Stricter rules for hiring non-Bahrainis could backfire by giving foreign workers an unfair advantage, the Shura Council warned yesterday, as it rejected a controversial proposal to amend the Civil Service Law. The proposal sought to impose a master’s degree, 10 years of experience, and two-year contract limits for foreign hires, while requiring them to train Bahraini employees. Members also raised alarm over the continued presence of 5,800 expatriates in public sector roles, despite a five-year reduction of just 2,000. Parliament passed the proposal in October, aiming to open up more opportunities for Bahrainis. However, the Shura Council called the proposal unnecessary and unworkable, with members pointing out that some of its measures already exist in law. Red tape The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, His Excellency Ghanim Buainain, said, “The current law already ensures foreign contracts include training Bahraini employees. What we see here isn’t filling a gap, but adding more red tape.” Buainain also noted that Council members opposed the master’s degree requirement, arguing it would do more harm than good. “This condition would just add to costs and create barriers in hiring for critical roles,” he said. Dr Mohammed Ali Hassan backed the importance of prioritising Bahraini workers but […]