A PROPOSED legislation to impose stricter controls on telemarketers harassing people could be introduced in Bahrain.
In a bid to protect consumer rights and regulate advertising practices, five Shura Council members, led by woman and child committee chairwoman Leena Qaasim, have proposed amendments to the 2012 Consumer Protection Law.
The move seeks to oblige telemarketers and advertisers to ensure that their communications do not intrude on consumers’ personal time or create unwelcome disturbances.
This initiative follows increasing public complaints about unsolicited and intrusive advertising practices, including phone calls, text messages and other forms of direct marketing.
Details of the proposed amendments were discussed at the financial and economic affairs committee meeting chaired by Khalid Al Maskati yesterday.
“Advertisers and telemarketers will be required to be considerate when contacting consumers,” said Ms Qassim.
“This includes ensuring that communication methods and timing are not intrusive,” she added.
“By obligating suppliers to respect consumer privacy, the proposal aligns with broader efforts to enhance consumer protection frameworks in Bahrain.
“The amendments will hold advertisers and telemarketers accountable for any breaches of consumer privacy, potentially introducing penalties for violations.”
The proposed changes, as described by Ms Qassim, reflect global trends in consumer protection, as many countries have adopted similar measures to regulate telemarketing and advertising practices.
For instance, ‘Do Not Call’ registries and stricter regulations on unsolicited marketing communications have been implemented in various jurisdictions to curb abuse.
In Bahrain, such amendments would modernise the legal framework to better address the challenges posed by technological advancements and new marketing strategies.
The proposal, if approved, will go through the legislative process, including discussions within the Shura Council and other relevant governmental bodies. Public consultation and feedback may also be sought to ensure that the amendments effectively balance business interests with consumer rights.
Ms Qassim emphasised the importance of this amendment, noting that respecting consumer privacy is essential for fostering trust between businesses and the public.
She also highlighted the broader implications for supporting ethical advertising practices in Bahrain.
“This amendment represents a significant step towards aligning Bahrain’s consumer protection laws with international best practices, ensuring that businesses respect consumer boundaries while promoting ethical marketing,” said Ms Qassim.
Mr Al Maskati said the legislation sets a general rule obligating the supplier or advertiser to ensure that they do not disturb the consumer when making marketing contact, or influence the consumer’s behaviour and direct him to purchase a service or product without his actual need for it.
“The draft law obliges the minister to issue a decision specifying the rules and controls for marketing contact, ensuring that the contact is made at appropriate times, verifying whether the consumer wants it to continue or not, ensuring that the contact is not repeated in the event that the product is rejected, and blocking the contact without charge at any time,” explained Mr Al Maskati.
“The proposed law also aims to expand the umbrella of consumer protection and develop the legislative system that protects consumer rights in accordance with best practices and experiences, and enhance trust between consumers, companies and commercial institutions in Bahrain, by creating a safe and attractive shopping environment that takes into account the privacy of individuals and their leisure time and limits the sources of their inconvenience.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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