Bahrain Parliament Committee Proposes Law to Protect Working Women

The Services Committee of Bahrain’s Council of Representatives is reviewing a proposed law aimed at strengthening the rights of working women in the kingdom. The proposal, which could be discussed in the upcoming parliamentary session, seeks to amend the Civil Labor Law by requiring employers to provide suitable seating for female employees, ensuring a comfortable and safe work environment.

MP Hanan Fardan, one of the main sponsors of the proposal, told Al-Ayam that the law is intended to protect women at work by obliging employers to offer appropriate seating, which would support both employee comfort and workplace productivity.

Fardan explained that the idea for the proposal came after repeated complaints from Bahraini women working in shops and private companies, who were forced to stand for long hours under what she described as “exploitative” policies. She emphasized that such practices are inhumane and should not continue.

The MP highlighted that providing seating opportunities during long working hours not only reduces physical fatigue but also improves the mental well-being of employees, increases productivity, and strengthens institutional loyalty—benefits that ultimately serve employers as well. She added that passing the law would mark an important step in promoting social justice and equal opportunities.

According to the explanatory memorandum, the Bahraini Constitution guarantees the state’s commitment to helping women balance family responsibilities with professional work, while ensuring equality with men across political, social, cultural, and economic fields, in line with Islamic law.

The proposal calls for seating to be provided in all workplaces in Bahrain, even in roles that require movement, as regular seating can reduce physical strain, improve employee performance, and decrease absenteeism. It also helps prevent injuries from prolonged standing and supports the overall well-being of women, positively impacting both their mental health and productivity.