Manama: Bahrain has been elected to the Executive Board of UN Women for the 2026-2028 term, marking a significant step in the Kingdom's international engagement in women's advancement. Lulwa Saleh Al Awadhi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), highlighted the importance of this development in reflecting Bahrain's growing role on the global stage.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Awadhi attributed this achievement to the leadership of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the SCW. Her Royal Highness's support has been crucial in empowering Bahraini women and promoting their leadership roles. Bahrain secured one of the five Asia-Pacific seats, joining Japan, China, the Republic of Korea, and the Philippines, emphasizing its commitment to supporting women's advancement globally. This marks Bahrain's second term on the board, following its initial membership from 2017 to 2019.
Al Awadhi stated that this accomplishment is the culmination of a series of national milestones in the advancement of Bahraini women. Women in Bahrain now occupy key roles in decision-making and leadership, significantly contributing to the Kingdom's development. The timing of Bahrain's term coincides with the third edition of the Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women's Empowerment. This award, organized in cooperation with UN Women, underscores Bahrain's dedication to adopting global best practices.
Al Awadhi reiterated Bahrain's commitment to utilizing its board membership to support UN Women's efforts and to contribute to the development of global policies and strategies that empower women. Bahrain aims to enhance women's roles in building societies, achieving sustainable development goals, and advancing participation in technology and science, in alignment with the Kingdom's principles of equality and equal opportunity.