Derasat, Chatham House organise workshop on professional and academic diversity’s role in empowering women in Bahrain

Manama, The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat), in cooperation with the Middle East and North Africa Programme at the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), held a joint workshop titled 'Professional and Academic Diversity and their Role in Empowering Women in the Kingdom of Bahrain' on September 10-11. The workshop was held at the Center's headquarters in Awali, with the participation of a range of stakeholders, academics and entrepreneurs, to learn more about diverse experiences of women in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Dr. Hamad Ebrahim Al Abdulla, Executive Director of Derasat, highlighted the significant achievements of Bahraini women, noting their integral role in the nation's development and prosperity. He attributed their progress to the support and confidence of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, as well as the government initiatives led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, which have e mpowered Bahraini women to become authentic partners in society. Dr. Al Abdulla further noted that the foundation of women's empowerment in Bahrain is rooted in the National Action Charter and the establishment of the Supreme Council for Women, chaired by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King. Dr. Sanam Vakil, Director of the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House, highlighted the significance of such initiatives, saying that this workshop "affirms our commitment to supporting women in the region". She noted that while women's contributions to the economy, society, and family have historically been undervalued across the Middle East, there is now increasing recognition of their importance. This shift is creating new opportunities for collaboration and progress, paving the way for a brighter future for women and their communities. The workshop also included diverse discussions on several key topics, including entrepreneurship and econo mic opportunities, societal norms and family life, as well as the role of women in arts and culture. Attendees participated in a meaningful dialog on the challenges and opportunities available to enhance the role of women in Bahrain, with a focus on understanding how diverse backgrounds affect these experiences. The sessions gave a platform for prominent experts who highlighted the role of women in shaping the economic and social landscape in the Kingdom. The workshop provided a rich environment for exchanging ideas and dialog on strategies related to enhancing the role of women in society. Derasat and Chatham House aim to provide stakeholders with the necessary insights to develop effective programs and initiatives to support women in the Arabian Gulf region, inspired by the pioneering model of Bahraini women. This event reflects the ongoing commitment of Derasat and Chatham House to promote and highlight the various success stories achieved by women in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and to demonstrate the key ro le they play in shaping the future of the nation and inspiring future generations, while creating more opportunities for growth and constructive contribution. Source: Bahrain News Agency