Five MPs, led by Hamad Al Doy, are calling for the creation of targeted government programmes for single citizens.
The proposal also seeks to gradually integrate eligible individuals into existing social support schemes, which have traditionally focused on married couples and families.
It comes in response to the evolving social and economic landscape in Bahrain, the parliamentarians say.
Mr Al Doy pointed out the urgent need to address the exclusion of single Bahrainis from several forms of government assistance, despite many of them bearing significant family responsibilities.
“Currently, a large segment of single citizens is not covered by many governmental programmes and support mechanisms,” Mr Al Doy stated.
“Yet many of them are responsible for supporting their families – whether it’s their parents, siblings, grandparents, or even aunts and uncles.
“Bahrain’s society is deeply rooted in family solidarity, and our social support policies must reflect that reality.”
The proposal calls for eligible single Bahrainis to be included in several key support programmes, such as:
l The Cost of Living Allowance
l Electricity and Water Subsidies
l Social Housing Programmes
l Priority Access to Job Training and Employment Schemes
In addition, the MPs propose offering conditional financial aid based on the individual’s social circumstances and family obligations.
According to Mr Al Doy, the initiative is grounded in principles of social justice and national cohesion. He explained that current eligibility criteria, which are largely limited to married individuals and families, are no longer in step with the realities of modern Bahraini society.
“Restricting support to the married or to families does not reflect the current social realities,” Mr Al Doy said. “Delays in marriage are increasingly common due to economic and social transformations, and many single individuals still carry heavy responsibilities. It is time to revise our criteria and ensure equity in support distribution.”
Mr Al Doy also stressed that the proposal aims to promote economic participation, improve living conditions and enhance social stability for single citizens.
“This proposal is not just about financial assistance,” he added. “It’s about empowering a segment of our society that is often overlooked. By recognising their contributions and responsibilities, we are fostering stronger families and a more resilient social fabric.”
Mr Al Doy expressed hope that the government and relevant authorities would give the proposal serious consideration. “We hope this initiative will be met with the attention it deserves,” he said.
“Especially as it concerns a large number of youth. It’s a step toward more comprehensive and fair social justice in our country.”
He believes the proposal marks a significant shift in how Bahrain’s social safety net could be structured, reflecting broader trends in delaying marriage and diversifying household dynamics.
“If adopted, it could set a new precedent in inclusive policymaking that better mirrors the country’s social fabric,” he added.
The proposal has been forwarded to the services committee chaired by MP Jalila Al Sayed for review.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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