News
Social Development Minister highlights Bahrain’s efforts on International Day of Persons with Disabilities
02-12-2024
Marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3, Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the High Committee for the Care of People with Disabilities, highlighted Bahrain’s significant strides in empowering persons with disabilities and safeguarding their rights. He emphasised the Kingdom's commitment to fostering inclusivity and integration for persons with disabilities. The minister noted that these achievements are guided by the comprehensive development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He stressed that Bahrain’s leadership in promoting equality is reflected in its policies, initiatives, and legislation designed to enhance participation and ensure the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in all areas of life. He highlighted the National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as a cornerstone initiative, providing a unified framework to guide public, private, and civil society organisations in delivering effective support and ensuring accountability through clear performance indicators. He affirmed that the ministry continues to expand services aimed at empowering persons with disabilities, including educational and vocational training, access to specialised mobility and rehabilitation services, and opportunities to enhance their independence, that is through collaborating with government entities, private sector institutions, and civil society groups ensure holistic support and development. The minister highlighted Bahrain’s commitment to integrating all societal groups, including persons with disabilities, into national development efforts. This approach aligns with the Kingdom’s constitutional principles and international obligations, aiming to strengthen human rights protections and promote equality. The ministry offers various programmes to support persons with disabilities, such as academic and vocational grants, mobile support units, specialised rehabilitation services, driving training, and the provision of assistive devices. It also offers regular evaluations of care centres and efforts to enhance their services are part of the Kingdom’s comprehensive approach to ensuring a more inclusive society.
Social Development Ministry celebrates Bahraini Women’s Day
01-12-2024
In celebration of Bahraini Women’s Day, observed annually on December 1, the Ministry of Social Development hosted a special event for its officials and employees. Sahar Rashid Al Mannai, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development, highlighted that Bahraini Women’s Day reflects the nation’s appreciation for women’s contributions across all sectors, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. She commended the initiatives launched by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), to honor Bahraini women’s achievements. The undersecretary noted that celebrating this day underscores the high regard for women’s continuous efforts and accomplishments in national development, highlighting their role as key and active partners in the Kingdom’s comprehensive progress. She commended Bahraini women for their ability to excel in diverse roles and responsibilities across all development sectors. The event featured various activities honoring the contributions of the Ministry’s female workforce, recognizing their dedication to advancing national efforts towards distinction and leadership.
Social Development Minister highlights women's role on Bahraini Women Day
01-12-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development, affirmed Bahraini Women’s Day as a national occasion that highlights the pivotal role of women in the Kingdom’s progress. He noted that under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and with the guidance of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women, Bahraini women have become essential contributors to national development, excelling across all fields. The minister emphasised that celebrating Bahraini Women’s Day reflects the nation’s appreciation for women’s contributions to building a prosperous future. He commended their active role in advancing comprehensive development, noting their success and excellence in various sectors, where they have proven their capabilities and leadership. He affirmed the ministry’s commitment to empowering women, fostering their active participation, and creating pathways for further achievements. He added that these efforts align with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s broader goals for sustainable development. The minister also highlighted the outstanding accomplishments of Bahraini women locally and globally, praising their leadership, creativity, and ability to excel in all domains.
Social Development Minister receives US Ambassador
01-12-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development, receives with Steven C. Bondy, Ambassador of the United States to Bahrain, The meeting discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation and advance joint efforts in social development, exploring opportunities to exchange expertise, and building on shared initiatives to foster growth and progress in this area. The minister highlighted the strong partnership between Bahrain and the US, emphasising the shared commitment to strengthening ties across various fields. The ambassador expressed his appreciation for the cooperation between the two countries. He affirmed the United States’ dedication to expanding its partnership with Bahrain for the benefit of both nations and their people.
Bahraini Mobility International holds conference on Bahraini women with disabilities
30-11-2024
Under the patronage of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), Bahrain Mobility International (BMI) held a conference titled "Achievements and Aspirations" to mark Bahraini Women’s Day and celebrate its 45th anniversary as Bahrain's first organisation dedicated to disability-related matters. Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the High Committee for the Care of People with Disabilities, highlighted Bahrain’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He commended the SCW, led by HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, for its empowerment initiatives and commended the BMI's contributions to supporting persons with disabilities. The conference addressed legislative advancements, achievements of women entrepreneurs with disabilities, and education services, while also celebrating the pioneering role of women with disabilities in Bahrain’s disability rights movement, which led to the establishment of BMI and inspired the creation of other specialised associations.
Assistant Undersecretary of Rehabilitation and Welfare participates in the "Stars Beyond Borders" event
27-11-2024
Social Development Minister meets US disability rights advisor
21-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the High Committee for the Care of People with Disabilities, met with Sara Minkara, the Special Advisor on International Disability Rights at the US Department of State. The minister highlighted Bahrain’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities and promoting their rights to ensure comprehensive protection and sustainable care. He noted the significant national achievements across various societal and developmental fields, driven by the effective implementation of the Persons with Disabilities National Strategy (2023-2027). The plan focuses on launching and executing social initiatives and projects to empower this key group to actively participate in Bahrain’s comprehensive development process, aligning with a human-centred national vision. Minkara commended Bahrain’s efforts in supporting people with disabilities, emphasising the importance of strengthening coordination and collaboration in this area.
National Childhood Commission celebrates World Children’s Day
21-11-2024
The National Commission for Childhood held an event to celebrate World Children’s Day, attended by Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the National Commission for Childhood, along with members representing governmental, civil, and private sectors. The event took place at the Sharifa Al Awadhi Youth and Children Club. In his remarks, the Minister highlighted that the celebration reflects the Commission’s ongoing efforts to raise community awareness of its protection, care, and development programmes. These initiatives aim to empower children, provide them with knowledge, and develop their social skills. By fostering a safe, supportive, and healthy environment, the Commission seeks to nurture children’s abilities and skills, ensuring they grow into a generation capable of building their future and contributing to society. The Minister commended the Commission’s initiatives in advancing children’s rights and stressed the importance of community partnerships. He called for exploring new avenues to enhance efforts in protecting and developing children, ensuring a bright future for Bahrain’s younger generation. The event attracted a large number of children of all ages and their families. It featured a variety of activities and workshops designed to promote creativity and learning, including art sessions, entertainment shows, interactive stations highlighting children’s rights, and an educational theatrical performance aimed at raising awareness about children’s wellbeing.
On World Children’s Day: Social Development Minister highlights Bahrain’s achievements in child welfare
19-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairperson of the National Commission for Childhood, highlighted Bahrain’s significant achievements in child welfare, reflecting 25 years of progress under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He credited Bahrain’s efforts in safeguarding children’s rights and promoting their healthy development. Speaking on World Children’s Day, observed annually on November 20, the minister emphasised Bahrain’s commitment to international child rights agreements, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Bahrain ratified in 1992. He noted the country’s initiatives to adopt the best global practices and enhance indicators for child welfare. Al Alawi highlighted the recent implementation of the Restorative Justice and Child Protection Law, which safeguards children under 18 from abuse and ensures their rehabilitation and integration into society. The Child Protection Centre supports these efforts with a 24/7 child helpline (998) for reporting violence or abuse, offering counselling, psychological support, and legal assistance. This year, the centre conducted 94 training sessions and workshops through 22 initiatives in collaboration with relevant entities. Bahrain’s comprehensive initiatives include a social care complex offering specialised services for at-risk children and holistic support for children with disabilities, including rehabilitation and assistive devices. These efforts reflect Bahrain’s dedication to ensuring inclusive care and protection for all children. The Minister also praised the role of the National Commission for Childhood, which unites representatives from ministries, NGOs, and civil society to promote children’s development. He highlighted the National Childhood Strategy (2023–2027), designed to enhance children’s health, education, and social welfare through 163 initiatives under eight pillars. Bahrain’s ongoing efforts reaffirm its commitment to creating a nurturing environment for children, ensuring their rights, and preparing them for a bright future.
بمناسبة اليوم العالمي للطفولة والذي يصادف 20 نوفمبر من كل عام .. الزياني: البحرين حققت إنجازات نوعية فيما يتعلق بقضايا الطفولة وقدمت نموذجاً متقدماً في حماية الطفل
19-11-2024
بمناسبة اليوم العالمي للطفل..الوكيل المساعد لتنمية المجتمع: السعي لتعزيز الجهود الوطنية لضمان مستقبل مشرق للأطفال
19-11-2024
Social Development Minister meets Al Kawther Society for Social Care
19-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Social Development Minister, received Ebrahim AbdulAli AlDaasi, Chairman of Al Kawther Society for Social Care, and board members. The minister commended the society’s developmental and humanitarian contributions, affirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting civil society organisations as strategic partners in achieving shared objectives. The chairman highlighted key initiatives, projects, and programmes aimed at supporting community members, including healthcare, social, and educational services provided by the organisation.
Social Development Minister meets Indian ambassador to Bahrain
19-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development, met with Vinod Kurian Jacob, Ambassador of India to Bahrain. Both sides reviewed the longstanding ties between Bahrain and India across various domains and discussed ways to further enhance these relations for mutual benefit. Bahrain’s efforts in strengthening social protection and care systems were also highlighted. The ambassador expressed gratitude to the minister and reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering strong cooperation with Bahrain.
Social Development Minister meets WHO representative
19-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development, met with Dr. Tasnim Atatrah, World Health Organisation (WHO) Representative in Bahrain. The minister commended the strategic partnership between Bahrain and the WHO, highlighting its role in achieving shared goals, particularly in social development. He emphasised the importance of continued coordination and collaboration to achieve further progress. Dr. Atatrah expressed gratitude to the Bahraini government for its support and fruitful cooperation across various sectors, wishing Bahrain continued progress and prosperity. The minister highlighted Bahrain’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities and promoting their rights to ensure comprehensive protection and sustainable care. He noted the significant national achievements across various societal and developmental fields, driven by the effective implementation of the Persons with Disabilities National Strategy (2023-2027). The plan focuses on launching and executing social initiatives and projects to empower this key group to actively participate in Bahrain’s comprehensive development process, aligning with a human-centred national vision. Minkara commended Bahrain’s efforts in supporting people with disabilities, emphasising the importance of strengthening coordination and collaboration in this area.
Social Development Minister chairs National Commission for Childhood 4th meeting of 2024
18-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development, chaired the fourth meeting of the National Commission for Childhood, held virtually. Representatives from government entities and civil society organisations have participated in the meeting. The minister commended the committee’s achievements, highlighting the importance of building on previous successes to achieve further progress in childhood development. The meeting reviewed ongoing projects aligned with the National Strategy for Childhood (2023–2027), which focuses on fostering children’s educational, cultural, and psychological growth, ensuring their well-being and supporting their development in line with their rights. The committee also discussed preparations for World Children’s Day, celebrated on 20 November, which will include a developmental and educational event featuring activities and programmes designed for children. During the meeting, the Minister extended a warm welcome to Committee members, commending their contributions and urging them to continue building on past successes, leading towards further achievements in the area of childhood development. The Committee reviewed the progress of its current projects, which align with the National Strategy for Childhood (2023-2027), to foster childhood development at every age across the dimensions of education, culture, and psychology. The Committee’s projects aim to enhance the care and support of children, ensuring their fundamental rights are met, enabling their optimal growth and development. Moreover, the Committee discussed its upcoming arrangements for the World Children's Day, taking place on November 20th, which will include organizing an event that will feature an informative program and activities geared towards children.
Social Development Minister assumes duties
11-11-2024
Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development, met with Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor to assume ministry responsibilities. Al Alawi emphasised his commitment to building on past achievements in social development, serving the Kingdom as part of Team Bahrain, and working towards the goals of the comprehensive development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The minister also commended Al Asfoor's efforts during his tenure, acknowledging the programmes and initiatives implemented to strengthen the social services system. Al Asfoor congratulated Al Alawi on the royal trust. He thanked the ministry staff for their dedication in enhancing the quality and efficiency of services and advancing social development, wishing Al Alawi success in his new role.
Minister of Social Development meets with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports of the Sultanate of Brunei (DarAlsalam)
05-11-2024
H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, met with H.E. Mr. Dato' Haji Nazmi Haji, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports of the Sultanate of Brunei (DarAlsalam), and the accompanying delegation, on the occasion of H.E. official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain to participate in the activities of the "Hope Network", the global network supporting youth competitiveness. During the meeting, H.E. the Minister praised the depth of the distinguished bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Sultanate of Brunei (DaAlsalam), and the steady development in the various Social Development fields, expressing H.E. aspiration to enhance cooperation between the two sides in the areas of social development. During the meeting, various topics of shared interest were reviewed, and views and perspectives were exchanged on best practices in social development, within the protection and social care procedures for various society segments . For his part, H.E. the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports of the Sultanate of Brunei (DarAlsalam) praised the efforts made by the Ministry of Social Development in supporting all society segments, noting that this visit comes within the framework of enhancing cooperation that contributes to enriching development and social exchange between the two countries.
Under the patronage of H.H. Sh. Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa .. Minister of Social Development inaugurates the 1st regional conference on curricula for education and training for Disabled
05-11-2024
Under the patronage of H.H. Sh. Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Youth and Sports Council , President of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, H.E. Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, inaugurated the first regional conference entitled "Education and Training Curricula for Disabled: Effective Strategies and Practices", which was organized by the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society in cooperation with the Academic Excellence Center for Scientific Services and Training, with the participation of a number of experts, specialists and those interested in this field, at the Crown Plaza Hotel. On this occasion, H.H. Sh. Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa stressed that the conference represents an important step towards enhancing efforts aimed at supporting and empowering disabled, and reflects the Kingdom of Bahrain's firm commitment to developing educational and training programs that are in line with the best international practices and meet the needs of this segment of society. His Highness added, "We believe that education and training are the cornerstone for empowering disabled and integrating them fully and effectively into society. Through this conference, we look forward to exchanging experiences and ideas between experts and specialists, and coming up with practical solutions that contribute to improving the quality of educational and training programs, thus contributing to achieving sustainable development and a brighter future for all." H.H. Sh. Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed H.H. sincere thanks and appreciation to all those who contributed to organizing this prominent event, wishing the participants to benefit from the fruitful sessions and discussions to reach the best experiences and effective practices in this field. The conference main objectives is to review the most important effective curricula and programs in educating and training disabled and increasing awareness and understanding of their challenges and needs in the field of education and training, in addition to discussing and examining academic studies, modern research and innovations that contribute to developing their curricula and programs, as well as enhancing the capabilities and skills of teachers, trainers and specialists in the field of education, as the conference is a platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences between participants. The conference also highlights best practices and innovations in the field of education and training for people with disabilities using assistive technologies, smart applications and technological tools, and enhancing cooperation and partnerships between educational institutions, non-governmental organizations and the community, in addition to raising awareness and education about the need to provide equal and appropriate education and training opportunities for this important segment of society. The speakers at the conference presented scientific papers that included basic themes, including the reality of education and training for people with disabilities, and the axis of innovation and assistive technology in education and training. The conference also included discussions and dialogue sessions in addition to workshops aimed at raising awareness and exchanging experiences and knowledge about the importance of providing comprehensive and integrated curricula and programs that meet the education and training needs of this group. It is worth noting that this conference targets disabled, teachers and specialists in related fields, as well as academics, faculty members, researchers and graduate students, in addition to entities that provide special education services.
The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development participates in the 30th Anniversary Conference of the Family International Year in Doha
31-10-2024
Ms. Sahar Rashid Al-Mannai, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development, participated in the 30th Anniversary Conference of the Family International Year, which was held at the Qatar Convention Center in the capital Doha, under the title "The Family and Major Contemporary Trends", organized by the Doha International Family Institute, and supported by the United Nations (UN) Department of Economic and Social Affairs. The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development participated in the working session to present Gulf experiences related to the impact of technology on social development affairs related to the family and contemporary challenges in this regard, in addition to relevant national policies and strategies. This year's conference raises a number of important topics such as technological developments, migration and urbanization, climate change, in addition to demographic challenges, and the impacts these issues have on the family and maintaining its cohesion.
With the attandance of the Minister of Social Development .. The Executive Bureau of the High Committee for the Care of Persons with Disabilities organizes the "Takaful Program" ceremony
27-10-2024
The Executive Bureau of the High Committee for the Care of Persons with Disabilities organized the "Takaful Program" ceremony for persons with disabilities 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 Persons with Disabilities, and with the participation of H.E. Sh. Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Executive Bureau of the Committee, members of the Committee, a number of chairmen of the boards of directors of the concerned NGO's and invitees, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. At the beginning of the ceremony, the Minister of Social Development stressed that the initiatives to support social and charitable work are an actual translation of the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and with the support and diligent follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, towards improving the quality of services provided to persons with disabilities in order to facilitate their lives and integrate them into society, praising in this context the initiative of the Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait by providing wheelchairs with special specifications, as part of the second phase of the "Takaful Program" for Persons with Disabilities. The ceremony included a brief film on rehabilitation services for people with disabilities, honoring the entities supporting the "Takaful Program", in addition to distributing devices and wheelchairs to beneficiaries. H.E. pointed out that the values of support and assistance implemented by various sectors reflect their keenness to consolidate the principles of community partnership as an honorable image of national responsibility that contributes significantly to meeting the requirements of individuals and society, stressing that development initiatives are an example to be followed by many sectors in order to implement more projects supporting charitable and humanitarian work.