Bahrain’s Labor Ministry will discontinue the renewal or issuance of work permits for expatriates by 2005. The new regulations are intended to reduce the unemployment rate among Bahraini nationals.
Once the new policy comes into effect, local firms will be able to apply for temporary permits for foreigners, reported Gulf News. Permits will be valid for a maximum period of six months. However, exceptions will be permitted in sectors where there is a lack of Bahraini expertise.
Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Majeed Al-Alawi promised at a recent meeting with community leaders to introduce a package that will radically reduce the amount of jobless Bahrainis by 2004.
According to members of Bahrain’s consultative council, local unemployment is currently at 25 percent, or between 20,000 and 30,000 Bahrainis from mainly the young sector of the population who account for 60 percent of the country's 700,000 residents. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
