News
On the International Day of Older Persons .. Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare for BNA: Comprehensive strategies to support the elderly in the Kingdom of Bahrain
30-09-2024
Ms. Zainab Salman Al-Awainati, Assistant Undersecretary for Rehabilitation and Walfare at the Ministry of Social Development and member of the National Committee for the Elderly, affirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain's interest in supporting the elderly, as the Kingdom adopts comprehensive strategies, including the National Strategy for the Elderly, which includes all areas concerned with enhancing the quality of life of the elderly, social and health policies, and other areas that support them, which has strengthened the Kingdom of Bahrian's position as one of the advanced countries in the Arab world, regionally, and internationally in its strategic vision for development services provided to this group. In a special interview with Bahrain News Agency (BNA) on the occasion of the (International Day of Older Persons), which falls on October 1, the Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare indicated that the Kingdom of Bahrain provides a package of integrated and supportive services to the elderly, including a cost-of-living allowance and social security, in addition to providing prosthetic devices to support their daily needs such as wheelchairs and medical beds, as well as providing family and social consultations for them and their families. She added that the ministry is working within the framework of integration between government agencies to expand the services provided to this category, in addition to enhancing cooperation with private sector institutions to provide more exceptional facilities for them, pointing to the service of housing institutions, as the ministry provides comprehensive care for the elderly residing in the Muharraq Social Care Center, which includes living, social, health, psychological and recreational care according to the needs of each individual, in addition to the service of day institutions that care for the elderly during the day, to provide educational and rehabilitation activities and services to improve their quality of life, as these homes are managed by civil society institutions within the framework of effective community partnership. She explained that the shelter institutions follow up on the elderly and record social and psychological changes, enhance communication with the family and the outside community, and develop a daily program to provide living services, social and recreational activities, in addition to health care services, conducting medical examinations and necessary tests, providing treatment and nursing care according to the case, and physiotherapy services that begin with assessing the health condition and providing group and individual therapeutic exercises, supporting those unable to move through limb movement exercises, and providing an occupational therapy program that gives them the opportunity to practice manual work and hobbies, and rehabilitating them to perform some simple tasks to activate their motor skills, in addition to nutrition services and cultural and recreational programs. She indicated that the day care institutions for parents, licensed by the Ministry of Social Development, provide distinguished projects that aim to operate buildings or small housing units in the middle of residential neighborhoods to provide day care for the elderly. By 2024, the number of these institutions has reached 13 institutions distributed across all governorates of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and are managed by civil society organizations, in order to further activate their societal role towards this group. These institutions seek to support the provision of comprehensive care and develop appropriate rehabilitation programs for them, and enhance their integration into society, including in national and religious events, in addition to the programs and services provided, including, but not limited to, the social care program, which includes a range of services, including recording all changes that occur in their conditions to achieve the best adaptation with their families, training them in life skills, and maintaining contact with society by organizing visits and external tours, and providing living and social services, support care, and family guidance programs, in addition to psychological and behavioral care services and programs. Al-Awinati emphasized the role of legislation and policies in developing social work, as laws have been developed that raise the level of protection of their rights and ensure that they receive the best necessary care services. The national strategy for the elderly and its executive plan have also been updated, and the internal regulations of shelter institutions have been developed, in addition to paying attention to technology and applications, as lectures and seminars have been provided remotely, and various applications have been implemented to facilitate the provision of services through government platforms, and support student projects related to improving their quality of life. She added: There are efforts being made to prepare survey studies related to the elderly, as the Ministry conducts research studies in cooperation with academic institutions, with the aim of discussing ways to continue meeting their aspirations and needs, in addition to providing quality of life programs that seek to improve the quality of life, pointing to the service of benefiting from the experiences and capabilities of retired elderly, which aims to benefit from their experiences and specializations in various fields, through several programs and activities. Al-Awainati explained that the elderly are the beacon of inexhaustible giving, and the true symbol of perseverance, stressing the Ministry's keenness to enhance their involvement in society, benefit from their experiences, and deepen family and community ties to ensure their continued integration into daily life, in appreciation of their great role in transferring experiences and values to future generations, noting that this interest enhances the concept of social solidarity, and reflects the vision of the Kingdom of Bahrain towards achieving a cohesive and inclusive society for all.
In the presence of H.E. the Chairman of Shura Council and the Minister of Social Development .. Launching of the Mahfoodah Al Zayani Award for Humanitarian Work
29-09-2024
In the presence of H.E. Mr. Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the Shura Council, and H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, the Mahfoodah Al Zayani Award for Humanitarian Work was launched this morning, Sunday, with the participation of H.E. Sh. Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Secretary-General of the Royal Humanitarian Foundation, members of the Al-Zayani family, and a number of community figures and invitees, at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. During the speech delivered by the Minister of Social Development, H.E. praised the initiative to launch the award, in the name of Mrs. Mahfoudha Al Zayani, in honor of her career in volunteering fields for more than 70 years, which represents a model of giving, noting in this context that the award reflects the awareness of Al-Zayani family of the humanitarian and societal sense, especially since the award's objectives are consistent with the paths of sustainability of volunteer work, in addition to the award's contribution to consolidating purposeful partnerships, towards building projects and initiatives that serve the interests of society. H.E. explained that the journey of Mrs. Mahfoudha Al Zayani is full of giving and generosity, as she contributed effectively and competently to volunteer work in its social, charitable and humanitarian fields, and was and still is a role model and an example to follow in her pioneering approach, noting that she was able to leave a mark on the lives of individuals and families, and embodied in their lives the values of solidarity and mutual support, and was always by their side, extending a helping hand to them with generosity and sincerity. H.E. the Minister called on members of society and its institutions to continue this journey, and to closely monitor the impact of these humanitarian initiatives, so that it is possible to formulate purposeful plans to achieve the desired positive impact, stressing that the launch of the award is evidence of the vision of the Al-Zayani family, towards supporting excellence in social work in all its sectors, expressing H.E. hope that the award will contribute to inspiring future generations to follow in the footsteps of those who devoted their lives to serving society. For his part, Mr. Zayed Rashid Al Zayani, Chairman of Al- Zayani Investments, expressed his deep gratitude to H.E. the Minister and all members of the esteemed Ministry for their spirit of cooperation and guidance in launching this initiative, saying, "It is a source of pride and honor, based on its social responsibility initiative, that Al-Zayani Investments Group launches this award, which bears the name of someone dear to us all, who embodied the spirit of national work for more than 70 years, hoping that it will be a motivator for future generations." The Mahfouz Al Zayani Humanitarian Award seeks to provide opportunities to consolidate the values of humanitarian work, and motivate young people to engage in volunteering, in order to create a sustainable positive impact, by supporting projects that focus on humanitarian values within the framework of community partnership. The judging committee includes a number of members of the Al-Zayani family in addition to specialized members and experts in the field of charitable and humanitarian work, and will award cash prizes to the winners estimated at 40 thousand US dollars.
Minister of Social Development inaugurates the first Gulf Youth Forum for Corporate Social Responsibility
25-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, inaugurated today, Wednesday, the first Gulf Youth Forum for for Corporate Social Responsibility, in the presence of H.E. Mrs. Rawan bint Najib Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, which was organized by the Bahraini Society for Social Responsibility, with the participation of a number of concerned institutions and social figures. On this occasion, the Minister of Social Development stressed the importance of the role of civil society institutions, as they are a basic partner and supporter of national efforts, praising the community initiatives implemented by this development sector. H.E. the Minister of Social Development explained that the forum represents a platform for constructive dialogue and exchange of visions on how to activate the role of youth in social responsibility, in order to provide opportunities for them to participate in supporting sustainability and social and economic development, stressing the ministry's keenness to consolidate the principles of effective partnership with all sectors in order to advance national development projects, to serve and develop society. The 1st Gulf Youth Forum for Corporate Social Responsibility aims to spread the culture of the concept of social responsibility among the youth, and to shed light on its indicators and development priorities, and practices aimed at contributing to sustainable development within the framework of community partnership. The forum's activities included a number of axes, mostly related to training programs in social fields, development and community initiatives, in addition to rehabilitation programs for young leaders, and creativity and innovation in the field of social responsibility.
Ministry of Social Development achieves the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award for Arab Countries Practices in its 3rd edition.
23-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, confirmed that the Ministry's winning of the Arab Corporate Social Responsibility Award (CSR) 2024 in its 3rd edition in the category of ministries and government entities is a culmination of the efforts and social responsibility practices implemented by the Ministry in accordance with the strategic development framework, and the social and economic foundations aimed to strength the social protection system, and in line with the main pillars of establishing the concepts of excellence in government work. H.E. stressed that the Ministry's winning of the award is an incentive to move forward and continue the distinguished and pioneering work, pointing to the keenness to raise performance levels and adopt government work models that contributes in supporting and strengthening the sustainable development process through various programs, initiatives and community partnerships with community institutions within the framework of enhancing social responsibility and ensuring the achievement of social justice and development in its comprehensive concept. The Ministry won the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award for Arab Countries for the current year, which was organized by the Regional Network for Social Responsibility in partnership with the Investment and Technology Promotion Office of the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and which is awarded to the government entity that achieves the best practices of social responsibility and its applications according to a strategic framework and social and economic foundations. The Ministry also participated with a working paper in the scientific forum accompanying the award ceremony, which was titled "Digital Economy Technology and AI Applications and Their Role in Promoting Sustainable Development", where the participation addressed the Ministry's efforts and development initiatives to support the economic empowerment of families and individuals, and enhance social protection.
Ministry of Social Development participates in a regional workshop on improving disability statistics in Muscat
22-09-2024
The Ministry of Social Development, represented by the Rehabilitation and Welfare Sector, participated in a regional workshop on "Improving Disability Statistics in Arab Countries", in Oman, organized by the Statistical Center of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the GCC with the Executive Office of the Council of Ministers of Labour and Ministers of Social Affairs in the GCC countries, the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, and the Training and Research in Statistics of Arab Institute, with the attendance of a number of specialists in the field of disability. The workshop aims to enhance the capabilities of participants in publishing accurate and comparable statistics on disability, with coordinated concepts and definitions, in line with international guidelines, standards and classifications. During the workshop, the progress made in implementing the Convention on Persons with Disabilities in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries was evaluated, and leading practices in data analysis were reviewed, in addition to enhancing interactive dialogue between participants. The workshop concluded with a number of recommendations aimed at improving data collection methods and coordinating efforts between Arab countries, to enhance their statistical capabilities, with a call to enhance regional and international cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
With the directives execution of His Highness the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, for implementing the 500 services in 24 government agencies. The Ministry of Social Development finalized the developmen
18-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, stressed the keenness to continue enhancing the quality and efficiency of government work in supporting the gains of the comprehensive development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and with the close follow-up of H.H Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. H.E. explained that the Ministry in progress of implementing the directives of H.H. the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to develop 500 services in 24 government agencies, which contributes to providing high-quality services, quickly and efficiently, praising the continuous efforts in developing the approach to designing government services, which are based on the visions and aspirations of citizens, to achieve a positive impact on individuals and society, as they are at the top of government priorities, within the framework of comprehensive national efforts. In this context, H.E. assured that the Ministry has completed the development and re-engineering of procedures for 20 services from its various sectors, including (5) services provided to people with disabilities, (5) services for families and children, and (4) services for various segments of society, including the elderly, noting that the most prominent of these services are related to prosthetic devices and aids for people with disabilities, requesting licenses to establish rehabilitation centers, as well as the registration service for vocational training courses and production units in social centers, the service of obtaining prosthetic devices for the elderly, and joining day care institutions for parents. H.E. continued that (3) services have been developed in order to enhance support for civil society organizations, mostly the service of requesting signature approval to activate a bank account, in addition to two services related to financial support for those entitled to it, represented by the service of registering for disability allowance and social security, in addition to the family educational programs service related to family guidance. H.E. stressed that the Ministry has re-engineered the design of government services, to constitute a qualitative shift in work methodologies, and to consolidate the idea of managing digital service products, in order to facilitate access to the service and make it available through the beneficiaries’ channels, stressing that this development came to achieve a number of goals, most notably reducing the required documents by (50%) for (15) services, and reducing the level agreement of (19) services by (25%) as a minimum, in addition to reducing the steps for providing (7) services to become 4 steps as a maximum, in addition to unifying the information of (17) services published in all channels, while the number of electronic services transformed into (6) services, which contributes to simplifying procedures and raising the efficiency and effectiveness of government services.
Minister of Social Development: Bahrain is a pioneering model in consolidating the values of charitable and humanitarian work
05-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, stressed that the Charity International Day represents an opportunity to point on the Bahraini experience in consolidating the values of charitable and humanitarian work, in light of the comprehensive development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. H.E. pointed out that these national efforts seek to enhance charitable and voluntary work, in order to build people and societies. The Minister referred to the lofty royal initiatives that embody the most eloquent meanings of solidarity and compassion, and focus on investing in charitable sectors, citing the directives of His Majesty the King, to transfer the budgets allocated for the Silver Jubilee celebrations to charitable societies and funds, which reflects the firm approach full of humanitarian giving and the prevalence of noble values. H.E. also pointed out the importance of the pioneering role played by H.H. Sh.Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, in achieving qualitative international achievements in the fields of charity and social solidarity, through the leadership of the Royal Humanitarian Foundation, to consolidate the concepts of charitable work inside and outside the Kingdom, which contributes to the development and enrichment of societies. H.E explained that the Kingdom of Bahrain is distinguished by its formulation of sustainable development policies, which has made it at the forefront of countries in the field of charity, as official, private and civil institutions have adopted these policies and taken them as a way to develop societies and meet their requirements, with the aim of advancing the wheel of development in its comprehensive concept. He added that the development and social programs implemented by various social forces have witnessed a qualitative distinction that is pointed out with the finger. H.E. explained that the Ministry has taken many development measures to support the humanitarian and charitable efforts of civil society organizations, numbering (675) organizations, by providing technical and professional support to implement their programs and develop the skills of their members, to enable them to play their role in social service and charitable development work. H.E stressed that the Ministry of Social Development will continue its efforts, within the framework of national legislation, to regulate the areas of charitable work, to enable civil society organizations to carry out their institutional role and social and humanitarian duty, in the belief that these institutions constitute an economic and social force in partnership with the public and private sectors. H.E. praised the initiatives and projects of the organizations and their constant endeavor to excel in serving the Bahraini community, and to enhance the values of cooperation and advance humanitarian and charitable work.
On the sidelines of the confernace of the Ministers of Social Affairs and Development of the GCC countries.. Honoring leading Bahraini projects and figures in the field of social work
04-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, attended the ceremony honoring pioneering projects and figures in the field of social work at the level of the GCC countries, held on the sidelines of the 10th conference of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development in the GCC countries, with the participation of Their Excellencies and Highnesses the Ministers of Social Affairs and Development in the GCC countries. Mr. Abdulaziz Al Sindi from the Kingdom of Bahrain was honored in the category of pioneering figure in social work, and the (Conserving Bounties Society) from the Kingdom of Bahrain won in the category of civil sector projects, while the National Bank of Bahrain won in the private sector category, in recognition of the efforts and qualitative contributions it provides in serving the community. On this occasion, H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, praised the contributions of the honorees from the Kingdom of Bahrain in advancing the social work process to broader levels, their leadership and excellence in making a positive impact in society, and their role and humanitarian and charitable contributions and excellence in the fields of volunteer and development work. H.E. expressed his pride in the development of sustainability work in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the contributions of its pioneers and their great contributions within the framework of community partnership that provide benefits to the citizens.
Minister of Social Development participates in the (10th) conference of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development in the GCC countries
04-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, headed the Ministry's delegation participating in the 10th conference of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development in the GCC countries, which is being held under the chairmanship of the Ministry of Social Development and Family in Qatar, with the participation of Their Excellencies and Highnesses the Ministers of Social Affairs and Development in the GCC countries. During the conference, Their Excellencies and Highnesses the Ministers approved a number of items on the agenda, most notably the adoption of the GCC strategy in the field of social development, unified policies for the cohesion and stability of the Gulf society and enhancing the spirit of Gulf citizenship and Arab and Islamic identity, in addition to forming a team concerned with working on formulating an action plan for the GCC strategy in the field of social development for the years (2025-2030), launching the unified guidelines for the quality of domestic violence protection programs, and strengthening the relations of the non-profit sector with the government and private sectors. The decisions also included working on developing social empowerment programs for individuals and families with limited income, approving the improvements made by the Supreme Council for Women in the Kingdom of Bahrain in the Women's Strategy for the years (2024-2030), and also hosting the 7th Gulf Festival for Persons with Disabilities by the end of this year, with the hosting of this festival in its 8th edition in the United Arab Emirates, in addition to the member states launching the third report on the prospects for implementing and monitoring the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the first Arab report for this category, in addition to approving holding the coordination meeting (48) on the sidelines of the work of the session (44) of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs, and establishing a team concerned with regional and international cooperation at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
On the sidelines of H.E. participation in the 10th conference of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development of the GCC countries.. The Minister of Social Development meets H.E Kuwait
04-09-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, stressed on the regional friendship between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Kuwait, and the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in various development fields. This came during H.E's meeting with H.E. Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs in Kuwait, on the sidelines of H.E. participation in the 10th confernece of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, which was held in Qatar. The two sides discussed the efforts made to support and empower various segments of society through development projects and initiatives aimed at developing development and care fields in a sustainable manner and consolidating Gulf development efforts.
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development participates in the 10th confernce of the Committee of Undersecretaries of Ministries of Social Development Affairs in the GCC countries
02-09-2024
Ms. Sahar Rashid Al-Mannai, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development, participated in the 10th confernce of the Committee of Undersecretaries of Ministries of Social Development Affairs in the GCC countries, in the Qatari capital, Doha, today, Monday, in the presence of Their Excellencies the Undersecretaries of Ministries of Social Development Affairs in the GCC countries, and H.E. Mr. Khalid bin Ali bin Salem Al-Sunaidi, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs at the General Secretariat of the Cooperation Council. During the meeting, the social development strategy main objective is to discuss the achievements of social security for citizens for comprehensive and balanced development, pointing to the joint Gulf action strategy for the period 2024-2030, which is a roadmap aimed at unifying efforts to confront common challenges, with a focus on supporting specific gatogeries and enhancing the empowerment of women and youth in Gulf societies. In addition to discussing the third report on the prospects for implementing the rights of persons with disabilities in the GCC countries, with the objective of assessing the progress made in promoting the rights of disabled and their integration into society, in addition to reviewing the first Arab report on persons with disabilities and ways to enhance regional and international cooperation in the field of social affairs.
The Ministry of Social Development announces its preparaions to start the new academic year in academic and vocational rehabilitation centers
01-09-2024
The Ministry of Social Development, represented by the Rehabilitation Welfare Directorate, announced its preparations to receive students with disabilities in academic and vocational rehabilitation centers and homes during the new academic year 2024-2025, which is expected to start on September 8, in each of the Academic and Vocational Rehabilitation Center, the Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait Rehabilitation Center, the Sheikhan Al Farsi Center for Comprehensive Speech, the Child Day Care Center, the National Bank of Bahrain Rehabilitation Home, and the Matrook Center for Guidance Rehabilitation. In this context, the Ministry congratulated all students and parents on the occasion of the new academic year, stressing that it was keen to coordinate with all concerned parties to secure the logistical and human needs of the homes and centers, as follow-up teams were formed for maintenance, and to ensure the readiness of the facilities in terms of air conditioning, lighting, and equipping the classrooms in a manner that is commensurate with the capacity. The Administrative Body also conducted inspection visits to ensure the readiness of the homes and centers to start a successful and fruitful academic year. The Ministry of Social Development has also taken a series of important measures, including preparing academic and professional rehabilitation programs, conducting the necessary assessments for students, developing individual training plans, providing school bags, organizing transportation services and appointing student escorts on all buses, in addition to training workers on how to deal with students with disabilities by organizing workshops and educational rehabilitation courses, to provide services that suit their needs with the highest quality. Within the framework of community partnership with the private sector, this year, in cooperation with the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioral and Communication Difficulties, the "On-the-Job Rehabilitation" program will be launched in coordination with a number of private institutions, and vocational and professional programs will be launched for students with mental disabilities who are able to join the labor market, which will contribute to their functional and social empowerment processes.
The Kingdom of Bahrain's delegation concludes the interactive dialogue session to review the initial reports of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the two optional protocols attached to the Convention on the
29-08-2024
The interactive dialogue session to review the initial reports of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the two optional protocols attached to the Convention on the Rights of the Child: the protocol on the protection of children from trafficking, exploitation in prostitution and from pornography, and the protocol on the protection of children in armed conflict in particular concluded today at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development and Head of the Delegation of the Kingdom of Bahrain, expressed H.E. gratitude in providing this opportunity for the Kingdom’s delegation to participate in these constructive discussion sessions, stressing that the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to the time frame set by the Committee to respond to the list of issues and attend the discussion of the Kingdom’s two initial reports, confirms the Kingdom’s firm belief in the importance of raising the level of effectiveness, mastery and achievement in the field of human rights and advancing humanitarian work, which is one of the most important pillars of the comprehensive development process outlined by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and a roll for the efforts of the government headed by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. In H.E. closing remarks, the Minister reiterated the Kingdom of Bahrain's full commitment and constant keenness to fulfill its regional and international commitments, and its continuous adoption of legislation, policies and legal frameworks that assists its full compliance with these commitments, in addition to its tireless contribution to building trust between countries and enhancing international cooperation in the field of protecting and promoting human rights at all levels. The Minister praised the positive discussion, positive responses and mutual respect that took place during the interactive dialogue session, which provided an important and valuable opportunity to introduce the committee to the wide range of achievements and qualitative developments witnessed by the Kingdom of Bahrain in terms of promoting human rights in general and implementing its obligations arising from the two optional protocols in particular, in addition to the opportunities and areas for necessary development in terms of legislation, policies, measures and comprehensive national initiatives in its human rights system. With in the conclusion of the interactive dialogue session, the Kingdom of Bahrain has completed the discussion of all seven international agreements and the two protocols attached to the Convention on the Rights of the Child concerned with protecting and promoting human rights, to which the Kingdom of Bahrain is a party.
Minister of Social Development heads the Kingdom of Bahrain’s delegation to review the reports of the two optional protocols attached to the Convention on the Rights of the Child
28-08-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, headed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s delegation to the interactive dialogue session at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, where the Kingdom of Bahrain’s initial reports on the two optional protocols related to the Convention on the Rights of the Child were reviewed: the Protocol on the Protection of Children from Trafficking, exploitation in prostitution, and from Pornography, specially the Protocol on the Protection of Children in Armed Conflict in Particular. In H.E speech, the Minister of Social Development stressed the marvels progress made by the Kingdom of Bahrain in promoting children’s rights and implementing the agreements it has ratified, under the lofty royal vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and with the support and assistance of the government headed by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This vision has contributed to implement the conditions of childhood in the Kingdom at various legal, social, educational and cultural levels, in an integrated work environment between all parties. The Minister highlighted the most important achievements of the Kingdom of Bahrain in terms of its commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child in general, and its two complementary protocols, based on the valuable interest that the Kingdom concerned in all subjects related to childhood, and its continuous and persistent efforts to improve the reality of this important group that constitutes the base of building the society, and its keenness to review its achievements periodically, in order to ensure the provision of protection and a safe environment for children and to raise an educated generation capable of improving the future of the Kingdom of Bahrain with efficiency and competence. During the discussion, the Minister reviewed the national initiatives and specific achievements to protect children's rights, most notably the "National Strategy for Childhood 2023-2027", and the Kingdom's possession of an integrated system of policies, laws and programs that highlight the importance of enhancing the protection of children's rights, in particular the Law on Restorative Justice for Children and their Protection from Abuse, in addition to establishing the Social Care Complex, and allocating an independent prosecution to consider cases in which a child is accused of committing crimes, and cases to be a victim. The Public Prosecution also launched the Social Care Initiative in the year 2021, to identify the underlying causes of crimes and address and eliminate of those causes, and the Public Prosecution issued a mechanism to question the child once in sexual assault crimes to preserve his/her psyche. On the subject of electronic blackmail, the Minister highlighted on launching a national campaign in cooperation with a several government agencies, to educate children and their parents about the dangers of cyberspace. A child protection unit was also established in cyberspace, and a special office was inaugurated to receive children in the General Administration office for Combating Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security, with the aim of providing comprehensive protection for this category. The Minister also pointed out the creation of the position of Commissioner for Child Rights, within the framework of the independent National Institution for Human Rights, and as an observer in the National Committee for Childhood, where his work specializes in understanding the issues facing children, and protecting and promoting their best interests. The Family and Child Protection Office was also created to ensure an independent legal path for facts related to the family and child, and to provide immediate protection for them, while maintaining confidentiality and privacy, by providing an appropriate environment when they visit police stations. The Minister of Social Development stressed that the Kingdom of Bahrain has achieved pioneering achievements in the field of children's rights, through the issuance of legislation that have contributed to protecting this category from participating in armed conflicts, including the issuance of Decree-Law No. 44 of 2018 regarding the issuance of the International Crimes Law, which works to confront the involvement of children in armed conflicts and classify it as a war crime. At the end of H.E. speech, the Minister expressed his pride in the participation of stakeholders from government agencies and civil society organizations in preparing the two reports, in addition to presenting the drafts to international experts, and activating the principle of best practices in involving stakeholders, as workshops were held with the participation of students and representatives of civil society organizations, to discuss a number of topics related to the two reports. For their part, the members of the committee, headed by Ms. Anne Skelton, noted the great progress achieved by the Kingdom of Bahrain in supporting children's rights, indicating that the Kingdom has demonstrated high efficiency in interacting with the UN committee and providing clear responses to the committee's inquiries, submitting the required reports within the specified times, and establishing a constructive and continuous dialogue with the Kingdom of Bahrain in this regard.
Ministry of Social Development renews its ISO certification in quality management systems
21-08-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, stressed the Ministry's constant keenness to consolidate the work quality system and raise the necessary efficiency in all its sectors, which contributes to improving institutional performance, within the framework of applying the highest international standards to achieve quality and competitive government services. This came on the occasion of the Ministry of Social Development obtaining the ISO certificate for the Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2015) after passing all the standards and requirements of work quality approved in the international certificate, expressing H.E. gratitude and pride in this administrative achievement that confirms the level of productive efficiency in the various Ministry's directorate and departments, as this certificate was delivered in the presence of H.E. Mrs. Sahar Rashid Al Mannai, Undersecretary of the Ministry and the Quality Department team. The Minister of Social Development assured that the Ministry's has gained the ISO certificate for the second time in a row, after internal audit procedures, is a culmination of the efforts made by all the Ministry's cadres, and reflects the commitment to maintaining operational excellence at all levels through continuous improvement of services, stressing the move forward towards achieving national development strategies, in accordance with best practices and applying the highest international quality standards, which aim to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in various sectors of the Ministry, to advance government work and ensure sustainability and mastery in performance, in order to increase the satisfaction of beneficiaries of the Ministry's development and social services. It is noteworthy that the ISO certificate for the Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2015) is a global system that aims to apply several standards and use them as a tool for institutional development, through a set of procedures and operations that focus on achieving the quality policy and objectives.
Ministry of Social Development renews cooperation agreement with Al Rashid Trading Group BSC to grant persones with disabilities a discount in stores
20-08-2024
The Ministry of Social Development renewed its cooperation agreement with Al Rashid Trading Group BSC, which aims to grant holders of the integrated ID card with the ID of persons with disabilities a 15% discount when purchasing from all stores affiliated with the company, which owns more than 30 stores and 3 shopping centers in addition to independent stores. On this occasion, H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, praised Al Rashid Group's support for disblaed within the principles of community partnership in order to enhance the quality of services provided to this important group in society, noting that the continuation of this support reflects the extent of private institutions' commitment to effective community contribution, alongside government sectors, especially since this initiative has received a positive response from the beneficiaries. In this context, H.E. stressed the Ministry of Social Development's continued implementation of national care and rehabilitation initiatives and projects in order to empower this group in the process of construction and development. For his part, Mr. Sandeep Narain, Regional President of Al Rashid Trading Group BSC, expressed his appreciation regarding the cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development, stressing the group’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities, noting that this agreement reflects the company’s vision of promoting social solidarity and contributing to social development.
1,346 beneficiaries of services from 44 civil and private centers.. Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare at the Ministry of Social Development: Keenness to continue enhancing the lev
18-08-2024
Ms. Zainab Salman Al-Awainati, Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare at the Ministry of Social Development, affirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain's keenness to continue supporting persons with disabilities and preserving their rights to ensure comprehensive protection for them, in addition to strengthening community partnership with official, civil and private sectors to advance this category and raise the level of services provided to them. The Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare explained that within the framework of the Kingdom of Bahrain's interest in the rights of all persons with disabilities, the Ministry of Social Development launched a package of projects, initiatives and programs that were included in the executive plan of the National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the years 2023-2027 to represent an integrated vision and framework and a national commitment to the necessary support and assistance to empower this category and integrate them into society, based on the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to relevant international agreements and conventions in a manner that contributes to ensuring societal equality. Al-Awainati pointed out that one year has passed since the launch of the executive plan for the National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities since July of last year 2023, and confirmed in this regard that a team has been formed to monitor and follow up on the initiatives and projects of the executive plan, which includes representatives from all governmental and civil entities concerned with implementing the plan, where the progress of the plan is reviewed periodically and the aspects of progress made and the challenges facing the implementation of the included projects and initiatives are identified, as well as the periodic review process of the percentages of performance indicators to ensure effective evaluation, in addition to issuing periodic reports on the progress made and the percentages of achievement for all axes to ensure highlighting the efforts provided to persons with disabilities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare stated that according to the statistics of the first half of this year 2024 AD, the number of civil centers reached (16) centers benefiting (627) people, while the number of private centers reached (28) centers benefiting (719) people with disabilities, noting that these centers are distributed across all governorates of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare noted the joint coordination between the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Interior to train people with disabilities to obtain a free driving license, which comes in accordance with the provisions of Law No. (74) of 2006 regarding the care, rehabilitation and employment of people with disabilities, and Law No. (23) of 2014 issuing the Traffic Law, in addition to enhancing cooperation and joint coordination with governmental and civil sectors, in order to provide the necessary protection for people with disabilities and develop various programs to care for and rehabilitate them and enable them to contribute to construction and participate in social development, alongside various sectors and groups of society. Al-Awinati pointed out the importance of people with disabilities updating their ID cards with their disability icon, to be able to benefit from the qualitative privileges that holders of the new ID card receive, most notably benefiting from discounts from a number of institutions and shops, which reach about* 180 government and private entities, in addition to obtaining a sticker for parking spaces for people with disabilities from the General Traffic Department, explaining that this step embodies the joint keenness to provide all possible facilities and provide the best services that serve the interests of all segments of society, and also reflects the existing partnership and cooperation between the Ministry and government and private institutions and bodies in order to keep pace with modern technologies and systems, which contributes to implementing national initiatives and projects to increase effectiveness and improve performance efficiency in the interest of citizens.
In the presence of the Minister of Social Development... The Good Word Society concludes its summer program "Sumou"
12-08-2024
In the presence of H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the High Committee for the Care of People with Disabilities, the Good Word Society organized the closing ceremony of the "Sumou" summer program, which aims to guide the behavior of disabled and develop their capabilities and skills in a way that achieves their independence and enables them to integrate into society. In his speech, H.E. the Minister of Social Development praised the efforts of the Good Word Society and its community initiatives that include a number of diverse programs and activities directed at all segments of society, especially disabled, through its adoption of the "Sumou" summer program, in addition to its role in highlighting national efforts by consolidating the concepts of effective community partnership in society, stressing the Ministry's keenness to provide all appropriate means and continuous support for such constructive initiatives, and its cooperation with all civil society institutions to achieve common development goals towards building an equal society full of giving. The Minister of Social Development stressed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is full of good energies and sincere desires from many to participate in charitable work, and support and assist all segments of society, whatever their needs, congratulating the children participating in the "Sumou" program and the supporting entities on their achievements and urging them to continue working and striving to achieve aspirations. The ceremony included an introductory video about the "Sumou" initiative, a theatrical presentation by the program participants, in addition to distributing certificates and gifts to the participants and supporters of the program from governmental, civil and private entities.
For the objective of improving vocational and professional rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities .. The Ministry of Social Development signs a memorandum of understanding with the Bahr
04-08-2024
The Ministry of Social Development, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioral and Communication Difficulties, with the aim of developing vocational and profession rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities, investing their capabilities to become an effective production force in society, within the framework of community partnership with the official, private private sectors and entities supporting this category and advancement At the level of services provided to them. On this occasion, H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al -Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, stressed the importance of consolidating the principles of societal partnership between various sectors in a way that contributes to achieving national goals and upgrading the quality of social and development services provided by the Ministry to various groups of society, especially for disabled, praising in this context the cooperation with the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioral and Communication Difficulties framework for strengthening societal partnership and cooperation with civil organizations working in the field of disability, active social participation and a sense of social responsibility. For her part, Sheikha Rania Bint Ali Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioral and Communication Difficulties on the efforts of the Ministry of Social Development to enhance the support of persons with disabilities, and preserving their rights to ensure the provision of comprehensive protection for them and integrate them with society.
Batelco Center for Family Stability organizes the inauguration ceremony of its new identity
11-07-2024
The Batelco Center for Family Stability organized the inauguration ceremony of the new identity of the Foundation, in the presence of Ms. Enas Mohammed Al Majid, Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development at the Ministry of Social Development, and with the participation of Mr. Mohsen Al Ghurairi, Chairman of the Foundation, and a number of official institutions and social and professional figures in this field, at The Grove Hotel in Amwaj Islands. . During the ceremony, the Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development confirmed that family issues are among the most prominent priorities that receive great attention and support in the Kingdom of Bahrain, praising in this context the efforts made by the Batelco Center for Family Stability Foundation and its initiatives to promote social justice, stability and integration into the process of sustainable development for the individual and society. entire. She added that the Ministry of Social Development is keen to enhance community awareness of the foundations of family stability, through continuing cooperation and coordination with various sectors and governmental, private and civil institutions, stressing its keenness to continue conducting a comprehensive and broad evaluation process of the extent of family institutions’ commitment to carrying out their duties at advanced levels, to contribute effectively to strengthening Family cohesion and community stability to protect the family, childhood and society. The inauguration ceremony included a screening of an introductory film about the Batelco Family Stability Center Foundation, as well as honoring a number of supporting bodies.