop the procedures of all relevant executive agencies in Bahrain and to propose more necessary regulations to enhance protection for workers. The Minister of Labour stressed that the rapid scientific and technological developments witnessed by the world necessitate exerting more efforts to create a generation of cadres and competencies in the field of occupational safety and health. Accordingly, they will be required to have the ability to keep pace with the changes in the system of standards for measuring skill and competence and focus on updating, developing, raising the quality of work and production continuously at the national level. For her part, Ms. Sophia Kagan, ILO Regional Director for Arab States, stressed the importance of production cooperation to promote occupational health and safety principles in the workplace. She expressed the organisation’s continuous endeavor to provide technical support to develop occupational safety and health systems and raise the efficiency of workers, in addition to contributing to the study of relevant decisions and regulations. The ILO Director also pointed to the need for joint action to avoid the risks of work in various climatic conditions, including those witnessed by the region, especially during the summer, where high temperatures, and the risks of unfortunate occupational injuries, which negatively affect productivity and workers' health. The event comes in the context of the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to the principles related to the fundamental rights of the ILO Occupational Health and Safety Convention 1981 No. (155), in addition to the promotional framework for occupational health and safety and the Health Convention No. 2066 (No. 187). It will also review the draft occupational safety and health file and fill the existing gaps in order to finalise the process of drafting this file and agree on the next steps in line with the national occupational safety and health policy. The workshop also comes within the framework of implementing the ILO's directions on the preparation of national programs and files for occupational safety and health, analyzing the national situation of occupational safety and health by identifying relevant legislation and practices, and discussing the necessary recommendations on improvements that can be made in the national system of occupational safety and health. The workshop will review ILO standards on occupational safety and health, develop a file and strategy in this regard, and discuss issues related to heat stress, workers’ housing units and issues specific to the construction sector (work in the field of altitude). During the workshop, several government agencies and other relevant authorities gave presentations on their occupational safety and health practices.
Labour Minister receives outgoing Pakistani Ambassador to Bahrain
12-09-2023
HE Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, met with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan HE Muhammad Ayub to mark the end of his services in the Kingdom. Humaidan expressed his appreciation to the Pakistani Ambassador for his efforts in enhancing bilateral relations between the two friendly countries, noting the role of the Pakistani community working in Bahrain and its contributions to the country's development process, wishing him success in his future endeavours. For his part, Ambassador Ayub expressed his thanks and gratitude to the Minister of Labour for support in strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries. The Ambassador also referred to the thoughtfulness provided by Bahrain to the Pakistani community and workers in the country, noting the measures taken by the Government during the exceptional period of the Corona pandemic to maintain the safety of everyone, including foreign workers, which reflects the attentiveness it attaches to preserving human rights and protecting workers, wishing the Kingdom further progress and prosperity.
Labour Ministry, Gulf Air Group agree on reinstating employees
10-09-2023
Manama, Sept. 10 (BNA): Following the joint meetings that took place between the Ministry of Labour and the management of Gulf Air Group Holding (GFG), Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, and Zayed Rashid Al Zayani, Chairman of GFG, announced an agreement to reinstate employees, who were affected by the decision to merge and restructure departments and to provide them with options. The minister said that the options offered to the employees included providing alternative job opportunities in GFF subsidiaries, retirement offers to those whose years of service entitle them to retirement, or suitable end-of-service offers for those who opt for that. Al Zayani reaffirmed pride in national competencies working in all GFG subsidiaries, adding that all their efforts and their contributions to the group were deeply appreciated. #بنا #البحرين #وكالة_أنباء_البحرين #bh #Bahrain #bna #bnanews
Labour Minister receives outgoing IOM’s Chief of Mission
05-09-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, met on Tuesday in his office at the Ministry, Mr. Mohammed Al-Zarqani, the outgoing Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan praised the ongoing and productive cooperation between IOM and the Kingdom of Bahrain. He then referred to the support given by the organisation for the efforts made by the Kingdom in promoting a safe work environment as well as, technical cooperation through the qualification of national cadres and expertise, especially with regard to combating trafficking in persons. Upon that, the minister emphasised the Kingdom's keenness to enhance collaboration with various specialised international organisations, expressing his thanks for the efforts made by Al-Zarqani during his tenure in the country, wishing him success in his future duties. For his part, Al-Zarqani expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to the officials in the Kingdom of Bahrain for their support and assistance throughout his tenure in the country. He also praised Bahrain's successive achievements at the international level in combating trafficking in persons and creating a safe and sound environment, in addition to its advanced labour legislation that contributed to strengthening the human rights system and protecting workers. This is what the IOM considers a model to follow, as this successful experience can be generalised regionally and internationally.
End of "Work Ban Decision" with the compliance of 99.92%
03-09-2023
HE Minister of Labour Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain, under the leadership of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the close follow-up of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, is keen to strengthen the human rights system and protect workers within a safe and sustainable work environment that reflects the civilized face of the Kingdom and its leadership in developing safe measures to protect the workforce in various productive sectors. This is reflected in the sustainability of growth while preserving the dignity of workers and the continuous improvement of the working environment conditions in accordance with the standards of the International Labour Organization. On the completion period of Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013, regarding the prohibition of work under direct sunlight and in open places, from 12 noon to 4pm in July and August, the Labour Minister indicated that the high percentage compliance witnessed this year has reached 99.92% Humaidan explained that the continued remarkable compliance to the work ban decision reflects the keenness of establishments to implement public policies that ensure the reduction of occupational injuries and diseases, which is confirmed by the positive results achieved thanks to the cooperation of employers and workers. The figures indicated that the number of violating employers reached (21723) only, while the number of violating workers reached (16) workers and the number of visits carried out by the ministry reached (31) inspection visits within the framework of its supervision of the implementation of the decision. In this context, the minister stressed the importance of the results achieved following the commitment to this decision at the humanitarian level that preserves the safety of the worker from injuries and diseases. He also pointed to the importance of maintaining the level of enhancing productivity by reorganising working times to serve the production process and in a way that does not affect the progress of work on time. The Minister of Labour thanked the employers who were keen to adhere to the implementation of the aforementioned decision, which contributed to the decrease in the number of injuries resulting from cases of heat stress, sunstroke and other summer diseases. He also referred to the high levels of productivity of facilities attributable to securing appropriate working conditions that lead to the efficiency of operations during this period of the year, which witnesses a significant rise in temperatures and humidity, pointing to the role of the decision in maintaining the safety and health of the workforce. This commitment was achieved within the framework of a system of national legislation that is subject to continuous review and update, in line with international standards and specifications for safety and health in the workplace. The Ministry of Labour has carried out inspection campaigns to ensure the work ban decision of the aforementioned decision. All the violations that were apprehended have been referred to the Public Prosecution to take legal action, in accordance with Article (192) of the Labour Law in the Private Sector promulgated by Law No. (36) of 2012, which stipulates that "anyone who violates any of the provisions of Chapter (15) violates the provisions of this decision shall be punished by the penalties stipulated in Article (192) of the Labour Law in the Private Sector promulgated by Law No. (36) of 2012, which stipulates that anyone who violates any of the provisions of Chapter (15) and the decisions issued in implementation thereof shall be punished by imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months and a fine of not less than BD500 and not more than BD1000, or one of these two penalties. "
Bahrain participates in the meeting of GCC Labour Undersecretaries Committee
30-08-2023
HH Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour, participated in the ninth meeting of the Committee of Undersecretaries of Ministries of Labour in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which was held on Wednesday, via video conference. This encounter precedes the next meeting of the stated committee, which is scheduled to be held from 19-20 September in the Sultanate of Oman. The meeting of the undersecretaries of the Gulf ministries of labour dealt with the certain items on its agenda. Amongst the topics reviewed were the GCC joint work strategy in the field of manpower, which aims to develop joint work and promote labour markets and human resources, and the experiences of member states in the field of human resources development, as well as projects to integrate job seekers in professions and qualitative jobs. Similarly, they examined ways to enhance international cooperation between the GCC countries and specialised international organisations, in addition to topics related to training citizens on the job within the framework of GCC efforts and initiatives to prepare and qualify national competencies. During the meeting, they also discussed the agenda proposal of the tenth meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Labour in the GCC States and its draft decisions in preparation for submission to the Committee of Ministers. The meeting was presided by HE Sheikh Nasr bin Amer Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour in the Sultanate of Oman, with the participation of undersecretaries of the GCC Ministries of Labour and representatives of the GCC General Secretariat and the Executive Bureau of the Council of Ministers of Labour and Ministers of Social Affairs in GCC states.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister issues Edict (69) of 2023
22-08-2023
Manama, Aug. 22 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today issued Edict (69) of 2023 appointing a director at the Ministry of Labour, based on a proposal by the Minister of Labour. According to the edict, Sharifa Ali Ahmed Al Hujairi was appointed as Director of the Human and Financial Resources at the Ministry of Labour. The Minister of Labour shall implement the provisions of this edict, which takes immediate effect and will be published in the Official Gazette. ZH bahrain news agency
National approach to raise employment rates in the health sector: 911 Bahrainis employed in the first period of 2023
16-08-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, stressed that the growth of the economic, industrial and commercial sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain is a key tributary in generating more jobs in the private sector. This came within the framework of the National Labour Market Plan for the years (2023-2026), which aims to sustain growth and enhance the Kingdom's position as an attractive environment for entrepreneurship in the region. In this context, Humaidan revealed that the health sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain achieved the largest growth in employment rates among the various productive sectors during the first half of 2023. Among the most prominent of these results is the employment of 911 Bahrainis in various technical, health and administrative jobs and professions available in health institutions. This achievement is due to the government's efforts to attract more investments in the health sector, which is witnessing increasing growth and creating more opportunities for citizens. The health sector has also contributed to the employment growth and motivated the government to launch a number of initiatives to further contribute to the recruitment of Bahraini doctors and support their professional level. These contributions include subsidising the wages of new doctors and dentists for three years and raising the salary ceiling for working doctors and dentists by a maximum of BD1000 and a minimum of BD800. In addition, it contributes to providing incentives to hospitals and medical centers in the private sector that achieve a Bahrainisation rate equal to 25% of doctors, and the introduction of a special program to improve the wages of Bahraini doctors who were previously employed in the private sector. In a like manner, the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) bears the increase in salary of more than BD600 by BD200 for a year, as well as the introduction of a qualification program to train private sector doctors in the government sector while continuing to work in the private sector.
Humaidan hails private companies for counting citizens within the "Foras” program
14-08-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Al-Qoud Foundation Group (QF), met with Mr. Khalid Al-Qoud, in his office at the ministry. During the meeting, they reviewed and discussed the recruitment, training and development programs of national human resources, especially cooperation in the on-the-job training program (Foras), implemented by the Ministry. Humaidan also praised the support of private sector enterprises for their contribution to the success of "Foras" program, which aims to train jobseekers on the job to enhance their skills, refine their expertise and increase their efficiency by acquiring the skills and professional capabilities necessary to make them the best choice in the labour market. In this context, the minister noted the policy of QF by attracting Bahraini youth for on-the-job training in various departments of the group in order to prepare them and help them to enter the labour market easily. For his part, the group’s chairman praised the Ministry of Labour for its support of the private sector and by providing them with Bahraini cadres equipped with the skills needed by the employers. Just the same, he pointed to the ministry’s contribution to the success of the QF’s initiatives in the field of training job seekers on the job. He indicated that the group has been able to train more than 1000 job seekers, since the launch of the initiative in 2012. Al Qoud also mentioned the group's readiness to intensify cooperation with the ministry to contribute to achieving the objectives of projects aimed at integrating citizens into private sector institutions and companies.
Humaidan meets with the President Bahrain Health & Safety Society
12-08-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Occupational Safety and Health Council, stressed the importance of the strategic partnership with the relevant authorities in promoting a culture of safety and health in the workplace. This is reflected by improving the conditions of the work environment, reducing occupational accidents and diseases in accordance with advanced preventive practices aimed at preventing accidents at work sites by following the international standards applied in this field. This came during the meeting of the minister with Dr. Mustafa Ali Al-Sayed, President of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Health and Safety Society, in the presence of a number of members of the society’s board of directors., on the occasion of the formation of the new board. Humaidan congratulated the leadership of Bahrain Health and Safety Society on its new election. He also noted the role it plays in consolidating the culture of occupational safety and health. In addition, the minister praised the work done by the society in highlighting the role of Bahrain in establishing a legislative structure to ensure the safety of the work environment and the application of high-quality standards in companies and institutions in the field of occupational safety and health. In turn, Dr. Mustafa expressed his appreciation for the support provided by the Ministry of Labour to Bahrain Health and Safety Society. He also pointed out the joint efforts between the various parties, which contributed to promoting the culture of occupational safety and health in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which has become an incubator for many regional and international events in this regard.
Humaidan praises initiatives that empower Bahrainis professionally
10-08-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, expressed his appreciation for the projects and initiatives presented by civil society and training institutions in order to upgrade national cadres in accordance with the requirements of employers and market developments. He pointed out that the government pays special attention to vocational training, which opens wide prospects to increase the pace of employment of citizens and make them the first choice in the labour market. This came during Humaidan's meeting with H.E. Dr. Fatima Mohammed Al Balooshi, Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees of the Bahrain Trust Foundation (BTF), Dr. Jameela Al Saadoon, Director of Da Vinci Training, and Sadeq Abdulrasool, Chief Digital Officer of Homiez and member of the advisory committee of the program, at his office in the ministry. The minister was briefed on the most prominent projects and initiatives implemented by BTF, especially the “Da Vinci Training Program”, which targets graduates of Bachelor of Arts and design programs. These projects aim to enhance and raise the technical skills of graduates, to meet the requirements and needs of the labour market, and those related to owners of commercial technical projects who seek development to obtain growing job opportunities in their fields of specialization. This is done by training them in a four-month training program consisting of 20 specialised and advanced workshops in the field of management, organisation and coordination of art exhibitions and meetings, graphic design, marketing of artistic products, in addition to some diverse skills in fine arts, methods of teaching art education and classroom management. On this occasion, Dr. Fatima praised the role of the Ministry of Labour and the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) in supporting the objectives of the foundation. From that perspective, she emphasised the foundation’s keenness to continue launching qualitative programs and projects aimed at supporting the comprehensive development process in the Kingdom of Bahrain. She further reaffirmed that BTF will support national efforts in the field of preparing Bahraini competencies, refining their professional capabilities, as well as facilitating their integration in various productive sectors.
Labour Minister in an open meeting on the "Future Betting" Program
09-08-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, pointed to the pivotal role of youth in the development policies pursued by the Kingdom of Bahrain under the leadership of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the follow-up of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, towards empowering Bahraini youth and giving them more quality opportunities in the labour market. The aim is to enhance the role of youth in the comprehensive development process witnessed by Bahrain in this prosperous era, as youth are the main pillar in this march and bet on it to continue building and preserving national gains and achievements. This came during the open meeting of His Excellency the Minister of Labour with a group of Bahraini youth participating in the second phase of the "Future Bet" program. The discussion is organised by the Bahrain Institute for Political Development in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor, on Wednesday in the main hall of the ministry building. Humaidan expressed his thanks to the Bahrain Institute for Political Development for this qualitative initiative that enhances communication between Bahraini youth and officials. This initiative aims to exchange ideas and visions on the aspirations of young people and the public policies implemented by the government that give them priority as a workforce contributing to the progress of the Kingdom. Humaidan emphasised the importance of informing Bahraini youth about the development paths witnessed by Bahrain to sustain growth in various fields, foremost of which is the labour market, and to benefit from the energies, skills and academic qualifications of young people in promoting this process. The minister reviewed the efforts to develop the labour market and create the appropriate and attractive environment for young people, and the tireless efforts towards attracting more investments that generate more promising job opportunities for citizens. He also indicated that the Ministry of Labour is working in partnership with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority and the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), especially with regard to qualifying and integrating citizens into private sector establishments. This partnership is in line with the government's program for the years 2023-2026 and the Economic Recovery Plan 2021-2024, which includes five main initiatives, foremost of which is the initiative to create promising job opportunities to make Bahrainis the first choice in the labour market, which aims to employ 20,000 and train 10,000 job seekers annually until 2024, and the National Labour Market Plan 2023-2026. The Labour Minister touched on the programs and projects implemented by the ministry to accelerate the pace of employment and rehabilitate citizens to integrate them into the labour market through advanced professional training, granting incentives and benefits to job seekers and employers. This is carried out through free training and rehabilitation, supporting the wages of the national workforce, as well as strengthening social protection for job seekers via the unemployment benefit system. After that, Humaidan called on the young participants to select university specialisation required in the labour market by visiting the ministry’s website to learn about the latest labour-related services. Thereon, the minister said the ministry has succeeded in finding solutions for job-seekers who confront employment difficulties. The participating youth expressed their thanks for all the efforts made by the ministry in rehabilitating and employing citizens in the labour market, which reflects the government's continuous keenness in ensuring quality opportunities for the job seekers to start a promising career in various productive sectors, including future jobs. The participants also put forward ideas and proposals that enhance the success of policies to integrate Bahraini youth in private sector enterprises. This session comes within the second phase of the Future Betting Program. Where the first phase came by providing a number of training courses and workshops on various topics related to politics, economics and human rights values, in addition to some leadership and media skills to develop the participating youth. The second phase (current) includes a number of panel discussions between participants with some ministers and officials in the state to discuss various topics. The program will conclude with the third phase later, which is the "Creative Proposals and Initiatives" phase. In the next phase participants will be divided into several groups in order to present creative proposals and initiatives to promote societal national values and raise political awareness.
Labour Minister chairs LMRA’s Board of Directors meeting
07-08-2023
Under the chairmanship of H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, chaired LMRA’s Board of Directors meeting, in the presence of Ms. Nouf Abdul Rahman Jamsheer, CEO of the Authority and other board members. Humaidan affirmed the need to intensify work that links the programs and plans of the LMRA to the National Labour Market Plan 2023-2026. This mission aims to develop the labour market, ensure its growth and stability, enhance economic competitiveness and attract foreign direct investment, thus contributing to the creation of more sustainable job opportunities for citizens. On this occasion, the minister stressed the importance of continuing work at a higher pace to keep up with the developments and changes in the labour market to meet its needs in response to the development plans of the Kingdom of Bahrain, particularly in view of the economic recovery plan, and the Kingdom's economic vision that aims to achieve competitiveness, justice and sustainability. He also pointed to the continuation of efforts to achieve control in the labour market through extensive campaigns and inspection visits to various market entities and places where workers gather in various governorates, in cooperation with the relevant government agencies, especially the Ministry of Interior. The Board of Directors reviewed and approved the audited financial report for 2022, together with the annual report of the Executive Management for the same year. They also covered the estimated budget for 2023 and the authority’s future plans. For her part, H.E. Ms. Nouf Abdul Rahman Jamsheer, CEO of the Labour Market Authority, presented an integrated report on the various achievements and the level of development of services provided to citizens, employers and workers. She also talked about the efforts and programs of the authority, the results achieved during the first half of 2023 and the priority projects. Jamsheer discussed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Labour Market Regulatory Authority and the Social Insurance Organization on the wages of workers in the private sector. This MoU aims to ensure the validity of data related to real and actual wages of workers in the private sector, review and match all wages paid with the insured wage, and alert employers about salary differences in both sides. The LMRA’s CEO also pointed out that the development of the Wages Protection System helps to establish a feature to "update employees' wages" and a feature to "pay wages" in the expatriate labour system, in cooperation with the banking sector. Accordingly, all employers will be obligated to pay workers' wages through the expatriate labour system, provided that the authority's role is limited to passing the request for payment of wages to banks. She indicated that these two steps contribute to verifying the employer's commitment to pay workers' wages on time.
Humaidan tours worksites to affirm proper implementation of noontime work ban
03-08-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, praised the commitment of companies and institutions to implement Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013 regarding the prohibition of working under direct sunlight and in open places during the afternoon from 12 noon to 4 pm in July and August every year. This decision reflects the humanitarian and national responsibility enjoyed by employers in its implementation, indicating Bahrain's keenness to preserve human rights and provide a safe environment from dangers, especially in the summer when temperatures and humidity levels rise to high levels that affect the health and safety of workers. This came during the surprise on-site visit carried out by H.E. the Labour Minister to a number of work sites, on Thursday afternoon, to see directly the extent of the commitment of private sector establishments to implement the decision. The minister met with several worksite supervisors and was briefed on the measures taken by their establishments to ensure full compliance with the prohibition of working under direct sunlight and in open placesin, so as to ensure a safe and secure work environment to protect workers. Humaidan stressed that the decision is one of the important legislations that involve humanitarian and economic dimensions, especially as it contributes to increasing the pace of productivity. He pointed out the importance of establishments rescheduling working hours at this time of each year so that the projects they implement are not late for their completion date and according to schedule. He also pointed out that protecting workers and ensuring their health and safety are among the priorities that the ministry is keen to pay attention to. After that, he focused on the importance of improving the efficiency and means of prevention to reduce occupational injuries, heat stress, heat stroke and other summer diseases, during this period of the year, in addition to enhancing the training of workers on first aid and other training programs for occupational safety and health. The ministerial decision on the labour ban stipulates that "anyone who violates the provisions of this decision shall be punished by the penalties stipulated in Article (192) of the Civil Labour Law promulgated by Law No. (36) of 2012, which stipulates that anyone who violates any of the provisions of Chapter (15) and the decisions issued in implementation thereof shall be punished by imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months and a fine of not less than BD500 and not more than BD1000, or one of these two penalties. "
Labour Minister received Chairman of Bahrain Society for Growth and Development
31-07-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, received Ms. Nawal Ahmed Al-Dosari, Chairman of the Bahrain Society for Growth and Development, at his office in the ministry’s headquarters. During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance cooperation and emphasize the involvement of young job seekers, including beneficiaries of the programs and activities of the Bahrain Society for Growth and Development. Clearly, the aim behind that is to take advantage of national initiatives to support young people and improve their personal and professional capabilities in an effort to facilitate their entry into the labour market. Humaidan praised the efforts made by the Bahrain Society for Growth and Development in promoting Bahraini youth. In this context, he pointed to the ministry's readiness to enhance cooperation with civil society institutions, including the association, for the benefit of society, especially job seekers. He also called for combining the efforts to develop and improve the personal capabilities of job seekers through rehabilitation programs specialized in self-building and professional life.
Labour Minister received outgoing British Ambassador
31-07-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority received in his office at the ministry, H.E. Mr. Roddy Drummond, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to mark the end of the Ambassador’s service in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Humaidan commended the efforts made by the British Ambassador throughout his diplomatic career in Bahrain and which, contributed to fostering bilateral relations, especially in the labour sector. After that the minister wished him further successes in his upcoming duties. For his part, the British Ambassador expressed his appreciation for the initiatives taken by the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the field of regulating and developing the labour market, including the efforts to promote human and labor rights, which contributed to consolidating Bahrain's position and leading position before the international community accordingly.
Labour Minister’s message on World Day against Trafficking in Persons
29-07-2023
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) said that the Kingdom of Bahrain has made considerable progress in promoting an integrated human rights system. This achievement stems from the firm approach of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the follow-up of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in establishing the principles of human rights and preserving human dignity in order to enshrine the rule of law and public freedoms and promote the values of equality among all, foremost of which are workers' rights and combating trafficking in persons. This came in a statement by the Minister of Labour on the occasion of the Kingdom of Bahrain's celebration with the countries of the world of the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, which falls on July 30 of each year, according to a decision by the United Nations. In this context, Humaidan pointed out that the Kingdom of Bahrain has addressed the crime of trafficking in persons and has achieved global achievements in this regard by maintaining its leading position in the first category in the US State Department's report on the efforts of countries in the field of combating trafficking in persons for the sixth consecutive year. He clearly indicated that the institutional efforts in Bahrain are continuing to address this phenomenon, which the international community seeks to control and eliminate because of its flagrant violation of human rights. The minister stated that in addition to the achievements made in addressing trafficking in persons, Bahrain has implemented many initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing the protection of society from this scourge. This is evident through the adoption of the Wages Protection System, the optional insurance system for domestic workers, the flexible work permit, the tripartite contract for domestic workers and the fight against forced labour, and the establishment of a shelter that provides integrated services to persons who may be subjected to abuse or exploitation, including the provision of security protection, medical and mental health services, legal advice and providing humanitarian and financial assistance and means of support to victims of trafficking in persons through various programs. Equivalently a specialised prosecution has also been allocated for trafficking in persons and a special court has been formed for them to expedite the decision of these humanitarian cases. H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, concluded his statement by reaffirming the continuation of translating the royal directives in consolidating noble human values in coexistence between the various components by launching more initiatives that contribute to the development of an integrated human rights system. The Minister of Labour pointed out that thanks to the wise leadership of the King, Bahrain has become praised by specialised international organisations and has become a role model in the field of care and preservation of human rights.