The Civil Service Bureau (CSB) in Bahrain has made a significant move to reduce the number of foreign employees in the government sector. The latest data shows that in 2024, foreign workers only made up 14% of the government workforce, a substantial decrease from 2019 when they accounted for 23% of the workforce. This shift has brought the total number of foreign employees down to approximately 5,800, with Bahraini employees now making up the remaining 86% totaling 35,663 individuals.
In response to an inquiry from the Shura Council, the CSB clarified that all government hiring is based on actual needs to fill vacancies, following strict criteria and job descriptions. Contract renewals are also determined by the needs of government entities to ensure the continued provision of services. The required qualifications for each position vary widely, with some specialised roles necessitating professional certifications to guarantee performance at a high level. The CSB expressed concerns about a proposed law that would require non-Bahrainis to have a master’s degree, stating that this could hinder operations and create staffing shortages.
The CSB emphasized that all employment contracts for foreign workers include a clause that mandates the training of Bahraini employees. Government entities proactively identify future job needs and required qualifications, working with the Ministry of Education to align educational programs with these demands. The Bureau also conducts regular reviews of job requirements in collaboration with government agencies to stay up-to-date on market trends and evolving needs.
The potential impact of the proposed law requiring a master’s degree for non-Bahrainis on the government’s ability to attract necessary expertise and fill critical roles was highlighted by the CSB. They pointed out that such a requirement would necessitate a re-evaluation of job requirements for all applicants, potentially leading to hindrances in operations and shortages in staffing. The Bureau stressed the importance of ensuring that the recruitment process is flexible enough to meet the changing demands of the job market.
Overall, the Civil Service Bureau in Bahrain is focused on ensuring that government hiring practices are aligned with the actual needs of the sector, while also taking steps to train Bahraini employees for future roles. By collaborating with government agencies and constantly reviewing job requirements, the CSB aims to stay ahead of market trends and continue providing efficient services to the citizens of Bahrain. The reduction in foreign employees within the government sector is a strategic move to prioritize the employment of Bahraini nationals and ensure that the workforce remains well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the sector.
