Manama: A delegation from the Bahraini Parliamentary Division participated in a virtual roundtable on promoting gender equality in nationality laws. The event was organised by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and UN Women.
According to Bahrain News Agency, representing Bahrain were Dalal Jassim Al Zayed, Head of the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee, and Dr. Maryam Saleh Al Dhain, Member of the Council of Representatives. The discussion aimed to create a space for sharing updates and efforts to promote gender equality in nationality laws, including steps taken to implement the roadmaps from the summit, and to discuss ideas and future opportunities for reform.
Al Zayed highlighted Bahrain's legal and constitutional efforts to support gender equality, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. She emphasised Bahrain's clear policy to ensure equal rights for men and women, in line with national laws and international agreements.
Al Zayed explained that children of Bahraini women married to non-citizens receive services, which are similar to citizens, in healthcare, education, and residency. She also commended the Supreme Council for Women, led by HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, for advancing women's rights and implementing a national strategy with gender-responsive budgeting.
Al Zayed highlighted that Bahrain's constitution ensures equality for all citizens regardless of gender, origin, language, or religion, and guarantees women equal political, economic, and social rights. She noted that Bahrain's nationality law is based on clear principles aligned with international legal standards and sovereignty considerations.
Dr. Al Dhain noted that the principle of equal opportunity is central to Bahrain's national reform project led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, emphasising the role of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister in advancing social justice and equality through supportive policies and legislation.
Al Dhain highlighted Bahrain's efforts to protect the rights of Bahraini women and their children, citing Law No. 35 of 2009, which ensures that foreign spouses and children of Bahraini women are treated the same as citizens in areas such as education, healthcare, residency, and access to public services, provided they reside permanently in Bahrain.
She concluded by underscoring that Bahrain's legal framework reflects a strong commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. The constitution clearly guarantees equal rights and calls for the development of laws that protect women's political, social, and economic status, reinforcing the principles of justice and inclusive participation in national development.