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SDG 5: Focus Areas

 5.3.2 Policy for women applications and entry

Women’s Enrollment and Leadership Participation Policy

Policy for Ensuring Fairness and Equality in the Work Environment and Combating Forced Labor

1. General Definition

University University of Bahrain
Forced Labor Any service or work exacted from an individual under coercion or threat, for which the person has not offered themselves voluntarily.
Modern Slavery Includes forms of exploitation such as human trafficking, forced labor, and servitude.
Human Trafficking The recruitment, transportation, or harboring of persons for the purpose of exploitation, by means such as coercion, deception, or abuse of power, including exploitation in prostitution, forced labor, slavery, servitude, or organ removal.
Child Labor The employment of children below the legal age specified by national and international law.
External Parties / Third Parties Any institution or entity contracted by the University to provide services or perform work.
Gender Pay Gap The difference in average earnings between men and women for the same work or work of equal value.

2. Policy Objective
This policy ensures adherence to the highest ethical and humanitarian standards in the workplace, promoting fairness, equality, and respect for all. It aims to:

    • Ensure a work environment free from exploitation and abuse.
    • Promote fairness and equality in wages and opportunities.
    • Protect the rights of workers employed by third-party contractors.
    • Comply with international human rights conventions ratified by the Kingdom of Bahrain.

3. Policy Scope
This policy applies to:

      • All university employees, whether permanent or temporary.
      • External parties contracted with the University.
      • All academic, administrative, and service activities within the University.

4. Policy Content

Firstly: The University provides a safe work environment that encourages creativity and innovation through the following measures:

    • 1. Combating Forced Labor and Modern Slavery:
      • The University prohibits any form of forced labor, child labor, or human trafficking.
      • The General Director of Administrative Services verifies contractors’ compliance with human rights standards.
      • The Director of Educational Facilities monitors violations and reports them for necessary action.
    • 2. Ensuring the Rights of Workers with External Parties:
      • Contractors must provide fair working conditions to all workers performing duties on campus.
      • Workers must receive all rights and benefits guaranteed under Bahrain’s labor laws and related regulations.
      • The University provides administrative and legal support mechanisms for contractor-employed workers.
    • 3. Pay Equity:
      • The University monitors and addresses any gender pay gaps.
      • Corrective actions are taken to ensure fairness and equality.
      • The Personnel Affairs Directorate submits periodic transparency reports to the University President.

Secondly, Grievance Handling:
The University has established mechanisms to ensure fairness, confidentiality, and accountability in addressing complaints and grievances:

        • The University provides safe and confidential channels for reporting violations of this policy.
        • An independent Equal Opportunities Committee reviews all complaints, ensuring impartiality and prompt action.
        • Retaliation against individuals who file grievances is strictly prohibited.
        • Individuals may appeal and request reviews of committee decisions as per established procedures.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

    • General Director of Administrative Services: Implements and monitors compliance, submitting reports.
    • Equal Opportunities Committee: Reviews grievances and ensures protection from retaliation.
    • Contracted Parties: Comply with policy and submit periodic compliance reports.
    • Faculty, Staff, and Workers: Report violations through official channels.

6. Contact and Information:

For inquiries or assistance regarding the implementation of this policy:

  • University Affiliates: Personnel Affairs Directorate –
    uobhr@uob.edu.bh
  • Workers of Service Contractors: Director of Educational Facilities –
    dgas@uob.edu.bh