Manama: Bahrain marks the 24th anniversary of the adoption of the National Action Charter, a historic milestone that laid the foundation for the Kingdom’s comprehensive development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the anniversary coincides with the Silver Jubilee of HM the King’s accession to the throne, highlighting the far-reaching impact of His Majesty’s developmental initiatives, with the National Action Charter at the forefront. The charter, followed by the 2002 Constitution and subsequent legislative advancements, has positioned Bahrain among progressive democratic nations, reinforcing the principles of the rule of law and institutional governance.
As a comprehensive roadmap for reform and modernisation, the National Action Charter paved the way for Bahrain’s democratic and developmental progress. It emphasised Bahrain’s national identity, preserved social values, and promoted principles of freedom, justice, and equality, and public participation in decision making. The charter also outlined Bahrain’s regional and international engagement based on cooperation and diplomacy.
On February 14, 2001, the Bahraini people overwhelmingly endorsed the National Action Charter in a national referendum, with 98.4% voting in favour. This moment reflected the unity between the leadership and people, ushering in a new phase of national progress. Since then, Bahrain has witnessed significant advancements, strengthening its status as a modern, forward looking nation.
HM the King has described the National Action Charter as the cornerstone of Bahrain’s modern renaissance, reflecting the people’s aspirations for political participation, economic prosperity, and social development. It has reinforced Bahrain’s historical values of unity, stability, and coexistence, ensuring a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
The charter marked the first step in HM the King’s comprehensive development process, which embraced democracy as a fundamental principle, ensuring inclusive participation in national development. It enhanced institutional governance, strengthened the legal framework, and reinforced Bahrain’s commitment to human rights, stability, and social cohesion.
Economically, the charter laid the foundation for an open and competitive economy, an approach further advanced by the government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Through strategic policies, Bahrain has fostered economic diversification, strengthened human capital, and reinforced its position as a regional investment hub.
Over the years, Bahrain has consistently ranked highly in global development indices. According to the 2024 World Competitiveness Ranking by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Bahrain ranks 21st globally. The Kingdom also secured fifth place globally and third in the Arab world in the 2024 ICT Development Index by the International Telecommunication Union.
The National Action Charter has also played a pivotal role in advancing women’s empowerment in Bahrain. It enshrined gender equality and women’s political rights, leading to constitutional provisions supporting their full participation in all sectors. Women’s representation in the legislative authority has tripled in 20 years, rising from 8% in 2002 to 23% in 2022, with women comprising 25% of the Shura Council and 20% of the Council of Representatives.
In foreign policy, the charter established Bahrain’s commitment to regional and global cooperation, reinforcing its role in promoting peace, security, and dialogue. Under HM the King’s leadership, Bahrain continues to advocate for international stability and humanitarian cooperation.
The National Action Charter remains a defining moment in Bahrain’s history, embodying the unity between the leadership and the people. As the Kingdom commemorates this milestone, it reaffirms its commitment to continued progress and development, guided by the principles set forth in the charter and the leadership’s vision for a prosperous future.