H.E. Yusuf Khalaf: Bahrainis must complete training courses for unemployment support

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrainis looking for work must complete training courses and attend them regularly to qualify for unemployment benefits, Acting Labour Minister, His Excellency Yusuf Khalaf, has clarified.

He also rejected claims that the ministry has withheld information about labour market challenges.

Khalaf, responding to a parliamentary question from MP Ahmed Qarata, said unemployment benefits are governed by strict legal conditions.

“The law is clear — if a job seeker fails to complete training successfully or skips sessions, they won’t qualify for assistance. We enforce these rules without exception,” he said.

The minister assured job seekers that they have options to challenge decisions.

“If someone feels the outcome is unfair, they can appeal to the grievances committee, and if still dissatisfied, they have the right to take their case to court,’ he added.

Regarding allegations of withholding data, Khalaf dismissed the claims, insisting the government has been open about the issue.

“There is no withholding of information or numbers. This is one of the government’s most pressing issues, and we treat it as such,’” he said.

He also shed light on the ongoing review of work permits and job categories available to expatriates, which is being conducted in coordination with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

Khalaf said any job that Bahrainis express an interest in pursuing would be reconsidered.

“We regularly review and adjust our approach to ensure opportunities are available to locals,” he said.

Recent figures show that 74 per cent of foreign workers in Bahrain are employed in fields like construction, hospitality, and garages, with most earning less than BD200 a month.

This reliance on low-skilled labour has sparked calls for reforms to provide more opportunities for Bahrainis.

Khalaf emphasised that the government remains focused on addressing these concerns through policies grounded in openness and fairness.

“This is an ongoing effort, and we’re committed to ensuring fair outcomes for all parties involved,” he said.