A proposed law set for debate in the upcoming convening period of Parliament aims to address the misuse of labour incentives provided by the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) in Bahrain. Under this legislation, employers who benefit from Tamkeen funds to hire Bahrainis will be required to return the funds if they do not uphold the condition of not unfairly terminating the Bahraini worker’s contract. MP Basma Abdulkarim is leading this initiative with support from other legislators to prevent employers from exploiting Tamkeen funding to recruit Bahraini nationals, only to dismiss them unjustly later on. The new law seeks to uphold the principles of social justice enshrined in the constitution, particularly emphasizing Article 13 which mandates fair employment conditions for citizens.
The explanatory memorandum for the proposed law emphasizes that some employers have been taking advantage of the system, prompting the need for stricter measures to stop such practices. Companies receiving Tamkeen subsidies would be required to repay the funds if they dismiss Bahraini employees without valid reasons approved by the Ministry of Labour. Lawmakers believe that this provision will discourage businesses from using the government’s labour support programme for purely financial reasons. The aim of Tamkeen was to promote the employment of Bahrainis and enhance their standing in the job market. However, there have been instances where employers have taken the money and then released these workers without just cause, undermining the purpose of the programme.
The proposed amendment seeks to align the Labour Law with constitutional principles of dignified work and social justice. Supporters of the law are optimistic that the new measures will ensure that Bahraini employees are properly protected, even if their employers have benefited from government support. By holding employers accountable for unjustly terminating Bahraini workers after receiving Tamkeen funds, the government aims to deter exploitation of the labour support programme and ensure that the intended beneficiaries receive the assistance they need to thrive in the job market. The legislation underscores the commitment to upholding fair employment practices and defending the rights of Bahraini workers against any form of exploitation or unfair treatment.
The introduction of the new law is a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of Bahraini employees and preventing the misuse of labour incentives provided by Tamkeen. By requiring employers to repay the funds if they fail to uphold fair employment practices, the legislation sends a clear message that exploitation of the system will not be tolerated. This initiative not only seeks to protect the interests of Bahraini workers but also aims to promote the principles of social justice and equality in the workplace. By ensuring that companies adhere to the conditions of Tamkeen funding and treat their employees fairly, the government is taking proactive measures to create a more just and equitable labour market for all.
In conclusion, the proposed law addressing the misuse of labour incentives provided by Tamkeen in Bahrain reflects a commitment to upholding fair employment practices and protecting the rights of Bahraini workers. By holding employers accountable for unjustly terminating workers after benefiting from government support, the legislation aims to prevent exploitation of the labour support programme and promote social justice in the workplace. With the support of legislators and stakeholders, the proposed amendment is poised to make a positive impact in ensuring that Bahraini employees receive the protection and respect they deserve in the job market. The enactment of this law will send a strong message that exploitation of labour incentives will not be tolerated, and that all workers in Bahrain deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness.
