Mps propose to limit foreign public sector jobs to Master’s Degree holders

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A controversial bill calling for hiring only foreigners with a master’s degree in the public sector has hit a roadblock. Opposition is mounting against the bill, originating from the House of Representatives, with key committees and the Civil Service Bureau (CSB) raising alarms.

The bill also limits public sector jobs to foreigners with at least 10 years of experience. Additionally, contracts would be capped at two years, with only one renewal allowed.

Critics warn the bill, which aims to tighten hiring rules for foreign nationals, could create skill shortages, disrupt key sectors, and slow recruitment processes. The CSB and the Shura Council's Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee argue that the proposal is impractical and could harm key sectors like healthcare and education, where over 90% of foreign workers in the Kingdom are employed.

Declining numbers

Foreign workers in public sector are already on the decline. CSB data shows a 23% drop over the last five years, from 7,582 in 2019 to 5,800 in 2024. Bahrainis now make up 86% of the public sector workforce, with foreign nationals comprising only 14%.

The bureau warns that imposing such strict requirements would worsen the situation. Varying roles across sectors often require specialized skills and certifications rather than advanced academic qualifications. Blanket requirements like a master’s degree would force a re-evaluation of hiring criteria, potentially delaying recruitment processes.

Critical sectors

The CSB emphasizes that the healthcare and education sectors would be the hardest hit. The proposal could lead to significant skill shortages, disrupting operations and affecting essential services.

To address these challenges, the bureau has been actively training Bahraini workers. All contracts for foreign employees already include provisions for skill transfer to local staff, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Already favour Bahrainis

The Shura Committee highlights that existing laws already prioritize Bahraini nationals for public sector roles. Foreign workers are hired only when there is a critical skills gap that cannot be filled locally.

Additionally, the committee noted that Bahrainis currently head all HR departments under the Civil Service Bureau’s purview.

A risky proposal Critics argue that while the proposal aims to empower Bahraini workers, it could have unintended consequences. Skill shortages, delayed recruitment, and disrupted workflows are among the risks highlighted by experts.