NIHR Chairperson’s Statement on the Minister of Labour’s Decision Regulating Foreign Workers’ Employment
Eng. Ali Ahmed Alderazi, Chairperson of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), affirmed that the new amendment regulating the employment of a foreign worker by another employer represents an important step in developing the labour market system, as it provides a clearer and more flexible legal framework, promotes a balance between labour market requirements and the protection of foreign workers’ rights, and safeguards the legitimate rights and interests of employers.
Alderazi explained that the amendment, issued by a decision of the Minister of Labour, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), amending certain provisions of Decision No. (76) of 2008 on regulating work permits for foreign workers other than domestic workers, contributes to streamlining procedures and clarifying obligations and responsibilities. This supports the stability of labour relations and strengthens the legal and contractual protections afforded to all parties.
He noted that this step is consistent with the principles of business and human rights, which underscore the responsibility of business enterprises to respect human rights in their practices and contractual relationships. He further explained that a clear legal framework helps strengthen employers’ responsibility to respect workers’ rights while, at the same time, providing clearer safeguards for employers’ legitimate rights and interests.
Alderazi further affirmed that the continued development of legislation and regulations governing the labour market in a manner that combines flexibility with the protection of rights would support the Kingdom of Bahrain’s efforts to advance human rights in the context of business and promote responsible business practices. He stressed the importance of the effective implementation of the amendment in a manner that safeguards the legal and contractual rights of foreign workers, protects employers’ interests, and enhances the stability and balance of labour relations in accordance with relevant international principles and standards.
