*** Nationwide applause as BDF decides to let women serve as volunteers | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Nationwide applause as BDF decides to let women serve as volunteers

TDT | Manama      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Julia Cassano

There has been widespread support for the most recent decision to let Bahraini women serve as volunteers in the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF). The action coincides with the Kingdom's aggressive efforts to diversify its economy and grant women equal rights in order to assure their representation in a variety of areas.

Bahraini women are important contributors to the Kingdom's growth, and they make contributions in many spheres of life, including politics, social advancement, and business.

The BDF General Command said that Bahraini women who are interested in volunteering can sign up using the e-application format on the BDF website by visiting the URL https://www.bdf.bh.

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The General Command stated that applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 55. The applicants must be honourable and have a legal history that demonstrates they have not been convicted of a crime or misdemeanour involving a breach of trust or of a code of conduct.

"Bahraini women are now allowed to join the reserve forces! This is awesome news for women—to be considered an equal force in the military. Bahrain is definitely moving towards providing equal opportunities for women, and I would be proud to serve my country if needed," Dana Zubari, social media icon and co-owner of Tru Active sportswear, told The Daily Tribune.

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Art enthusiast Huda Almarzooq also shared her thoughts with The Daily Tribune on the subject and said, "I believe that the inclusion of Bahraini women in the Reserve Force is a positive step towards gender equality and national security."

In addition to the announcement being a great step in the right direction for women’s rights, it is also a great opportunity for Bahraini women to gain valuable skills and leadership experience and contribute to the defence of their country, Huda said.

"Bringing fresh perspectives into the military can also enhance their services. It’s a great move by Bahrain to empower women while creating strong individuals," she added, while wishing the best for women to enrol and shine in important positions in the reserve force.