Bahrain Business Leader Warns 36 Million Jobs at Risk by 2027

TDT | Manama

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Bahrain business leader Sonia Mohammed Janahi has called for stronger international cooperation to address the growing economic consequences of escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning that continued instability could place around 36 million jobs worldwide at risk by 2027.

Speaking during the 114th session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Janahi said rising geopolitical tensions are increasingly affecting global trade, investment flows, energy prices and transportation networks, placing mounting pressure on economies, businesses and labour markets around the world.

Representing employers and Bahrain’s private sector at the conference, Janahi outlined the economic challenges facing both the region and the wider international community amid ongoing geopolitical developments. She noted that the effects are being felt directly across global supply chains, labour markets and international trade systems.

Janahi stressed that the private sector is among the sectors most heavily impacted by the current situation, citing rising operational, energy, transport and insurance costs, in addition to disruptions in supply chains and declining investor confidence.

She added that small and medium-sized enterprises are facing increasing difficulties and require stronger support, describing them as a key driver of economic growth and job creation.

Janahi emphasised that the security and stability of the Gulf region remain essential to supporting the global economy and sustaining labour markets, given the region’s strategic position and central role in global energy supplies and international trade routes.

She said stability in maritime corridors and supply chains directly affects global market stability and investor confidence, adding that strengthening regional security contributes to economic growth, job protection and the creation of a favourable environment for investment and sustainable development.

Janahi also underlined the importance of safeguarding international shipping routes and ensuring freedom of navigation, describing both as fundamental to maintaining global trade, energy security and supply chain stability.

She called for enhanced international cooperation, dialogue and diplomacy to address current challenges and support efforts aimed at protecting the global economy and helping the private sector adapt to changing economic conditions.

During the conference, Janahi also chaired the General Discussion Committee on “Advancing the Transformative Agenda for Gender Equality in the World of Work”.

The committee discussed ways to strengthen gender equality in labour markets, address challenges facing women’s economic participation, and review policies and practices that support more inclusive and equitable working environments.

Janahi stressed the importance of continuing international efforts to increase women’s participation across economic sectors and create supportive workplaces that ensure equal opportunities and promote sustainable economic growth.

She said empowering women economically is one of the key pillars for achieving comprehensive development and improving labour market productivity.

Concluding her participation, Janahi stated that peace, stability, respect for international law and state sovereignty are fundamental to building a safer and more prosperous future that ensures continued economic growth and sustainable development for people worldwide.