Bahraini women push for accountability and reform

TDT | Manama

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Eight new legislative proposals and 13 probing questions from Bahraini women in the Shura Council have shone a light on their growing influence in the country’s legislative affairs during the most recent session.

These contributions mark a steady rise in women’s participation in shaping reforms and ensuring ministers are held to account.

Their involvement mirrors Bahrain’s efforts to strengthen women’s roles across all sectors, a vision championed by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Development

Women’s inclusion has been a key focus of Bahrain’s development journey since His Majesty took the helm in 1999, with milestones such as the appointment of four women to the Shura Council in 2000 and the introduction of full political rights in the National Action Charter of 2001.

These rights, which include voting and running for office, were enshrined in the 2002 constitutional amendments.

During the latest legislative term, Bahraini women contributed robustly to parliamentary work.

Ijlaal Bubshait, alongside colleagues including Dr Hani Al Saati, Dr Jameela Salman, Dr Mohammed Ali, and Sadiq Al Rahma, proposed an addition to the 2007 Vocational Training Law, focusing on expanding training opportunities.

The Council approved the proposal, forwarding it to the government for drafting.

Dr Jameela Salman brought forward a telemedicine proposal, supported by Dr Jehad Al Fadhel, Dr Ibtisam Al Dallal, Ali Al Aradi, and Hala Ramzi.

This was also sent to the government for consideration.

Dr Salman, with other members, further proposed changes to the 2018 Public Health Law, which secured Council approval and was forwarded for drafting.

Sabika Al Fadhalah sought changes to the 2006 Law on the Care, Rehabilitation, and Employment of Persons with Disabilities.