MPs push for tougher expat hiring rules amid government pushback

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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Employers should not award more than a twoyear contract to expatriate employees, who should also train their replacements before leaving.

This may soon become mandatory if a proposal currently tabled before parliament receives approval from MPs.

However, the chances of approval appear slim, as the government has already expressed strong opposition, arguing that such a move would leave positions vacant with no suitable candidates.

Despite this, MPs maintain that the proposal would help tackle unemployment among locals and give Bahrainis a competitive advantage in the job market.

The proposal, which is set to be debated soon, also suggests other measures to make hiring non-Bahrainis more difficult.

Qualification and Experience

MPs argue that employers should hire only expatriates who hold a master’s degree and have at least 10 years of experience.

The government has voiced objections, expressing concerns that these measures would limit hiring flexibility and leave key roles unfilled.

Committee Remains Optimistic

In a statement, the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee expressed optimism, saying, “This is about putting Bahrainis at the heart of public work and building up local expertise.” However, an official government statement warned, “Such strict rules could make hiring too rigid, leaving departments unable to meet specific job needs.”

Government Memo Voices Opposition

A memo issued by the government regarding the proposal suggested an alternative approach, calling for skill and contract standards to be prioritized in hiring decisions. “Job requirements and terms should align with real needs and allow some flexibility,” the memo read. “These would be the administrative guidelines, given the need for adaptability in a fast-changing job market.”

How to Balance Hiring and Quality?

Referred to the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee by Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam, the draft also raises the question of how to balance the drive to boost local hiring while ensuring the right skills for essential roles.

The committee has recommended moving forward with minor wording adjustments, although the government remains cautious, viewing the proposal as potentially too restrictive.