Tamkeen, Bahrain’s Labour Fund, has ramped up efforts to ensure the proper utilization of its support programs by increasing inspection visits to institutions involved in employment and career development initiatives. This move, aimed at ensuring support reaches the right people and is effectively implemented, reflects Tamkeen’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.
In addition to conducting more on-site visits, Tamkeen has established a direct communication channel with program beneficiaries and collaborated with the Ministry of Labour to promptly address cases of unfair dismissal. By taking a proactive approach towards protecting workers’ rights and addressing any misuse of support funds, Tamkeen is reinforcing its commitment to creating a fair and conducive working environment for all.
Tamkeen has made it clear that any breaches of program terms and conditions will be met with appropriate penalties, which could include the recovery of support amounts or the exclusion of employers from future program benefits. The organization is also actively verifying the employment status of wage subsidy program beneficiaries through direct questionnaires, further ensuring the integrity of its support initiatives.
During the first half of 2024, Tamkeen conducted 2,341 inspection visits, leading to the discovery of various violations such as fictitious recruitment, deception, and document forgery within individual support programs. In response, necessary corrective actions were taken, and several cases were referred to relevant authorities for further investigation and potential legal action, underscoring Tamkeen’s commitment to enforcing compliance with program guidelines.
Maha Mofeez, CEO of Tamkeen, emphasized the organization’s efforts to strengthen monitoring and inspection processes, highlighting the importance of collaboration with government agencies to address transgressions and violations effectively. This collaborative approach reflects the spirit of shared responsibility and collective action within Team Bahrain and reinforces Tamkeen’s dedication to upholding standards of fairness and transparency in its operations.
To further enhance transparency and accountability, Tamkeen encourages both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries to report any illegal practices or violations through its dedicated hotline (17383383) or email address (report@tamkeen.bh). By fostering a culture of accountability and encouraging active involvement from stakeholders, Tamkeen is actively working towards ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of its support programs, ultimately contributing to a fairer and more equitable working environment in Bahrain.
