Bahrain outlines efforts to mitigate pandemic effects on labour market

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Labour and Social Development Minister Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, the Chairman of the current session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Labour Ministers’ Council, participated in the 109th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC 2021), held by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

ILO Director-General Guy Ryder, ILO member states’ labour ministers, representatives of labour organisations and lablour unions, as well as experts from the relevant organisations, participated in the virtual conference.

The ILC 2021 reviewed the ILO Director-General’s report on the impacts of the COVID-19 on labour markets, and the efforts being exerted to mitigate its economic and social repercussions. The 109th ILC session also discussed equality and non-discrimination at work, the strategic goals of social protection and the importance of skills and lifelong education in developing human resources.

Addressing ILC 2021 on behalf of the GCC countries, the Minister reviewed GCC states’ efforts to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on their labour markets, adhere to international labour standards, enhance cooperation with ILO to ensure the growth and stability of their labour markets and achieve a balance between the three production parties.

Regarding Bahrain’s efforts to confront the pandemic, Humaidan indicated that, based on the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Kingdom has launched an economic stimulus package worth more than $12 billion to enhance the efficiency of the health sector and ensure the continuous provision of free treatment services to citizens and residents, without discrimination.

The Minister added that the government of Bahrain has spent more than one billion dollars to mitigate the economic repercussions on institutions and individuals, which contributed to limiting the layoffs of national workers in private sector facilities.

He also affirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to international labour conventions and standards, noting that Bahrain has respected the rights of national and expatriate workers, alike, during the pandemic.