The current fines imposed on companies for not hiring visually impaired individuals in Bahrain are not effective, according to Abdulaziz Saleh Al Hamri, a board member of the Friendship Society for the Blind. Instead of punishment, Al Hamri believes that laws should incentivize companies to hire differently-abled people in the Kingdom. The lack of encouragement in the current legislation results in very little progress in recruiting visually impaired individuals, despite there being over 1,300 blind individuals in Bahrain.
Progress has been made in empowering the visually impaired in Bahrain, with improved services and legislation in place. However, Al Hamri emphasizes that there are still areas that need attention, particularly in the implementation of existing laws. Companies still have the option to decline hiring individuals with disabilities based on certain justifications, which hinders the employment opportunities for blind individuals.
One of the main issues highlighted by Al Hamri is the lack of faith in the abilities and potential of blind individuals to contribute to the workforce. When employed, they are often placed in positions that do not demand skills or effort, limiting their growth potential. Al Hamri stresses the importance of placing blind individuals in productive roles that align with Bahrain’s vision and sustainable development goals to fully integrate them into society.
The Friendship Society for the Blind aims to be the voice of the blind community in Bahrain, advocating for their rights and inclusion. They work towards connecting blind individuals with relevant authorities and ensuring the implementation of legislation that supports their needs. The success of two blind computer science graduates in Bahrain serves as a testament to the potential within the blind community, highlighting the need for more opportunities to showcase their abilities.
Al Hamri calls for comprehensive social integration for blind individuals in Bahrain, emphasizing the importance of action rather than just talk. He stresses the need for strict legislation and enforcement to ensure that laws supporting the blind community are actively implemented and enforced. The Friendship Society for the Blind continues to support visually impaired individuals in Bahrain, regardless of their nationality or background, advocating for a brighter future for all members of the blind community.
