Arab Times, 3 December 2024: Kuwait’s government is considering a policy shift on replacing unused sick leave with regular leave, aiming to promote fairness and reduce financial costs.

The proposed change would prevent employees from converting unused sick leave into regular (annual) leave or receiving financial compensation for unused days.

Sick leave would only be used for rest and recovery.

The potential suspension of the replacement policy is reportedly intended to curtail financial costs and encourage employees to use sick leave when necessary, rather than hoarding it for cash benefits.

Advocates argue this approach promotes better health and aligns with labour regulations, ensuring fairness for employees who genuinely need sick leave.

Critics, however, warn that stopping the replacement policy could demotivate employees who rely on it as a supplemental income source.

Some suggest that government agencies educate staff on the reasons for such a decision and explore alternative incentives to maintain morale.

While supporters emphasise that the policy fosters justice by ensuring equal treatment of all employees, detractors stress that removing this option could negatively impact employees’ income and financial stability.

They argue that sick leave, being a legitimate entitlement issued by government agencies, should remain a right that benefits employees fairly.

The debate highlights the need for a balanced approach, potentially regulating replacement policies to address both financial concerns and employee satisfaction.

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