Bahraini women’s significant progress affirms Kingdom’s empowerment drive

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Her Excellency Dr Fatima Al Kooheji, Head of the Women and Child Affairs Committee of the Shura Council, yesterday highlighted the significant achievements of Bahraini women across various fields.

She emphasised that this progress reflects the Kingdom of Bahrain’s dedication to women’s empowerment and leadership, as envisioned by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council for Women.

Dr Al Kooheji attributed this success to the visionary leadership of HM the King, whose reform project put the protection of women from violence and discrimination front and centre. This commitment is further reflected in Article 18 of the Constitution of the Kingdom, which guarantees equality for all citizens.

Bahrain has gone beyond merely empowering women to actively promote their progress and leadership. This advancement has been realised through a comprehensive legislative framework and a sound system that safeguards women’s rights across all facets of life.

Dr Al Kooheji set out these observations during the “Legislative Developments in the Field of the Rights and Protection of the Most Vulnerable Women and Girls” session at the “Arab Parliaments Dialogue on Regional Reviews of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action after Thirty Years.”

The event, held in Amman, Jordan, was organised by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) in collaboration with UN Women and the League of Arab States. The dialogue provided a platform for Arab parliaments to discuss common challenges and opportunities related to women’s rights. Dr Al Kooheji emphasised Bahrain’s commitment to protecting women from all forms of violence, discrimination, and attacks on their rights.

 Legal framework 

She expounded on Bahrain’s thorough legal framework, noting the establishment of the Family Guidance Department within the Ministry of Social Development, which provides vital support and protection for victims of domestic violence.

Moreover, Bahraini law shields women against harassment in public spaces, workplaces, and online. The Bahraini legislature has also increased penalties for technology-enabled crimes against women and girls and is continually working to enhance regulations to address such crimes.