Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and chairman of the National Human Rights Committee, has praised the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) for its outstanding contributions over 24 years, highlighting its institutional achievements and strategic partnerships that have strengthened the role of Bahraini women across political, diplomatic, and economic spheres.
In a statement marking the 24th anniversary of the SCW’s establishment, Dr. Al Zayani extended congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa; His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister; and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and president of the SCW.
Women’s role in Bahrain’s development
He commended the SCW as a national institution that has played a key role in reinforcing women’s active participation in Bahrain’s sustainable development process, which is guided by the comprehensive reform project of His Majesty the King.
Dr. Al Zayani described the creation of the SCW as a pivotal moment in Bahrain’s journey of rights-based and developmental progress.
He noted that the Council’s work is grounded in principles of justice, equal opportunity, and gender balance, supported by a modern legislative framework and public policy initiatives.
Women in leadership
These efforts align with the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women, the National Human Rights Plan, and Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, as well as international conventions such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
He expressed appreciation for the leadership of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, with the SCW elevating the status of Bahraini women locally, regionally, and globally.
Empowering women
The Council’s innovative initiatives have enriched Bahrain’s political and democratic life, bolstered social and economic development, and strengthened collaboration across government institutions, civil society, and the private sector.
Highlighting the growing presence of women in diplomacy, Dr. Al Zayani praised the contributions of female diplomats serving in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in Bahraini missions abroad, many of whom occupy senior leadership roles.
He expressed confidence in their continued impact, particularly as Bahrain prepares to assume its seat on the UN Security Council for the 2026–2027 term and on the UN Women Executive Board for 2026–2028.
The foreign minister reaffirmed Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to advancing women from empowerment to leadership.
He pointed to the launch of the third edition of the Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women’s Empowerment, held in cooperation with UN Women, as a testament to Bahrain’s growing international role in promoting gender equality, peace, security, and sustainable development.
