Bahrain’s Crackdown on Illegal Workers Intensifies
In efforts to combat illegal labor practices, Bahrain has significantly increased its enforcement activities in 2023 and early 2024. According to official statistics, a total of 895 joint inspection campaigns were conducted with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in 2023, resulting in the apprehension of 4,232 violators and the subsequent deportation of 5,477 illegal workers. The capital city of Manama saw the highest number of apprehensions both in 2023 and the first quarter of 2024, indicating a persistent issue in the area.
Elevated Inspection Campaigns in 2024
The momentum continued into the first quarter of 2024, with authorities conducting 391 joint inspection campaigns, apprehending 308 illegal workers in Manama alone. The Northern Governorate also saw significant enforcement activities, with 251 violators apprehended in 22 campaigns during the same period. Similarly, the Muharraq Governorate and the Southern Governorate witnessed an increase in joint campaigns and apprehended violators, reflecting the government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal labor practices throughout the country.
Coast Guard’s Role in Maritime Security
The Bahrain Coast Guard has also been actively involved in combating illegal immigration, conducting patrols in Bahraini territorial waters and along the kingdom’s coasts. In 2023, 26 patrols were conducted, followed by 18 patrols in the first quarter of 2024. This shows a continued effort to monitor and address illegal immigration along maritime routes.
High Employer Compliance Rate
The LMRA reported a high employer compliance rate of 94.7% with regulations and requirements. The authority conducted a significant number of joint inspection campaigns with the Ministry of Interior in 2023, leading to the deportation of thousands of illegal workers. In the first quarter of 2024, 231 joint campaigns were conducted, identifying 1,863 illegal workers for deportation, showcasing the continued commitment to enforcing labor laws and regulations.
Swift Action Against Violators
Upon apprehension, illegal workers are quickly processed through the system. Their residency status is verified upon arrival at a designated center, and a case is registered in the National Criminal Justice System (Najm). If their residency has expired, they are detained and presented to the Public Prosecution for further action. This expedited process ensures that violators are dealt with swiftly and in accordance with the law.
Conclusion
The Bahraini authorities have made significant strides in combatting illegal labor practices, with increased enforcement activities and joint inspection campaigns resulting in the apprehension and deportation of thousands of violators. The focus on maritime security, high employer compliance rate, and swift action against violators demonstrate the government’s commitment to upholding labor laws and ensuring a fair and legal workforce in the country. Moving forward, continued efforts in monitoring and enforcement will be crucial in addressing the issue of illegal workers and maintaining the integrity of the labor market in Bahrain.
