Bahrain Hosts National Forum on Integrity and Anti-Corruption

The General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security organized the “National Partnership for Promoting Integrity and Combating Corruption” forum, coinciding with the United Nations’ International Anti-Corruption Day, observed annually on December 9. The event saw wide participation from both government and private sector entities.

On this occasion, Brigadier Ahmed Saad Al-Rumaihi, Director General of the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security, affirmed that, under the guidance of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Kingdom of Bahrain has established a robust national system to combat corruption, built on transparency, accountability, and safeguarding the nation’s achievements. He highlighted the pivotal role of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in enhancing the efficiency of this system through initiatives that promote integrity and strengthen public trust in state institutions.

Brig. Al-Rumaihi noted that the Ministry of Interior, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, continues to implement the directives of the wise leadership by supporting national initiatives that reinforce integrity and governance. This reflects Bahrain’s steadfast commitment to combating corruption and protecting the country’s sustainable development.

The forum was organized as part of efforts to develop awareness strategies, shifting from general campaigns to specialized dialogue platforms targeting administrative leaders, decision-makers, and legal, financial, and compliance officials in government and private entities, as well as representatives from the banking sector. Brig. Al-Rumaihi emphasized the importance of enhancing joint cooperation and activating strategic partnerships to support anti-corruption efforts and promote institutional transparency.

He added that the forum is part of a national strategy aimed at instilling a culture of integrity, strengthening institutional integration, and raising awareness of the importance of safeguarding public funds. These efforts align with Bahrain’s commitment to international agreements, notably the United Nations Convention against Corruption.

The event featured speakers from the General Directorate and other national oversight authorities, including the Labor Fund Authority (Tamkeen) and the Supreme Audit Institution, who presented papers on financial and administrative oversight, combating financial crimes, and best practices in integrity. More than 150 participants representing 55 ministries, authorities, companies, and banks attended, underlining the importance of institutional and community partnerships in promoting integrity and fighting corruption.