Manama: The Bahraini press and media community is celebrating the silver jubilee of the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA), marking a significant achievement in the Kingdom of Bahrain's comprehensive development under His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Journalists and media professionals in Bahrain mark this occasion with pride, acknowledging the progress made by Bahraini journalism in raising awareness and inspiring generations of journalists and thinkers in the region.
According to Bahrain News Agency, over the past 25 years, Bahraini journalism has become a main pillar supporting the country's development, thanks to the support of His Majesty the King and the continuous attention of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Royal directives to develop and support the press sector and freedom of expression have provided a clear path for the growth of Bahraini media, enabling the national press to serve the Kingdom and its people.
Bahraini journalism, through its diverse institutions, has emerged as a respected face of national media, reflecting Bahrain's identity and heritage with professionalism and transparency. The BJA has played a leading role in developing the media landscape through cooperation with various media institutions, supporting and training national talent, and establishing itself as a professional body with a strong presence locally, regionally, and internationally.
To achieve these goals, the BJA has worked closely with the Ministry of Information and media institutions to support national journalism and help it keep pace with rapid digital developments. A key part of this effort was the BJA's role in amending the "Press, Printing, and Publishing Law" (Decree Law No. 47 of 2002), which aims to create a more modern legal environment for the media sector.
Marking its 25th anniversary, the BJA launched its silver jubilee logo in April, reflecting Bahrain's progress under the leadership of His Majesty the King over the past 25 years. Established under the Law on Associations and Clubs (Decree Law No. 21 of 1989) and officially registered in 1991, the BJA's first board was formed in 2000. The current board (2023-2025) is chaired by Isa Al Shayji, Editor-in-Chief of Al Ayam newspaper.
The BJA remains committed to promoting professional values, protecting journalists' rights, and ensuring their freedom to work. The Association also collaborates with Arab and international journalist unions and associations to advance the profession, uphold its traditions and ethics, and organize workshops and training to enhance professional and technical standards in journalism and modern digital media.