News
Humaidan meets Shura Council member Sabika Al-Fadala
28-10-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، بسعادة عضو مجلس الشورى، السيدة سبيكة خليفة الفضالة، وذلك في مكتبه بالوزارة. وتناول اللقاء، بحث تعزيز التعاون بين الوزارة وممثلي السلطة التشريعية بغرفتيه الشورى والنواب، بما يسهم في إنجاح البرامج والخدمات التنموية والرعاية الاجتماعية الموجهة لجميع شرائح المواطنين، الى جانب إعداد الكوادر الوطنية وتطوير بيئة العمل وتحسين الإنتاجية بمنشآت القطاع الخاص عبر تنفيذ العديد من المبادرات المشجعة للمواطنين وتطوير أدائهم المهني في مختلف القطاعات الانتاجية. بدورها، أشادت الفضالة بجهود وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية في مجال تأهيل الكوادر الوطنية وإعدادها مهنياً لتقوم بدورها واسهامها في نهضة وتقدم مملكة البحرين، منوهة في ذات السياق بالمبادرات التي تقوم بها الوزارة في تعزيز آليات تسريع توظيف المواطنين، وتقديم كافة الخدمات الاجتماعية المقررة للفئات المستهدفة بما يضمن لهم العيش الكريم.
Ministry of Labor and Social Development: An increase in the number of Bahraini employment in the private sector in 2019
28-10-2019
تعليقاً على ما تم تداوله مؤخراً في عدد من الصحف المحلية، وبعض منصات التواصل الاجتماعي، حول تراجع أعداد العمالة الوطنية في مملكة البحرين للعام 2019، بانخفاض نسبته 3.6%‘، فإن وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية تود توضيح التالي: بالإشارة إلى ما تم من تساؤلات حول مدى صحة ما نشر بأن عدد المستفيدين من تصاريح العمل المرن والذي بلغ أكثر من 110 آلاف أجنبي، تود الوزارة أن توضح بأن هذا الرقم غير صحيح، وأن العدد الصحيح للمستفيدين من هذا النظام خلال عامين و4 أشهر منذ تطبيق هذا النظام قد بلغ 25 ألف عامل أجنبي فقط، حيث رافق ذلك انخفاض في أعداد العمالة غير النظامية في سوق العمل، خلال العام 2018 بمقدار 25%، وهو أكبر انخفاض لها في السنوات الخمس الماضية. وفيما يتعلق بأعداد العمالة الوطنية، والتساؤلات التي تمت حول دقة ما نشر بشأن تراجعها بنسبة 3.6%، تود الوزارة أن توضح أن هذه النسبة تغطي ما تم من تغيير في إجمالي أعداد العاملين في القطاعين العام والخاص معاً، حيث لا يوجد انخفاض في أعداد العمالة الوطنية في القطاع الخاص، وأن الانخفاض حدث في أعداد العمالة الوطنية في القطاع العام تحديداً، حيث يعود ذلك التراجع الاستثنائي إلى خروج أعداد كبيرة من المواطنين العاملين في القطاع العام ضمن برنامج التقاعد الاختياري مؤخرا، مما أدى إلى انخفاض عدد موظفي القطاع العام من 53,932 موظفاً في النصف الأول من العام 2018 إلى 46,712 موظفاً بنهاية النصف الأول من العام 2019، بانخفاض بلغ 13%، وذلك بتقاعد نحو 7,220 موظفاً حتى يونيو 2019. وعليه فقد انخفض إجمالي أعداد العاملين في القطاعين العام والخاص مجتمعين بنهاية النصف الأول من العام 2019 إلى 153,103 عمال، بعد أن كان 158,814 عاملاً بحرينياً في النصف الأول 2018. أما بالنسبة لأعداد العمالة الوطنية في القطاع الخاص، فقد سجلت ارتفاعاً في أعداد العاملين البحرينيين خلال النصف الأول من العام الجاري 2019 مقارنة بالفترة نفسها من العام الماضي 2018، حيث بلغ عدد العاملين في القطاع الخاص 105,158 بحرينياً، بينما كان في نهاية النصف الأول من العام الماضي 104,882 عاملاً بحرينياً، وذلك على الرغم من تقاعد 5,048 عاملاً بحرينياً في القطاع الخاص خلال العام 2018 والنصف الأول من العام 2019، وحافظ القطاع الخاص على استمرار نموه بسبب السياسات الحكومية التي تستهدف تطويره ودعمه ليقود عجلة الاقتصاد الوطني وتوليد فرص العمل اللائقة للمواطنين. وفي هذا الإطار، فإن وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية تؤكد حرصها على متابعة جميع ما يثار من قضايا تتعلق بالشأن العمالي وأوضاع سوق العمل وأعداد العمالة الوطنية، معربة عن التزامها بتنفيذ الاستراتيجيات الوطنية وبرنامج عمل الحكومة الذي يهدف إلى أن يكون القطاع الخاص ركيزة أساسية لعملية التنمية المستدامة في سوق العمل، وتعمل الوزارة على جعل الموارد البشرية الوطنية الخيار الأمثل للتوظيف لدى أصحاب العمل، وذلك من خلال تبني سياسات تعزز من أولوية توظيف البحرينيين في القطاع الخاص، عن طريق رفع كلفة العامل الأجنبي ودعم أجور البحرينيين والعمل على تطوير قدراتهم ومهاراتهم عبر توفير البرامج الخاصة بالتدريب الاحترافي المجاني مما نتج عنه تفضيل شريحة واسعة من أصحاب العمل لتوظيف البحرينيين في ظل ما يتمتعون به من تأهيل وكفاءة فنية عالية بالإضافة الى وجود المزايا الأخرى المحفزة لتوظيفهم.
Humaidan discusses with the CEO of Bahrain Airport Company the recruitment of national cadres
26-10-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، بالرئيس التنفيذي لشركة مطار البحرين، السيد محمد يوسف البنفلاح، وذلك في مكتبه بالوزارة، واستعرض معه جهود واستراتيجية الشركة في مجال استقطابها للموارد البشرية الوطنية وتطويرها مهنياً، خاصة بعد مشروع التوسعة الجديدة لمطار البحرين الدولي. وأشاد حميدان بسياسة شركة مطار البحرين في استثمارها بالكوادر الوطنية وحرصها على الارتقاء بهم وظيفياً من خلال توليهم مختلف المراكز القيادية والفنية، مؤكداً في هذ الإطار دعم الوزارة للشركة عبر رفدها بالأيدي العاملة البحرينية المزودة بالمهارات اللازمة، منوهاً بما يتميز به البحريني من كفاءة وانضباط وظيفي وإخلاص في أداء العمل. بدوره، أكد البنفلاح التزام الشركة بتوظيف وتطوير الكوادر الوطنية كجزء من خطتها للإحلال وبحرنة الوظائف، وحاجتها لكفاءات بحرينية لمشروع مبنى المطار الجديد، موضحاً في هذا السياق أن الشركة قامت بإعداد خطة لتدريب وتوظيف باحثين عن عمل في وظائف متعددة لإدارة التسهيلات والصيانة والتشغيل في مطار البحرين الدولي الجديد، حيث سيتم إدماج العديد من البحرينيين في وظائف مختلفة، معرباً عن استعداد الشركة لتعزيز التعاون القائم مع وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية في مجال توظيف الكوادر الوطنية المؤهلة
Humaidan discusses with PM BuHammoud the strengthening of the role of NGOs
25-10-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، عضو مجلس النواب، سعادة النائب محمد خليفة بو حمود، وذلك في مكتبه، حيث تم بحث سبل تعزيز دور المنظمات الأهلية ومساعدتها على تحقيق الأهداف التنموية وتنفيذ المبادرات التطوعية والاجتماعية التي تخدم مختلف فئات وشرائح المجتمع البحريني، الى جانب تأهيل الكفاءات الوطنية وإدماجها في منشآت القطاع الخاص لتساهم في نهضة مملكة البحرين. وخلال اللقاء أكد حميدان على أهمية تعزيز التعاون والتنسيق بين السلطتين التشريعية والتنفيذية، لمواصلة المسيرة التنموية، منوهاً بدور المجلس في دعم التشريعات ذات الصلة بعمل الوزارة، مستعرضاً مشاريع ومبادرات الوزارة التي تستهدف تأهيل وإدماج الكوادر الوطنية في منشآت القطاع الخاص، فضلاً عن الارتقاء بخدمات الرعاية لمختلف فئات وشرائح المجتمع البحريني بما يكفل لهم الحياة الكريمة، لافتاً إلى أن الوزارة تعمل على مساندة المنظمات الأهلية لتعزيز قدرتها ودورها للمساهمة بشكل أكبر في تنمية المجتمع، وتطوير أدائها ليكون أكثر احترافية من أجل الارتقاء بنوعية وجودة الخدمات التي تقدمها. بدوره، أشاد النائب بو حمود بالجهود التي تبذلها الوزارة في دعم مؤسسات المجمع المدني، بهدف تعزيز مبدأ الشراكة المجتمعية، والذي من شأنه ان يسهم في خلق العديد من المبادرات الأهلية الهادفة إلى النهوض بالمجتمع البحريني اجتماعياً واقتصادياً.
MLSD Minister in his meeting with the new board of directors of the Bahrain Contractors Association
24-10-2019
His Excellency Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, met in his office with Mr Ali Abdullah Marhoon, Chairman of the Bahrain Contractors Society, and members of its Board of Directors. The meeting expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s support to the Society and its efforts to regularise its status through the appointment of an interim Board—thereby advancing the Society’s role—and reviewed the Society’s principal plans and programmes for the coming period. At the outset, the Chairman and Board members conveyed their thanks and appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, for his wise directives to grant national contractors priority in government construction projects. They also underlined their keenness to strengthen communication with stakeholders concerned with the development of local institutions, including the launch of a business platform for national contracting firms, the organisation of occupational health and safety training programmes for employers and workers in the sector, and preparations for the Society’s annual conference in March 2020. Humaidan praised the Society’s plans and programmes, confirming the Ministry’s support for the new Board’s efforts—within the applicable laws and regulations—to enable the Society to address the concerns of contractors and workers in the contracting sector and to seek effective solutions. For his part, Marhoon commended the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s open‑door policy and its efforts to overcome obstacles facing civil society organisations, stressing the need to continue working to ensure the Bahrain Contractors Society fulfils its intended role.
While sponsoring the Umm Al-Hassam home party for parents.. Humaidan: Protecting and integrating senior citizens is an integrated work in which individuals and community institutions participate
23-10-2019
Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the National Committee for the Elderly, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Um Al-Hassam Elderly Day Care organised a celebration marking the International Day of Older Persons at the Yousef bin Abdul Rahman Engineer Hall in the Um Al Hassam Sports & Cultural Club. The event was attended by Mr Khalil Jassim bin Khalil, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Um Al-Hassam Elderly Day Care, alongside members of homes and day clubs for senior citizens, dignitaries, ministry officials, social figures, and members of the National Committee for the Elderly. The programme featured a documentary film highlighting the Home’s tenth anniversary and included the honouring of social figures and public and civil society organisations that have supported the Home. The celebrations also showcased traditional Ardah performances. On this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development affirmed the Ministry’s keenness to participate annually in the International Day of Older Persons as part of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s special attention to senior citizens. He underscored the importance of raising community awareness to protect and integrate senior citizens, developing plans and programmes that enable them to contribute their expertise across fields, and providing optimal care that safeguards their independence and dignity. His Excellency further noted that, through coordinated efforts of government entities, civil‑society organisations and the private sector, the Kingdom is committed to delivering the best services and avenues of care for senior citizens, including social, health, legal and rehabilitation programmes. He emphasised that caring for, protecting, and integrating senior citizens is a shared responsibility across society and its institutions. For his part, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Um Al‑Hassam Elderly Day Care, Mr Khalil Jassim bin Khalil, praised the esteemed Government’s support for the care and support of senior citizens. He noted the Kingdom of Bahrain’s experience in establishing several senior‑citizen care homes and day clubs—managed by civil society institutions within a framework of community partnership—to provide integrated services and comprehensive care for this group. He pointed out that this experience has become a model to be emulated at the Gulf level.
Bahraini-British cooperation to enhance cooperation and exchange of experiences in the fields of labor and social care
22-10-2019
His Excellency Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, met in his office at the Ministry with His Excellency Mr Roddy Drummond, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the Kingdom of Bahrain, on the occasion of the commencement of his diplomatic tenure in the Kingdom. During the meeting, Humaidan welcomed the British Ambassador, praising the depth of the historical relations between the two friendly countries and the ongoing joint cooperation in all fields. He noted the United Kingdom’s long-standing expertise and existing cooperation across labour and social sectors, welcoming joint initiatives that add value to Bahraini‑British cooperation and underscoring the importance of following up and further developing them for the benefit of both countries. For his part, the British Ambassador affirmed his country’s keenness to strengthen bilateral relations with the Kingdom of Bahrain, noting the progress the Kingdom has achieved in various fields—particularly in regulating the labour market, protecting workers’ rights, combating human trafficking, and consolidating the principles of tolerance and coexistence under the prosperous reign of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country’s great King, may God protect and preserve him.
MLSD Minsiter heads the meeting of Family Bank's Board Directors
22-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Family Bank, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, chaired a meeting of the Bank’s Board of Directors at the Ministry, in the presence of Dr Mustafa Alsayed, Vice Chairman, and Dr Khalid Ateeq, Chief Executive Officer. The Board reviewed the Bank’s key achievements during the third quarter of 2019 and discussed ways to deepen its development impact across the Kingdom—especially by expanding financing capacity for small and micro‑enterprises run by productive families with limited income, senior citizens, housewives, and job seekers. The discussions focused on facilitating access to suitable financing for establishing and growing projects that directly contribute to community development. Humaidan commended the Bank’s financial results and growth trajectory, noting that strong performance underpins continuity and enables the expansion of the beneficiary base. He praised the efforts of the Board and Executive Management, and underscored the Bank’s pivotal role in supporting productive Bahraini families, financing micro‑enterprises, and backing entrepreneurship—consistent with the Government’s strategy to empower citizens economically and socially and to support limited‑income households. Family Bank is a leading non‑profit development bank that plays a vital role in directing development‑finance programmes aimed at improving the living conditions of low‑income families by providing accessible channels to obtain the support needed to start and grow small businesses. The Bank was established on the initiative of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, in partnership with the Royal Charity Organisation, Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait, Ithmaar Bank, Ahli United Bank, and Kuwait Finance House. It is licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain and opened in January 2010 as the Kingdom’s first social bank specialising in microfinance in accordance with Islamic Sharia. Through appropriate financing and advisory services, Family Bank has helped entrepreneurs translate ideas into sustainable projects—offering guidance, tailored development advice, business‑plan support, and training in essential business‑management skills—thereby fostering success stories that reflect the Bank’s contribution to Bahrain’s inclusive and sustainable development.
Minister Humaidan and MP Zayed praise the innovative initiatives of Bahraini youth
21-10-2019
His Excellency Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, met at the Ministry with His Excellency Ali Ahmed Zayed, Second Deputy Speaker of the Council of Representatives, in the presence of Mrs Salma Ahmed Al Asfoor, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Deaf Society, a number of the Society’s board members, and the founders of a smartphone application for the deaf and mute, Mr Ibrahim Saleh Ibrahim and Mr Omar Abdul Aziz Al Rais. Humaidan and the Second Deputy Speaker were briefed on the project’s concept, which aims to support persons with hearing disabilities by introducing sign language through a high‑quality application for smart devices, enabling users to manage daily interactions more easily. They also commended the innovators’ efforts to enhance the integration of people of determination from the deaf and mute community, broaden opportunities to learn and practise sign language, and translate creative Bahraini ideas into impactful solutions that contribute to national development. Humaidan affirmed the Ministry’s support for civil society organisations’ initiatives—particularly those serving the deaf and mute—to achieve humanitarian and social goals, showcase this group’s ability to overcome challenges, and enable their effective participation in the development process and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals. For their part, the Chairwoman and the project founders expressed appreciation for His Excellency the Minister’s and His Excellency the Second Deputy Speaker’s interest in Bahraini youth initiatives and their encouragement to continue innovating. They also praised the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s role in meeting citizens’ needs and delivering development, welfare, rehabilitation and service programmes to all segments of society, and highlighted the contribution of civil society organisations in implementing projects that raise living standards and advance social and economic progress.
Chaired a working session on regional cooperation in the "Abu Dhabi Dialogue" .. Humaidan reviews Bahrain's experience in protecting the rights of migrant workers
18-10-2019
His Excellency Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, chaired a working session on regional cooperation with labour ministers and heads of delegation during the fourth consultative ministerial meeting of Asian labour‑sending and labour‑receiving countries, Abu Dhabi Dialogue 5, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 16–17 October 2019. In his opening remarks, His Excellency stressed the need to pool efforts to ensure the success of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue as a platform for enhanced intergovernmental cooperation and for advancing labour‑mobility management in ways that serve both sending and receiving states, delivering balanced, mutually beneficial outcomes. He noted that such cooperation increases the developmental impact of labour mobility by building human capital and promoting economic growth across participating countries. During the Future of Work session, His Excellency presented the Kingdom of Bahrain’s experience in safeguarding the rights of temporary migrant workers—partners in national development—through advanced, non‑discriminatory legislation that secures equality and justice in labour rights. Key measures include regulated freedom of movement between employers, the application of all provisions of the Labour Law in the private sector to all categories of workers (including trade‑union freedoms, protection from workplace discrimination, and social protection), and access for migrant workers to the unemployment insurance system in cases of involuntary separation. Humaidan highlighted that these progressive steps have placed the Kingdom in the top tier of the US State Department’s Trafficking in Persons Report for the second consecutive year—the only country in the Middle East and North Africa to hold this standing—earned through continuous development of the legal and institutional framework that enhances the work environment and protects workers. Looking ahead, His Excellency expressed the hope that member‑state initiatives showcased within the Abu Dhabi Dialogue will foster wider exchange of successful practices. He called for the Dialogue’s fifth‑session recommendations to include concrete provisions that deepen the sharing of expertise—particularly in workforce protection and the management of temporary contractual work—and that strengthen the harmonisation of occupational skills systems, including facilitation of the issuance and mutual recognition of professional certificates.
Humaidan heads the Bahrain delegation in the "Abu Dhabi Dialogue"
17-10-2019
His Excellency Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, headed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s delegation to the consultative ministerial meeting of Asian labour‑sending and labour‑receiving countries (Abu Dhabi Dialogue 5), held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 16 to 17 October 2019. The meeting brought together labour ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states and their counterparts from Asian countries that send migrant workers, alongside representatives of specialised international organisations—notably the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Labour Organization (ILO)—as well as academics focused on economics and migration. Participants reviewed and advanced cooperation frameworks among Abu Dhabi Dialogue member states and with other regional labour‑mobility tracks. Deliberations covered the forum’s role within the ILO’s “Future of Work” project (2019), current and prospective avenues for collaboration, and the legislative foundations needed to support safe, orderly movement of labour between sending and receiving countries. His Excellency commended the United Arab Emirates for hosting the forum and ensuring the conditions for its success. He affirmed Bahrain’s support for joint Asian and Gulf efforts to strengthen balanced labour relations that protect the rights and obligations of both parties in line with applicable regulations and legislation. He noted that the meeting would produce recommendations to deepen cooperation among member states in raising living standards and protections for expatriate workers, refining recruitment and employment mechanisms in accordance with international standards, and expanding worker financial‑literacy efforts—particularly in the domestic work sector—to promote safe use of banking services and remittance channels. Humaidan underscored the forum’s role in operationalising policies and tools to curb negative practices that undermine healthy workplace relations and to prevent violations affecting migrant workers in both sending and receiving countries. He further emphasised the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation among member states to harmonise occupational skills frameworks and to facilitate the issuance and mutual recognition of professional certificates. His Excellency also participated in the GCC labour ministers’ coordination meeting and held a series of bilateral and multilateral engagements with labour ministers and heads of delegation from participating GCC and Asian countries, alongside working sessions with representatives of participating international organisations. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation on labour mobility and the exchange of technical expertise, and concluded with an agreement to reinforce channels of communication and dialogue between the Kingdom of Bahrain and sisterly and friendly countries.
82 authorized nurseries in all governorates embrace 5,855 children.. Humaidan: Implementing binding requirements for nurseries to ensure the provision of an appropriate environment for the upbringing
15-10-2019
Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, the Kinder World Preschool was inaugurated in Janabiyah, in the presence of the nursery’s Managing Director, Mr Hatim Dadabai. The initiative reflects the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s commitment to encouraging private‑sector investment in childcare and upbringing, and to providing quality services that ensure the proper rehabilitation and development of pre‑school children in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Designed with modern interactive learning technologies and resources, the Kinder World Preschool accommodates 164 children aged from one year to under four years. Following a tour of the facilities, Humaidan affirmed that the Ministry—being the competent authority for nursery supervision—works to continually enhance scientific, educational and recreational provision in nurseries, and to ensure a safe, healthy environment for children’s development. He noted that nurseries must comply with the Ministry’s binding system of standards, specifications and establishment requirements, aligned with internationally recognised benchmarks. To date, 82 nurseries are authorised across all governorates, with a combined capacity of 5,855 children. Humaidan underlined key mandatory requirements, including staff participation in specialised first‑aid training and strict adherence to periodic inspection and maintenance of safety and security equipment. Nurseries are prohibited from using improper methods of care, education or guidance; from inflicting any physical or psychological harm; and from denying or delaying the fulfilment of children’s basic needs. The Ministry’s Family & Childhood Directorate oversees technical, financial and administrative supervision of nurseries; conducts monitoring and inspection visits; trains and qualifies caregivers to elevate the quality of educational services; and verifies building compliance with health and educational requirements. The Department also undertakes periodic inspections of registered nurseries and evaluates proposed new facilities submitted for licensing.
MLSD Minister chaired the meeting of senior management of planning and follow-up in the ministry
14-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, chaired a meeting of the Ministry’s Senior Management for Planning and Follow‑up, with executive officials from all affiliated sectors, at his office in the Ministry’s headquarters. The meeting reviewed the progress of labour and social projects and assessed this year’s achievements in delivering comprehensive services to targeted segments of society—especially programmes to professionally qualify citizens for the labour market, create more quality employment opportunities, enhance development initiatives, strengthen the social protection system, and empower the Bahraini family economically and socially through support for family development projects. In this context, Humaidan underscored the importance of intensifying efforts to realise the esteemed Government’s aspirations to employ job seekers and raise living standards for Bahraini individuals and families within an integrated framework of Government support and social care. He affirmed that the Ministry continues to launch and implement qualitative initiatives to integrate Bahraini youth into private‑sector establishments, stressing the need to innovate further ideas and practical visions to sustain project momentum and safeguard the gains achieved in labour and social care. His Excellency highlighted that, in the coming period, the Ministry will diversify its creative initiatives and reinforce bridges of cooperation with relevant governmental and private entities to deliver tangible results, given the breadth and significance of the Ministry’s service mandate. He emphasised that the success of development projects reflects positively on social security and family cohesion—by maintaining unemployment within safe and reassuring limits—improving the production environment in the labour market, supporting ambitious projects for Bahraini youth to realise their professional aspirations, and advancing charitable and voluntary work through stronger partnerships with NGOs and Institutions of civil society.
Humaidan confirms support for the integration of "sickler people" into the labor market
13-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met at the Ministry with the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Society for Sickle Cell Disease, Mr Zakaria Ibrahim Al Kadhim. The meeting reviewed the Society’s programmes serving patients with sickle cell disease, particularly the facilities provided by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to integrate this group into private‑sector establishments and address their needs. In this context, Al Kadhim commended the Ministry’s efforts to enhance services for this segment of the labour market—most notably the implementation of maximum working hours for certain categories of workers, including those with sickle cell disease—and expressed appreciation for His Excellency’s patronage of a number of the Society’s events. Humaidan praised the Society’s role and underscored the importance of community partnerships among all relevant stakeholders to extend appropriate facilities to people living with sickle cell disease. He affirmed the Ministry’s keenness, in cooperation with the private sector, to employ members of this group, noting that the condition does not constitute an obstacle to productivity and creativity at the workplace. He looked forward to continued cooperation with the Society to further improve the services provided to sickle cell patients in the labour market.
Assistant Undersecretary for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation: 43 Beneficiaries of the Willingness Training Program to Obtain a Driver's License
12-10-2019
The Assistant Undersecretary for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa, announced that 43 persons with disabilities (people of determination) have so far benefited from the Ministry’s driving licence training programme, implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior under a memorandum of understanding to enable eligible participants to obtain a private driving licence. Key results to date • Budget covered by MLSD: BHD 4,830 across five cohorts; trainees do not bear any fees. • Training start: March 2019. • Graduates: 30 participants (physical and hearing disabilities, and cerebral palsy). • Training delivered: 690 hours. • In training now: 13 beneficiaries (physical, hearing, intellectual and cerebral palsy). She confirmed that the Memorandum of Understanding concluded between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Ministry of Interior is grounded in Law No. 74 of 2006 on the Care, Rehabilitation and Employment of Persons with Disabilities and Law No. 23 of 2014 promulgating the Traffic Law. The MoU strengthens cooperation and coordination with governmental and civil society sectors to deliver qualitative change in the lives of persons with disabilities, provide the necessary protection, and develop practical programmes for their care and rehabilitation—enabling them to contribute to nation building and to participate in social development alongside all sectors and groups of society. Training programme timetable • Duration: three weeks. • Minimum of 22 and maximum of 30 training hours, according to the trainee’s needs. • Two hours per day, divided between theoretical and practical training at the Driving Education Department. • If the trainee does not pass the first examination, additional hours may be added up to a maximum of 8. Eligibility criteria The Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Rehabilitation clarified that to benefit from the training programme to obtain a driving licence, the applicant must: • Hold Bahraini nationality; • Be 18 years of age or older; • Possess a disability card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development; and • Appear before a medical committee comprising representatives of the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, which determines the type of disability and whether the beneficiary should train with a private or public trainer. Training commences immediately upon the committee’s approval.
Comment of the Ministry of Labor and Social Development on the news: More than 800 unemployed engineering and computer graduates
10-10-2019
Clarification on engineering and ICT graduate unemployment figures Commenting on a local‑press article titled “More than 800 unemployed engineering and computer science graduates,” attributed to His Excellency Ibrahim Al‑Nufaie, Member of the Council of Representatives and Chairman of the Parliamentary Inquiry Committee on the Bahrainisation of jobs in the public and private sectors, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development confirms that the matter was presented outside the context of remarks made by His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, at a post–Government Forum press conference. The question addressed to Humaidan was: Which current and future specialisations offer jobs in the labour market, and which university majors should youth consider given private‑sector demand? In response, he explained that engineering across its disciplines—alongside technology, information systems and digital commerce—is currently in demand and expected to remain so. Key facts provided by the Ministry • Engineers do not constitute 25% of unemployed job seekers. The share of unemployed engineering graduates is about 7% of total registered job seekers. • The average duration of unemployment for engineering degree holders is no more than six months from the date of registration with the Ministry. • There are about 700 engineering job seekers who are new graduates and have only recently entered the labour market; a small subset face integration challenges—most of them women—primarily due to private sector working hours. • Given major national projects underway and planned—in construction and infrastructure, engineering and the information and communications sector—demand for these specialisations is rising. This dynamic is nevertheless subject to normal labour market flows of entry and exit and does not imply immediate job placement for every graduate. • In recent years, the Ministry has placed the majority of registered engineering and information systems graduates, over 6,000 job seekers, into suitable roles. The Ministry also clarifies that, while it provides vocational guidance and counselling to help young people choose labour‑market‑relevant majors, it does not control the educational output of private colleges and institutes, nor can it compel students to select particular fields. To bridge any skills gaps, the Ministry enrols graduates of these majors in targeted training courses to equip them with competencies required by private‑sector employers, thereby facilitating faster integration into employment.
Capital Center for Bahraini Hand Products is one of the pioneering and cultural projects in Bahrain
10-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, and His Excellency Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate, conducted a joint visit to the Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products in Karbabad. The visit came in response to the Governor’s initiative to review the achievements of Bahraini productive families, with the complex serving as one of the centres supporting the National Project for Family Development. During the visit, both sides were briefed on key support services for micro‑productive family projects, as well as the dedicated spaces within the complex for showcasing and marketing family‑made products. They also reviewed the specialised programmes offered by the development and rehabilitation centres housed at the complex, which strengthen production and marketing capabilities, improve quality, and help beneficiaries manage their private projects. The delegation heard success stories arising from these programmes and encouraged beneficiaries to continue on their path of success and excellence. Humaidan affirmed that the Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products is one of Bahrain’s pioneering projects for the economic empowerment of individuals and families, providing an enabling environment and permanent outlets to promote their products. He noted that the number of Bahraini productive families has exceeded 650 families, and that legal cover has been provided through the Khatwa programme for home projects, in line with the esteemed Government’s interest in productive Bahraini families. In this regard, the Council of Ministers issued Resolution No. (39) of 2010 regulating the practising of productive activity from home (productive home). The resolution established the Productive Home Record, in which all data related to home‑based productive activity are recorded, including the identity of the owner and the type of activity practised. Humaidan explained that the Khatwa programme for home projects opens avenues for youth, the unemployed, and Bahraini women seeking economic empowerment and increased family income. It also offers a flexible work option for senior citizens and retirees. The programme develops productive families—especially lower‑income households—by supporting crafts, home industries, and traditional and heritage products, thereby raising production quality and boosting competitiveness in local and global markets. For his part, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa affirmed that productive‑family centres play a significant role in encouraging artistic investment and reflect the development of Bahrain’s experience in traditional professions—among the most effective means of cultivating human potential, independent thinking, contemplation, and precision. He also highlighted the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s role in positioning Manama as a prominent hub for productive families, noting the centre’s cultural mission to preserve the Kingdom’s human heritage and praising the Ministry’s support for practitioners of traditional crafts through specialised centres. The Capital Mall project contributes to establishing the Kingdom of Bahrain as a centre for productive families and advanced traditional industries, strengthening society through the promotion of work and production. It also increases the number of productive families, spreads the concept of self‑employment, and nurtures entrepreneurship through specialised courses, while supporting and safeguarding traditional industries. The mall showcases and markets the products of more than 140 home‑based families and includes a popular café serving traditional foods at competitive prices, managed by a productive Bahraini family. Total sales in 2018 reached 63,662 Bahraini dinars, and no operating or rental fees are charged to beneficiary families. The Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products has become a distinctive cultural and tourist landmark, attracting prominent visitors and tourists as well as citizens and residents. Visitors consistently express admiration for Bahrain’s experience in supporting productive families and for Bahrainis’ success in preserving traditional industries in a modern, consumer‑friendly style that delights all who visit.
Humaidan meets the Vice President of the Arab Organization for Sign Language Interpreters
09-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with the Vice President of the Arab Organisation for Sign Language Interpreters from the sisterly State of Kuwait, Dr Mohammed Al Ramzi, in the presence of the President of the Bahraini Society for the Deaf, Mrs Salma Ahmed Al Asfoor, and a number of members of the Society’s Board of Directors. The meeting coincided with the organisation of the Professional Translation Standards Course for Sign Language Interpreters “Sila”, held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 4 to 7 October 2019. During the meeting, participants reviewed the course’s principal outcomes and objectives, notably the training and qualification of professional interpreters to enable them to work effectively with people with hearing disabilities. Joint coordination was also undertaken to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Society and the Organisation to cooperate in enhancing the efficiency of sign language interpreters in the Kingdom. Discussions further covered the latest technological developments and modern devices used by people with hearing disabilities. In this context, Humaidan stressed the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s growing attention to caring for people with disabilities and providing comprehensive education and care services. He reviewed national efforts to support people with hearing disabilities, emphasising that effective communication is a foundational element of rehabilitation services throughout enrolment in care centres, foremost among them the Shaikhan Centre for Comprehensive Speech. He also referred to the provision of hearing prosthetic devices, free driver training, and a range of services delivered in cooperation with the private sector, including discounts on specified services for holders of the disability card issued by the Ministry for all people with disabilities. He noted that such specialised training courses will enhance the quality of services provided to this group. For his part, Al Ramzi praised the services provided by the Kingdom of Bahrain to persons with disabilities, noting that the “Sila” course on professional translation standards for sign language interpreters reflects the official and societal interest in supporting people with disabilities. He added that strengthening communication skills facilitates interaction and integration into society for people with hearing disabilities.
In a statement by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.. All training courses are free of charge and there are no fees if they are not successfully passed
07-10-2019
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has issued a clarification regarding reports in some local newspapers and on social media alleging that a fee of 2,500 Bahraini dinars is imposed on trainees seeking employment if they do not successfully complete their training courses. All training programmes offered by the Ministry to job seekers are free of charge. A trainee will not bear any fees or expenses at any stage of a training course, including in cases of non‑completion or failure to pass. This policy has been clearly communicated to all training institutes receiving job seekers referred by the Ministry, and any concerns raised have been addressed. This forms part of the Ministry’s strategy to equip citizens with professional skills that expedite their integration into private‑sector establishments and the labour market. With reference to reports quoting female job seekers about a course in English, computer studies, and workplace ethics, the Ministry confirms that this course was designed in line with labour-market needs as part of a comprehensive skills-development programme. It is intensive, morning‑only and of three months’ duration. The Ministry underscores the importance of full commitment by trainees to maximise benefit. A dedicated team has been formed to follow up graduates of this and other programmes and to support their placement in suitable private‑sector jobs. Through its training and qualification initiatives, the Ministry seeks to move trainees into decent jobs with generous wages, rather than prolonged reliance on unemployment benefits, thereby supporting citizens’ living standards and social stability. All participants in the above course will receive an unemployment benefit of 200 dinars per month throughout the training period, without the need for monthly reporting to the Ministry. The majority have consented to enrol. Selection prioritised job seekers with longer unemployment durations to allow them to refresh and upgrade skills in line with market needs. Transport has been provided across all regions of the Kingdom to facilitate and encourage attendance. The Ministry recognises that some graduates in social sciences, humanities and other disciplines may face fewer vacancies in the private sector. In response, the Ministry assumes its responsibility to this segment by developing their personal skills and strengthening their professional capabilities through free, accredited vocational courses aligned with employer needs—thereby enhancing their prospects of securing private‑sector employment in fields closely related to their academic backgrounds.
During his sponsorship of the "Second International Conference for Excellence in Social Work" .. Humaidan stresses the importance of developing volunteer work towards professionalism in the service of
06-10-2019
Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, the Second International Conference on Excellence in Social and Voluntary Work convened from 5 to 7 October under the theme “Social Work: Measuring Impact and Achieving Sustainability.” Organised by the Bahrain Voluntary Work Society in cooperation with the Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz Award for Excellence in Social Work Foundation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the conference gathered NGOs and delegates from the Kingdom of Bahrain, GCC states, and a number of Arab and European countries. Attendees included His Highness Prince Saud bin Fahad bin Saud Al Kabeer, Member of the Board of Trustees and Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Foundation; His Highness Prince Salman bin Mohammed bin Faisal Al Saud, Member of the Board of Trustees and Member of the Executive Committee; Dr Fahd bin Hamad Al Maghlouth, Secretary‑General of the Foundation; and Mr Abdulaziz Rashid Al Sanadi, Chairman of the Bahrain Voluntary Work Society. The programme brought together a distinguished group of specialists and academics in social work to enrich the volunteer experience, enhance development mechanisms, and professionalise practice. Through specialised workshops, participants examined how to measure the impact of social and development programmes implemented by civil society organisations and how to translate evidence into sustainable outcomes for communities. In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development, Khalid Abdulrahman Ishaq Al Kooheji, Humaidan underscored the strategic importance of volunteer work in advancing society. He noted that Bahrain’s hosting of this international forum reflects the Arab world’s wealth of human potential capable of elevating civil social work, and welcomed the Foundation’s partnership as a continuation of the values championed by Her Highness Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz—may God have mercy on her—in embedding a culture of social, charitable, humanitarian and volunteer work. Humaidan hailed the theme of this year’s conference for its importance in assessing the impact of volunteer efforts on society and development. Such assessment enables NGOs to formulate their programmes accordingly, advancing volunteer work towards greater professionalism in execution. He also encouraged supporters of social responsibility programmes to fund NGO programmes in the social field. In this context, he highlighted the Kingdom of Bahrain’s experience with the Financial Grants Programme for NGOs. In 2006, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development adopted a new approach to financial grants, shifting from simple subsidies and assistance to targeted support for development projects that deliver real, tangible contributions to societal progress. These projects are evaluated by a specialised academic jury and financed through the Civil Social Work Fund, established within the framework of community partnership with the private sector. For his part, Dr Fahd bin Hamad Al Maghlouth emphasised that this second edition of the conference seeks to achieve a qualitative shift in social services, noting the determination to continue the path of social work to realise the Sustainable Development Goals. Mr Abdulaziz Rashid Al Sanadi stated that the Bahrain Voluntary Work Society is keen to diversify its activities, programmes and events to contribute to societal advancement, expressing appreciation to the Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz Award for Excellence in Social Work Foundation for its support, partnership and sponsorship in organising the conference. Al Sanadi also thanked His Excellency, the Minister of Labour and Social Development, for his patronage. During the conference, the deputy sponsor, Mr Khalid Abdulrahman Ishaq Al Kooheji, toured the accompanying exhibition, which showcased distinguished civil society organisations in social and volunteer work from Bahrain and other Gulf and Arab countries. He also honoured the conference speakers.