Bahrain’s Youth Minister Highlights Kingdom’s Empowerment Efforts at UN ECOSOC Youth Forum

Her Excellency Mrs. Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, represented the Kingdom of Bahrain at the opening session of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum held at the UN Headquarters in New York, USA. The forum was held under the theme: “Working with and for Youth to Develop Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for the 2030 Agenda.”

On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Tawfiqi took part in a ministerial meeting organized by the UN Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth, focused on enhancing youth participation in policymaking and decision-making processes.

In her address, Minister Tawfiqi emphasized that empowering youth and integrating them into decision-making is a cornerstone for building more inclusive and sustainable societies. She noted that involving young people in shaping policies that directly affect their lives reflects trust in their capabilities and creative potential.

The Minister also participated in a panel discussion titled “Effective Youth Engagement in the Workforce,” where she showcased Bahrain’s pioneering experience in youth sector development. She explained that the Ministry of Youth Affairs has transitioned from merely implementing programs to acting as a facilitator and enabler, which has led to the establishment of 23 youth-led associations specializing in areas such as talent management, leadership, and innovation.

She pointed out that many of these initiatives are run by young volunteers, allowing them to gain valuable experience and skills, eventually preparing them to serve as mentors for future generations.

Minister Tawfiqi reiterated Bahrain’s commitment to enabling youth to contribute meaningfully to addressing national challenges and strengthening their roles within institutions, thus building a resilient and sustainable youth ecosystem.

During her visit, the Minister also attended the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015), which acknowledges the role of youth in promoting peace and security. Additionally, she participated in a special event hosted by the Russian Federation Mission, which focused on Russian policies supporting and empowering youth.

On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Tawfiqi held several high-level meetings with senior UN officials, including Mr. Dennis Francis, President of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, and Mr. Felipe Paullier, the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs.

These engagements reflect Bahrain’s active international role in promoting youth development and its commitment to achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.