
MPs approve bill requiring employers to give advance notice or pay full compensation
TDT | Manama
A proposal to compel employers to pay full compensation in cases of economic dismissal, unless they notify the Labour Ministry two months in advance and provide audited accounts, has passed through Parliament and now moves to the Shura Council for review.
During the debate, Acting Labour Minister Yousif Khalaf warned that the bill rests on a mistaken belief that financial losses are the only cause of workforce reductions.
He told MPs that firms may cut jobs for a range of reasons, including organisational changes, shifts in production, regulatory pressures, or events beyond their control.
He argued that the proposal does not capture these realities and would unfairly burden businesses, particularly smaller ones.
Khalaf pointed out that requiring proof of losses over three consecutive years would force companies to carry staff they could no longer afford, even where their operations were shrinking or struggling.
Audited accounts
Many microbusinesses, he said, do not maintain regular audited accounts and would find it impossible to comply with the new demands.
He warned that tying employers' hands in this way might seem on the surface to protect Bahraini workers but would, in practice, discourage firms from hiring.
The aim, he said, should be to create a balanced working environment where both employee and employer interests are taken into account.
The minister also explained that workforce reductions are sometimes the result of factors such as falling demand, soaring costs, or a lack of administrative capacity, rather than wilful neglect or bad faith.
He said forcing small firms to hold on to workers under such conditions could push them closer to collapse.
The bill, which amends Bahrain's Labour Law (Law No. 36 of 2012), was originally submitted as a revised proposal by Parliament.
It sets out stricter steps for ending contracts where economic reasons are cited, such as full or partial closure or the replacement of production methods.
Under the new terms, employers must notify the Labour Ministry 60 days before informing the worker.
Financial records
This notice must be backed by financial records covering the past three years or the most recent audited statement, depending on the circumstances.
In cases where both a Bahraini and a foreign worker hold the same job with similar experience and skill, the Bahraini must be kept on unless the company is closing entirely.
Failure to meet the notice requirement or the submission of inaccurate information would entitle the worker to full compensation under Article 111. Where procedures are followed correctly, only half that amount is payable.
The government voiced concerns that the bill would add to the burdens of struggling firms without offering any meaningful gain to either party in the employment relationship.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Daily Tribune
an hour ago
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Honours German Envoy
TDT | Manama Bahrain's farewell to His Excellency German Ambassador Clemens Hach took on a deeply traditional tone as the Ajoor Family Council presented him with a ceremonial bisht, symbolising honour and respect. His spouse, Valerie Hach, received a Thobe Al-Nashal, echoing Bahrain's cultural heritage and hospitality. The formal luncheon, hosted by Mr. Ahmed Ajoor, Mr. Nabeel Ajoor, and Mr. Tareq Ajoor, brought together senior diplomats, dignitaries, and members of Bahrain's business and civic community to mark the ambassador's departure and celebrate the strong ties between the two nations. Symbolic recognition In a heartfelt address, Mr. Nabeel Ajoor praised Ambassador Hach's 'outstanding efforts in enhancing bilateral relations and promoting meaningful cooperation,' highlighting his contribution to strengthening cultural and diplomatic engagement during his tenure. Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Director General of the Institute of Public Administration, and His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director General of Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were among the notable figures present. Diplomatic presence Also attending were representatives from the German Embassy, board members of the Bahrain Businessmen's Association and the Bahrain Businesswomen's Society, and a distinguished group of invited guests. Remarks were delivered by H.E. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa, Ambassador Hach, Dr. Fatema Abduljabbar Alkooheji, Chairperson of the Bahrain Businesswomen's Society, and Mr. Ahmed bin Hindi, Chairman of the Bahrain Businessmen's Association. The event closed with an exchange of commemorative gifts and expressions of mutual appreciation, reflecting the warmth and respect that marked Ambassador Hach's years of service in Bahrain.


Daily Tribune
an hour ago
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Joins Global Education Leaders
TDT | Manama Applied Science University (ASU) has placed Bahrain firmly on the global academic map by participating in the 2025 NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo, the world's largest international education event held this year in San Diego, California. Represented by Dr Mohammed Yousif, Vice President for Administration, Finance, and Community Engagement, ASU was among more than 400 institutions and academic service providers from over 100 countries. The gathering brought together more than 10,000 education leaders and professionals, reinforcing its reputation as a premier platform for cross-border academic dialogue and partnership. ASU's presence at the global event aligns with its recent inclusion in the QS World University Rankings, a milestone shared by only four Bahraini universities. This achievement reflects growing international recognition of Bahrain's academic institutions and supports the Kingdom's broader ambition to become a regional leader in higher education.


Daily Tribune
an hour ago
- Daily Tribune
GCC Boosts Marine Defences
TDT | Manama The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has renewed its collective pledge to defend the Arabian Gulf's fragile marine ecosystem, launching a call for stronger regional collaboration and investment in ocean-safe technologies. Speaking at the Third United Nations Ocean and Climate Conference in Nice, France, GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi said the region is pushing forward with joint efforts to curb marine pollution, protect biodiversity, and implement Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on life below water. Strategic waters Surrounded by three major bodies of water, GCC countries occupy a strategic maritime corridor. Yet, Al-Budaiwi noted, the Arabian Gulf faces intense environmental stress. As a semi-enclosed sea, it is highly sensitive to pollution, climate-driven changes, and marine degradation. 'This ocean represents a very important natural resource for our countries,' Al-Budaiwi said, citing coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and fisheries as vital to food security, cultural heritage, and economic growth. He highlighted the Gulf 's global significance, noting that over 40,000 ships, including key oil tankers, pass through its waters every year — making maritime protection critical to both the region and the world economy. Al-Budaiwi pointed to a growing portfolio of collective initiatives among GCC countries: creating marine protected areas, enforcing sustainable fisheries practices, and combatting marine pollution. He emphasised that the GCC is also integrating marine research, data-sharing, and early warning systems as part of a joint response to ocean and climate threats. 'Gulf countries recognise that ocean health does not respect borders,' he said, stressing the need for regional coordination to defend marine ecosystems from rising temperatures, acidification, habitat loss, and industrial pressures. Global engagement The UN conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica and held under the patronage of French President Emmanuel Macron, brought together global leaders, environmental experts, and senior officials. Al-Budaiwi used the platform to underline the GCC's openness to international partnerships that help protect oceans for future generations. He reaffirmed the Council's full commitment to advancing SDG 14 through innovation, cooperation, and long-term sustainability planning.