Domestic workers, not our servants

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Servants: The term is outdated and inappropriate in a modern society. Hence, it should no longer be used for its fails to align with contemporary values of equality, respect, and dignity for all individuals.

Instead, individuals in such professions in the Kingdom should be referred to as "domestic employees”.

This will be the case if a proposal tabled before parliament receives approval from MPs.

Their approval will pave the way for replacing the terms "household servants" and "household servant" in all existing laws and regulations in the Kingdom.

Most importantly, MPs are also planning to introduce stricter penalties against the seizure of workers' identification documents without their consent.

The proposed law aims to imp o s e a f i n e o f BD500 on anyone found guilty of this violation.

The move seeks to modernize labour legislation, ensure workers' rights, and update outdated terminology.

What is needed? The draft law mandates that employers issue receipts for any documents, certificates, or tools deposited by workers.

These items must be returned upon the worker's request. Failure to comply will result in fines ranging from BD200 to BD500, as outlined in Article 12 of the draft law.

The law also amends Articles 2 and 12 of the Labour Law in the Private Sector (Law No. 36 of 2012). It excludes government employees and those governed by civil or military service regulations from its provisions.

Similarly, family members financially dependent on the employer—including spouses, parents, and children—are exempt from most of the law's requirements.

For domestic workers, including nannies, drivers, guards, cooks, and others in similar roles, the Cabinet is expected to issue new regulations based on recommendations from the Minister. These regulations will govern employment relationships and provide a framework tailored to the specific nature of these role.