BAHRAINI women married to GCC citizens should be entitled to the kingdom’s cost-of-living allowance provided they reside permanently in Bahrain, an MP has proposed.
Jalal Kadhem Al Mahfoodh said that it was only fair that the support enjoyed by Bahraini men in similar circumstances should be extended to Bahraini women.
“This proposal comes after closely observing the struggles of a number of Bahraini families burdened by rising living costs and increasing economic pressures,” he stresed.
“Currently, Bahraini women married to GCC citizens do not benefit from the cost-of-living allowance, even though many of them bear the full responsibility of supporting and raising their families. This is simply unfair and needs to be addressed.”
He stressed that Bahraini women in such circumstances are no less connected to their homeland than others, and often shoulder equal – if not greater – burdens.
“They raise children, cover daily expenses and contribute to society just like their counterparts,” said Mr Al Mahfoodh.
“Recognising their contribution through the cost-of-living allowance is both a matter of social justice and gender balance.”
The MP emphasised that granting this support would represent an important step toward strengthening Bahrain’s social protection framework.
“Including this category of citizens in the cost-of-living programme will reinforce social security and ensure that both men and women equally benefit from government support,” he said.
“Improving the standard of living for our people is a core principle championed by the leadership and a central part of national development strategies.”
Mr Al Mahfoodh reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to pursuing initiatives that ease the financial burdens faced by citizens.
“The legislative authority will continue its efforts to support all Bahrainis in facing the challenges of high prices and securing a dignified life for their families,” he pledged.
The proposal was referred by Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam to the services committee yesterday for a review by the relevant authorities.
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