News
Minister of Labour presides over Bahrain’s delegation to the Asia-Pacific Conference in Singapore
06-12-2022
HE Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, headed on Tuesday the delegation of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the 17th Conference of Ministers of Labour and Employment of the Asia-Pacific Member States of the International Labour Organization (ILO), which is held in the Republic of Singapore from 6 to 9 December 2022, under the chairmanship of HE Mrs. Halimah Yacob, President of the Republic of Singapore, together with high-level delegations headed by ministers concerned with labor from (47) countries. Also, in attendance are heads of bodies and organizations of employers and workers in Asia and the Pacific. The delegation of the Kingdom of Bahrain taking part in the current session of the conference includes representatives of the Ministry of Labour, headed by Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, in addition to Mr. Sameer Abdulla Nass, Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, representing employers, and Mr. Hassan Abdulla Al-Halwachi, Deputy Secretary-General of the General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions, representing workers, and in the presence and participation of Mr. Yaqoob Yousef Mohammed, Chairman of the Executive Council of Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr). In her opening speech, H. E. Halimah Yacob, President of Singapore, stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation among the Asia-Pacific countries to ensure the success of economic recovery plans that generate decent jobs, enhance fruitful cooperation between the three production parties in member countries to serve development and production issues in this region. Her Excellency also pointed out the importance of investing in developing the skills needed by the labour markets both now and in the future. The conference will discuss the most important political, economic and social issues in the field of labour related to the Asia-Pacific countries in particular, the development of plans and programs of the International Labour Organization and the budgets allocated to it. Other topics on the conference’s agenda includes the projects and programs on job growth, and the best successful experiences in addressing the economic and social effects of the (Covid-19) pandemic on the economies of the world, and the recovery of labour markets with the receding of the pandemic. It will also concentrate on the need to strengthen tripartite commitment to international labour standards, especially in the area of promoting dialogue and cooperation to achieve greater stability and job generation. The current session of the conference will review the report of Mr. Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), in which he addresses the importance of promoting equity and human capacities to take advantage of opportunities in a changing working world. Equally important, the talks will address aspects of supporting employers and workers through digital transformation and upgrading professional, technical and institutional skills in order to promote decent work and continue efforts to grow a sustainable economy. Equivalently, the meetings presented an overview of the financial and investment policies in the labour markets and the possibilities of investing in digital infrastructure to meet future human resource needs in line with economic transformation and market expectations. Similarly, emphasis was placed on strengthening social dialogue between the parties of production, including the creation of economic recovery policies. All the debates emphasize the importance of supporting countries' efforts to promote equality between men and women in labour markets, as well as improving productivity levels in enterprises and activating skills as a means of creating jobs, and developing skills especially for medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs).
Decision issued by Minister of Labour .. Reformation of the Joint Coordination Committee of the Unemployment Labour Law
04-12-2022
His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, issued a decision to reconstitute the Joint Coordination Committee to follow up the implementation of the provisions of the Unemployment Insurance Law, stipulated in Article (3) of Decree-Law No. (78) of 2006 on Unemployment Insurance, under the chairmanship of His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour. The membership of this committee consists of representatives of the Ministry of Labour and the Social Insurance Organization. The Committee is responsible for following up the implementation of the provisions of Decree-Law No. (78) of 2006 on unemployment insurance, proposing the necessary ministerial decisions for its implementation and solutions that contribute to the development of the unemployment insurance system, and completing any other tasks assigned to it by the Ministry of Labour and the Social Insurance Organization. The members of the Committee consist of representatives from the Ministry of Labour, namely: Mr. Ahmed Jaafar Al-Hayki, Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Affairs and Vice Chairman, Mrs. Fowziya Saleh Shehab, Director of Compensation and Unemployment Support, Ms. Ebtisam Salem Al-Rawahi, Head of Legal Affairs, Mr. Jaafar Mousa Al-Jad, Head of Information Systems Development, and Ms. Najwa Abdul Shaheed Buhassan, Head of Insurance Claims Registration and Evaluation. On the other hand, representatives from the Social Insurance Organization are: Mr. Abdullah Turki Al Mahmoud, Executive Director of Customer Services, Mrs. Salma Abdulrahman Al-Sayed, Executive Director of Information Technology, Mr. Khalid Ali Abdulaziz, Executive Director of Insurance Entitlements, and Mrs. Abeer Jassim Al-Amir, Director of Loans and Compensation.
Labour Minister meets Al Hurr Executive Council Chairman
03-12-2022
His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, met with Mr. Yaqoob Yousef Mohammed, Executive Council Chairman of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr), who was accompanied by Board Chairman and members of the Board of Directors of the Free Pensioners Centre (under establishment), in his office at the Ministry. During the meeting, they reviewed the most important achievements and gains of trade union work in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The two parties also discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and trade union organisations within the framework of tripartite social dialogue. HE the Minister was briefed on the objectives of the Free Pensioners Centre, which Al Hurr is set to launch in the next phase. This centre will include a group of retirees and aims to serve this category by benefiting from their long experience and encouraging them to develop plans, train young capabilities and provide generations with knowledge to develop their job performance. Humaidan stressed the positive contributions made by trade union organisations, pointing to the importance of strengthening joint coordination in order to improve the work environment and use it to encourage excellence and increase productivity in private sector establishments. In turn, the Executive Council Chairman of Bahrain Free Labour Federation (Al Hurr) praised the ongoing cooperation between the two sides, pointing to the support of the Ministry of Labour for human resources and its insistence to provide a decent work environment that encourages initiatives in promoting the trade union activities. He looked forward to further the cooperation between the three production parties to achieve sustainable growth in various productive sectors.
His Highness the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour chaired the meeting of the Equal Opportunities Committee
30-11-2022
Ministry of Labour held its regular meeting of its Equal Opportunities Committee under the chairmanship of the Undersecretary of the Ministry, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, at his office. During the meeting, they reviewed operational plans and programs that contribute to achieving the goals and principles of equal opportunities, supporting the advancement of working women, in addition to benefiting women in general, from the various services provided by the ministry. The committee also highlighted the importance on improving and promoting gender equality amongst the ministry staff.
Minister of Labour congratulates HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa on Bahraini Women's Day
29-11-2022
His Excellency Minister of Labour Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan extended his sincerest congratulations to Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of HM the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women, on the occasion of celebrating the achievements of Bahraini women, December 1st of each year. Humaidan emphasised that the gains achieved by Bahraini women through accessing leadership positions and their progress in the nation-building process, thanks to the wise vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the keenness of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister and the leadership of Her Highness the Princess of the Supreme Council for Women, which made it a leading model in formulating policies, developing plans and implementing programs to achieve goals with an economic, social and cultural returns for Bahraini women and families. This is done through the implementation of the National Strategy for Bahraini Women and the programs offered by the SCW since its establishment, which reflected positively on the reality of Bahraini women, and contributed to strengthening the position of the Kingdom of Bahrain worldwide in supporting the advancement and empowerment of women. Humaidan praised the great achievements of Bahraini women in various fields, as they are considered a key element in the development process, and their contributions extend to all aspects of public life. Thus, this woman deserved to be a key partner in the national development process, and for this reason, the celebration came as a culmination of the contributions of Bahraini women in all fields and their fruitful contribution to building of the country. On this occasion, HE the Minister of Labour affirmed that the Ministry shall continue to introduce qualitative initiatives in order to achieve more achievements in the field of the advancement of Bahraini women, at various economic and social levels, based on previous experiences and building on their development. The minister hopes that the cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and the Supreme Council for Women will stand firm in preserving and enhancing the gains made by Bahraini women, so as to ensure broader development in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Labour Minister presented a copy in “The Impact of Applying Occupational Safety Standards in Reducing Accidents in Projects”
26-11-2022
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, met with Eng. Ali Hussain Mohammed Murad, in his office at the ministry, to present him with a copy of his master's dissertation in "The Impact of Applying Occupational Safety Standards in Reducing Accidents in Projects", from the Royal Police Academy in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This dissertation focused on demonstrating the importance of international standards in achieving occupational safety in various projects in the Kingdom of Bahrain, especially those concerning sewage treatment, and the tools that can be used to reduce occupational accidents. In addition, the study addressed the laws and legislations in the Kingdom, which contribute to improve the levels of accident prevention at the workplace. Humaidan was impressed by this study, because it focused on an essential element, which is ensuring the safety and health of workers, providing a safe working environment that is free from diseases and occupational accidents and complying with the rules and precautions of occupational safety and health that threaten the lives and health of individuals in the workplace.
Increase safety measures to protect workers from electrical hazards
25-11-2022
The Ministry of Labor held a workshop on "Electrical Safety at Work Sites", with the participation of 60 supervisors and officials of occupational safety in private sector establishments, within the framework of developing safety and health requirements in workers' accommodations and enhancing awareness of safe practices to prevent electrical hazards and occupational accidents at work sites, and the right to work in safe and sound conditions. During the workshop, Mr. Brian Sammon, the Safety Manager at ESB International, spoke about the challenges facing workers at the workplace versus suitable management solutions, noting the importance of achieving appropriate conditions to ensure maximum safety and protection of workers in their homes, as well as intensifying prevention to protect them from occupational accidents at work sites. Mr. Ed Thomas, from Hitachi Energy, then spoke about "Safe Practices to Prevent Electrical Hazards at Worksites" in which, he reviewed the technical and practical procedures that must be followed in order to achieve safety at work sites, especially in high-risk areas. The participants expressed their appreciation to the Ministry of Labour for holding such informative forums, noting the efforts of the official authorities and their continuous endeavor to ensure the sustainability of the health and safety of workers in the Kingdom of Bahrain in various circumstances.
Al Rashed Group honours “Centrepoint” long-service employees .. Humaidan praises Retail Sector for attracting Bahraini Capabilities
23-11-2022
Under the patronage of H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, a ceremony was held by Al Rashed Group to mark the anniversary of the establishment of Centrepoint, at City Centre Bahrain Mall, on Wednesday, in the presence of Mr. Duaij Al Rumaihi, Director of City Centre Bahrain, and Mr. Sandeep Narin, Regional President of Al Rashed Group, along with senior officials and 150 Bahraini employees. In a statement on this occasion, Humaidan acknowledged with appreciation the supportiveness extended by Al Rashed Group with regards to the employment programs and initiatives implemented by the Ministry of Labour; in addition to providing many attractive job opportunities for citizens in various administrative and technical jobs. On this occasion, the minister also praised the effectiveness and excellence of the national workforce and their keenness to develop themselves professionally in achieving their ambition to move up the career ladder by means of improving their productivity. For his part, Mr. Narain said that since the inception of the Group's work in the Kingdom of Bahrain, reliance has always focused on the national element that contributed to the development of the retail sector. He further indicates that the support provided by the ministry to various institutions and companies operating in the private sector is manifested by qualified national manpower who are in turn granted rewarding incentives. Narin goes on to explain the company's efforts in attracting a large number of promising Bahraini capabilities and employing them at various levels of the company. During the years 2021-2022, the company allocated 51% of job vacancies to Bahraini job seekers who were registered with the ministry At the event a number of Bahraini employees who have completed more than 15 years of exemplary work at Al Rashed Group were honoured.
Minister of Labour meets Singaporean Manpower Minister
20-11-2022
His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, met with His Excellency Zaqy Mohamad, Senior Minister of State for Defense and Manpower of the Republic of Singapore, who is visiting the country to participate in the activities of the 18th Forum of the Manama Dialogue Conference 2022. During the meeting, they discussed joint cooperation in the field of human resources development, as well as experiences in improving legislation related to national labour that promotes workers' rights and provides a safe and sound work environment. In this context, Humaidan praised Singapore's experience in the field of human development, stressing the importance of upgrading training policies and keeping pace with developments in the labour market. For his part, Zaqy praised the progress and development enjoyed by Bahrain in this prosperous era, pointing to its pioneering experience in reforming and developing the labour market and national human resources. He also praised the Kingdom's work environment that stimulates production.
Humaidan praises Carrefour's efforts in recruiting national capabilities
18-11-2022
H.E. Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, stressed on the continuation of efforts to accelerate the pace of employment and integration of nationals in various economic and commercial sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in light of the economic recovery plan. The minister pointed to the importance of strengthening cooperation with the private sector in order to achieve national goals in the labour market by sustaining stability and the capacity to generate more suitable jobs for citizens and develop them professionally in companies and institutions. This came during a statement made by the minister after his visit on Thursday to Carrefour (owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim) in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Humaidan met with Mr. Laurent Hauskencht, Country Manager at Majid Al Futtaim Retail, Mr. Mohamed Farhat, Vice President Human Capital and Mr. Ghassan Al Jaroudi, Head Commercial & Operations. The minister was briefed on the plans and efforts that are being made to recruit more national capabilities at the various branches of the company in the respective governorates. The visit was to express thanks and gratitude to the company's management after the positive results achieved in employing promising national youth at various job levels. During the period from 2021 and 2022, the company employed (163) job seekers in all its branches, bringing the total number of employees to (332) Bahrainis. The company supports the employment of national capabilities on the part-time basis, which include people with special needs. The company's Bahrainisation rate was 32%. In this context, Humaidan praised Carrefour's strategy in strengthening its administrative and technical teams with Bahraini competencies, stressing that the national element is the real capital of companies and institutions in order to achieve more growth and productivity. The minister referred to the successful experiences achieved by citizens at various stages of employment in the private sector, calling on various establishments to strengthen their job structure by including qualified Bahraini manpower and to benefit from the advantages provided by the government from wage support, free training and other facilities. For his part, Mr. Laurent Hauskencht praised the national capabilities working at Majid Al Futtaim for their remarkable productivity, stressing that the high rates of employment of Bahrainis in the company is due to their ingenuity, discipline and keen sense of responsibility. With that said, he referred to the incentives provided by the Ministry of Labour to the private sector for recruiting job seekers and developing them professionally. Mr. Hauskecht reaffirmed the company’s determination to support all efforts and initiatives aimed at attracting and employing nationals. During his visit, Humaidan met with a group of Bahraini employees working for the company and listened to the success stories of a number of them, and their career progression thanks to their persistence to continue developing and promoting their country. The minister greatly appreciated the support granted by Carrefour for promising Bahraini capabilities. H.E. the Minister of Labour also met with Mr. Mohammed Mohsen Ali, President of the Bahrain Agricultural Cooperative Society and a number of Bahraini farmers who supply Carrefour Bahrain with their local agricultural produce and congratulated the company and the society for finding such a fruitful cooperation between them.
Recruitment of Bahraini Capabilities in Banking & Finance
07-11-2022
H. H. Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, the Undersecretary of Ministry of Labour, met with Ms. Ruth Simuyemba Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank, and Mr. Hamad Abdul Rahman Bucheery Head of Special Accounts Department and Islamic banking services, as part of the ministry’s efforts to enhance cooperation with respect to employment in private sector. His Highness the Undersecretary talked about the continuous endeavours exerted by the ministry to increase employment of citizens in the vital sectors and to invest in training and employment opportunities, particularly the banking and financial sector. In this context, His Excellency highly acknowledged the support which was lent by Standard Chartered Bank to aid the ministry in attaining its goals. Simply put, His Highness emphasised the importance for strengthening the partnership with the bank in order to employ more jobseekers through the training and employment initiatives activated by the ministry, including the on-the-job training program "Forus/opportunities". For her part, Ms. Simuyemba welcomed the partnership with the Ministry of Labour and expressed the bank's readiness to offer several training and employment opportunities. She also noted the interest of the management of Standard Chartered Bahrain in attracting Bahraini capabilities and enhancing its work environment. Lastly, she brought up the “Award for Best Workplaces” by Great Place to Work in the United Arab Emirates, which was granted to the bank.
LMRA endorses the outcomes from tightening of controls and intensifying inspection campaigns
06-11-2022
The Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) held its virtual sixth meeting for the fourth session virtually 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 (LMRA), and in the presence of the members of the Board of Directors and Mrs. Noof Abdulrahman Jamsheer, CEO of LMRA. The Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) affirmed its keenness to create a competitive work environment that enjoys justice and stability and guarantees the rights of both parties to work in order to enhance their contributions to the comprehensive development process under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The LMRA board commended the prudent directive of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, to revoke the flexible work permit, in addition to registering all expatriate workers in partnership with the private sector, intensifying inspection campaigns, tightening dealing with violators from employers and workers, and working to link professional work licenses with standards and qualifications. The board went on to praise the royal edict for its emphasis on providing an appropriate environment for workers in a way that considers their rights and increases the effectiveness of their role in economic development. Accordingly, the Board of Directors welcomed the results achieved within the framework of tightening control and intensifying inspection campaigns, which contributed to strengthening government efforts to address illegal practices in the labour market, as well as toughen actions against violators from employers and workers and to combat irregular employment. For her part, Mrs. Noof Abdulrahman Jamsheer, Chief Executive Officer of the LMRA, presented a detailed report, in which she highlighted the efforts and programs of the authority and the results achieved. In that framework, Jamsheer pointed out that the launch of the “Labour Registration System” coincides with the unveiling of a new phase of public-private partnership to develop the labour market and address any obstacles in the work environment, especially since the "public" and "private" sectors believe in the same objectives related to achieving sustainable economic development and maintaining the stability of the work environment that ensures fairness, competitiveness and flexibility when addressing the market needs. The CEO also reviewed the LMRA's plan to intensify inspection campaigns and tighten dealing with violators from workers and employers, in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and all relevant agencies, stressing the authority’s keenness to deal firmly with any breaches in the market. Jamsheer touched on the authority’s efforts in implementing several strategic projects that will contribute to the development of the work environment for all parties of production (worker and employer).
Media Reps on a Visit to Labour Ministry briefed on Jobseekers’ Services
06-11-2022
A number of media professionals and representatives of the local press visited the Ministry of Labour and were briefed on the programs and services provided by the ministry to citizens in the fields of rehabilitation and employment, on the unemployment benefit system, and the efforts made to strengthen the partnership between the public and private sectors within the framework of the economic recovery plan. The delegation met with a number of officials at the ministry, who gave them a detailed explanation on the procedures, requirements and stages that the jobseeker goes through starting with the registration stage, followed by the evaluation and guidance stage and ending with three levels of training. The review provided information about the specialised training programs, a reaffirmation of commitment of training along with employment (“daman”/assurance), on-the-job training (“forus”/opportunities). Next the delegation was briefed on the employment and follow-up phase that focus on the employment conditions of the citizens working in private sector establishments. This stage aims to ensure the provision of an ideal working environment that helps enhance workers’ growth and productivity, security of labour rights; whilst bearing in mind, the social protection provided by the unemployment benefit system in the Kingdom of Bahrain. All these services are provided by the ministry via its website: www.mlsd.gov.bh.
The Minister of Labor briefs the Council of Ministers on the latest developments in employment and training within the economic recovery plan .. Recruitment of 24,444 and training of 8,879 citizens
01-11-2022
Manama, Oct. 31 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today chaired the weekly Cabinet Meeting at Gudaibiya Palace. The Cabinet highlighted the importance of the talks that were held between His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the Sultan of the Sultanate of Oman, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Al Said, in further strengthening relations between the two countries and their peoples. The Cabinet noted that the agreements and MoUs signed by both countries will provide a new platform for cooperation that will lead to further growth and development. The Cabinet extended its gratitude to the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, upon the announcement that the Public Investment Fund will establish five new companies for regional country investment, including Bahrain. The Cabinet affirmed that this initiative reflects the work of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council, to support economic and investment cooperation between the two Kingdoms. The Cabinet welcomed the upcoming and historic official visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to the Kingdom of Bahrain, at the invitation of His Majesty the King. The historic visit is a recognition of the kingdom's status as an oasis of coexistence throughout history, affirming the commitment of the Kingdom of Bahrain to uphold and promote the values of peaceful and harmonious coexistence amongst different faiths and cultures. The Cabinet further welcomed the upcoming Bahrain Forum for Dialogue: East and West for Human Coexistence, which is being held in conjunction with the visit His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence the Grand Imam, Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif. This important forum is a recognition of the Kingdom's role in promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence, positive dialogue and cultural exchange between faiths and nations for the good of all humanity. The Cabinet reviewed a memorandum submitted by the Minister of Labour, regarding the latest developments in employment and training within the Economic Recovery Plan. The memorandum outlined that 24,444 citizens have been newly employed this year, which represents 122% of the annual goal included in the Economic Recovery Plan to employ 20,000 Bahrainis annually until 2024. In addition, 8,879 citizens received training, which represents 89% of the annual priority target included in the Economic Recovery Plan, to train 10,000 Bahrainis annually until 2024. On the occasion of Bahraini Doctors Day, the Cabinet commended the efforts of doctors and healthcare professionals, thanking Bahraini medical staff for their distinguished public service. The Cabinet expressed its deepest condolences to the government and people of the Republic of India, following the high number fatalities resulting from the collapse of a suspension bridge over the Machu River in Gujarat, and wished a full recovery and speedy to all of those suffering injury. The Cabinet also expressed its deepest condolences to the government and people of the Republic of Korea, following the tragic loss of life that occurred in Seoul, and wished all of those injured a full and speedy recovery. The Cabinet discussed several memorandums during the meeting with the following approvals: 1. A memorandum by the Ministerial Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs and Fiscal Balance regarding the implementation of a number of development projects in public hospitals in conjunction with the private sector. 2. A memorandum by the Ministerial Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs and Fiscal Balance regarding the decision of the GCC Industrial Cooperation Committee regarding a number of industrial imports. 3. A memorandum by the Ministerial Committee for Legal & Legislative Affairs regarding the "Education Transformation Agreement" between the Ministry of Education and Microsoft, to ensure optimal use of information and communication technology in education. 4. Memoranda by the Ministerial Committee for Legal & Legislative Affairs regarding a number of draft laws. The Cabinet then took note of ministerial reports regarding participation in the First International Agriculture Conference, foreign visits undertaken by senior officials, and official visits to the Kingdom during November 2022. AOQ
Humaidan Issues a Decision to Transfer Some Functions of the LMRA to the Labour Registration Centers
01-11-2022
Acting in accordance with the edict of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, directed to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority to revoke the flexible work permit and register all expatriate workers in partnership with the private sector. His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) issued Decision No. (1) of 2022 on the assignment of some of the functions of the LMRA to the Labour Registration Centers. Humaidan pointed out that the decision to assign some tasks to the registration centers concerning workers who wish to apply for work permits comes within the measures taken by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority to establish partnership with the private sector with emphasis on, intensifying inspection campaigns, tightening the handling of violators from employers and workers, linking professional work licenses to standards and qualifications, as well as providing the appropriate environment for workers in a way that protects their rights and increases the effectiveness of their role in economic development. The Minister pointed out that the Authority has begun coordination with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce by adding an activity in the"Sijilat" System under the name of "Employment Registration Centre", with the aim of meeting the needs of the labour market and linking professional work licenses with standards and qualifications. Humaidan accentuated the importance of the measures implemented in accordance with the decision of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister to embark on a new phase of public-private partnership to address labour market conditions, through the registration of all expatriate workers and finding mechanisms to address irregular labour, which reflects on the stability of the labour market. The minister indicated that the public and private sectors are working to generate common goals in the interest of achieving sustainable economic development and maintaining a steady work environment within a system that considers justice, competitiveness and flexibility and responds to the requirements of the market and supports its growth. The most important conditions entrusted to employment registration centres under this decision include the enrollment with the Commercial Register, create a suitable place to receive expatriate workers who desire to obtain work permits endorsed by the Authority and provide a certificate of good conduct, which proves the applicant has not previously been sentenced to a felony or misdemeanour, due to breach of ethics and malpractice, unless he/she has been rehabilitated. The employment registration centres are also obliged to receive work permit applications submitted by workers, which they will prepare and refer them to the Authority for examination and assessment. These centres should ensure the availability of necessary qualifications or professional standards certification by expatriate workers who desire to obtain work permits, in order to achieve security and safety for their customers socially and economically. In all respects, the centres should keep up with the electronic systems determined by the Authority by recording the data of expatriate workers digitally, when registering them. and updating them continuously, provided that they include the worker's personal information, address, contact numbers and authorised activities. Amongst the roles tackled by the employment registration centres, the attention given to achieve the desirable percentage of Bahrainisation in accordance with the legislation and regulations and disallow any payoffs from expatriate workers in the form of money or benefits or privileges in return for the rendered services stipulated in the decision. In addition to enabling the Authority’s inspectors and staff to view all the data held by the centres and report any violations acted by the registered workers. Humaidan pointed out that the expatriate workers inside Bahrain whose permits have expired, or have been revoked, or those with flexible work permits are allowed to register. He stressed that the inadmissibility of registration will be applied to those with criminal precedence, workers fleeing their jobs in violation of the conditions of the permit “run aways”, or holders of a visit visa and those who hold commercial registration in the Kingdom. Moreover, it is required to pay the fees of the centers approved by the Authority before the registration process, in order to ensure the cost of the return of the expatriate worker to his/her country. His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, reiterated on Bahrain's keenness to review and develop its legislations and procedures that help promote a decent work environment according to solid elements that respond to the changing needs of the labour market. Just as well, His Excellency highlighted the importance for protecting the rights of all work parties without discrimination, as well as preserving the Kingdom's international reputation as one of the best destinations for work opportunities in terms of the ability to attract investment, facilitate procedures for employers and safeguarding the rights of all business parties. In the end, the minister praised the key role played by the private sector and its operators for achieving stability and sustainable development in the labour market.
National Bank of Bahrain 80 training opportunities for national skills in the financial and banking sector
30-10-2022
بحضور سعادة السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وزير العمل، والسيد فاروق يوسف المؤيد، رئيس مجلس إدارة بنك البحرين الوطني، والسيدة مها مفيز، القائم بأعمال الرئيس التنفيذي لصندوق العمل " تمكين"، عقد في مقر بنك البحرين الوطني بالمنامة، لقاءا تنسيقياً لبحث عدد من المبادرات المتعلقة بتدريب وتوظيف المواطنين في القطاع المالي والمصرفي ضمن مساعي الوزارة وصندوق العمل (تمكين) لتعزيز دور القطاع الخاص في توظيف وتأهيل المواطنين. وتناول اللقاء بحث التعاون المشترك، واستعراض المشروعات والمبادرات الهادفة إلى تأهيل المواطنين الباحثين عن عمل في القطاع المالي والمصرفي في مملكة البحرين باعتباره أحد القطاعات الحيوية التي تشهد تطوراً متزايداً، حيث تم في هذا السياق الاطلاع على البرنامج التدريبي على رأس العمل الذي ينفذه البنك، ضمن جهوده في تأهيل الكوادر الوطنية في هذا القطاع. وفي هذا السياق، تم الاتفاق على توفير البنك 80 فرصة تدريبية للباحثين عن عمل المسجلين لدى الوزارة لمدة 9 أشهر مع منحهم مجموعة من الحوافز المقدمة من وزارة العمل وصندوق العمل، والتي من شأنها تشجيع الباحثين عن عمل على الاستفادة والاستمرار في البرنامج التدريبي واكتساب المهارات والخبرات اللازمة لدمجهم في سوق العمل. وأثنى حميدان على هذه المبادرة من بنك البحرين الوطني، والتي تجسد الشراكة المجتمعية مع مشروعات وبرامج الوزارة في تأهيل وتوظيف المواطنين، مؤكداً أن القطاع المصرفي يعد من القطاعات الجاذبة للعمل، كما يتميز بوجود العناصر الوطنية المؤهلة القادرة على إدارة العمليات المصرفية، لافتاً إلى أن تطور القطاع المصرفي يستلزم وجود عمالة وطنية كبيرة في هذا القطاع، حيث تشكل هذه العمالة ثقة المستثمرين مما يرسخ مكانة مملكة البحرين كمركز مالي متقدم في المنطقة، مؤكداً أن القطاع المصرفي والمالي زاخر بالتجارب الناجحة للقيادات المصرفية البحرينية بفضل الاهتمام والرعاية الحكومية لهذا القطاع الحيوي، داعياً إلى استثمار خطة التعافي الاقتصادي التي أطلقتها الحكومة، لدعم برامج تدريب وإدماج القوى العاملة الوطنية في مختلف المؤسسات والشركات المالية والمصرفية. من جانبه، أكد المؤيد أن بنك البحرين الوطني شريك أساسي للوزارة في تطوير وتأهيل الموارد البشرية الوطنية في القطاع المالي والمصرفي، لافتاً إلى اعتماد البنك على العنصر البحريني في مختلف العمليات المصرفية لما تتمتع به الكفاءات الوطنية من مهنية وانضباط وظيفي يجعلها الخيار الأول عند التوظيف لدى العديد من القطاعات الإنتاجية، مؤكداً أهمية الارتقاء بمنظومة التدريب في هذا القطاع الذي يشهد توسعاً ونمواً سريعاً ويخلق المزيد من الوظائف النوعية للمواطنين. بدورها، أكدت السيدة مفيز أهمية عقد الشراكات الهادفة إلى صقل مهارات الكوادر الوطنية وفقاً لمتطلبات سوق العمل الحالية والمستقبلية، مضيفة أنه لطالما حرصت تمكين على رفد سوق العمل بالكوادر المؤهلة لتلبية احتياجات السوق المتغيرة، وذلك في ضوء الأولويات الوطنية التي نصت عليها خطة التعافي الاقتصادي والتي تتضمن استراتيجية شاملة لتطوير القطاع المصرفي في مملكة البحرين 2022-2026. مشيرةً إلى تكامل هذه الأولويات مع أهداف تمكين الاستراتيجية ضمن الدورة الحالية، وإلى تطلع تمكين من خلال هذه المبادرات إلى تحقيق الأثر الإيجابي المنشود في خلق فرص عمل نوعية ومستدامة للكفاءات الوطنية
Humaidan: National legislation achieves a balance between the interests of the two sides of the productive relationship
25-10-2022
افتتح سعادة السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وزير العمل، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل اليوم الثلاثاء، المؤتمر الإقليمي الخامس حول العمالة المنزلية، الذي ينظمه الاتحاد العام لنقابات عمال البحرين خلال الفترة من 25-26 أكتوبر الجاري، وذلك بحضور سمو الشيخ خليفة بن سلمان بن محمد آل خليفة، وكيل وزارة العمل، والسيد عبد القادر عبد الكريم الشهابي، الأمين العام للاتحاد العام، وبمشاركة الممثلين المعنيين من مملكة البحرين ودول مجلس التعاون لدول الخليج العربية والدول المرسلة والمستقبلة للعمالة المنزلية، فضلاً عن عدد من منظمات المجتمع المدني من إحدى عشر دولة. ويهدف المؤتمر الى تسليط الضوء على التشريعات الوطنية الخاصة بالعمالة المنزلية الوافدة من أجل تعزيز آليات التعاون بين المنظمات العمالية في آسيا وأفريقيا والخليج العربي، وضمان تمتع العمالة المنزلية بالحقوق نفسها التي تحصل عليها العمالة في القطاعات الأخرى، حيث يستعرض المؤتمر دراسة بحثية عن واقع العمالة المنزلية في البحرين، إضافة الى التشريعات في الدول المستقبلة للعمالة ومدى تحقيق الحماية للعمالة المنزلية، ودور التشريعات والمعايير الدولية في توفير الحماية الاجتماعية لهذه الشريحة العمالية. كما يناقش المؤتمر مدى مواءمة التشريعات مع أهداف التنمية المستدامة. وفي كلمة له، استهل بها أعمال المؤتمر، أكد حميدان إن مملكة البحرين ماضية بثبات في حماية وصون حقوق جميع العمال، مستنيرة في ذلك بمنظومة القيم الانسانية التي أرسى دعائمها حضرة صاحب الجلالة الملك حمد بن عيسى آل خليفة، ملك البلاد المعظم، حفظه الله ورعاه، وبالمتابعة الحثيثة لصاحب السمو الملكي الأمير سلمان بن حمد آل خليفة، ولي العهد رئيس مجلس الوزراء حفظه الله، والتي نتج عنها تعزيز أسس ومبادئ الارتقاء بظروف العمل لجميع العمال والمحافظة على حقوقهم دون تمييز، وهو ما جعل البحرين في مصاف الدول المتقدمة في توفير الضمانات العادلة والمنصفة للعمال، وأكسب المملكة مكانة مرموقة في كافة المحافل الدولية العمالية. وأشار سعادة وزير العمل إلى أن مملكة البحرين أصدرت العديد من التشريعات والإجراءات والقواعد التنظيمية التي توفر الحماية للجميع، مؤكداً أنها لن تسمح بأي شكل من أشكال الاستغلال أو الانتقاص من الحقوق المشروعة لأطراف علاقة العمل، حيث تدعم تلك التشريعات تحقيق التوازن بين مصالح طرفي العلاقة الإنتاجية عبر توفير أطر الحماية اللازمة للعمال بشكل عام، وفئة العمالة المنزلية على وجه الخصوص، وتمكين استفادتها من الأحكام الأساسية في قانون العمل في القطاع الأهلي، وتحديد الحقوق الاساسية للعمالة المنزلية مثل الإجازة السنوية للعامل، ومكافأة نهاية الخدمة، والإعفاء من رسوم التقاضي في كافة المراحل، والحق في تقديم الشكاوى العمالية أمام وزارة العمل لتسويتها ودياً، وغير ذلك من الأحكام القانونية الضامنة لحقوق العمالة المنزلية. واستعرض حميدان في هذا السياق جهود مملكة البحرين ، حيث أشار إلى أن هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل باشرت باعتماد العقد الثلاثي النموذجي الإلزامي للعمالة المنزلية الذي ينظم العلاقة بين صاحب العمل وصاحب مكتب التوظيف والعامل المنزلي، كما اتخذت الهيئة عدداً من الخطوات الاستباقية لحماية العمال الأجانب ومن بينهم العمالة المنزلية، حيث يتم توعية العمال بوسائل مختلفة وبأكثر من 12 لغة حول الإجراءات التي يتعين القيام بها فور وصولهم للبحرين، كما لفت ان الهيئة دشنت في أغسطس 2021 نظام التأمين الاختياري على العمالة المنزلية بهدف توفير أكبر قدر من الحماية لصاحب العمل والعامل المنزلي وتعويضهم في حال مواجهة اية ظروف او مشكلات. وتطرق سعادة وزير العمل إلى جهود المملكة في توفير الحماية اللازمة للعمال الأكثر عرضة للاستغلال وانتهاك الحقوق، من خلال إنشاء اللجنة الوطنية لمكافحة الاتجار بالأشخاص بمشاركة أجهزة الدولة ذات العلاقة، وجعل العمل في مجال مكافحة الاتجار بالأشخاص أكثر تنظيمًا، ولعل الأبرز هو إنشاء مركز شامل ومتخصص يُعد الأول من نوعه في المنطقة يُعنى بحماية ودعم العمالة الوافدة، ليعمل على تقديم مختلف الخدمات الوقائية والارشادية والقانونية، وذلك وفق أفضل المعايير والممارسات الدولية المتبعة في هذا الشأن. مشيراً إلى حصول البحرين على إنجاز وطني غير مسبوق في تصنيفها ضمن دول الفئة الأولى في تقرير الخارجية الأمريكية حول مكافحة الاتجار بالأشخاص الصادر نهاية شهر يونيو 2021، وللعام الخامس على التوالي والذي يؤكد ريادة المملكة في التصدي لهذه الجريمة، والتزامها التام بالمعايير المنصوص عليها في القوانين الدولية المتعلقة بمكافحة الاتجار بالأشخاص. من جانبه قال السيد عبد القادر عبدالكريم الشهابي، الأمين العام للاتحاد العام لنقابات عمال البحرين ان المؤتمر سيناقش عدد من القضايا المتعلقة بالعمالة المنزلية، وعلاقتها بالوضع المعيشي للمواطنين، إضافة الى استعراض عدد من الدراسات التي تسهم في تعزيز المحافظة على حقوق العامل وصاحب العمل.
Humaidan: Increasing the pace of employment in light of the economic recovery plan
22-10-2022
ترأس سعادة السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وزير العمل، في مكتبه، اجتماع لجنة التنسيق والمتابعة بالوزارة، بحضور سمو الشيخ خليفة بن سلمان بن محمد آل خليفة، وكيل الوزارة، الى جانب المسئولين المعنيين بالوزارة. وتم خلال الاجتماع مناقشة مبادرات وبرامج الوزارة في تسريع وتيرة توظيف المواطنين وادماجهم في سوق العمل، وتطوير هذه المبادرات بما يتماشى مع مرحلة التعافي الاقتصادي التي أطلقتها الحكومة، حيث تم استعراض آخر مستجدات المبادرات التي تنفذها وزارة العمل مع شركاءها الرئيسين صندوق العمل (تمكين) والشركات والمؤسسات العاملة في القطاع الخاص، ومؤشرات نجاح مبادرات التدريب والتوظيف، والتحديات التي تواجه تنفيذها ووضع الحلول المناسبة لها. وفي هذا السياق، أكد حميدان ان الوزارة مستمرة في تنفيذ برامجها ومشروعاتها في مجال توظيف المواطنين وتأهليهم مهنياً لسوق العمل وفق الخطة الزمنية المقررة وذلك لتلبية احتياجات أصحاب العمل وتحديد الأولوية للقطاعات الجاذبة للمواطنين والقطاعات التي تشهد نموا في نشاطها لتسريع وتيرة توظيف المواطنين فيها، لافتاً إلى انه بفضل خطة التعافي الاقتصادي التي اطلقتها الحكومة، برئاسة صاحب السمو الملكي الأمير سلمان بن حمد آل خليفة، ولي العهد رئيس مجلس الوزراء، حفظه الله، فقد انتعشت الحركة الاقتصادية والتجارية في مملكة البحرين واستقطبت العديد من فرص الاستثمار المولدة للوظائف. وأكد سعادة وزير العمل ان الوزارة تسعى ومن خلال التسهيلات التي تقدمها للقطاعات الإنتاجية لتوفير تدريب مجاني للقوى العاملة ودعم أجور العمالة الوطنية، وتكثيف إدماج المواطنين في المنشآت، داعياً إلى تعزيز التعاون مع القطاع الخاص خلال المرحلة المقبلة لتحقيق الغايات المرجوة على صعيد تأهيل وتوظيف البحرينيين في إطار الجهود الوطنية المبذولة لجعل المواطن الخيار الأول في سوق العمل.
Humaidan meets the writer Mohieddin Bahloul
21-10-2022
التقى سعادة السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وزير العمل، في مكتبه بالوزارة، الكاتب محيي الدين بهلول، الذي أهداه مجموعة من المقالات الصحفية التي كتبها ووثقها في أرشيفه الخاص، حيث أشاد حميدان بدور الكتاب والصحفيين البحرينيين الذين ساهموا في إبراز الوجه الحضاري لمملكة البحرين، ونقل قضايا المجتمع في مختلف المجالات، مثنياً في هذا السياق بإسهامات بهلول الصحفية وما يطرحه من آراء وأفكار ثرية من خلال مقالاته الصحفية، متمنياً له التوفيق والنجاح.
The Minister of Labor inaugurates the “International Conference on Skills” .. Inviting young people to focus on educational and training disciplines appropriate to the needs of the labor market
18-10-2022
أكد سعادة السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وزير العمل، إن تحديات سوق العمل، ومتطلبات المرحلة الراهنة، تستوجب المزيد من الشراكة بين المعنيين والمختصين في مختلف مجالات التدريب والتأهيل والتوظيف، حيث تتأكد الحاجة إلى الدراسات التي تسهم بها الجمعيات المهنية ومخرجات المنتديات المتخصصة والجهود الوطنية المبذولة في دعم مبادرات تأهيل وتوظيف المواطنين، والإسهام في قيادة الفكر المهني البناء وصياغة الأسس والمؤشرات العلمية لمواجهة واقع وتحديات سوق العمل، وتهيئته لمواكبة المتغيرات المتلاحقة وزيادة عدد الخريجين سنوياً ، والتقدم نحو اقتصاد أقوى وأكثر نمواً وجذباً للاستثمار. جاء ذلك في كلمة ألقاها حميدان لدى رعايته وافتتاحه المؤتمر الدولي للمهارات تحت عنوان " تطوير وإعادة توجيه المهارات والتدريب المرن"، وذلك اليوم الثلاثاء، والذي تنظمه جمعية البحرين للتدريب وتنمية الموارد البشرية خلال الفترة من 18-19أكتوبر 2022، بحضور سمو الشيخ خليفة بن سلمان بن محمد آل خليفة، وكيل وزارة العمل، وسعادة الدكتورة الشيخة رنا بنت عيسى بن دعيج آل خليفة، الأمين العام لمجلس التعليم العالي، نائب رئيس مجلس أمناء مجلس التعليم العالي، والسيد أحمد محمود عطية، رئيس جمعية البحرين للتدريب وتنمية الموارد البشرية، وعدد من المعنيين في القطاعين العام والخاص، بمشاركة نخبة من المتحدثين وخبراء التدريب وتنمية الموارد البشرية من داخل وخارج البحرين. ويستعرض المؤتمر العديد من التجارب العملية المهمة في مختلف القطاعات الإنتاجية الحكومية والخاصة لأفضل الممارسات وصقل وإعادة توجيه المهارات المهنية والذاتية وتعزيز استراتيجيات وأساليب المؤسسة في تحسين الأداء والإنتاجية. وتناول المتحدثون آليات تطوير المهارات في منشآتهم وجهات عملهم، والعوامل التي ساهمت في الارتقاء بجودة الأداء وتنمية القوى العاملة ومساهمتها في إحداث نقلة نوعية في أداء وتميز المؤسسة. وأكد حميدان استمرار تعاون وزارة العمل مع كافة الجهات المختصة لتعزيز الجهود الوطنية في مجال تأهيل الكوادر الوطنية القادرة على شغل المواقع القيادية في الشركات والمؤسسات، داعياً في هذا السياق، الباحثين عن عمل والعاملين في مؤسسات القطاع الخاص إلى تعزيز تطوير الذات عن طريق التعليم والتدريب المستمر واكتساب الخبرات المختلفة وتنمية الجوانب الشخصية والسلوكية والمهارات العملية التي تجعل من المواطن الخيار الأفضل في التوظيف، مشدداً على أهمية ترشيد خيارات الشباب في الإقبال على البرامج التعليمية والتدريبية الملائمة لاحتياجات سوق العمل في الحاضر والمستقبل. وأشار سعادة وزير العمل إلى ان المؤتمر يشكل رافداً للمختصين لمناقشة أهم الممارسات والسياسات المتبعة في التدريب بما يتوافق مع متطلبات سوق العمل الآنية والمستقبلية، معرباً عن شكره لجمعية البحرين للتدريب وتنمية الموارد البشرية لحرصها على تنظيم مثل هذه الفعاليات المتخصصة التي تسهم في تعزيز الشراكة الفاعلة من خلال تبادل الخبرات بين المشاركين والمتحدثين من الخبراء والأكاديميين وممثلي مؤسسات التدريب في مجال تنمية الموارد البشرية. من جانبه، أكد السيد أحمد محمود عطية، أهمية موضوع المؤتمر الذي يتناول صقل وتوجيه المهارات، وذلك بهدف سد فجوات المهارات المهنية نظراً للمتغيرات التي تحدث في أنماط الوظائف الجديدة ومتطلباتها المهارية، معرباً عن أمله ان تسهم توصيات المؤتمر في تطوير المؤسسات وقدرتها على تحسين الإنتاجية والمنافسة محلياً وعالمياً. وقد قام راعي الحفل سعادة السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وزير العمل، بتكريم المتحدثين في المؤتمر، والشركات والمؤسسات الراعية لهذه الفعالية.