Bahrain Marks 24 Years of the Supreme Council for Women’s Achievements

This year, August 22 marks the 24th anniversary of the establishment of Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Women, founded as an advisory body under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the steadfast supporter of women’s progress in Bahrain. The Council serves as the official national reference on women’s issues and operates under the guidance of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabika bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the King’s consort.

Over more than two decades, the Council has achieved numerous milestones that have strengthened women’s role in all aspects of life. Its initiatives, aligned with global developments in women’s advancement while respecting Bahrain’s cultural values, are carried out in partnership with government institutions, the private sector, and civil society. Continuous support from His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Prime Minister, has been pivotal in translating this vision into practical legislation, strategies, and initiatives covering social, economic, and political spheres.

This anniversary celebrates the Council’s rich legacy of initiatives that prioritize women’s empowerment as a national priority, reflecting royal support. Its programs and projects directly address the needs of Bahraini women, aiming to advance them toward leadership roles and reinforce their position as key partners in nation-building.

Key Achievements and Initiatives in 2025

This year, the Council launched the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women 2025–2026 under the theme, “Bahraini Women: Empowerment, Progress, and Leadership.” The plan focuses on four priority areas: family stability, decision-making, economic participation, and quality of life. Each area includes five key pillars: policies, gender-responsive budgeting, awareness and training, monitoring, and evaluation.

Her Royal Highness also issued Decision No. 1 of 2025, establishing the Committee on Women in Nurseries and Kindergartens to study and improve conditions for women working in early childhood education. Additionally, offices supporting women were opened in all four governorates through the Ministry of Social Development, further enhancing access to support services.

Media and Awareness Initiatives

Decision No. 6 of 2025 established the Committee on Women in Media, recognizing the media’s role in highlighting achievements and advancing women’s contributions across Bahrain.

Ongoing Royal Support

Her Royal Highness Princess Sabika has actively sponsored several high-profile events, including the Global Women Entrepreneurs Forum and Exhibition, the Sheikha Hessa bint Salman Al Khalifa Volunteer Youth Award, and ceremonies honoring Quran memorization contest winners and university and school graduates.

Regional Leadership in Women’s Issues

Bahrain hosted the second meeting of the GCC Permanent Committee for Women’s Affairs, with participation from all Gulf Cooperation Council states. The Council also participated in regional forums on sustainable development and knowledge exchange focused on women’s economic empowerment.

Global Engagement

Council members attended the Middle East Sustainability Forum and the 69th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York, where the third edition of the Princess Sabika bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women’s Empowerment was launched in cooperation with UN Women.

National Partnerships

The Council strengthened collaboration with government ministries, civil society, and the private sector through multiple memoranda of understanding to improve women’s access to services, promote gender equality, and advance women’s leadership and opportunities. Key partnerships included agreements with the Bahraini Women’s Union, the Public Administration Institute, and other government bodies.