Bahrain’s role in promoting gender equity highlighted
Manama, Mar.11 (BNA): Shura Council First Deputy Chairman Jamal Mohammed Fakhro stressed Bahrain’s strides in promoting gender equity through constitutional and legislative provisions.
He described the drive as the cornerstone of the approach of His Majesty King Hamad bin Al Khalifa, which enabled Bahraini women to move from the phase of empowerment to that of advancement.
He delivered the speech today, on behalf of Council of Representatives Speaker Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, at the opening of the Women Parliamentarians Forum, today, Saturday.
Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) President Duarte Pacheco opened the forum, in the presence of the participating parliamentary delegations which are attending the 146th IPU Assembly.
Fakhro welcomed the participants in this forum, which focuses on key issues related to gender equality and the leadership role of women in societies, pointing out that gender equality is a fundamental pillar for sustainable development, peace and democracy.
He noted Bahrain ranking on international indicators measuring women’s progress, paying tribute to Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women.
He national efforts to ensure the integration of women’s needs when preparing and implementing the general budget, preparing a national index to measure the gender gap, and a national “digital” observatory for indicators of gender balance.
Fakhro expressed his pride in the vital participation of Bahraini women in the development process, distinguished contributions, active presence and leadership positions.
He highlighted Bahraini women’s presence in political life, making up 20% of the total members of the Council of Representatives, and 25% in the Shura Council.