State aid for housewives!

TDT | Manama

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State support for financially vulnerable house wive s over 40 years of age.

A proposal aimed at expanding the social support programme calls for financial aid to married women over 40 who lack a steady income.

Tabled in parliament by MP Jalal Kadhem, the move seeks to offer financial assistance to housewives without fixed earnings.

The Services Committee, after discussions with Kadhem, introduced amendments to tighten definitions and clarify eligibility criteria.

Kadhem said many housewives, including those with university degrees, had dedicated their lives to raising families and managing households. “These women contribute just as much to society as those in paid work. They build homes, raise the next generation, and keep families together. It’s only fair they’re recognised,” he said.

An amendment would remove an existing clause that prevents those with financially capable relatives from receiving social assistance. This means a woman’s right to support would no longer be tied to her husband’s income.

The Financial and Economic Affairs Committee has advised that the change would require extra funding but said it could help struggling households. The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee has confirmed the draft is legally sound.

The Supreme Council for Women has raised concerns over overlapping benefits. However, Kadhem argued that the wording had been adjusted to ensure it does not affect other categories, such as widows, divorcees, and abandoned women. “This change is for married women without an income of their own. It won’t affect those who already qualify under different rules,” he said.

The committee also added wording to confirm that a husband’s wealth would not block a housewife from claiming support. Kadhem said this addressed a long-standing policy gap. “A woman’s financial security should not depend entirely on her husband’s bank balance. Many housewives do unpaid work that keeps society running, yet they don’t get a dinar for it,” he said.

“Housewives raise families, support communities, and do work that goes unpaid. Meanwhile, employees and labourers get a wage for their role in the economy. It’s time we acknowledged the work they do,” he said.