Unemployment Takes Centre Stage in Parliament Next Tuesday

TDT | Manama

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The Bahraini House of Representatives is set to convene a crucial general debate this Tuesday, focusing intently on the government's strategies for tackling unemployment and fostering job creation, particularly for young Bahrainis entering the workforce for the first time.

This important parliamentary discussion aims to thoroughly scrutinise the government's approach and elicit a comprehensive explanation of its plans to address the multifaceted challenges facing unemployed individuals and recent graduates.
The motion for this vital debate was formally submitted by a group of prominent MPs: Mohamed Al Maarifi, Ahmed Qarata, Jameel Mulla Hasan, Mohammed Al Rifaei, Hesham Al Awadhi, Abdulnabi Salman, Khalid Buanaq, Zainab Abdulameer, and Mohammed Al Ahmed.

The debate's agenda is structured around five key areas of inquiry. Firstly, a detailed analysis of the current unemployment landscape is planned, including a thorough presentation of statistical data on unemployment rates, the precise number of unemployed individuals, the specific challenges faced by first-time job seekers, and an in-depth examination of which academic specialisations are experiencing disproportionately high unemployment rates.

Secondly, the debate will delve into the challenges faced by both existing job seekers and the long-term unemployed. This will include an examination of the criteria used to determine eligibility for unemployment benefits, the potential for benefit cancellation, and a critical assessment of the effectiveness of existing government programmes.

Thirdly, the substantial BD200 million allocated under Royal Decree Law No. 20 of 2023 to combat unemployment will be subject to detailed scrutiny. The debate will discuss the specific plans and programmes designed to utilise these funds effectively and transparently, ensuring accountability and measurable outcomes.

Fourthly, the current levels of unemployment benefits will be examined, with a particular focus on the minimum and maximum benefit amounts. The MPs will explore the potential for adjusting these amounts to better reflect the rising cost of living, as indicated by the consumer price index, ensuring that benefits remain adequate and supportive.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the debate will press the government for a clear and comprehensive articulation of its overall strategy for addressing unemployment.

The MPs will seek a detailed explanation of the government's long-term vision for tackling this critical issue and ensuring that all Bahraini citizens have access to meaningful employment opportunities.