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An urgent proposal calling for stronger oversight of institutions and associations funded by the Social Development Ministry to safeguard employees’ rights has been unanimously approved by MPs.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs led by Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman Khalid Bu Onk who attended the session but later left due to a medical condition, seeks to ensure that state-supported social entities fully comply with labour laws and contractual obligations.
It calls for enhanced regulatory mechanisms to prevent arbitrary dismissals, unlawful salary deductions and infringements on accrued benefits.
MP Mohammed Al Maarifi, a co-signee, said the proposal was driven by growing concerns over job security within some non-governmental organisations receiving government funding.
“Employee stability is the foundation of quality social services,” he told MPs during the debate. “No institution can deliver balanced and professional performance if its staff are constantly worried about sudden decisions that threaten their livelihoods.”
He stressed that public funds must be accompanied by public accountability.
“When institutions receive state support, they must also adhere strictly to employment contracts, wage protections, leave entitlements and all legally guaranteed rights,” he said. “Oversight is not interference – it is a preventive safeguard against arbitrary practices.”
The explanatory memorandum, accompanying the proposal, highlights the need for regular monitoring mechanisms and periodic evaluations of human resource practices within these entities. It argues that transparency in staff management reduces the risk of unjustified dismissals and unlawful benefit reductions, while strengthening trust among employees and service beneficiaries alike.
Mr Al Maarifi warned that instability within the workforce ultimately undermines the very communities these organisations are meant to serve.
“Frequent labour disputes or abrupt staffing changes directly affect the quality of care and social programmes delivered to citizens,” he said. “Protecting employees’ acquired rights protects the sustainability of the institution itself.”
The proposal emphasises striking a balance between administrative independence and the protection of workers’ rights, describing tighter supervision as a regulatory measure aimed at reinforcing justice and stability across the state-supported social sector.
MPs across the chamber voiced their backing for the initiative, underscoring the importance of ensuring that public funding does not inadvertently enable unfair employment practices.
In its final recommendation, Parliament called on the government to review existing oversight frameworks and introduce measures that guarantee compliance with labour standards and contractual obligations.
“With this step, we are sending a clear message,” Mr Al Maarifi said. “Social justice begins within our own and supported institutions. If we expect these organisations to serve the public good, we must also ensure they uphold fairness and dignity in their treatment of employees.”
The Cabinet is now expected to study the proposal and respond with its recommendations in due course.
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