Government Opposes Bill Restricting Foreigner Employment in Public Sector

It argues that the actual needs and varying circumstances governing the determination of knowledge and skills required for a position, in addition to the basic qualifications for performing the duties of that position, should be left to the relevant government agencies. This approach, the government maintains, ensures that government bodies can effectively fulfill their responsibilities.

The bill, reviewed by the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee, seeks to amend Article 11 of the Civil Service Law (Decree-Law No. 48 of 2010). The proposed amendment would mandate that non-Bahraini contract employees possess at least a master's degree or equivalent in their specialisation, along with ten years of relevant experience. Contracts would be limited to a maximum of two years, renewable for a similar period subject to the Civil Service Bureau committee's approval and a commitment to training Bahraini employees.

The bill aims to limit the hiring of foreigners in the public sector, prioritising Bahraini citizens and promoting the development of local talent. The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee, however, recommended approval of the bill.

The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on the bill in its upcoming session, with approval and subsequent referral to the Shura Council anticipated. The government's opposition suggests a potential showdown between the legislative and executive branches.