Manama: Hassan Ibrahim Hassan, a member of the Council of Representatives and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Bureau of Young Parliamentarians, represented the Arab Group at the 12th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians. The first session titled "Preserving Youth Rights in Times of Conflict" was part of the conference's theme, "Reclaiming Human Rights, Justice and Dignity for All in Turbulent Times".
According to Bahrain News Agency, MP Hassan underscored Bahrain's commitment to the rule of law, human rights protection, and social stability. These principles align with the reform vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in their pursuit of development and institutional modernization.
The Council of Representatives, led by Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, places significant emphasis on developing legal frameworks for rights protection and public policy oversight. MP Hassan emphasized the Council's role in promoting dialogue, peace, and parliamentary diplomacy to prevent conflicts and enhance understanding, facilitating communication and expertise exchange among parliaments while voicing citizen concerns on international platforms.
Hassan highlighted the responsibility of legislative bodies worldwide to integrate youth protection into national legislation and policies, aligning with international humanitarian law and human rights conventions. He stressed the importance of youth as partners in peace-building and addressing causes of recurring violence.
In a panel discussion on "Protecting Digital Rights in the Digital Age," MP Hassan addressed challenges of digital development, technology, and artificial intelligence impacts on youth. He showcased Bahrain's advancements in digital transformation, legislative and technological development, including the Information Technology Crimes Law and the Personal Data Protection Law, bolstering digital environment protections.
Hassan detailed the Council's efforts to regulate technology and artificial intelligence through legislation, governance, digital education, cybersecurity, data protection, and innovation frameworks. He noted the integration of technology in parliamentary work through smart solutions and national competency training, leading to the General Secretariat of the Council of Representatives receiving ISO certification in artificial intelligence management, marking a regional and international first.