News
The Ministry of Labor and Social Development aims to ensure the compliance of 30,000 establishments and protect more than 150,000 workers concerned with the decision.
30-06-2020
Tomorrow, Wednesday, 1 July, Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013, regarding the prohibition of working under From direct sunlight and in open places during the afternoon from 12 noon to 4 pm in July and August, goes into effect. This comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s keenness to protect workers from occupational diseases and injuries, especially during the summer period, which witnesses high temperatures and high humidity. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has completed its preparations to oversee the implementation of the aforementioned decision, beginning field inspection campaigns at targeted sites to ensure compliance with the decision by approximately 30,000 establishments. The Ministry has also set up a hotline (17873648) to report any violations detected by the public. The Ministry, through inspection teams, will verify the violation and take the necessary action in this regard. In a statement on this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, stressed the importance of continued compliance by establishments with this decision, noting that the compliance rate in previous years was ideal, and did not fall below 98%. He stressed in this regard the necessity and importance of employers providing work equipment with the best occupational safety and health standards to avoid workers from potential occupational injuries due to hot and humid weather, stressing that the Ministry will not be lenient in recording violations against non-compliant establishments, as the necessary legal measures will be taken in the event of a violation. According to the decision, anyone who violates the provisions of the decision to ban work during the afternoon will be punished with 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." The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has called on employers, as well as work site supervisors and occupational health and safety engineers in various establishments, to train workers in first aid, provide healthcare, and provide adequate drinking water to protect workers from heat stress.
Arab Ministers of Social Affairs praise the initiatives of the Kingdom of Bahrain to confront the repercussions of the Corona Covid-19 pandemic
28-06-2020
Arab Social Affairs Ministers commended the measures and initiatives taken by the Kingdom of Bahrain to address the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic in the health, economic, and social sectors, mitigating its impact on society in general, and particularly on people with disabilities, the elderly, and families receiving support and social assistance. They also praised the effectiveness of the social safety net and its ability to confront disasters and crises. This came during the Council's emergency session held today, Sunday, via videoconference. The session aimed to examine the social and humanitarian impacts resulting from the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in countries around the world, highlight the need to coordinate Arab efforts to contain the negative impacts on vulnerable groups in society, and review the preventive measures taken by Arab member states to limit the spread of this epidemic. In his intervention during the meeting, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, reviewed the steps taken by the Kingdom of Bahrain to confront the negative effects of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, explaining that in accordance with the royal directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him, and the decisions issued by the esteemed government headed by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, and the efforts made by the National Campaign to Combat COVID-19, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, the Kingdom of Bahrain has launched a financial package worth 4.3 billion Bahraini dinars to confront the economic repercussions of the Coronavirus at the local level, in order to achieve the sustainability of the health and safety of citizens and residents and the continuation of the state’s programmes and its work in the field of sustainable development. This includes the state’s commitment to paying the wages of citizens working in the private sector for a period of three months, in addition to exempting them from paying fees for a number of basic services for the same period. He also referred to the directives of the esteemed Cabinet to expand the circle of beneficiaries of programmes. The financial package includes self‑employed workers and supports small and medium enterprises, productive families, struggling business owners, and the uninsured, with the aim of helping them overcome this exceptional period. In this context, he pointed to the precautionary measures taken by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to protect senior citizens, people with disabilities, children of unknown parentage, orphans, and children from broken families, and the Ministry's continued provision of shelter and care services, disbursement of prosthetic devices to senior citizens and people with disabilities, social assistance, and family counselling. Humaidan explained that the measures taken by the government are evidence and embodiment of Bahrain's commitment to caring for its citizens and residents, and its ability to confront disasters and crises, based on its belief in the importance of fulfilling its obligations and preserving the safety and health of society. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Arab Ministers of Social Affairs issued a statement in which they emphasised the importance of enhancing coordination and exchanging successful experiences among Arab countries to mitigate the social impacts of the pandemic. They also emphasised working to strengthen social protection systems and expand their beneficiaries to include new categories highlighted by the current crisis. They also urged member states to implement the Arab Strategic Framework for the Eradication of Multidimensional Poverty in a way that responds to the rising poverty rate caused by this crisis. They also urged coordination with Arab Ministers of Health and social partners to support the implementation of the Arab Strategy for the Elderly, and to work to support people with disabilities and build their capacities to confront the current crisis through a set of programmes.
MLSD Minister: Strengthening cooperation between the parties to production contributes to the stability of the labor market
27-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, during his meeting with Yaqoob Yousef Mohammed, Executive Council Chairman of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr), in his office at the Ministry, stressed that enhancing co‑operation between the three production parties during these exceptional circumstances witnessed by the Kingdom of Bahrain and the world due to the Coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic, will undoubtedly contribute to maintaining the stability of the national workforce in the labour market, preventing harm to them, preserving their rights and ensuring the continuity of their contribution, which enhances the sustainability of the production wheel in various private sector establishments. The two sides agreed to continue and strengthen the efforts exerted by all parties under the current circumstances to ensure the stability of the national workforce and support Bahraini workers, thanks to their dedication, professional discipline, and constant desire to develop themselves to enhance the productivity of the establishments in which they work. Mr. Yaqoob also reviewed the Free Union’s efforts to highlight Bahrain’s experience in confronting the Coronavirus (COVID‑19) to the Arab Labour Organization, including the financial support package provided by the government to the private sector in order to maintain the stability of the labour market, during the Free Union’s participation in the forum held recently by the Arab Labour Organization, via videoconference, where this experience was admired by the Arab countries participating in the forum. On this occasion, Humaidan praised the role played by the Bahrain Free Trade Union Federation and its efforts in supporting the stability of the national workforce. He stressed in this context the Ministry’s keenness to stabilise the conditions of national workers through its close monitoring of the labour market movement, and its direct and immediate communication with the management of establishments to achieve this goal. He added that the number of lay‑offs is still limited, stressing that tripartite co‑operation between the production parties contributes to the stability of the labour market and supports national human resources in a way that serves the public interest. He pointed out that the labour market is still generating jobs, and that the recruitment process is continuing at reasonable rates despite these emergency conditions. He called on everyone to assume national responsibility to overcome this stage with confidence, reflecting the vitality enjoyed by the Kingdom of Bahrain in facing various challenges. For his part, the Chairman of the Executive Council of the Bahrain Free Trade Union Federation praised the efforts made by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and its role in stabilising the national workforce, noting the Ministry’s policy of activating social dialogue to address the challenges facing the labour market. He pointed out that this policy has proven successful in many national events, stressing at the same time the importance of preserving citizens’ jobs in the private sector and securing all their labour rights. He expressed the Bahrain Free Trade Union Federation’s constant support and readiness to support national efforts to support the stability of the national workforce and enhance the growth of the local labour market in light of these exceptional circumstances, praising the national institutions and companies that adhere to the Bahraini citizen as the best option to fill various job vacancies in production sites.
Al-Haiki stresses the importance of confronting the spread of the "Corona" virus in the work environment
26-06-2020
Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Affairs at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Mr Ahmed Jaafar Al Hayki, participated in an interactive seminar on "Resuming Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic", organised by the Arab Labour Organization via videoconference. Representatives of the three production parties (governments, employers and workers) from the Arab member states of the organisation participated in the seminar. The seminar addressed the efforts of the three production parties in Arab countries to combat the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the measures taken to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for workers during the resumption of work in all Arab countries, and the importance of co‑operation and co‑ordination between the government, employers, workers and their representatives in strengthening occupational safety requirements to prevent the spread of this pandemic at workplaces and in society. In his intervention during the symposium, Al Hayki reviewed the precautionary and preventive measures taken by the Kingdom of Bahrain to combat the spread of this virus in workplaces at the local level. These measures include urging employers to implement social distancing standards in workplaces and workers’ housing, mandating the wearing of masks, following all instructions issued by the Ministry of Health and relevant authorities, and not being complacent during this exceptional period in order to effectively contribute to limiting the spread of this pandemic. He also highlighted the National Campaign to Combat the Coronavirus, which is educating all workers, including expatriate workers, about the virus and methods of prevention, and following up on all precautionary and preventive measures to ensure their safety and health. He also stressed the importance of following up on the measures taken by employers at work sites and headquarters, stressing that the health and safety of workers is a top priority, as they are the cornerstone of the economy. He expressed his hope that the Arab Labour Organisation will achieve significant results in dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic.
MLSD Minister discusses with PM Al-Dimistani the improvement of areas of cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities to strengthen labor and social laws and legislation
26-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with His Excellency the Member of the Council of Representatives, Mr Ahmed Yousef Al-Dimistani, and discussed with him ways to enhance cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, particularly in the field of strengthening labour and social laws and legislation aimed at providing the best services to all segments and categories of society. During the meeting, Humaidan reviewed the Ministry's efforts to implement its initiatives in the field of enhancing social care, qualifying and integrating citizens seeking employment in private sector establishments, and maintaining their job stability under various circumstances. He noted the role of the Council of Representatives in supporting legislation, proposals, and initiatives capable of enhancing and developing effective labour and social services to support and care for all segments of society. He emphasised the existence of advanced legislation in force that contributes to improving the work environment and preserving the gains achieved during this prosperous era. For his part, MP Al-Dimistani praised the level of cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and members of the legislative authority, noting the Ministry's efforts to implement the state's policy aimed at ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens and providing them with the best development services. He called for further cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities to overcome this phase and move on to continue building comprehensive development plans.
Clarification of the Ministry of Labor and Social Development regarding those dismissed from work due to the Corona pandemic
26-06-2020
In reference to what has been circulated on social media platforms regarding the number of citizens dismissed from their jobs in the private sector due to the repercussions of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, including what was broadcast about a national company in the telecommunications sector dismissing citizens from their jobs, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development would like to clarify that the company in question has not carried out any dismissals of citizens recently or due to the current circumstances. The truth is that the company has re-evaluated the performance of its employees and during this period dispensed with the services of only one employee due to his failure to successfully pass the performance evaluation. This is a normal procedure taken by any establishment within the regulatory regulations and in accordance with what is decided by the employment contract concluded between the two parties. It is worth noting that the percentage of Bahrainisation in the company is high, and it is one of the companies that attracts Bahrainis. Regarding the impact of the Coronavirus outbreak on the stability of national employment, the Ministry’s statistics and records indicate a decrease in the number of those laid off in the first half of this year compared to the first half of 2019. The number of Bahraini workers whose services were terminated in the private sector and whose layoffs were documented in the Ministry’s records during the period from the first half of this year (until June 24) amounted to approximately 270 Bahraini workers, compared to 766 workers in the first half of 2019. It should be noted that many of the layoffs that occurred during the first six months of this year are not related to the exceptional circumstances the country is experiencing, but rather some were related to situations that occurred at the end of 2019. The months of April, May, and June 2020, during which Bahrainis' wages were covered under the government support package, witnessed a significant decrease in the number of dismissals compared to the first quarter of last year. The number of Bahraini dismissals reached 112 cases, a 23% decrease compared to the same period (April, May, and June) in 2019, despite the current economic conditions. This indicates the success of the government support package for the private sector in preserving citizens' jobs. The Ministry, in cooperation with relevant parties, continues its efforts to avoid any unjustified dismissals in the private sector. It scrutinises any list submitted by companies to ensure that Bahraini workers are not dismissed until all possible solutions and methods to avoid such dismissals have been exhausted, including first dispensing with foreign workers. In addition, the employer must implement all legal procedures required in the event of a total or partial closure and dismissals. It is worth noting that there are many cases in which a Bahraini worker prefers not to continue working in an establishment that is proven to be unstable and lacks the career future they aspire to due to insolvency. The Ministry has succeeded in re-employing many Bahraini workers affected by dismissal decisions in other establishments with greater job security and reassurance, after ensuring they obtain their legal rights. In this context, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development affirms that the labour market enjoys stability, sustainability, and the ability to confront various challenges thanks to the unlimited support of the esteemed government, the Kingdom of Bahrain's advanced labour and economic legislation, and the cooperation between the three production parties to make the local labour market more cohesive and growing under various circumstances, enabling it to generate more employment opportunities in productive sectors. On this occasion, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development calls on media platforms to obtain information from official, approved sources, in order to avoid causing anxiety among working citizens, which could impact their performance and productivity.
MLSD Minister praises the successful experiences of attracting and holding private sector enterprises with national competencies
25-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office at the Ministry building, the General Manager of TRACCS Bahrain, Ms Shereen Bushehri, where he was briefed on the company’s successful efforts in attracting Bahraini cadres and employing (24) Bahrainis in leadership and technical positions out of the total number of employees in the company, which amounts to (25) employees, which made the percentage of Bahrainisation rise to 96%, and what it showed of keenness to support and develop national competencies working professionally to occupy leadership positions in the various departments of the company working in the field of communications and public relations. During the meeting, Humaidan commended the company's success in embracing and retaining Bahraini talent, describing it as a success story deserving of praise and appreciation. He expressed his hope that other companies would follow suit by relying on qualified national human resources, supporting them, promoting their professional development, providing them with continuous training, and enhancing their capabilities to boost productivity. In this context, Humaidan commended all private sector establishments that are committed to enhancing the role of their national workforce, reflecting the esteemed government's growing interest in ensuring that nationals are the preferred choice for employment in the private sector. For her part, Bushehri reviewed the efforts of TRACCS Bahrain in supporting national labour in various economic conditions, and implementing its strategy of optimal investment by relying on it at various job levels. She stressed that the company’s approach and policy in attracting its employees relies primarily on Bahraini talent, due to its high efficiency and productivity, and excellence in performing work tasks. In this context, she praised the support and assistance of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development for programmes to prepare and qualify job seekers and integrate them into private sector establishments. She expressed the company’s readiness to intensify cooperation with the Ministry and provide additional job vacancies, in order to contribute to the success of the Ministry’s numerous projects and initiatives aimed at integrating and stabilising national labour in all productive sectors.
Online meeting held by "ESCWA" in cooperation with the League of Arab States, Bahrain reviews its experience in serving disabled in light of "Corona"
24-06-2020
Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa, participated in the High-level Meeting to Support Persons with Disabilities during COVID-19 in the Arab Region. The meeting was held via videoconference by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), in cooperation with the League of Arab States and the Arab Organization for Persons with Disabilities (AOPD), with the participation of representatives from the League of Arab States and the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary‑General on Disability, on Wednesday. The meeting aims to coordinate with partners and governments on addressing the repercussions of the COVID‑19 pandemic and its impact on people with disabilities. It also aims to identify national initiatives in this regard and provide a platform to review the various experiences and mechanisms developed by countries to protect societies from this pandemic and its health, social, and economic impacts on this group, serving them, empowering them, and integrating them into society. During the meeting, the Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Rehabilitation reviewed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s efforts to care for and protect people with disabilities in light of the exceptional global circumstances. The number of people with disabilities amounts to approximately 12,000. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development continued to provide comprehensive services to them, including a monthly financial allowance of 100 dinars, in addition to continuing to provide care and rehabilitation services to people with disabilities through a number of other support services and various programmes provided to the aforementioned category. This was achieved through governmental, civil and private rehabilitation centres, by activating the distance learning and training service, after suspending attendance therein from last February until mid‑June, to protect students and preserve their health. Electronic lessons and rehabilitation sessions were implemented through distance learning systems. She explained that the total number of students with disabilities benefiting from these centres amounts to 1,562 students, benefiting from 6 government centres, 15 civil rehabilitation centres that are managed by civil society organisations and supported by the Ministry annually with an amount of 1.2 million dinars, and 18 private rehabilitation centres. Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa pointed out the continuation of community partnerships with civil society organisations in operating mobile units for people with disabilities and continuing to provide driving training services for them in partnership with the General Directorate of Traffic at the Ministry of Interior. She noted that the Ministry continues to process citizens’ requests for disability allowance services and the provision of devices and aids for them, in addition to coordinating and cooperating with the Information and eGovernment Authority to launch the national identity card for citizens, which integrates the type of disability. The meeting discussed the efforts made by all relevant parties to support and assist people with disabilities at this time. The meeting also reviewed the results of the survey conducted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and the awareness materials issued targeting people with disabilities, published on websites. It also highlighted the role of the League of Arab States in strengthening efforts to ensure that economic and social policies address the needs of people with disabilities during and after the pandemic.
MLSD Minister meets MP AlBahrani
23-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency the Member of the Council of Representatives, Mr Mahmoud Makki Al Bahrani, in his office today, Tuesday, and discussed with him the latest developments and efforts of the Ministry in implementing its initiatives in the field of enhancing social care and qualifying and integrating citizens seeking employment in various productive sectors within private sector establishments. In this context, Humaidan stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities to serve the goals and aspirations of citizens, by supporting the efforts of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in the areas of employing citizens in the private sector and providing social protection for various groups and segments of society. He pointed out the need for solidarity among all to overcome various current and future circumstances, stressing that Bahrain, with the cooperation of its people in various positions, is capable of overcoming challenges, especially with regard to enhancing welfare services for citizens and maintaining the stability of the labour market. For his part, MP Al Bahrani praised the level of cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and members of the legislative authority, noting the efforts made by the Ministry in implementing the state's policy aimed at ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens and providing them with the best development services. He also noted the positive transformation in the quality of the numerous services it provides electronically following the adoption of the Ministry’s digital platforms, as modern technology saves time and effort for everyone.
The Bahrain Society for the Care of Sickle Patients commends MLSD Minister's sponsorship to celebrate the International Day for Sickle-Anemia Patients
20-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Society for Sickle Cell Disease, Mr Zakaria Ibrahim Al Khadim. Al Khadim expressed the thanks and appreciation of the Society to the Minister for sponsoring the Society’s celebration of World Sickle Cell Day, which fell yesterday, Friday, 19 June, and for delivering his expressive speech, remotely, at the beginning of the ceremony held by the Society this year, under the slogan “Be”, via video call. During the meeting, the various activities undertaken by the Bahrain Society for the Care of Sickle Cell Patients were reviewed as part of its efforts to serve patients, particularly the facilities provided by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to employ this segment of the population in private‑sector establishments and address their professional needs. In this context, Humaidan praised the humanitarian efforts undertaken by the Society through its follow‑up and care for sickle cell patients, and its continuous efforts, through coordination with the Ministry, to train and employ them and overcome all difficulties that hinder their integration into private‑sector establishments. He pointed out that the Ministry has made great strides in encouraging employers to attract this category of citizens to work, believing in their ability to perform job duties diligently and faithfully in various production sites whenever the appropriate conditions and work environment are available. For his part, Al Khadim commended the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s support for the society’s efforts, which includes ensuring sickle cell patients receive the development services specifically designed for them. He noted in this context the Ministry’s support for the society’s projects and programmes, its backing of its participation in numerous Arab and international forums, and the Minister’s sponsorship of numerous events organised by the society.
MLSD Minister: The establishments' commitment to the decision enhances their productivity and protects them from the consequences of work injuries
20-06-2020
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has completed its preparations to supervise the implementation of Ministerial Resolution No. (39) of 2013, regarding the prohibition of working under sunlight and open places during the afternoon period from 12 noon until 4 pm in July and August, which aims to protect workers and ensure their safety from the risks of heat stress, sunstroke and various summer diseases and to reduce occupational accidents, during this period of the year that witnesses high temperatures and humidity levels in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The implementation of this resolution also comes in compliance with human rights principles, especially the right of workers to a safe and healthy work environment. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has launched an awareness campaign targeting employers and workers on the importance of adhering to the decision. This campaign includes providing employers with guidance leaflets, in addition to preparing brochures and advertisements in multiple languages to be understood by different nationalities working in the Kingdom of Bahrain. These brochures provide guidance and information on the impact of high temperatures on worker health and safety, as well as ensuring that institutions and companies operate in safe conditions without compromising worker productivity. In addition, virtual workshops are being held, given the current exceptional circumstances, targeting different categories of workers to promote a culture of health and safety in workplaces, especially during the summer. In a statement on this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, stressed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is among the first countries to secure a safe and peaceful work environment, in order to ensure the safety of workers in various production sites. He pointed out that the implementation of the midday work ban is an effective decision that has contributed to reducing the risks of work during the summer season and making workers’ safety a top priority for employers, due to its humanitarian dimension and the incentive it provides for greater productivity through the redistribution of human effort and benefiting from the rescheduling of working hours, which has positively reflected on the productivity of establishments and has not affected the workflow and implementation of projects. Humaidan highlighted the importance of all establishments being prepared to implement this decision in order to achieve its humanitarian and economic objectives. He stressed in this context that educating workers about summer diseases and their prevention, and explaining the risks resulting from heat stress due to their exposure to sunlight during this period, in addition to providing comprehensive healthcare and first aid, and finding appropriate technical solutions that would reduce the degree of temperature and humidity, is a guarantee to avoid contracting these diseases and prevent potential injuries, especially in construction sites where the rate of occupational accidents is increasing. He stressed in this context that adhering to the work ban decision protects establishments from the economic cost of work-related injuries. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, praised the commitment of private sector establishments to this decision over the past years, as the average compliance rate reached 98%, which reflects the extent of employers’ awareness of the contents of this decision and their keenness to adhere to it. He urged workers to adhere to it in order to create a work environment free from health risks and occupational diseases. He stressed at the same time that the Ministry will not be lenient in monitoring violations and that legal measures will be taken against violators, while emphasising that repeating the violation will double the penalty, in accordance with what is stipulated in the ministerial decision. He affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is continuing to enhance the protection of workers and provide a safe and peaceful environment in the work environment, as such an environment enhances the productivity of establishments and contributes to reducing economic risks due to human injuries that occur in the workplace. The ministerial decision on the prohibition of noon work stipulates that "anyone who 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. It also 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."
MLSD Minister praises the efforts of volunteers from productive families in the manufacture of protective masks
19-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, praised the efforts of productive Bahraini families and female trainees who graduated from training courses at social centres, who volunteered to produce 100,000 protective masks as a first phase and as a national initiative within the framework of national efforts to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID‑19). This was supported by the Ministry in terms of providing raw materials and workplaces in accordance with social distancing requirements, so that they will be distributed free of charge to all citizens and residents, and with specifications that comply with the health requirements issued by the Ministry of Health. Humaidan expressed his pride in the Bahraini citizen volunteers, each according to his position and responsibility. The productive Bahraini families who took the initiative in the campaign to manufacture masks without compensation and in many other locations demonstrated their responsibility and initiative in standing up to any emergency or event that required their participation and standing in line with other segments of society. This is not something strange for the Bahraini citizen who is accustomed to volunteering and giving in all fields that the country needs. Humaidan said that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Royal Humanitarian Foundation attach great importance to productive Bahraini families and are committed to supporting them in every way possible, including training, product development, and marketing. This is done with the aim of encouraging them to continue working and producing, thereby contributing to raising their standard of living and income, as part of the drive to encourage entrepreneurs. In a related context, Humaidan praised the role of the Royal Humanitarian Foundation, Bahrain Telecommunications Company (Batelco), and other official and civil society organisations in encouraging the initiative and supporting volunteers to produce and distribute masks in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to members of society and expatriate workers. He emphasised that this approach confirms the positive interaction between all segments of society and the effective community partnership that serves communities, citizens, and residents. Humaidan stressed that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development has undertaken to provide the raw materials needed to produce masks for the volunteers, as well as to provide safe and healthy work sites for them, while the Royal Humanitarian Foundation and Batelco have undertaken to support the volunteers, as approximately 40,000 masks have been produced so far, and work is still ongoing to meet the increasing demand, especially after the issuance of health decisions confirming the continuous wearing of masks in workplaces and all public places. He explained that a number of civil society organisations have also agreed with the Ministry to distribute the masks that are being produced to citizens and residents. Humaidan highlighted the comprehensive plan developed to distribute masks free of charge to citizens and residents, as part of community partnerships and coordinated national efforts in cooperation with government agencies, civil society institutions, and community-based individuals.
MLSD Minister insures the importance of strengthening channels of communication with PMs
17-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with Dr Hesham Ahmed Al Asheeri, Member of Parliament, in his office at the Ministry. The two discussed several topics related to the services provided by the Ministry and the role of the legislative authority in strengthening labour and social laws and legislation aimed at providing the best services to all segments and classes of society. Humaidan praised the level of cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, noting in this context the importance of strengthening communication channels between members of the Council of Representatives and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, in light of the Ministry's keenness to open its doors to discuss issues of concern to citizens. He also stressed the importance of informing MPs of the measures taken by the Ministry with complete transparency in the current circumstances the world is experiencing due to the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID‑19), and facing the resulting challenges in the labour market. For his part, MP Al Asheeri commended the existing cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Council of Representatives, pointing out that this has had a positive impact on national legislation and laws issued by the Council of Representatives, which facilitates the Ministry’s tasks in implementing plans and initiatives to employ citizens in private sector establishments and enhance social welfare programmes. He praised the Ministry’s efforts, whether through maintaining job stability for citizens in companies and institutions or through enhancing social protection for various targeted societal groups and segments, in order to achieve family stability for citizens.
MLSD Minister discusses with PM Ammar the improvement of areas of cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities
16-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with Member of the Council of Representatives, Mr Ammar Hussein Al Abbas, at his office at the Ministry. The two discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities to achieve common interests that meet citizens’ aspirations. Humaidan affirmed the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s continued development of service projects for citizens, foremost among which is the provision of job opportunities and job stability for citizens under various circumstances. He also stressed the importance of continuing the policy of supporting social protection, developing Bahraini families, and empowering them economically to raise their standard of living by providing them with all necessary resources. He also highlighted the importance of fruitful cooperation with the Council of Representatives in enacting and developing the necessary legislation to achieve the national strategic goals in the areas of labour and social care. For his part, MP Al Abbas commended the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s efforts in achieving development goals, affirming his support for all programmes and projects that facilitate the provision of distinguished services to citizens. He commended the measures taken by the Ministry in these exceptional circumstances facing the world due to the coronavirus pandemic, calling for further cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities to overcome this phase and move on to continue building comprehensive development plans.
The Minister of Labor and Social Development meets the Secretary-General of the General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions
12-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office at the Ministry with the Secretary‑General of the General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions, Mr Abdul Qadir Abdul Karim Al Shehabi, and discussed with him issues of common interest, foremost among which are the measures and initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to ensure the stability of national cadres in private sector establishments and protect them from illegal and unjustified dismissal in these exceptional circumstances that the world and the Kingdom of Bahrain are experiencing due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Humaidan emphasised the importance of concerted efforts and enhancing fruitful cooperation between the three parties involved in production (government, employers, and workers) to preserve national gains and emphasise the vital role played by national competencies and cadres across various production sites. This underscores everyone’s role in supporting the desired production and growth movement, while avoiding any negative repercussions of the COVID‑19 pandemic. In turn, Al Shehabi praised the fruitful efforts made by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in supporting national cadres and providing all the necessary capabilities to develop their professional capabilities, making them preferred by employers. He pointed out that this has positively reflected on the commitment of institutions and companies to national human resources and opened up broader horizons for them in career development. These efforts have also contributed to job stability, a key priority, especially during the current global crisis caused by the Coronavirus. He called for unifying all efforts towards achieving this national goal that everyone seeks until this pandemic ends and life returns to normal, and the wheel of production and comprehensive development is restored to its speed.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Development signs a memorandum of understanding with BIBF
11-06-2020
Today, Thursday, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) to train job seekers using virtual training technology. The signing ceremony was attended by His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, the Institute's CEO, Dr Ahmed Abdul Ghani AlShaikh, and a number of officials from the Ministry and the Institute. The ceremony was held at the Ministry's headquarters in Zayed City. The bilateral cooperation memorandum was signed by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Mr Sabah Salem Al Dossari, representing the Ministry, and Dr Ahmed Abdul Ghani AlShaikh, representing the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance. This agreement aims to launch the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance's initiative to offer several training programmes for job seekers in the fields of accounting, finance, business administration, insurance, computing, project management, and leadership. This will be implemented within a modern electronic platform that includes many motivating and encouraging elements, including some facilities and exemptions for job seekers to join these programmes in such exceptional circumstances, in order to develop personal skills and capabilities and increase employment opportunities for citizens within the programmes implemented by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, which help job seekers develop their educational skills and personal and professional capabilities. In a statement after signing the memorandum, the Minister of Labour and Social Development praised the initiative of the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) to offer courses for job seekers, based on the institute’s belief in the importance of supporting national skills and competencies. He stressed that this reflects the responsible patriotism of this national institution. He pointed out that the signing of this memorandum comes within a series of memoranda of understanding concluded by the Ministry with a number of relevant entities, within the framework of community partnership with the aim of enhancing the skills and capabilities of job seekers to facilitate their integration into the private sector. He added that holding remote training courses in these exceptional circumstances is an opportunity to enhance modern technologies in specialised courses and innovate other fields and horizons for training in line with technological development. He stressed in this context that the Ministry will begin procedures to register lists of job seekers who wish to participate in these specialised courses. For his part, the Director General of the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance, Dr Ahmed Abdul Ghani AlShaikh, stressed that the Institute continuously seeks to activate tools of joint cooperation with all governmental and private entities in order to develop the government work system, which contributes to raising the level of services provided to citizens. He explained that the memorandum of understanding comes within the efforts to provide the best training services that meet the needs of national cadres, praising the role played by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in effectively contributing to the process of advancing Bahraini society and developing its national human resources through various preparation and qualification services that suit different segments of job seekers, fulfilling their desires and ambitions, and helping them start their professional lives in various functional and professional specialisations.
MLSD Minister: Implementing the maximum preventive measures in rehabilitation centers and closing the non-compliant
11-06-2020
Based on the decisions of the Coordination Committee, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, may God protect him, and the presentation of the National Medical Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID‑19), chaired by His Excellency Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, issued an administrative circular regarding the resumption of activities, programmes and individual rehabilitation sessions in private centres working in the field of disability, in accordance with precautionary controls and requirements to ensure the provision of a safe and healthy working environment for students and staff at these rehabilitation centres, effective from 14 June 2020. The administrative circular emphasised the need for private rehabilitation centres to adhere to the Ministry of Health's guidelines for daily disinfection and sterilisation of the centres. This includes classrooms, rehabilitation facilities, equipment, educational tools, administrative offices and employee devices. It also requires the provision of necessary disinfectants at the entrance to the rehabilitation centre and throughout its various areas. It is also necessary to maintain the cleanliness and ventilation of the centre, ensure that waste is removed daily and disposed of safely, ensure that toilets are clean after each use, and encourage good health practices, especially handwashing, as prescribed. In compliance with sterilisation regulations and safety precautions, centres must allocate individual materials and equipment for each beneficiary. They must also sterilise all shared tools, equipment and devices before and after use. Social distancing requirements must be adhered to, and the temperature of all centre staff, including administrative and rehabilitation staff, as well as beneficiaries, must be measured daily. Anyone with a temperature above 37.5 degrees Celsius is prohibited from entering. According to the established requirements, all employees of the centres, administrative and rehabilitation bodies, beneficiaries and visitors are also required to wear protective masks and gloves, with the necessity of quickly disclosing by calling (444) when suspected cases show signs and symptoms indicating the possibility of infection with the Coronavirus or it is believed that they have been exposed to contact with an existing case of the virus, and it is strictly forbidden to provide light meals and drinks to students while they are in the rehabilitation centre. The administrative circular specified the controls and requirements for the rehabilitation process, emphasising the importance of organising the rehabilitation sessions for the beneficiaries registered at the centre so that the number of students does not exceed one beneficiary per specialist trainer, while ensuring that the trainer's protective mask and gloves are changed with each beneficiary. Attendance is optional for students who wish to attend under the current circumstances, while encouraging the continuation of virtual rehabilitation and enhancing it through various means, with the possibility of combining classroom and virtual rehabilitation according to what is determined by the type of programme, while adhering to the terms and conditions specified in the circulars issued and organised in this regard. All rehabilitation centres will be randomly inspected periodically by inspectors from the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to ensure that the centre adheres to health requirements and regulations governing the rehabilitation process. If any rehabilitation centre fails to comply, it will be fined, closed, and the necessary legal action will be taken. In this context, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development emphasised that people with disabilities are of very great interest to the esteemed government, which is keen to provide means of social protection, healthcare and rehabilitation. In the same context, he praised the efforts of Bahraini talents operating private centres working in the field of disability, and the advanced level of services provided by these centres, which contribute to creating a suitable environment for people with disabilities, facilitating their integration into society and their effective participation in the comprehensive development process, and their involvement in public formal education and educational and training institutions. Humaidan explained that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development is committed to continuing to support the efforts of civil society organisations to provide the best sustainable social and development services, particularly those concerned with people with disabilities. This stems from a desire to strengthen the community partnership system between various governmental, civil, and private institutions, and to consolidate the principle of human and social solidarity among all segments and groups of society, particularly during this exceptional period.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Development launches an electronic platform for children's and youth clubs
10-06-2020
The Director of the Family and Child Development Directorate at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Ms Aisha Mohammed Al Zayed, announced that the Ministry has recently launched an electronic platform for children and youth clubs. The aim is to preserve the safety of children and youth clubs and the Sharifa Al Awadhi Youth and Children Club, affiliated with the Ministry, and to spare them the effects of social interaction and gatherings during these exceptional circumstances that the world and the Kingdom of Bahrain are experiencing due to the Coronavirus (COVID‑19). Al Zayed stressed that since the decision to suspend studies in public and private schools and activate the distance‑learning system to protect students and prevent infection with the coronavirus, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development has been keen to find an alternative to occupy the free time of children and youth during the summer holiday period, to protect children and youth and spare them any health risks, which may make them and their parents suffer from free time and ways to fill it;. Hence, the proposal to establish an electronic children and youth club came to overcome the problem of occupying their free time, in a way that benefits and contributes to spreading awareness among the target group, in addition to achieving the benefit of electronic devices purposefully. The platform address is (Instagram@child_youthclubs). Ms Aisha Mohammed Al Zayed explained that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, in the context of continuing its developmental and care role for children and youth during the summer holiday, focused on activating the electronic club through a secure electronic platform for communication between children, and enhancing social communication between the target group and members of the children and youth clubs and the Sharifa Al Awadhi Youth and Children Club. The specialised team in the clubs began preparing interactive activities and programmes that children can implement from home, and they include several fields, most notably arts, handicrafts and reading the Holy Quran. The e-club receives contributions from children and youth via email (sharifa.club@mlsd.gov.bh).
Integrating the data of disabled registered with the Ministry of Labor and Social Development with the ID card
09-06-2020
Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa, announced that, in line with the joint cooperation between the Ministry and the Information and eGovernment Authority in the service file for persons with disabilities, the data of the disability cards registered with the Ministry has recently been merged with the updated version of the identity card, by printing the type of disability on the identity card of the disabled person. This will contribute to facilitating the affairs of this segment of citizens and enabling them to benefit from all the advantages, services and facilities provided by governmental and private entities and institutions. The Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Rehabilitation explained that providing the electronic ID chip with data on persons with disabilities and identifying their type of disability would eliminate the need for the Ministry‑issued disability cards. Accordingly, the Ministry has stopped issuing disability cards and will instead print the type of disability on the ID card. Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa affirmed that this step comes within the framework of keeping pace with modern applications in various national initiatives and projects, and facilitating access for this category. She explained that all persons with disabilities registered with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, numbering more than 12,000 citizens, can renew their ID cards with the updated version, which will include disability data, eliminating the need to issue a disability card for them. Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa said that this step aims to provide the best services and programmes from the Ministry to the beneficiaries according to the highest levels of quality, efficiency, electronic and health security, in addition to ensuring that they benefit from all the advantages, services and facilities provided by governmental and private agencies and institutions with ease and convenience, represented by the discounts offered by a number of institutions and commercial stores by a percentage ranging from 5% to 50%, in addition to obtaining a sticker for parking spaces for people with disabilities from the General Traffic Department, as well as granting them a special lane in the King Fahd Causeway Authority, and a 50% discount on the bridge crossing fees.
MLSD Minister insures the importance of maintaining job stability for national workers
09-06-2020
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, stressed that preserving, adhering to, and developing the national workforce and its professional advancement are among the most important components of the sustainable success of companies and institutions. Investing in the Bahraini workforce is a win-win for employers, considering them the true capital and an effective contributor to the prosperity and development of the private sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This came during a meeting between Humaidan, today, Tuesday, in his office, with members of the Council of Representatives, His Excellency Mr Abdulla Khalifa Al Thawadi, and His Excellency MP Basim Salman Al Malki, where he discussed with them prospects for cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities and the efforts of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in enhancing job stability for citizens in the labour market and maintaining employment rates to face the challenges imposed by the Corona pandemic. He also reviewed the Ministry’s efforts in supervising the protection of workers in private sector establishments from unjustified and illegal dismissal and layoffs, and protecting workers’ rights and gains. Humaidan praised employers’ confidence in national workers, due to their professional discipline, dedication, and genuine sense of belonging to the establishment. He pointed out that this contributes to enhancing and developing the productivity of institutions and companies, as there are many success stories of establishments that relied on competent national workers in their various production sites, and they have become convinced that the best choice when hiring is for Bahraini citizens. He stressed that one of the Ministry’s priorities is to protect the national workforce in the private sector and confront any attempt to illegally lay them off or infringe upon their rights and employment gains, calling on everyone to unite and cooperate in these exceptional circumstances that the world and Bahrain are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For their part, Al Thawadi and Al Malki praised the remarkable efforts made by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to preserve citizens working in the private sector, and to undertake many commendable initiatives to preserve jobs in the face of numerous cases of unjustified dismissal and layoffs. They also praised its efforts to provide an umbrella of social protection and a decent standard of living for Bahraini families, and to provide them with all assistance and support in these exceptional circumstances, in implementation of the generous directives of the esteemed government. They emphasised the need to intensify community efforts to overcome this stage, ensuring their rights in line with relevant national legislation, enhancing social protection, and securing a decent living for them. They called for more initiatives aimed at enhancing the stability and growth of the labour market.