Experts highlight challenges in public sector employment policies

Former Director-General of the Institute of Public Administration (IPA), Radi Al-Atoum, emphasized the need to amend certain provisions in the Civil Service Human Resources Strategy.

Speaking on Roya TV, Atoum argued that granting an annual raise of 100 percent to 150 percent for employees who achieve an "outstanding" rating for three consecutive years is impractical due to its high cost.

He also criticized the cancellation of unpaid leave, describing it as a form of forced migration for public employees. He noted that those who transition to the private sector often excel there. He also highlighted ongoing financial and administrative issues with annual raises, while praising the system's potential to improve employee productivity if implemented effectively.

Addressing the Cabinet’s directive to review the Human Resources Management System and incorporate feedback on unpaid leave before year-end, Sameh Nasser, the Civil Service and Public Administration Commission chairman, stated that the system is open to revisions.

He revealed that unpaid leave is now capped at five years for those working abroad and one year for those in Jordan, with exceptions for cases like family care and education.

On the topic of dual employment in the public sector, Nasser explained that strict regulations ensure secondary jobs do not undermine primary responsibilities or affect performance in government roles. He also noted that third-tier positions, including technical and vocational services, are classified based on criteria outlined in the public sector modernization plan.