Sydney: Dr. Jehad Abdullah Al Fadhel, Second Deputy Chairperson of the Shura Council, participated in a panel titled "Space for Improving Public Services" at the 15th International Meeting for Ministers and Parliamentarians (MMoP), organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). The event was held under the theme "Space the Indispensable Ally for Decision-Makers." Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, was present at the event.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting gathered representatives from approximately 24 countries, including experts and stakeholders in the space domain. Dr. Al Fadhel highlighted Bahrain's achievements in space, emphasizing the legislative authority's role in supporting national plans inspired by the vision 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 noted the legislative authority's collaboration with the executive branch to ensure the provision of resources and requirements for the space sector.
Dr. Al Fadhel explained that the legislative role extends beyond lawmaking, mentioning Bahrain's plans to introduce a dedicated space law. She emphasized parliament's involvement in approving funding for national space projects, promoting partnerships with universities and international agencies, and raising public awareness of space technology benefits. She stated that transforming satellite data into reliable information enables governments to develop effective policies and deliver efficient services. Space technology plays a role in environmental monitoring, disaster management, urban planning, and measuring air and climate quality.
Dr. Al Fadhel added that comprehensive support for the space sector has enabled Bahrain to achieve significant milestones since the establishment of the Bahrain Space Agency (BSA). Over 25 space applications support more than 30 national projects, benefiting the community and contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Research projects related to satellite imagery have increased by 42%, joint projects have doubled, demand for agency services has risen by 167%, and user satisfaction has reached 92%, indicating public trust.
Dr. Al Fadhel highlighted practical applications in national afforestation programmes, which have increased green cover by 16% between 2021 and 2024. Monitoring urban heat islands, tracking water quality, and assessing sea level rise impacts for urban planning were also discussed. Bahrain's commitment to international cooperation includes participation in the United Nations' Space4Water initiative and collaboration with the United Kingdom on a satellite campaign for carbon emissions monitoring. The "Space for Sustainability" programme with the UAE employs artificial intelligence for sustainability objectives.
Dr. Al Fadhel described the meeting as an opportunity to share insights and boost international cooperation in a sector shaping human development and policymaking. She stressed that space offers practical solutions for resource management, public service improvement, and supporting sustainable development. Bahrain's space achievements over the past decade are just the beginning, highlighting the need for ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing amid rapid technological change.
General discussions among parliamentarians and ministers focused on space's role in disaster management, enhancing public services, and improving life on Earth. Representatives presented best practices in utilizing space technologies in these areas.