UNCT Bahrain retreat focuses on enhancing agility and responsiveness to emerging trends

The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Bahrain gathered on April 28-29, 2025, in Manama in a pivotal retreat that marked the significant transition from planning to implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2025–2029.

“The retreat was an opportunity to identify together immediate actions, innovative ways to enhance UNCT coherence and agility, and better engage with the Government to implement the Cooperation Framework and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals”, said the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, Khaled El Mekwad.

Evaluating Progress and Challenges

Participants delved into the progress and challenges of the Cooperation Framework implementation, reflecting on early milestones and identifying bottlenecks and coordination gaps. The key takeaway was a shared understanding of the Cooperation Framework’s implementation status and the need for enhanced coordination and support from regional and Headquarters levels.

The retreat discussed government priorities and related expectations from the UNCT, emphasizing the importance of aligning the Cooperation Framework implementation with national goals, including priority sectors for closer collaboration, funding challenges and potential solutions.

Strengthening Partnerships

A session was dedicated to strengthening UNCT partnerships, including the Funding Compact. Participants explored opportunities to advance principles such as youth and disability inclusion. The session emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to government cost-sharing and leveraging additional funding from private and civil society sectors. The key takeaway was a commitment to joint resource mobilisation and programming, with clear follow-up actions to enhance donor and private sector engagement.

Addressing Emerging Needs and Expanding UN Engagement

HE Dr Arwa Al Saayed, Head of Human Rights at Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, joined a Human Rights-dedicated session. She highlighted the continued collaboration and open dialogue on human rights between the Government of Bahrain and the United Nations.

Participants discussed human rights priorities, including artificial intelligence, and broader development areas, including support for the Government while it prepares the new Human Rights Action Plan for Bahrain. 

Signed in December 2024, the Cooperation Framework for Bahrain is rooted in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and closely aligned with Bahrain's national priorities. 

It outlines a unified approach to tackling sustainable development's multifaceted challenges while seizing opportunities to foster resilience, inclusivity, and economic diversification.

It aims to enhance collaboration between the Government of Bahrain and the United Nations, ensuring impactful and demand-driven engagement aligned with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals.