Latest news with #YousifbinAbdulhussainKhalaf
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
New milestone: Bahrain achieves 99.96% compliance with summer midday work ban in 2025
Bahrain's Ministry of Labour announced a near-total compliance rate of 99.96%/Representative Image TL;DR: Bahrain enforces a summer midday work ban from 12 noon to 4pm between June 15 and September 15, aimed at protecting outdoor workers from heat-related health risks. This regulation, under Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013 and amended by Resolution No. (11) of 2025, has achieved near-total compliance (99.96%) in 2025 with only six violations recorded. Violators face penalties including fines between BD 500 and BD 1,000 and/or imprisonment up to three months. The ban reflects Bahrain's commitment to international labour standards for worker safety during the hottest hours. Bahrain's Ministry of Labour announced a near-total compliance rate of 99.96% with the kingdom's annual summer midday work ban, which prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12 noon to 4pm between June 15 and September 15. Established under Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013 and recently updated by Resolution No. (11) of 2025, the ban aims to protect workers from heat stress, sunstroke, and other heat-related illnesses during the region's hottest months. With stringent enforcement backed by penalties such as fines up to BD 1,000 and imprisonment, the policy aligns with Bahrain's dedication to safeguarding labour rights and occupational health. Overview of Bahrain's summer midday work ban What the law states Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013, amended by Resolution No. (11) of 2025, legally mandates a ban on outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12 noon to 4pm, effective between June 15 and September 15 annually. The regulation covers all sectors involving outdoor labour to reduce exposure to dangerous heat conditions during peak summer hours. It reflects compliance with international labour standards and supports efforts to create safer workplaces amid rising temperatures due to climate change. Enforcement and penalties The Ministry of Labour conducts extensive site inspections, having performed over 17,600 visits during the 2025 enforcement period. Only six violations affecting 12 workers were recorded so far, resulting in a 99.96% compliance rate, deemed a significant success by Ministry officials. Violations may incur: Fines between BD 500 and BD 1,000 Imprisonment for up to three months Or both, according to Article 192 of Law No. (36) of 2012 (Labour Law for the Private Sector). A hotline (32265727) has been established for the public to report violations, strengthening community involvement in enforcement. Ministry and leadership statements Assistant Undersecretary Aqeel Abdul Ali BuHussain praised private sector commitment to worker safety, noting that high compliance reduces heat-related illnesses and boosts productivity. Minister of Legal Affairs and Acting Minister of Labour Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf has highlighted the ban's extension from two to three months (starting 2025) as a proactive measure to protect workers during the intensest heat periods. The Ministry also emphasizes education, providing awareness campaigns, multilingual guides, and safety workshops to employers and workers. The policy is part of a larger strategy to modernize labour laws, improve occupational health and safety, and align Bahrain with global workplace standards. Broader context The ban aligns with international data identifying heat stress as a growing cause of lost working hours globally. Bahrain's move mirrors similar bans across the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE, reflecting regional efforts to protect workers amid harsh climates. Bahrain's rigorous enforcement of the summer midday work ban reflects the country's strong commitment to worker health and safety amid increasingly challenging climate conditions. With near-perfect compliance and clearly defined legal consequences, the Ministry of Labour has demonstrated effective governance in protecting outdoor workers from heat-related risks. The ongoing efforts in education, awareness, and comprehensive oversight not only safeguard labour rights but also contribute to a more sustainable and productive workforce. As Bahrain continues to adapt its labour policies in line with international standards, this midday work ban serves as a model for occupational safety in hot climates regionally and globally.
Daily Tribune
10-06-2025
- Climate
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Expands Midday Work Ban to Three Months
Bahrain has extended its annual midday work ban to three months, effective from June 15 to September 15. The move, announced by His Excellency Mr. Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf, Minister of Legal Affairs and Acting Minister of Labour, underscores the Kingdom's ongoing commitment to occupational safety and public health. Under the updated Ministerial Order No. (3) of 2013—recently amended by Order No. (11) of 2025—the regulation prohibits all outdoor work between 12:00 noon and 4:00 p.m., during which temperatures and humidity levels typically peak. 'The extension from two to three months is more than just a regulatory adjustment—it is a proactive measure to safeguard the health of workers exposed to the elements,' said Minister Khalaf. 'By reducing heat exposure during the most intense hours of the day, we are minimizing the risk of heat exhaustion, sunstroke, and other serious heat-related illnesses.' The Minister added that the initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to modernize labor laws, reduce workplace injuries, and improve overall working conditions, especially during Bahrain's searing summer months. Enforcement of the regulation will be strict, with legal repercussions for non-compliance. In accordance with Article 192 of Law No. (36) of 2012, employers found in violation may face penalties including up to three months' imprisonment, fines ranging from BHD 500 to BHD 1,000, or both. This strengthened policy reinforces Bahrain's role as a regional leader in labor rights, reflecting the nation's broader vision of sustainable development rooted in the dignity and safety of its workforce.
Daily Tribune
07-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
H.E. Minister tells ILO Bahrain sees labour rights as economic lever
TDT | Manama Bahrain is positioning labour rights not just as a social necessity but as a driver of economic progress, according to His Excellency Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf, Minister of Legal Affairs and Acting Minister of Labour. Addressing the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, H.E. Minister Khalaf said the Kingdom was committed to aligning employment policies with legal protections and social justice, in line with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. 'Safeguarding workers' rights and promoting decent jobs are not just values, they are engines of development,' H.E. the minister said, reflecting on the conference theme, 'Forging the Link Between Jobs, Rights, and Economic Growth.' Integrated reforms H.E. the minister outlined a series of reforms and legal initiatives underway in Bahrain to protect trade union freedoms, support social dialogue, and strengthen workplace safety. The Minister drew attention to Bahrain's Tier 1 status in the US Department of State's Trafficking in Persons Report for the seventh consecutive year, calling it an international recognition of the Kingdom's effective and proactive efforts to combat exploitation. His Excellency Khalaf also noted the complete absence of child labour in the Kingdom, the country's anti-discrimination protections, and the rollout of updated occupational health and safety standards. Youth and women H.E. Also stressed that Bahrain's labour vision also prioritises inclusion, with programmes aimed at increasing youth participation in the labour market and promoting the advancement of women in the workforce. Khalaf praised the report by ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo and echoed its call to see workers' rights as integral to economic resilience.
Bahrain News Gazette
02-05-2025
- Business
- Bahrain News Gazette
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Highlights Workforce Role in Bahrain's Development
Manama: His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today met with His Excellency Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf, Minister of Legal Affairs and Acting Minister of Labour, on the occasion of Labour Day. His Royal Highness commended the dedication and contributions of Bahrain's national workforce to the Kingdom's development, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. According to Bahrain News Agency, HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Bahraini citizens for their determination, which drives the Kingdom's progress. HRH appreciated the workforce's loyalty and dedication to national service and reaffirmed the Kingdom's commitment to prioritising its citizens in national development. HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad highlighted the national workforce's role in shaping Bahrain's future and underscored efforts to develop Bahraini talent to align with emerging job opportunities. These initiatives, led by the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) and His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, aim to upskill citizens in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and the private sector. His Excellency Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf expressed gratitude for HRH's support and affirmed the Ministry's commitment to empowering Bahraini citizens, aligning with HRH's directives. The meeting was also attended by His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy.
Daily Tribune
02-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Commends National Workforce on Labour Day
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, met today with His Excellency Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf, Minister of Legal Affairs and Acting Minister of Labour, to mark Labour Day and honour the invaluable contributions of Bahrain's national workforce. During the meeting, His Royal Highness praised the commitment, professionalism, and excellence demonstrated by Bahraini workers across all sectors. He emphasised that Bahraini citizens remain at the heart of the Kingdom's progress, serving as a vital component of Team Bahrain and playing a central role in advancing the comprehensive development journey spearheaded by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. His Royal Highness expressed deep appreciation for the determination and resilience shown by the workforce, noting their crucial role in shaping a strong and forward-looking Bahrain. He also highlighted the importance of their loyalty and dedication to national service, which continue to bolster the Kingdom's reputation on both regional and international fronts. Reaffirming the government's unwavering commitment to placing citizens at the forefront of national development, HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister underscored the need to continue investing in upskilling and preparing Bahrainis for the evolving demands of the job market. He highlighted the alignment of these efforts with initiatives led by the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), chaired by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, in close cooperation with the Ministry of Labour and the private sector. His Royal Highness noted that these initiatives not only support individual career growth but also contribute to building a resilient and future-ready national economy. For his part, His Excellency Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf expressed his gratitude for His Royal Highness's continuous support and guidance. He affirmed the Ministry's full commitment to implementing directives that further empower Bahraini citizens and enhance their role in national development. Also present at the meeting was His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy. The meeting served as a reaffirmation of Bahrain's national priorities—placing its people first, building a sustainable workforce, and celebrating the achievements of those who drive the Kingdom's progress forward.
