News
Humaidan and Al-Moayad praise the initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad to serve the youth sector
20-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency the Minister of Youth and Sports Affairs, Mr Ayman Bin Tawfiq Al Moayed, at his office on Wednesday. During the meeting, frameworks for joint cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs were discussed, including developing mechanisms to monitor and implement the Furas (opportunities) programme, launched by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports. The programme will provide grants and training opportunities to develop national cadres, enhance their skills, and refine them to integrate into the labour market and lead entrepreneurship. In this context, Humaidan praised the initiative of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and his interest in the youth sector as a fundamental pillar in the development and renaissance of Bahrain, stressing that this initiative constitutes a qualitative addition that contributes to accelerating the integration of Bahraini youth into the labour market by enhancing quality training opportunities for them and providing them with the necessary professional skills and experience. He pointed out the importance of integration between the various parties concerned with youth sectors to achieve the goal sought by the esteemed government of making the citizen the focus of comprehensive development and the best choice when employing in specialised sectors, including technology, communications, computing, information technology, and other sectors, in addition to enhancing opportunities to develop the performance of the national workforce in various fields of production. Humaidan highlighted the importance of the “Furas” programme’s electronic platform, which includes a database of those seeking specialised on‑the‑job training opportunities in various job sectors, including contributions from international and investment companies that have cooperated with the initiative. He pointed out that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development has several parallel programmes to the “Furas” programme, as it provides career guidance programmes for young people who have recently entered the labour market, in addition to a job seeker assessment service and a vocational apprenticeship programme, as well as training with guaranteed employment and other incentives that encourage young people to engage in the labour market. He noted that intensifying joint efforts and cooperation with institutions and companies operating in the private sector will contribute to the success of the “Furas” initiative. On this occasion, His Excellency Mr Ayman bin Tawfiq Almoayyed expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to ensure the success of the “Furas” programme and harness its capabilities to achieve the noble goals of the programme, which aim to provide training opportunities for Bahraini youth in companies and institutions, develop the capabilities of national cadres, enhance their skills, increase the efficiency of youth, and prepare them to enter the labour market with strength, experience, and entrepreneurial leadership. He pointed out that the framework of cooperation between the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development will contribute to increasing the number of training opportunities provided to Bahraini youth and will give them the opportunity to diversify in training fields to develop their skills and capabilities. His Excellency Mr Ayman bin Tawfiq Almoayyed explained that the Bahraini labour market is characterised by diversity, inclusiveness, and innovation in job creation, which requires providing training opportunities for young Bahrainis in various companies and institutions that are consistent with developments in the labour market. This is the common goal sought by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development through their constructive cooperation to provide quality training opportunities that are consistent with developments in the Bahraini labour market.
Humaidan praises the experience of establishments in attracting students and qualifying them to easily integrate into the labor market.
19-11-2019
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 Azadea Group Bahrain, Mr Jawad Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj, in the presence of the Group’s Regional Director of Human Resources, Mr Khodor Badran, and a number of the company’s officials and employees. During the meeting, Mr Al Hawaj introduced a number of Bahraini employees who had been recruited by the Group to work part‑time during their university studies and who subsequently assumed leadership and management positions within the Group after graduation. He also reviewed the Group’s business strategy, investments, and needs for national manpower in the hospitality and retail sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as its success in raising Bahrainisation rates and increasing reliance on national competencies across the Group’s global companies. In this context, Humaidan emphasised that the retail and hospitality sectors are witnessing steady growth in Bahrain, thanks to the Government’s policy of economic openness and the availability of qualified, trained national human resources to work in these two promising sectors. He noted the professional discipline that characterises Bahraini workers, which contributes to enhancing their advantage over foreign workers. For his part, Mr Al Hawaj praised the Government’s support—represented by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development—for the experience of attracting national talent to work in the Group during their university studies, noting that this experience has proven successful, as these talents have reached leadership positions within the Group and assumed significant administrative tasks and responsibilities. He emphasised the Group’s aspiration for further cooperation and coordination in upgrading national human resources and providing advanced training programmes that contribute to refining their skills and professional capabilities.
During his meeting with PM Mamdouh Al-Saleh.. Humaidan praises the Parliament's support for labor projects and legislation
18-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with Member of the Council of Representatives, Mr Mamdouh Abbas Al Saleh, and discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the labour and social fields. During the meeting, Humaidan emphasised the importance of cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Council of Representatives, which supports the quality of services provided to citizens. He expressed appreciation for the Council’s support for projects and legislation within the Ministry’s remit, as part of joint efforts to provide a decent standard of living for citizens and strengthen social protection for all segments of society. For his part, MP Mamdouh Al Saleh underscored the importance of reinforcing cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities to enhance national gains, serve citizens in the labour sector, and promote social welfare. He noted the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s efforts in implementing the Government’s policy aimed at delivering the best services to citizens.
120 specialists participate in the workshop "Safety at work at heights in work sites"
17-11-2019
As part of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s efforts to raise safety standards and reinforce a preventative culture in occupational safety and health across workplaces and production sites, the Ministry, in cooperation with Banz Group Bahrain and Spa Set Company from the United Kingdom, held a workshop titled “Safety at Heights in Workplaces”. The workshop was attended by 120 occupational safety practitioners from public and private sector institutions in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The programme addressed national legislation and regulations governing work at height, practical and technical rescue methods, and reviewed statistics on occupational accidents related to falls from height and the number of related occupational fatalities. Mr Andre Adams, Group Safety Manager at Banz, together with attendees, participated in a practical demonstration of rescue operations while working at height at work sites. The demonstration covered technical solutions and requirements that must be met by both the worker and the equipment used in high places, in order to safeguard workers’ lives and ensure their safety at work sites.
Amabile Aguilos praises Bahrain's position as a regional center for training
16-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met on Saturday at the Ministry with the Special Envoy of the President of the Republic of the Philippines to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Dr Amable Aguiluz, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation in the fields of labour and human resources development between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the friendly Republic of the Philippines. The meeting, held during Dr Aguiluz’s visit to the Kingdom, reviewed the two countries’ successful experiences in employment, qualification, and specialised technical training programmes and projects. On this occasion, Humaidan underscored the importance of strengthening joint action between the two friendly countries, particularly in the labour sector and in human resources development and preparation. He emphasised the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to developing and upgrading private training institutions to reinforce Bahrain’s leading position in human resources development and professional training, and noted the importance of attracting leading international expertise in education and training. For his part, Dr Aguiluz commended the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to ensuring and safeguarding the rights of migrant workers, noting the Kingdom’s strong reputation internationally for implementing advanced labour legislation consistent with national laws and aligned with international labour standards, as well as its standing as an advanced centre for training and human resources development.
Humaidan discusses with MP Al-Nuaimi strengthening cooperation in the labor and development fields
16-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, discussed with His Excellency the Member of the Council of Representatives, Dr Ali Majid Al Nuaimi, ways to enhance cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities, the projects and initiatives implemented by the Ministry, and means to meet citizens’ needs through its various development services. The meeting took place at His Excellency’s office at the Ministry. The meeting also reviewed the latest developments in job‑seeking initiatives across various job specialities in private‑sector establishments. In this context, Humaidan noted the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s continued implementation of programmes aimed at accelerating the integration of national cadres into various attractive sectors, as well as developing and strengthening social welfare programmes for all segments of society. For his part, MP Al Nuaimi commended the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s efforts in implementing the Government’s policy aimed at ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens by providing quality employment opportunities, enhancing social protection, and strengthening the stability of the Bahraini family, as well as promoting the work of NGOs in the areas of volunteer and charitable work.
During his meeting with the president and members of the association .. The Minister of Labor and Social Development praises the efforts of the Bahrain Bar Association
15-11-2019
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 Bar Society, Attorney Hassan Ahmed Badawi, in the presence of several members of the Society’s Board of Directors. The meeting discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the field of training and employing law graduates. During the meeting, Attorney Badawi reviewed the Society’s most prominent programmes, activities, and cooperation with governmental and civil society organisations aligned with the Society’s objectives, to contribute to the development of the legal profession and enable it to fulfil its essential role in consolidating the foundations of justice, in addition to developing and enhancing legal thought and awareness. He emphasised that the Society is developing a plan to achieve its objectives, including a focus on legal studies, research and seminars, as well as participation in relevant organisations and events at the regional and international levels. Humaidan commended the efforts of the Bahrain Bar Society and the vital role it plays in advancing the legal profession in the Kingdom. He emphasised the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s commitment to supporting the Society’s mission and removing any obstacles that might hinder its work, in accordance with the legal provisions and procedures for NGOs, thereby enabling the Society to fulfil its role in defending rights and upholding the values of justice. On this occasion, the Minister affirmed the Government’s continued commitment to supporting programmes that qualify and prepare national cadres for the labour market across all productive sectors, especially in the legal and consultancy fields, and to developing their capabilities and job performance. He also highlighted the Government’s support for private training institutions and their programmes aimed at developing the national workforce as one of the most important pillars of comprehensive development in Bahrain. In this context, he noted the importance of intensifying cooperation with civil society organisations, foremost among them specialised professional societies, including the Bahrain Bar Society, to ensure the success of qualitative initiatives and common national goals by creating appropriate conditions for new graduates to enter the labour market. For their part, the Chairman and members of the Society’s Board of Directors expressed their thanks and appreciation to the Ministry of Labour and Social Development for its efforts to support the programmes, projects and activities of NGOs to achieve common development goals and enhance their efficiency, enabling them to perform their roles professionally and serve members of the legal field.
Humaidan meets the Director-General of the Arab Labor Organization
12-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, discussed with the Director‑General of the Arab Labour Organization (ALO), Mr Fayez Ali Al‑Mutairi, ways to enhance joint Arab action in the fields of labour and development through the implementation of relevant ALO resolutions. They also examined strengthening technical cooperation by transferring expertise and successful experiences among Arab labour markets, and the role of entrepreneurship and small projects in generating promising employment opportunities for youth. This came during Humaidan’s meeting with the ALO Director‑General on Tuesday at his office at the Ministry. The meeting emphasised the importance of the Organisation’s role in coordinating Arab action on labour and production issues, and in representing Arab priorities at relevant international forums. In this context, ALO initiatives to support Arab youth employment and provide appropriate vocational training for integration into Arab labour markets were reviewed. Humaidan commended the Arab Labour Organization’s role in consolidating social dialogue among the three parties of production, addressing the challenges facing labour markets, and proposing suitable solutions to keep pace with rapid technological and scientific developments. He underscored the importance of preparing young people and investing in non‑traditional, quality jobs that enable their effective integration. During the meeting, Humaidan also reviewed the latest development projects and programmes implemented by the Kingdom of Bahrain to integrate Bahraini youth into the labour market, alongside the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to develop national legislation in the labour and development fields and its initiatives to enhance social protection. For his part, Al‑Mutairi praised the Kingdom of Bahrain’s pioneering labour experience, considering it a model for successful Arab practices, particularly in providing a sound work environment, launching trade‑union pluralism, and issuing advanced national legislation consistent with Arab and international labour standards. He lauded the Kingdom’s achievements in creating the required balance among the three parties of production and affirmed the Arab Labour Organization’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Bahrain across various labour domains.
Bahrain joins the world in celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child
11-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the National Committee for Childhood, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, chaired the regular meeting of the National Committee for Childhood. Topics discussed included details of the celebration of Universal Children's Day on November 20th of each year, and its special significance this year, as the world celebrates the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. A report was also reviewed on the participation of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the session to discuss its periodic report submitted to the Committee on the Rights of the Child at its 80th session, and the international praise achieved regarding the reality of children’s rights in the Kingdom. It was also addressed what had been accomplished regarding the preparation of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s report on the two additional optional protocols attached to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. On this occasion, Humaidan affirmed that the international praise for the legislative, executive and legal measures taken to achieve the best reality for children's rights had a significant impact in raising Bahrain's profile and placing it among the countries committed to protecting human rights, and children's rights in particular. He pointed out in this context that the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child praised, in its final report, the level of dialogue and cooperation that took place during the discussions. In the same context, His Excellency the Minister of Labor and Social Development said that the Kingdom of Bahrain's celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, as part of its celebration of Universal Children's Day, confirms the great interest the government places in ensuring the development and protection of children in Bahrain and safeguarding their rights, particularly through effective measures, legislation, and initiatives. He noted the importance of the role of children in expressing themselves during these celebrations, which take children's rights as a primary goal.
Humaidan: Childhood projects are witnessing a remarkable development.. Bahrain celebrates the International Day of the Child and the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention on
11-11-2019
The Kingdom of Bahrain joins the world in marking Universal Children's Day, observed on 20 November each year. This year’s commemoration is distinguished by the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which the Kingdom ratified in affirmation of its commitment to safeguarding children’s full rights, protecting them, and developing their capabilities across all spheres of life. The occasion provides an opportunity to promote a culture of children’s rights across society and to raise public awareness in Bahrain of measures that protect children’s rights and ensure their healthy upbringing in physical, intellectual, psychological, and social dimensions. The Convention on the Rights of the Child is among the most prominent international instruments adopted by the Kingdom of Bahrain, which ratified it in 1992. Bahrain has taken the initiative to establish institutions and programmes that translate the Convention’s provisions into practice, and it supports related initiatives at international and regional levels to protect children’s rights, most notably through the formation of the National Commission for Childhood and the launch of the National Strategy for Childhood and its implementation plan. This day is also an occasion to underscore the importance of continuing efforts to protect children’s rights and to support families in fulfilling their role in child‑rearing and education by promoting positive parenting practices and strengthening constructive family interaction. On this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the National Childhood Committee, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is among the leading countries in enacting laws that guarantee children’s rights. This has been achieved through a range of legislation governing the registration of births and deaths, licensing conditions for kindergartens and nurseries, and laws on education, health, labour, juveniles, family custody, and penalties, in addition to Law No. (37) of 2012 with respect to the Promulgation of the Child Law, which has become the primary reference for legislation related to children and the protection of their rights. Humaidan highlighted the international recognition Bahrain received regarding the reality of children’s rights in the Kingdom following the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child’s 80th session in January of this year, during which the Kingdom’s comprehensive report on children’s rights was reviewed and discussed. He stressed that the Committee’s commendation of the legislative, executive, and human‑rights measures taken to secure the best attainable reality for children’s rights elevated Bahrain’s standing among countries committed to protecting human rights, and children’s rights in particular. This achievement reflects the lofty directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country’s great King, may God protect and preserve him, and his support for all measures aimed at protecting children’s rights within the framework of His Majesty’s comprehensive development process, as well as the full support provided by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the esteemed Prime Minister, and the tireless efforts of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and First Deputy Prime Minister, may God protect and preserve them, in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and out of their conviction in preserving children’s rights, protecting them, and ensuring their proper upbringing. Humaidan noted that childhood projects in Bahrain have witnessed remarkable development aimed at promoting positive educational methods and providing an enabling environment for implementing the principles of protection, care, and development for children. He stated that mechanisms and initiatives implemented by authorities concerned with childhood reached 79% of the targets monitored in the National Strategy for Childhood action plan, which the Kingdom launched in 2012 and implemented over five years. He further noted the Cabinet’s decision to extend the National Strategy for Childhood for a further five years, from 2018 to 2023, to complete the remaining elements of the executive plan and consolidate gains in child development and protection. His Excellency confirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain has taken pioneering steps in child protection and care through a number of initiatives and measures, most notably the establishment of the Child Protection Centre and the dedicated child rescue and support helpline 998 to receive reports of abuse, physical or psychological harm, neglect, or sexual assault, and to provide guidance and referral services to the competent authorities when necessary. In addition, a juvenile court has been formed with procedures that preserve the child’s privacy, in a location separate from other courts, to instil reassurance appropriate to the child’s age group. In this context, Bahraini children enjoy a relatively high standard of living according to the United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Index for 2017, with the Kingdom ranked 43rd globally among 189 countries. The Human Development Index rose by 13.4% between 1990 and 2017, accompanied by increases in average life expectancy and average years of schooling, alongside an increase in Bahraini national income to 10.5%. This national development reflects continuous improvements in the health, education, and labour sectors, in tandem with unemployment indicators remaining within safe levels.
On the National Employment Policy, its Dimensions and Evolution - by Jamil Humaidan (Minister of Labor and Social Development)
10-11-2019
With the launch of the reform project of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country's great King, may God protect and preserve him, to provide stability and social welfare for citizens; the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, may God protect him; and Cabinet decisions placing citizens at the centre of development—together with the diligent follow up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, may God protect him, of the labour market reform plan and the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030—the Kingdom has adopted an integrated programme to manage and regulate the labour market and to build a work environment capable of generating quality job opportunities. This is pursued through a coherent system of policies, plans and initiatives that deliver stable, sustainable results in the short and long term. These components are interdependent and must be assessed collectively to understand their impact in making Bahrainis the preferred choice for employment. Understanding these policies may require clarification, as labour market management is an integrated system of intertwined plans and projects whose effectiveness is measured through shared outcomes and indicators. Media coverage sometimes isolates a single theme from this comprehensive view, potentially raising public questions. It is therefore important to highlight the Government’s interconnected vision for labour market management—its tools for generating decent, renewable opportunities for citizens and for maintaining unemployment within natural and safe limits—as follows: Firstly: An investment environment that generates job opportunities The Economic Vision 2030, Government strategic plans and the Government Programme all prioritise enabling the private sector to lead the national economy and be the main generator of employment. This is achieved by creating a pro investment work environment and maintaining appropriate flexibility to attract foreign investment that provides attractive jobs for citizens. Bahrain is actively promoted to international companies in a highly competitive regional context, necessitating flexible, investment friendly legislation, targeted incentives, and mechanisms that increase citizens’ access to suitable jobs created by these investors. Secondly: Establishing solid foundations to make citizens the preferred choice for employment Bahraini workers possess qualities that make them highly competitive, reflected in the steady increase of national employment in the private sector to more than 105,000 Bahrainis by the first half of 2019—representing 69% of all Bahrainis employed across the public and private sectors. Key pillars include: 1. Balanced Bahrainisation rates A calibrated Bahrainisation system sets sector specific rates according to each activity’s capacity to attract and retain Bahrainis. Application is automated electronically and subject to continuous evaluation through periodic reviews to keep rates aligned with market indicators. Compliance has gained strong employer support and is embedded in Government tender requirements. The system was further enhanced by a parallel work permit mechanism allowing establishments that have not yet reached the required Bahrainisation rate to obtain additional foreign worker permits upon payment of an added fee for each permit above the set rate. No exceptions to Bahrainisation are allowed; these fees are channelled to empower and train Bahrainis. 2. Cost advantages in favour of Bahrainis Government policy tilts hiring costs towards the national workforce through two parallel tracks. First, wage support programmes increase employer incentives—supporting up to 70% of the Bahraini worker’s wage for the first year and 50% for the first six months of the second year. Pursuant to directives of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, wage support for unemployed university graduates registered with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development has been doubled under defined rules, significantly boosting opportunities for graduates who face greater employment challenges. More than 12,000 Bahrainis benefited in 2018. the relative cost of foreign hiring has been raised through work permit fees, together with increases of 150% for parallel work permit fees and 67% for flexible work permit fees. Proceeds fund employment and rehabilitation programmes for Bahrainis in private sector establishments. 3. Qualifying and training job seekers Training is the gateway to employment. The Government provides free foundational and professional training aligned with employer needs, with no fees for job seekers. Around 500 skills and professional programmes—accredited by the Labour Fund (Tamkeen)—were made available; 6,239 job seekers benefited in 2018 and approximately 3,000 in 2019. Delivery is through 83 licensed private training institutes under the oversight and quality systems of the Ministry and the Education and Training Quality Authority, with new, employment linked programmes introduced continuously. Third: Stability of national employment in jobs Retention and career development are as vital as placement. In parallel with recruitment, the Ministry—together with the Labour Fund (Tamkeen)—supports wage increases and promotions for Bahraini employees for two years. Over 7,000 Bahrainis benefited in 2018. The Ministry also promotes a healthy work environment, strong labour relations and services that enhance job stability. Job turnover among Bahrainis in the private sector has been reduced from 11% to 9%, and dismissals are maintained below 1% annually of the total national private sector workforce. Fourth: Ongoing initiatives to stimulate employment The National Employment Programme (2019) comprises four integrated initiatives designed to make Bahrainis the preferred choice in the private sector. As announced by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince at the Government Forum last October, 5,918 Bahrainis were placed through direct nomination by the Ministry from 25 February to September 2019, out of a total of 17,747 citizens employed in the private sector from January to September 2019. Key additional initiatives that stimulated the employment of Bahrainis are as follows: Identifying professions suitable for university graduates: Under the direction of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince during meetings of the Supreme Coordination Committee chaired by His Highness, the Ministry, in cooperation with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, identified 529 suitable professions in demand by university‑graduate job seekers, out of a total of 3,554 different professions. When employers apply for new work permits in professions required by job seekers at the Authority, they are notified to contact the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and are given two weeks to review and select the most suitable qualified national cadres registered with the Ministry. Employers are also informed of the benefits available when hiring university‑educated job seekers, including free professional training and wage subsidies. Furthermore, all administrative facilitation is provided, including showcasing qualified national talent and organising interviews to select the most qualified and suitable candidates according to the required tasks. This initiative was launched on 26 May 2019. It resulted in the employment of 1,056 Bahrainis by the end of September, with approximately 63% of employers responding positively. The initiative is expected to continue and contribute even more effectively to the employment of university graduates. Employment fairs: Since 2016, the Ministry has adopted a new recruitment policy by organising specialised employment fairs, aimed at providing quality job opportunities with added value and rewarding financial returns. Seven employment fairs were organised during 2018, resulting in the employment of 2,652 Bahrainis, while a further 1,225 Bahrainis were employed through employment fairs in the first half of 2019. The Ministry maintains the names and personal data of job seekers recruited through these fairs. These fairs represent a practical embodiment of the success of the National Employment Programme. With complete transparency, all can see job vacancies, their quality, the level of wages offered, their suitability for job seekers, and the direct employment outcomes, making them one of the most successful and effective means of completing the recruitment process. Fifth: Policy to increase wages of Bahrainis in the private sector: The Government continues to raise and improve wages for Bahrainis in the private sector to ensure attraction and stability. Efforts to develop the performance of the national workforce, alongside wage‑improvement projects and the Ministry’s oversight of citizens’ wages, have produced steady gains. The average wage of Bahrainis in the private sector increased by 4.3% in the first half of 2019, reaching 756 dinars. Sixth: Unemployment Insurance The Unemployment Insurance system is a fundamental pillar of the national social protection system, ensuring comprehensive social protection for the unemployed and those laid off during periods of unemployment. Since its launch in 2006 until 2019, more than 90,000 citizens have benefited from the system. It also provides an important incentive for job seekers to register with the Ministry, establish a reliable database, and determine unemployment rates and other indicators used to develop national strategies. Seventh: Transitioning to electronic service provision: The Ministry has established an automated employment system to facilitate citizens’ access to employment services in an automated and fair manner, minimising human intervention. The system contains an accurate database of job seekers registered with the Ministry and its employment and training centres in all governorates, as well as an updated database of job vacancies offered by employers. When a job seeker meets a recruitment specialist, the system matches the job seeker’s data, qualifications and skills with employers’ talent needs, automatically sorting suitable vacancies and nominating the job seeker accordingly. Before the end of 2019, the electronic registration system will be launched in cooperation with the Information and eGovernment Authority, transforming many employment services into electronic services for job seekers. Eighth: Promising job opportunities for citizens: The challenges associated with generating employment opportunities are ongoing and require long‑term policies, foremost among them aligning education and training outcomes with labour‑market needs. They also require plans to qualify and monitor Bahrainis to capitalise on current job stock and prepare for future employment across sectors. This includes decent, value‑added jobs currently occupied by foreign workers, as well as new jobs that will emerge with economic development and rapid changes in the world of work. Examples include: Major government projects that generate thousands of quality opportunities in technical and engineering fields for citizens, such as the expansion of the Bapco refinery, the operation of Line 6 at Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the expansion of Bahrain Airport, and other current and future projects that provide large numbers of quality jobs. Integrating Bahrainis into administrative and supervisory positions: the number of Bahrainis in senior administrative roles (manager, assistant manager or supervisor) increased by 265% over the past six years, from 1,225 in the private sector in 2013 to 4,475 in mid‑2019. Empowering women and enhancing their participation in the labour market: the Ministry increased the share of women in employment from 25% three years ago to 40% of total private‑sector employment in 2019; women’s participation in the total national workforce reached 39%. In addition, the Ministry launched a part‑time work project for women in 2015, integrating more than 5,000 Bahraini women into part‑time roles. Integrating Bahrainis into the tourism and hospitality sector: the number of citizens in this sector doubled over recent years, with 5,000 Bahrainis working in the first half of 2019. The Ministry plans to double this number over the next three years, given the sector’s significant growth potential and promise for national employment. Integrating Bahrainis into the retail sector: the number of Bahrainis in this sector rose by 92% over the past decade, from 12,000 in 2009 to 23,000 in 2019. The trade and retail sector also topped total employment at 28% in 2019 and remains a priority sector for the Ministry. Integrating Bahrainis into small enterprises: the number of Bahrainis working in enterprises with fewer than ten workers has doubled—from 7,900 ten years ago to more than 15,000 today—reflecting the success of the Government’s policy encouraging employment in small businesses. Ninth: An integrated system for monitoring market indicators: Employment and combating unemployment are among the priorities of the Government’s work programme. Accordingly, a structurally and legislatively integrated system has been established to monitor labour‑market indicators and support evidence‑based decision‑making. These indicators include employment activity, job seekers, their numbers and educational qualifications—reflecting the true state of the labour market, far from fragmented definitions. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development issues comprehensive quarterly bulletins detailing labour‑market indicators and identifying the numbers of labour‑market entrants and those employed, with full transparency. The Ministry also maintains an integrated database system linked to other relevant government agencies, ensuring continuous coordination with partners in addressing this national priority.
Al-Dosari: Accreditation of more than 900 vocational training programs and licensing of 11 new training centers and institutes
09-11-2019
His Excellency the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Mr Sabah Salem Al Dossari, affirmed that, as part of the Ministry’s strategy to encourage investment in the training and human resources development sector, it is attracting high‑quality training institutions that meet labour‑market needs. In this regard, 11 new training institutions were licensed from the beginning of 2019 through last October, bringing the total number of institutions licensed by the Ministry to 89, including 15 vocational and technical training centres and 74 administrative and commercial centres. Al Dossari added that the Ministry has licensed 913 training programmes since the start of this year, including 439 programmes awarding local certificates and 474 programmes granting certificates from internationally accredited bodies across multiple training fields. In addition, 459 trainers were licensed in several specialisations after meeting examination and evaluation criteria. He noted that, through its supervision of training institutions and to ensure compliance with specified standards, the Ministry conducted 100 field visits to licensed institutions up to the second quarter of this year, including 61 inspections of the headquarters of proposed new institutions, and 36 visits within the monitoring and auditing programme for licensed institutions to follow up on performance and adherence to licensing terms and standards under the governing legislation. Several violations were detected, and the necessary measures were taken. The Ministry also carried out visits to newly licensed institutions as part of its programme to educate training institutions on their role and help them overcome challenges in meeting the requirements of the Ministry and the Education and Training Quality Authority, in a manner that improves the quality of programmes delivered to beneficiaries. A total of 16 grievances were received from trainees at various training institutions via the direct complaints system or the Tawasul programme, most of which were resolved amicably in coordination with all concerned parties. The Undersecretary praised the cooperation of vocational training institutes and centres, and the commitment of the majority to established standards. He called on investors in the training sector to prioritise quality programmes in scientific, technical, technological and entrepreneurial disciplines that serve the requirements and needs of the labour market.
MLSD Minister heads the meeting ofe senior management of planning and follow-up
09-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, chaired a planning and follow‑up meeting of the Ministry’s senior management, bringing together all executive officials from the affiliated sectors at his office in the Ministry’s building. The meeting reviewed practical initiatives to improve performance in citizen employment and to strengthen social protection for all target groups. In this context, the meeting addressed the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s preparations to launch an electronic registration system, in cooperation with the Information and eGovernment Authority, to convert many of the Ministry’s employment services into eServices accessible to job seekers. The system is scheduled for launch before the end of 2019. The meeting also reviewed developments in the information systems infrastructure to enhance efficiency and readiness in line with the continued growth of projects delivering services to citizens electronically. As part of efforts to accelerate the integration of citizens into private‑sector establishments, preparations for a public employment fair next December were discussed. During the fair, participating establishments will conduct interviews with job seekers and sign employment contracts with those selected to fill available vacancies at participating companies and institutions. The meeting will also follow up on the development of citizens’ professional qualifications for the labour market, on related development initiatives, and on the social‑protection system for beneficiaries of the Ministry’s services. The meeting reviewed progress at the Ministry’s comprehensive service centres across the Kingdom’s governorates. In this regard, the development of the Riffa Social Centre was discussed, with a view to increasing its capacity to accommodate the increasing population density of beneficiaries of the centre’s services, including employment services. The meeting also followed up on the latest construction phases of a number of social‑care centres and complex projects in several regions of the Kingdom, which constitute vital projects the Ministry will implement in the coming period.
Hiring a new batch of citizens in the hospitality field
08-11-2019
Within the framework of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s efforts to accelerate the integration of national competencies into private‑sector establishments, employment contracts were signed at the Ministry’s headquarters for a new cohort of (30) Bahrainis to work in the hospitality sector at YYT Company, across various administrative and technical specialities, with wages starting from (400) Bahraini dinars and above. The signing took place in the presence of the Undersecretary of the Ministry, Mr Sabah Salem Al Dossari, and the company’s Global Director of Branches, Mr Hisham Makkawi. In a statement on this occasion, Al Dossari commended the cooperation of private‑sector employers in embracing and relying on national talent, noting the positive social and economic impact on the nation. He affirmed his welcome for every investor and employer who places their trust in the country’s sons and daughters, who have consistently demonstrated competence, professional discipline, loyalty, and dedication across production sites. Al Dossari urged the newly appointed employees to be diligent and disciplined, and to continuously develop their professional capabilities and skills. He noted that the Ministry’s projects and initiatives have increased the pace of employment in the hospitality sector in particular, through advanced, value‑added qualification and training programmes for national cadres, in addition to wage‑support and wage‑improvement programmes that empower them to achieve job stability and professional development, considering them the true capital of the Kingdom of Bahrain. For his part, Mr Makkawi praised the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s support for the efforts and initiatives of private‑sector establishments in attracting and providing qualified national labour to meet employers’ needs across required professional specialities. He affirmed that Bahraini workers are distinguished by commitment, proficiency, and productivity, expressing the company’s pride in onboarding this new cohort of citizens as part of its strategy to rely on national competencies to manage the company’s operations.
Humaidan discusses with MP Qambar ways to improve labor and social services
04-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met on Wednesday at the Ministry with His Excellency MP Mr Ammar Sami Qambar to discuss ways to enhance joint cooperation in support of development and social projects and initiatives. During the meeting, several labour and social issues were reviewed within the framework of cooperation and coordination between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Council of Representatives, with the aim of sustaining development and social progress in the Kingdom of Bahrain and ensuring the greatest possible success for the Ministry’s initiatives and projects. In this context, Humaidan praised the Council’s role in supporting national legislation related to the Ministry’s work and welcomed proposals that strengthen development and labour dimensions and serve all segments of society. For his part, MP Qambar commended the Ministry’s efforts, particularly in implementing the Government’s policy aimed at ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens and providing them with high‑quality services across all governorates. He expressed his aspiration to deepen mutual cooperation with the Council of Representatives to advance development plans and projects that benefit everyone.
Al-Dosari inspects the progress of providing comprehensive development services to 2,500 citizens per month at the Southern Center for Employment and Training
03-11-2019
The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Mr Sabah Salem Al Dossari, conducted an inspection visit to the Southern Centre for Employment and Training at the Riffa Social Centre to assess the quality of labour and social services provided to citizens, as part of the Ministry’s ongoing performance monitoring across its centres in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the visit, Mr Al Dossari affirmed the Ministry’s endeavour to deliver accessible, high‑quality services to residents of the Southern Governorate, ensuring streamlined procedures for job seekers and other beneficiaries, in implementation of the generous directives of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, may God protect him, to provide development services with ease and convenience near citizens’ homes, thereby ensuring a decent standard of living. On this occasion, Mr Al Dossari noted that the centre serves between (2,000) and (2,500) citizens monthly across labour and social fields, providing unemployment insurance, vocational guidance for job seekers, and registering citizens’ employment applications with private‑sector establishments, in addition to services for employers. The centre also delivers training services for home‑based and productive projects, training programmes, educational workshops, health‑awareness campaigns, and lectures related to community development.
Humaidan receives a copy of the master's thesis for employee Bader Abdul Wahab Al-Khaja "Practicing Transformational Leadership in the Ministry of Labor and Social Development."
03-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received at his office the Ministry’s employee, Mr Bader Abdul Wahab Al Khaja, who presented His Excellency with a copy of his Master’s thesis in Business Administration, entitled “Practising Transformational Leadership in the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in the Kingdom of Bahrain.” The Master’s thesis addresses transformational leadership as an unconventional management style that brings about positive change among employees, motivates them mentally, increases their motivation to work at all levels, and enhances their leadership spirit, transforming them into future change leaders. Minister Humaidan commended the employee’s efforts in preparing his Master’s thesis and obtaining this academic degree. He also commended applied studies that support the efforts, plans, and programmes related to developing national human resources in the Kingdom of Bahrain, emphasising the importance of supporting researchers’ efforts to enrich the vital contemporary issues facing society.
Humaidan receives the donation of the National Bank of Bahrain for the benefit of eldery & disabled citizens
02-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received in his office Ms Dana Buheji, Director of the Financial and Human Resources Department at the National Bank of Bahrain, who presented the Bank’s annual donation to the Ministry’s care and rehabilitation homes for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. The meeting discussed avenues to strengthen cooperation and partnership between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the National Bank of Bahrain in the coming period; it also reviewed the Ministry’s programmes to care for and rehabilitate the most vulnerable groups in society, particularly senior citizens and persons with disabilities (People of Determination), as a top priority aimed at ensuring quality of life, facilitating daily living, and promoting social inclusion. Humaidan commended the National Bank of Bahrain for its sustained support to the Ministry‑run care and rehabilitation centres serving senior citizens and persons with disabilities. He underscored the value of community partnership among governmental bodies, the private sector, and civil society organisations in delivering services to Bahraini citizens. For her part, Ms Buheji affirmed the Bank’s continued cooperation with the Ministry in supporting social solidarity, reflecting a firm belief in the need to care for the most vulnerable segments of society and to enable them to enjoy a dignified life and a more stable future.
Humaidan meets the President of the Land Transport Association in Egypt and briefs him on the developments of the labor market in Bahrain
02-11-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met on Sunday at the Ministry with Mr Mohammed Jabali Al Maraghi, Chairman of the Land Transport Union of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt, in the presence of Mr Yaqoob Yousef Mohammed, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr). During the meeting, the parties discussed enhancing cooperation in the labour sector, exchanging technical expertise related to workforce development, and contributing to advancing development and renaissance in the two brotherly countries under their wise leadership. Humaidan briefed Mr Al Maraghi on the latest developments in the Kingdom’s labour market and the achievements recorded on the labour front, particularly the consolidation of the foundations of trade‑union work and the gains realised during the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country's great King, may God protect and preserve him. He affirmed the Government’s keenness to support trade‑union activity and facilitate the work of its organisations so they can continue to defend workers’ interests and rights, noting that any gain for workers is positively reflected in the work environment, its development, and productivity levels. For his part, Mr Al Maraghi praised the development and growth witnessed by Bahrain’s labour market and the labour gains achieved at all levels. He highlighted the Kingdom’s experience in trade‑union work and underscored the importance of constructive cooperation among the three parties of production, which contributes to the stability, development, and prosperity of establishments. He called for further coordination and joint work between the trade‑union federations in both brotherly countries, to the benefit of all.
Humaidan discusses with MP Qambar ways to improve labor and social services
30-10-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، اليوم الأربعاء في مكتبه، سعادة النائب السيد عمار سامي قمبر، وبحث معه سبل تعزيز التعاون المشترك بما يخدم المشاريع والمبادرات التنموية والاجتماعية. وخلال اللقاء، تم استعراض العديد من القضايا العمالية والاجتماعية في إطار التعاون والتنسيق بين وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية ومجلس النواب سعياً لمواصلة المسيرة التنموية والاجتماعية في مملكة البحرين وتحقيق أكبر قدر من النجاح للمبادرات والمشاريع التي تنفذها الوزارة، حيث ثمن في هذا السياق، حميدان دور المجلس في دعم التشريعات الوطنية ذات الصلة بعمل الوزارة، مرحباً بالمقترحات التي تعزز الجوانب التنموية والعمالية وتخدم جميع فئات وشرائح المجتمع. بدوره، أشاد النائب قمبر بالجهود التي تبذلها الوزارة، وخاصة في إطار تنفيذ سياسة الحكومة الرامية إلى ضمان العيش الكريم للمواطنين، وتوفير أفضل الخدمات لهم بكل يسر وسهولة في جميع المحافظات، معرباً عن تطلعاته لتعزيز التعاون المتبادل مع مجلس النواب لتنفيذ الخطط والمشاريع التنموية خدمة للجميع.