In 1993, during the 14th session in Riyadh, the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) made a groundbreaking resolution. This resolution granted GCC nationals employed in the private sector equal treatment as the nationals of the member state where they are employed. Later, in 2000, during the 21st session in Manama, a similar resolution extended this principle to public sector and civil service jobs. These resolutions mark significant milestones in the efforts to empower GCC citizens and promote their participation in the workforce. But what does this mean for GCC citizens, and how can the private sector in the GCC benefit from these resolutions?
Equal Treatment in the Private Sector:
The resolution from the 14th session of the Supreme Council of the GCC fundamentally changed the landscape for GCC nationals seeking employment in the private sector. It ensures that citizens from one GCC member state are entitled to the same rights, benefits, and opportunities as the nationals of the host country where they are employed. This includes equal pay, access to training and development programs, promotion opportunities, and protection of their rights as workers.
For GCC citizens, this resolution opens up a plethora of opportunities in the private sector across member states. It means they can pursue careers and employment opportunities in different GCC countries with the confidence that they will be treated fairly and equally. This fosters greater mobility within the region and enables citizens to leverage their skills and expertise in diverse industries and markets.
Benefits for the Private Sector:
The resolution not only benefits GCC citizens but also presents numerous advantages for the private sector within the GCC. By tapping into the talent pool of GCC nationals, businesses can access a skilled workforce with a deep understanding of local customs, languages, and business practices. This can enhance communication, facilitate market expansion, and strengthen relationships with local communities.
Moreover, hiring GCC nationals can contribute to the diversification and localization efforts of businesses in the GCC. It promotes inclusivity and social cohesion within the workforce, aligning with the broader goals of economic development and sustainability in the region. Additionally, employing GCC citizens in the private sector can enhance corporate reputation and brand image, demonstrating a commitment to supporting local talent and driving socio-economic progress.
Furthermore, the resolution encourages knowledge sharing and cross-cultural exchange within the private sector. By fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, businesses can leverage the unique perspectives and experiences of GCC nationals to drive innovation, creativity, and business growth.
Additionally, one of the significant benefits of employing GCC citizens in the private sector is that they count towards the nationalization rates in the member state where they are employed (ex.A GCC citizen is counted as one Saudi in the nationalization percentages). This incentivizes businesses to hire GCC nationals, contributing to the fulfillment of nationalization targets and supporting the socioeconomic development goals of member states.
In conclusion, the resolutions of the Supreme Council of the GCC regarding equal treatment for GCC nationals in the private sector represent a significant opportunity for both citizens and businesses in the region. By ensuring fair and equitable treatment, these resolutions empower GCC citizens to pursue career opportunities across member states while enabling the private sector to leverage local talent and drive sustainable growth. Embracing diversity and inclusivity in the workforce is not only beneficial for individuals and businesses but also essential for fostering a dynamic and resilient economy in the GCC.
References:
- Resolution of the Supreme Council of the GCC (14th session, Riyadh 1993)
- Resolution of the Supreme Council of the GCC (21st session, Manama 2000)