Bahraini Hiring Priority Before Parliament

One key proposal, submitted by MP Abdulwahid Qarata and backed by 23 MPs, seeks to amend Article 13 of the Constitution to give Bahrainis priority in job opportunities. The change would also link employment and fair working conditions to citizens’ academic and professional qualifications.

The proposal, approved by the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee and referred to Parliament’s Bureau, aims to strengthen the state’s responsibility in addressing labour market challenges, including unemployment and job competition.

Mr Qarata said the amendment is designed to ensure fairer access to work for citizens and reinforce social and economic stability.

A second proposal would guarantee free healthcare for all citizens by revising Article 8. It would place a constitutional duty on the state to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The amendment has already cleared committee-level approval.

The explanatory note argues that universal free healthcare would improve public health outcomes and reduce long-term costs on the state by encouraging early treatment and prevention.

The third amendment concerns housing. It would revise Article 9 to state that the state shall work to provide housing for citizens, strengthening constitutional protections for the right to housing. The proposal is still under review by the parliamentary committee.

Together, the three amendments aim to expand constitutional guarantees related to employment, health, and housing for Bahraini citizens.