Paris: The Kingdom of Bahrain has successfully gained a seat on the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) through the election of Rashed Nabeel Al Hamer, Vice Chairman of the Bahrain Journalists Association and Chairman of its International Relations Committee. This achievement was announced during the federation's congress held in Paris.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Hamer received 122 votes, securing his position on the Executive Committee for the next three-year term, with backing from both Arab and international journalists' unions and media organizations. The IFJ, headquartered in Brussels, is commemorating its centenary this year and represents over 600,000 journalists globally.
The congress, which took place from May 4 to 7, underscored the significance of enhancing professional journalism, broadening its reach across platforms, and safeguarding journalists worldwide. Al Hamer remarked that Bahrain's election to the committee reflects the nation's increasing international recognition and the advancements made in its media sector, facilitated by ongoing initiatives to improve the professional media environment and advance journalism within the Kingdom.
Al Hamer highlighted the strong support Bahrain received in the elections as a testament to the Kingdom's advancements in the media and journalism sector. This progress has been attributed to the support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the continued oversight of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, along with the government's dedication to bolstering the media environment and journalism development.
He further stated that Bahrain has positioned itself as a nation advocating for a responsible and free press and media openness. Al Hamer also emphasized the importance of enhancing international media cooperation, defending journalists' professional interests, and evolving journalism to meet global challenges. He expressed gratitude to all Arab and international press unions and media organizations that supported Bahrain's candidacy, noting that this backing would facilitate ongoing efforts to serve the journalism community and strengthen Bahrain's global presence.