Bahrain has been cracking down on illegal foreign workers in the past three years, deporting over 13,000 individuals. Despite these efforts, there are still around 30,000 irregular workers in the country, as reported by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). The Chief Executive of LMRA, Nibras Talib, highlighted the increased efforts of inspection teams in combating illegal employment, resulting in a 120% increase in visits since 2022. In 2024 alone, approximately 3,000 foreign workers were apprehended, with 98% of employers found to be compliant.
Talib also mentioned a significant decrease in violations within commercial establishments between 2023 and 2024, as well as a 54% drop in the number of authorized workers found in breach of regulations during the same period. Additionally, over 45,000 workers were registered during this time, with many either deported or transferred to new employers. The efforts to address illegal employment in Bahrain have led to positive outcomes in terms of enforcement and compliance, but more work is needed to tackle the remaining irregular workers in the country.
The National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons, chaired by Talib, plays a crucial role in overseeing efforts to address illegal employment and human trafficking issues in Bahrain. The increased number of visits by inspection teams and the continued apprehension of illegal foreign workers reflect a commitment to enforcing labor regulations and protecting the rights of workers in the country. Despite the challenges posed by the presence of irregular workers, Bahrain’s authorities are taking proactive measures to address the issue and ensure compliance with labor laws.
Efforts to combat illegal employment in Bahrain have also resulted in positive outcomes for compliant employers, with a high rate of adherence to regulations among businesses in the country. Talib’s report of a 48% decrease in violations within commercial establishments demonstrates the success of ongoing enforcement efforts. It is essential for employers to follow labor laws and regulations to prevent the exploitation of foreign workers and maintain a fair and just working environment for all individuals in Bahrain.
As Bahrain continues to tackle the issue of illegal employment, it is essential for authorities to work closely with employers and stakeholders to address the root causes of irregular labor practices. By promoting awareness of labor laws and regulations, providing support for compliant employers, and offering resources for workers who may be at risk of exploitation, Bahrain can further reduce the prevalence of illegal employment in the country. The concerted efforts of government agencies, businesses, and civil society organizations are crucial in ensuring a safe and fair working environment for all individuals in Bahrain.
In conclusion, Bahrain’s efforts to combat illegal employment and address trafficking in persons have yielded positive results in recent years. With increased enforcement measures, compliance among employers, and efforts to register and transfer workers to legal employment arrangements, the country is making progress in addressing the issue. However, challenges remain, and continued collaboration between government agencies, businesses, and civil society organizations is needed to fully address the problem of irregular foreign workers in Bahrain. By working together and upholding labor laws and regulations, Bahrain can create a more just and equitable labor market for all individuals in the country.
