bahrainthismonth.com | AUGUST 2025 OPINION 85 Facing a Debtor: A Step-by-Step Path Forward If you’re currently dealing with a delinquent debtor – whether a friend, business client or former tenant – here’s what you can do: 1. Stay Calm, Stay Documented: Emotions run high when money is involved. Stay professional. Keep records of all communication, invoices, payment promises and contracts – even if they were informal. Screenshots, messages and voice notes matter. 2. Reach Out Compassionately: A simple reminder, call or message can often resolve the issue. Sometimes, people genuinely forget or face temporary hardship. A soft but firm approach shows goodwill. Offer a settlement on an instalment basis in writing to show good intentions. 3. Set a Clear Deadline: If informal reminders fail, set a final deadline in writing. Be transparent – explain the impact of the debt on your life or business. Often, debtors respond when they see real consequences. 4. Use Mediation or Professional Collectors: Before heading to court, consider using a reputable licensed debt collection agency. Many offer amicable recovery services with zero upfront fees and charge only a small percentage for successful collection. 5. Legal Recourse: If all else fails, the Bahraini legal system provides fair and streamlined avenues for small debt claims. The Small Claims Court, for example, handles cases efficiently. Legal aid is available for those who qualify. Recommendations for the Public and Policymakers • For Individuals: Don’t ignore small debts. A BD50 unpaid service is worth pursuing if it affects your well-being. Use digital tools to track agreements and payments. Protect your rights. • For Small Businesses: Include clear payment terms in every contract, no matter how small the job. Offer multiple payment methods to reduce excuses. • For Government: Simplify and promote awareness of legal debt recovery procedures. Support the creation of a national debt resolution platform for lowvalue claims. • For Society: We must destigmatise debt collection. It’s not a sign of aggression – it’s a step toward fairness. Just as borrowers deserve protection, so do lenders, service providers and sellers. Debt, even in small amounts, can fracture trust, stall ambition and strain the very fabric of our communities. But with empathy, structure and timely action, we can change that. Bahrain has always been a nation of honour, dignity and mutual respect. Let’s uphold those values – not just in words, but in actions, ensuring that every promise made is a promise kept. Contact us on +973 6670 0733 for more information. C-NCAP 5 Star Safety Systems 7 inch Colour Instrument Display 14.6 inch Central Screen 360-degree High Definition Camera 2 Litres, Turbo Charged, Petrol/Diesel Engine Fuel Economy of up to 7.6L/100Kms* combined 18 inch Aluminium Alloy Wheel Rims 8 speed ZF, Automatic Transmission 48V Hybrid system POWER THROUGH SUMMER WITH FOTON V SERIES 5 STARTING FROM BD 10,995 + VAT years or 300,000 KM Manufacturer’s Warranty HYBRID
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