News
MLSD Minister: Arab and international Labor Standards Contribute in Building Relations Between Production Parties
31-03-2021
Under the patronage of 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, the Arab Labour Organisation (ALO) and the Arab Centre for Labour Administration and Employment (ACLAE) in the sisterly Republic of Tunisia hosted a virtual course entitled “Arab Labour Standards.” The programme targeted members of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr) and was delivered via videoconference. The session drew high level participation, including: • Mr. Fayez Ali Al Mutairi, Director General of the ALO; • Mr. Yaqoub Yousef Mohammed, Executive Council Chairman of Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr); • representatives of trade union boards of directors; • labour federations and organisations from sister Arab states; • experts and specialists across multiple labour disciplines. The specialised course is designed to strengthen union awareness within the Kingdom of Bahrain and to reinforce constructive labour relations among the three production partners—government, employers and workers. It focused on three core themes: 1. Arab labour standards – objectives, defining characteristics, drafting stages and monitoring mechanisms; 2. Member state obligations under the ALO framework; 3. The role of Arab labour standards in safeguarding workers’ basic rights and ensuring comprehensive protection. In his opening address, Mr. Humaidan praised the ALO–ACLAE initiative, emphasising that promoting Arab labour standards and cultivating balanced employer–worker relations are essential to boosting productivity, market stability and sustainable growth across the region’s labour markets. Addressing participants, His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan noted that the exceptional public‑health measures and lockdowns imposed worldwide to curb the spread of Coronavirus (COVID‑19) have inevitably affected employment across Arab and global labour markets. He underscored the critical role that Arab and international labour standards play in such crises: by stipulating clear conditions and controls, these standards safeguard workers’ rights and workplace safety without compromising employers’ interests. Describing them as a primary source of national labour legislation, he urged closer collaboration among the three production partners—government, employers and workers—to keep labour markets stable and to weather the pandemic with minimal disruption. Mr. Fayez Ali Al‑Mutairi, Director‑General of the Arab Labour Organisation (ALO), echoed this view, explaining that Arab labour standards are tailored to the specific characteristics of regional labour markets. He stressed the importance of full adherence to these standards to protect the rights of both workers and employers, thereby fostering a safe, stimulating work environment. The ALO, he added, continues to coordinate with all three production parties in member states to ensure optimal implementation, with the ultimate goal of achieving lasting stability and growth across Arab labour markets. Mr. Yaqoub Yousef Mohammed, Executive Council Chairman of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr), highlighted the value of such forums in raising awareness of Arab labour standards and ensuring their consistent application through national legislation aligned with both Arab and international norms. He commended the ALO for equipping trade‑union practitioners with up‑to‑date knowledge of regional and global statutes, thereby strengthening the performance of union organisations throughout the Arab world.
MLSD Minister Meets the Chargé d'Affairs of the US Embassy
30-03-2021
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, today received the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Ms. Margaret Nardi, at the Ministry. The meeting underscored the robust Bahraini–U.S. partnership and explored new avenues to deepen collaboration in labour affairs and social protection initiatives. Humaidan briefed Ms. Nardi on Bahrain’s drive to modernise labour legislation in line with international standards, stressing the Kingdom’s commitment to global best practices. He explained that Bahrain is keen to build on both nations’ success in labour relations, trade‑union development, combating human trafficking, and expanding social protection and social welfare programmes, thereby supporting a safe, flexible work environment and reinforcing labour‑market stability. Turning to current Government measures, Humaidan detailed initiatives that have prevented lay‑offs and subsidised citizens’ wages across the private sector. Central to these measures is the launch of National Employment Programme 2.0, introduced under the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him. The programme accelerates the employment and up‑skilling of Bahraini talent, ensuring they remain employers’ preferred choice. For her part, Ms. Nardi praised Bahrain’s advanced labour legislation and attractive work environment, noting its rigorous efforts to combat human trafficking and safeguard workers’ rights. She also commended Bahrain’s swift response to the Coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic, which has protected the workforce, enhanced competitiveness and maintained the stability of productive sectors. In conclusion, Ms. Nardi affirmed the United States’ ongoing desire to expand cooperation with Bahrain in all fields for the mutual benefit of both friendly nations.
MLSD Minister Insures the Importance of Media in Childhood Protection
25-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received Dr. Wajeeha Abdullah Abdul Karim Al‑Meer at the Ministry, where she presented him with a copy of her doctoral dissertation entitled “The Role of Media in Raising Awareness and Educating Children about Violent Crimes against Children.” The study examines the Bahraini community’s perceptions of local media and its effectiveness in spreading awareness of violence, explores society’s need to highlight such cases so that all segments can cooperate to confront and address their underlying causes, and aims to identify the most effective means of sensitising the public to the spread of violent crimes against children. Humaidan praised the dissertation, emphasising the importance of raising awareness of children’s rights and of society’s duties towards them, as well as the media’s crucial role—in all its forms—in promoting a culture that recognises and rejects violence against children. He noted that a sound upbringing free from violence provides the natural environment for nurturing a generation with self‑confidence and pride in their identity, and he expressed his appreciation for Dr. Al‑Meer’s efforts in producing this valuable study.
Preparing the Second National Report of the Kingdom of Bahrain on the rights of Disabilities Community
25-03-2021
The Chairman of the Executive Office of the Supreme Committee for the Care of Persons with Disabilities, His Excellency Shaikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, today chaired the Office’s third remote meeting, which all members attended. The session focused on priority issues affecting persons with disabilities, foremost among them the preparation of Bahrain’s second national report on the rights of persons with disabilities. the Supreme Committee also examined the mechanism for updating initiatives under the National Plan for the Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2021–2026). The Executive Office serves as the administrative and technical arm of the Supreme Committee for the Care of Persons with Disabilities. It was established at the Committee’s third session in May 2020 under Resolution No. 5 of 2020, which restructured the Supreme Committee to incorporate members with proven expertise from governmental, private‑sector and civil‑society bodies involved in disability affairs. Alongside the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, the Committee’s membership includes the Ministries of Foreign Affairs; Education; Housing; Health; Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning; the Supreme Council for Women; Information Affairs; the Civil Service Bureau; Youth and Sports Affairs; the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry; the National Institute for the Disabled; the Bahrain Paralympic Committee; the Bahrain Association for Parents and Friends of the Disabled; and the Bahrain Mobility International Centre.
MLSD Minister Confirms the Efforts to Increase Employment & Ensure the Stability of National Employment
22-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency MP Mohammed Khalifa Bu Hamoud and His Excellency MP Ahmed Yousef Al‑Ansari at the Ministry to discuss ways of strengthening joint cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities in labour, development and social welfare fields, with the overarching aim of securing a decent standard of living for citizens and maintaining the quality of the Ministry’s diverse services for all segments of society. During the meeting, Humaidan reaffirmed that the integration of citizens into the labour market remains a Ministry priority, noting ongoing efforts to accelerate the qualification and employment of jobseekers in private‑sector establishments while keeping unemployment within safe and stable limits. He also outlined measures to enhance the stability of national workers and make them the preferred choice for employment, in addition to initiatives on social protection, support for productive families and the empowerment of NGOs in advancing development work across the Kingdom of Bahrain. For their part, MPs Bu Hamoud and Al‑Ansari commended the Ministry’s efforts to safeguard the stability of national workers in the private sector—especially under current exceptional health conditions—and voiced their support for ongoing steps to refine regulations and legislation within the Ministry’s remit, thereby helping to implement the esteemed Government’s directives to provide every citizen with a dignified life.
Honoring the Winners of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Award for Encouraging Productive Families
21-03-2021
Humaidan: Princess Sabeeka’s backing propels productive‑family projects to Arab and international acclaim The Ministry of Labour and Social Development today announced the winners of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa’s Award for Encouraging Productive Families in its 14th local edition, during a ceremony at the Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products. Her Excellency Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Director of the Office of HRH the Wife of the King of Bahrain, presented the awards in the presence of His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan. The family of Aisha Khalil Ibrahim Al‑Khajem received the Best Productive Family Award for their food‑production venture ‘Al‑Haif Coffee’; Ms. Anisa Mohammed Al‑Ali won the Best Product Award for her snack line ‘Muqramish’; while Bahrain Telecommunications Company (Batelco) earned the accolade for Best Sponsor and Supporter of Productive‑Family Projects. In his address, Humaidan expressed profound gratitude to Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, may God protect her, whose unwavering patronage of productive families since the award’s inception in 2007 has elevated the quality of their goods and led to regional and international recognition. He emphasised that sustainable economic and social security—achieved through the active participation of Bahraini women and families producing high‑quality goods—remains a key objective set by Her Royal Highness, which the Ministry is committed to realising through equal opportunities and an equitable partnership between women and men. Honouring this year’s winners takes on added significance amid the exceptional circumstances created by the COVID‑19 pandemic. Humaidan highlighted Princess Sabeeka’s humanitarian initiative, the «Together for the Safety of Bahrain» campaign, which extends vital support to women—particularly female breadwinners—easing the burdens imposed by the pandemic. Her Highness’s guidance has enabled productive families to continue operating safely, thereby sustaining their presence during these challenging times. Competition in this edition was robust: 158 local families entered, of whom 75 per cent were women. Their products will be showcased at the Capital Mall for Bahraini Productive Handicrafts from 21 to 27 March 2021, 09:00–21:00, under strict precautionary measures to safeguard exhibitors and visitors. Participation in this edition was notable, with 158 local productive families—75 per cent of them women—entering the competition. The Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products is currently displaying items submitted for Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa’s Award for Encouraging Productive Families from 21 to 27 March 2021, 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., while observing all precautionary measures to safeguard exhibitors and visitors. It is noteworthy that the Productive Families Project, launched by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development four decades ago, has achieved remarkable success—most recently when the Ministry received the Arab Government Excellence Award for the Khatwa Programme for Home Projects as the Arab world’s best community‑development initiative. The project began by assisting low‑income families who worked from home, and has since evolved through Khatwa, which has helped unlock individual potential and transform beneficiaries from social assistance recipients or jobseekers into successful home‑business owners. To date, more than 950 participants—of whom women represent 80 per cent—have obtained a Productive Home Licence, out of 1,500 productive families registered with the Ministry by the end of 2020.
MLSD Minister Praises the Constructive Partnership with the Ministry of Interior in implementing laws Enhancing Workers’ Housing to Preserve the safety of society
20-03-2021
In implementation of the directives of the Council of Ministers, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, to continue monitoring the implementation of laws that enhance the organisation of workers’ accommodation, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development—in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and other competent bodies—has intensified inspections to reduce occupancy density and ensure that every worker enjoys the stipulated living space. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, praised the constructive cooperation of the Ministry of Interior, acknowledging the support of His Excellency Lieutenant‑General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, whose guidance is helping to strengthen compliance with precautionary measures to curb the spread of COVID‑19. He noted that the Kingdom’s governorates play a pivotal role in detecting and rectifying violations, thereby improving conditions in workers’ residences. The Minister underscored the responsibility of employers and workers alike to follow the instructions issued by the National Medical Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and related authorities, thereby safeguarding health and safety in both workplaces and accommodation. To that end, the competent directorate within the Ministry is continuing a large‑scale inspection campaign of housing under the Ministry’s supervision in accordance with Law No. 36 of 2012 Promulgating the Labour Law in the Private Sector. Humaidan explained that maintaining workers’ safety and health is a Ministry priority. A specialist team of occupational safety engineers and inspectors now visits accommodation blocks to verify compliance with the requirements and specifications set out in Resolution (40) of 2014. Last year, the Minister issued an administrative circular instructing private‑sector establishments to reduce room occupancy and increase the floor space allocation per worker. In accordance with Article (3) of Resolution (40) of 2014, each worker must be allocated no less than four square metres of clear space, a requirement that directly supports the official drive to ease crowding. The circular further instructs private‑sector establishments to increase the number of lavatories and other sanitary facilities available to workers both at worksites and in their accommodations. It requires employers —or their authorised representatives —to monitor compliance with these measures and impose deterrent penalties on violators. In addition, establishments must prohibit inter‑employer visits between workers’ housing units. Employers that provide accommodation are also directed to reserve separate buildings capable of housing at least ten percent of their workforce for precautionary quarantine, which is in line with Public Health Department guidelines for establishments employing more than 50 workers. Humaidan expressed appreciation for the patriotic commitment shown by employers, noting their cooperation with the Ministry and other bodies. In the Capital Governorate alone, 283 establishments have complied with the new standards, relocating more than 15,000 workers to less crowded accommodation—a measure with significant benefits for public health and national efforts to combat the pandemic. He concluded by stressing that employers—or their authorised representatives—must monitor adherence to these precautionary measures and impose deterrent penalties on violators, thereby protecting the well-being of all labour‑market participants and society at large.
MLSD Minister Briefs MP Al-Abbas on the Development of Labor and Services
19-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency Member of Parliament Mr. Ammar Hussein Al Abbas, in the presence of residents of the Ninth District, Capital Governorate, to discuss several matters related to the Ministry’s remit and services. During the meeting, the parties reviewed the latest developments in the Ministry’s initiatives and programmes to qualify and integrate citizens into the labour market. They also examined the range of services delivered through the Ministry’s social centres across all governorates—covering social care, support for senior citizens and People of Determination, as well as the development of productive families and the strengthening of their role in society. Emphasising the importance of closer cooperation and coordination between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Council of Representatives, Humaidan praised the Council’s role in supporting national legislation relevant to the Ministry’s work, thereby advancing shared sustainable development goals. For their part, MP Al‑Abbas and the residents of the Ninth District commended the Ministry’s efforts to implement Government policy aimed at securing a decent standard of living for citizens, noting the provision of quality employment opportunities and the enhancement of social protection for all segments of society.
Al Kooheji Heads the First Meeting of the Executive Office of the National Committee for Childhood
19-03-2021
The Executive Office of the National Committee for Childhood has held its first meeting by videoconference, chaired by Mr. Khalid Abdul Rahman Ishaq Al‑Kooheji, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development. The session reviewed progress on implementing the National strategic Work Plan for Childhood, which was recently extended for a further five years. Mr. Al‑Kooheji underlined the importance of sustained follow‑up, noting that the Strategy has been circulated to every government ministry and institution with a view to advancing childhood outcomes throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain. Members also examined the Law on Restorative Justice for Children and Their Protection from Abuse. Mr. Al‑Kooheji expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him, for approving Law No. (4) of 2021, which places restorative justice at the core of child protection. In a detailed presentation, Ms. Zainab Salman Al‑Awinati—member of the National Commission for Childhood and Head of the Family and Child Prosecution Office at the Public Prosecution—outlined the law’s 89 articles. She explained that the statute complements Bahrain’s wider legislative framework on child rights, covering education, health, care, rehabilitation, employment of People of Determination, and measures to combat begging and vagrancy, all in line with the Kingdom’s 1991 accession to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and its two optional protocols of 2004. The Executive Office also tracked the latest updates to Bahrain’s periodic report on children’s rights, building on the Kingdom’s report that won international praise from the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child during the combined fourth‑to‑sixth periodic review in January 2019. Finally, the meeting assessed the psychological, social and economic impact of the COVID‑19 pandemic on children and outlined new initiatives to bolster their protection.
Paying the salaries of all Bahraini workers in the private sector for the months of April, May and June
18-03-2021
His Excellency Jameel bin Mohammad Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development, praised the royal directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country's great king, may God protect and preserve him, to unify national efforts to confront the repercussions of the global spread of the Coronavirus (COVID‑19) at the local level, in a manner that preserves the health and safety of citizens and residents, while ensuring the continuation of the state’s programmes and work, achieving sustainable development for the benefit of citizens, and to follow up on the decisions of the government headed by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and the orders of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, to launch a financial and economic package to provide the necessary liquidity for the private‑sector to deal with the effects of the current situation, confront the virus, and maintain sustainable growth. On this occasion, Humaidan affirmed that the royal directives to launch the financial package will help address any potential impacts on citizens' lives and livelihood stability, most notably ensuring job stability and providing employment opportunities for citizens in the event of any adverse economic effects. Humaidan said that the esteemed government's commitment to paying the salaries of Bahraini citizens working in the private sector for the months of April, May and June 2020, as recorded by the Social Insurance Organisation (SIO), will ensure stability and sustainability, and will not affect citizens' standard of living. It will also enhance employers’ ability to mitigate any negative impacts on business and the pace of the economy, making them more capable of facing exceptional circumstances resulting from the current global situation. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development explained that wage support will be achieved by utilising the savings of the Unemployment Insurance Fund, to which workers, employers and the government have contributed. This is the right time for the Fund to contribute to stability and sustainability, and its benefits will be reflected on workers, employees, employers and society in general. It will contribute to economic stability and mitigate any undesirable effects resulting from the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), at a cost of 215 million Bahraini dinars to cover the months of April, May, and June 2020, at a monthly rate exceeding 70 million dinars. This includes all Bahrainis working in private‑sector establishments, who number approximately 100,000 employees and workers registered with the SIO. The constitutional and legal procedures required to implement this decision will be completed in the coming days, after which executive measures will be announced regarding the ways to benefit from this decision.
MLSD Minister Confirms Supporting the Goals of Charities to Develop Mechanisms for Volunteer
18-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Sabah Al‑Saloum, MP, and a number of heads of charitable societies in the villages of Bilad Al‑Qadeem, Al‑Zinj, Adhari and Al-Mahooz, at his office at the Ministry. During the meeting, aspects of cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and civil society organizations were reviewed, as well as ways to support charitable organizations’ programmes and projects, enabling them to fulfil their social roles and responsibilities. This includes developing the operating mechanisms of these NGOs, in addition to considering a number of requests from association representatives regarding the regulation of charitable and volunteer work in the Kingdom of Bahrain. In this context, Minister Humaidan praised the efforts of NGOs in charitable and humanitarian work, expressing his appreciation for the various projects and programmes they implement and the charitable services they provide to beneficiaries across society. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between the Ministry and NGOs, and the Ministry’s keenness to facilitate charitable work in accordance with applicable regulations and laws. He also noted the importance of community partnerships between various parties to facilitate the work of philanthropic institutions and associations in order to improve their services and contributions to promoting development work. In turn, MP Ahmed Sabah Al‑Saloum and the heads of the charitable societies praised the Government’s efforts to enhance the performance of civil‑society institutions in social, voluntary and humanitarian work, and to streamline procedures enabling them to carry out their developmental and charitable mission to the fullest. They noted the technical development witnessed in the Ministry’s services—especially in supporting NGOs—which has accelerated access to these services. They affirmed their determination to continue social work, implement development initiatives and contribute to improving the quality of services directed to target groups.
MLSD Minister: Employing (5000) and Training (1874) Bahrainis since the launch of the National Program for Employment 2.0
17-03-2021
Target sectors diversified; specialist posts prioritised Efficiency boosted through employer‑driven training programmes Eighty‑three training institutes are licensed by the Ministry and are implementing the training programme with guaranteed employment. 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, announced that 5,000 Bahraini citizens have already secured positions in private‑sector establishments since the launch of National Employment Programme 2.0, introduced under the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him. A further 1,874 Bahrainis have completed basic and professional courses aligned with labour‑market skill requirements up to mid‑March. Employment and training are expected to accelerate in the coming months as the programme’s technical and administrative mechanisms are fully embedded. Humaidan added that the programme's implementation comes in light of the exceptional global circumstances of the Coronavirus pandemic, to encourage the employment of citizens across various productive sectors of the labour market. He pointed out that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development has developed an executive plan for the programme, together with complementary initiatives to enhance the employment and qualification of Bahrainis in private‑sector establishments and ensure their job stability. This is achieved through a set of projects, programmes and policies to raise the efficiency and sustainability of the services provided, invest in national energies, employ them and develop them professionally to make them the best choice for employment in the labour market, and develop appropriate basic programmes to maintain unemployment rates within stable and safe limits, in addition to improving the work environment and raising productivity in private‑sector companies and institutions to stimulate investment in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Humaidan’s remarks came during a press briefing organised by the National Communication Centre held remotely today, Wednesday, as part of a series of government media briefings. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development reviewed the most prominent achievements of the National Employment Programme 2.0 since its launch last January; the three‑year initiative (2021–2023) aims to support Bahraini employment. Humaidan stated that the programme aims to employ 25,000 Bahrainis in 2021 and provide 10,000 training opportunities annually. It includes three main initiatives: • The Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has allocated a budget of one hundred and twenty million dinars for three years (2021–2023)—double the amount allocated over the past five years—to support the employment of Bahrainis through the wage subsidy scheme. • The programme will increase the amount and duration of support provided to those registered on the Ministry of Labour and Social Development lists and new entrants to the labour market. • It will also extend the period for announcing vacancies before recruiting workers from two to three weeks, and will tighten security measures to monitor irregular workers. With regard to the principal initiatives that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development is implementing to accelerate training and employment of Bahrainis and safeguard their job stability, His Excellency the Minister indicated that the Programme has been actively promoted to employers and jobseekers. He explained that the Ministry has launched a publicity campaign to showcase the programme’s benefits to both groups, thereby increasing the flow of vacancies to the Ministry, encouraging establishments to recruit Bahrainis, and attracting more citizens to benefit from the programme’s job‑ and training opportunity component. He emphasised that the Ministry has simplified the registration of jobseekers by launching an electronic system that allows applicants to record and update their personal data continuously, creating an accurate, up‑to‑date database, and by providing guidance and advice to motivate citizens to register their employment applications with the Ministry’s Vacancy Bank. The number of job vacancies in the Vacancy Bank reached 5,097 by mid‑March. Humaidan pointed out that, among the initiatives adopted by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in this context, is support for part‑time work for Bahraini women and remote work, in coordination with Tamkeen; these arrangements are covered by wage‑subsidy benefits. In addition, a permanent online employment fair has been established to allow employers to display their vacancies to Bahraini jobseekers. Through this fair, jobseekers and employers can select suitable positions or candidates electronically, based on the accurate data provided by the system for each vacancy and applicant. He emphasised that this saves time and effort for both parties and provides the infrastructure needed to facilitate the employment of Bahrainis in the private sector. Humaidan also affirmed ongoing coordination with all relevant bodies to create employment for citizens, noting that the Ministry targets a broad spectrum of sectors and focuses on roles preferred by jobseekers. These sectors include industrial, financial, administrative, commercial, and service activities, as well as specialised posts in modern digital and technological fields. He added that the Ministry also encourages young people to pursue entrepreneurship and self‑employment, providing them with training opportunities. Regarding enhancing the pace of training to qualify citizens for the labour market, Humaidan emphasised ongoing coordination with the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) to provide free basic and professional training that raises Bahrainis’ efficiency through training programmes aligned with employers’ needs, delivered via 83 institutes licensed by the Ministry. He added that both sides are coordinating on the training programme with Job Secure (Dhaman), under which jobseekers are trained for specific roles and then employed in private‑sector establishments, with training institutes and centres responsible for placing their graduates under the supervision of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development. The training offered under this programme combines theoretical and practical components, and graduates receive a professional or vocational certificate. In the same context, Humaidan highlighted the implementation of the On‑the‑Job Training Programme (Furas), launched by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HM the King's Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and National Security Advisor, and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports. The programme aims to provide jobseekers with practical skills and experience by offering on‑the‑job training and professional qualifications in one or more occupations within companies and institutions. This is achieved through contracts between employers and jobseekers for up to three years of training. His Excellency the Minister stated that licences have been granted to training programmes whose outcomes are aligned with employer requirements. He added that coordination and work are underway with the Information & eGovernment Authority to launch the “Employability Skills Portal” in cooperation with the public and private sectors. This portal will provide comprehensive and integrated data on the most important skills and jobs required by the labour market, helping young people and new entrants to the labour market rationalise their career choices and paths, and move towards future sectors that the economy will offer. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, confirmed the Ministry’s ongoing initiatives to safeguard national labour stability. These include supporting the training and employment of Bahrainis to strengthen their job security and establishing a specialised team to process requests for workforce reductions in the rare cases of total or partial establishment closures—prioritising retaining national labour and preserving Bahraini jobs. He also emphasised adherence to Law No. 37 of 2015 amending Article 110 of the Labour Law in the Private Sector Promulgated by Law No. 36 of 2012, which stipulates: “it shall be taken into consideration not to terminate the Bahraini worker who has the same competence and experience of the foreign worker who works with him at the same establishment,” he stressed, adding that the Ministry is working to secure immediate employment for Bahrainis affected by establishment closures. He further noted that redundancy rates fell by nine per cent in 2020 compared with 2019, notwithstanding the public health challenges posed by the pandemic.
MLSD Minister Receives a Book from Al-Baharnah
16-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with former Ambassador Mr. Taqi Mohammed Al Baharna, who presented him with a copy of his book “Ambassador Notes; Bahrain And The Arab Gulf In The Era Of Independence”. The book offers a documentary account by Al Baharna of the opening of Bahrain’s first embassy in the Arab Republic of Egypt, recounts the major events witnessed by Egypt between 1971 and 1974, details the Ambassador’s meetings with numerous ambassadors and leading political and cultural figures, and records every aspect of diplomatic work during that period. Humaidan praised the book’s content, describing it as an important record of the history of diplomatic work in the Kingdom of Bahrain, including the establishment of the Bahraini Embassy in Cairo and the parallel history of Arab events and figures who left their mark on that era. He also commended the author’s distinctive literary style, noting that the publication is a significant addition to the Bahraini and Arab libraries in general.
MLSD Minsiter Meets the Advisor of the Economic Development Board
14-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority Board of Directors, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Mr. Iain Lindsay, Advisor to the Economic Development Board (EDB), at the Ministry. The meeting marked Mr. Lindsay’s assumption of his advisory duties and provided an opportunity to review the Ministry’s efforts to support investors and business owners by supplying qualified and trained national talent for all required roles. Humaidan outlined the joint initiatives delivered with the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) under National Employment Programme 2.0, launched on the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him. These initiatives include wage support for Bahraini employees and free training. In this context, Humaidan affirmed that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development continues to implement policies that support the growth of private‑sector establishments, which contribute to attracting further investment, generating quality employment for citizens and positioning the Kingdom of Bahrain as a business hub and an attractive environment for capital, thanks to its professionally qualified human resources and national legislation that keeps pace with labour‑market changes and requirements. Humaidan commended the EDB’s policies, which enhance Bahrain’s investment landscape and highlight its economic achievements. He noted that the Kingdom offers a competitive environment, advanced labour legislation aligned with international standards, and national expertise capable of managing production across sectors such as finance, banking, technology, information systems, tourism and hospitality—all of which add value and appeal to Bahraini job seekers. He said that the growth of the training sector ensures employers have access to professionally trained human resources across specialisations. For his part, Mr. Iain Lindsay emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation and coordination to brief prospective investors on the range of benefits and incentives available within Bahrain’s attractive and enabling business environment, which supports enterprise growth and development. He remarked that Bahrain has consistently prepared national cadres capable of attaining high levels of efficiency. He further observed that the Kingdom enjoys a business landscape underpinned by flexible legislation, and highlighted the need for concerted action by all stakeholders to realise the objectives of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, notably the provision of promising opportunities for citizens and the preservation of sustainable economic growth. He also noted the Kingdom’s capacity to meet challenges, drawing on its rich cultural heritage as the region's cradle of commerce and trade.
MLSD Minister Inspects the "Childhood Care Home"
13-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Chairman of the National Childhood Committee, paid an inspection visit to the Batelco Childhood Care Home, which cares for children of unknown parentage, orphans and those from broken families. He was accompanied by the Chairman of Batelco Childhood Care Home’s Board of Directors, Dr. Akbar Mohsin, along with a number of board members and officials from the Ministry. The visit formed part of the ongoing follow‑up of the conditions and needs of the children and other beneficiaries, in line with the Government’s commitment to providing services that guarantee a decent life and proper upbringing, thereby enabling their future integration into society. This initiative supports Law No. (4) of 2021 Promulgating the Restorative Justice Law for Children and their Protection from Maltreatment, recently approved by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him. During the tour, Humaidan was briefed on the progress of work at the Home, which accommodates 28 children, and was assured of the quality of living, health, social, psychological and recreational services provided to residents of both genders. He reviewed programmes and activities tailored to their needs and age groups to prepare them for active social participation. He also learned about the latest training programmes for Home graduates; the Ministry continues to support them by meeting their basic needs, securing suitable employment when they reach working age and monitoring their living conditions to promote independence and self‑reliance. The delegation examined the procedural manual governing the Home’s operations, custody procedures and related research designed to improve and streamline these services. Humaidan affirmed that Bahrain attaches great importance to these categories of children, providing comprehensive care and protection under the supervision of a board comprising distinguished Bahraini figures from various sectors. This reflects the Kingdom’s ethos of social responsibility and its partnership with governmental, private and NGO entities to ensure a sound educational environment that equips children to become productive citizens. Humaidan emphasised that the Kingdom of Bahrain is regarded as a pioneer in legislation safeguarding children’s rights. He observed that numerous statutes have been promulgated to reinforce these rights, and underscored the international accolades Bahrain has earned for its exemplary record in children’s rights, protection and care. For his part, Dr. Akbar Mohsin praised the continuous support and follow‑up provided by the Minister and the Ministry’s officials, which translate the Government’s keen interest in nurturing, rehabilitating and protecting children, thereby ensuring them a decent life.
MLSD Minister Visits the International Exchange Company at the Bahrain Airport branch
10-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, visited the Global Exchange Company’s Bahrain International Airport branch and met with a number of its Bahraini employees. The company, in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, recently employed 20 Bahrainis who had been qualified to fill several vacancies, particularly at the airport branch. In a statement on this occasion, Humaidan commended the company’s commitment to employing national workers, describing the recruitment of nationals at the airport as a distinguished initiative that showcases the Bahraini employee’s competence and professionalism, and reflects his contribution to serving the nation across all workplaces. He praised the national workforce in the banking sector, which is witnessing steady growth, noting their discipline and dedication, and expressing pride in seeing Bahraini cadres at Bahrain International Airport—the Kingdom’s civilised gateway. Humaidan affirmed that the Ministry will continue its efforts to accelerate jobseekers' employment across productive sectors—especially those considered attractive and promising—while offering incentives such as training and wage subsidies for national workers to ensure they remain the preferred choice for employment. For their part, the employees commended the Ministry’s efforts to integrate citizens into the private sector and acknowledged the Government’s appreciation of the national workforce. To strengthen cooperation, Global Exchange Company plans to increase the number of positions to 52 in the coming period, prioritising Bahrainis by recruiting Ministry‑referred, trained national cadres for administrative and technical roles.
MLSD Minister Meets the board of directors of the Civil Society for Education and Training Support
09-03-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, today received the Honorary President of the National Society for the Support of Education and Training (NSSET), Mr. Taqi Mohammed Makki Al-Baharna, in the presence of the Society’s Chairman, Mr. Hamza Sharaf, and its former President, Mr. Mahmoud Nasser Al Toblani, at the Ministry. Al-Baharna presented the Minister with an honorary membership certificate in recognition of his national role and his efforts to support education and training across Bahrain’s professional and charitable societies. The delegation briefed Humaidan on the Society’s activities and programmes, together with its efforts to support education and training and to encourage young people to enrol in courses that equip them with the skills demanded by the labour market. In this context, Humaidan commended the association’s efforts and contributions towards supporting training and continuing education policies, as well as its social activities in fostering a culture of training. He emphasised the importance of advancing the training process and developing the capabilities of national cadres to enable them to compete sustainably, thereby making Bahrainis the ideal choice for employers. He also highlighted the importance of combining governmental and NGO efforts to advance the training and education system. For his part, Sharaf praised the Ministry’s support for the Society and for other NGOs, noting that such backing has enabled them to deliver human‑resources development courses through community partnerships. He also lauded the Ministry’s ongoing cooperation with civil society bodies to advance charitable and humanitarian work throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain.
On the Occasion of "International Women's Day" .. MLSD Minister Praises the Contributions of Bahraini Women in the First Ranks
07-03-2021
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) has been awarded the Appreciation Shield presented by the Institute of Public Administration (BIPA) for its active participation in the National Programme for Government Leadership Development and its distinguished contribution to the programmes organised by the Institute during 2019–2020. These initiatives included core and supplementary training courses designed to advance administrative and institutional work at the Authority. Approximately 160 LMRA employees benefited from BIPA programmes during this period. On this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, expressed his appreciation for the accolade, noting that continuous training equips employees with additional skills and enhances their capabilities, thereby increasing productivity, fostering a culture of innovation and change, and enabling them to advance smoothly in their careers. Humaidan added that the Authority continues to implement an annual training programme across all sectors, noting that training remained uninterrupted last year despite the COVID‑19 pandemic, having moved online via virtual platforms. The National Programme for Government Leadership Development comprises a series of leadership tracks—Foundation, Construction, Formation, Cadres, Leaders, Senior Leadership and the Elite Programme. These programmes prepare officials to drive sustainable development by performing their leadership roles efficiently. They have been adopted by the Civil Service Council as a unified national training policy, underpinning a governmental approach that regards every employee as a leader at his or her grade.
"BIPA" Honors Labor Market Regulatory Authority for its Active Participation in Training Programs
05-03-2021
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) has received the Appreciation Shield presented by the Institute of Public Administration (BIPA) for its active participation in the National Programme for Government Leadership Development and its distinguished contribution to the programmes organised by the Institute during 2019–2020. These initiatives included core and supplementary training courses designed to advance administrative and institutional work at the Authority. Approximately one hundred and sixty LMRA employees benefited from BIPA programmes during this period. On this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, expressed his appreciation for the accolade, noting that continuous training equips employees with additional skills and enhances their capabilities, thereby increasing productivity, fostering a culture of innovation and change, and enabling them to advance smoothly in their careers. Humaidan added that the Authority continues to implement an annual training programme across all sectors, noting that training was uninterrupted last year despite the COVID‑19 pandemic, having moved online via virtual platforms. The National Programme for Government Leadership Development comprises a series of leadership tracks—Foundation, Construction, Formation, Cadres, Leaders, Senior Leadership and the Elite Programme.These programmes prepare officials to drive sustainable development by performing their leadership roles efficiently. They have been adopted by the Civil Service Council as a unified national training policy, underpinning a governmental approach that regards every employee as a leader at his or her grade.
The Committee for Licensing the Establishment of Private Education and Training Institutions receives 53 applications in the year 2020
01-03-2021
The Joint Committee of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Ministry of Education for Licensing the Establishment of Private Educational and Training Institutions approved the results of its annual work report for the year ending 2020. The committee received a total of (53) applications during the past year, including (6) for schools and educational institutes, (27) for kindergartens, and (20) for vocational training institutions. These applications comprised (24) requests for educational and training institutions that were completed, with ministerial decisions issued thereon, (13) cancellation decisions due to failure to meet licensing requirements, and (13) approved decisions and recommendations. During a remote meeting, the committee reviewed its annual report, chaired by the Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Affairs, Mr. Ahmed Jaafar Al Hayki, with representatives from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in attendance. Al Hayki emphasised that, in assessing applications for private educational and training institutions, the committee prioritised those offering distinguished programmes in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. He noted that efforts were made to facilitate the process for investors seeking licences, reflecting the Kingdom of Bahrain’s endeavours to encourage investment in the field of education and training. In this context, he highlighted the committee’s dedication to providing all investors with essential facilities and continuous cooperation to ensure the smooth delivery of services, particularly amid current health conditions. He stressed the importance of the joint national effort to develop Bahrain’s education and training sector. A joint committee was established between the Ministries of Labour and Social Development and Education to review applications for vocational training institutions licensed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, as well as private schools, educational institutions, centres, and kindergartens licensed by the Ministry of Education, in accordance with Legislative Decree No. (25) of 1998 with respect to Private Educational and Training Institutions.