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Press Release
02 December 2024
The Secretary-General Message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
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02 December 2024
The UN in Bahrain Holds a Leadership Engagement Session on Disability Inclusion
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Press Release
01 December 2024
The Secretary General Message for International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Bahrain
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. With 21 United Nations Entities represented in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the work of the United Nations encompasses all 17 SDGs.
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04 September 2024
Planning ahead: 5 things to know about the UN’s landmark Summit of the Future
1 What is the Summit of the Future?In 2020, the UN turned 75 and marked the occasion by starting a global conversation about hopes and fears for the future.This was the beginning of a process that would eventually lead, four years later, to the convening of the Summit of the Future, a major event this September, which will take place at UN Headquarters, just before the annual high-level debate of the General Assembly.The Summit was conceived at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when there was a perception at the UN that, rather than cooperating to face this global threat that affected all of us, countries and people pulled apart.“We were really confronted with the gap between the aspirations of our founders, which we were trying to celebrate at the 75th anniversary, and the reality of the world as it is today”, says Michele Griffin, the Policy Director of the Summit. “The problems that we faced, the threats, but also the opportunities and the imperfections in how we respond”.UN Member States tasked Secretary-General António Guterres to come up with a vision for the future of global cooperation. His answer to their call was “Our Common Agenda”, a landmark report with recommendations on renewed global cooperation to address a host of risks and threats, and a proposal to hold a forward-looking summit in 2024.The event will consist of sessions and plenaries based around five main tracks (sustainable development and financing; peace and security; a digital future for all; youth and future generations; and global governance), and other topics that cut across all of the work of the UN, including human rights, gender equality and the climate crisis.The immediate outcome will be a finalised version of a Pact for the Future, with a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration for Future Generations in annex, all of which are expected to be adopted by Member States during the Summit. 2 Why does the Summit matter?Because, although these themes have been addressed in the past, and groundbreaking accords such as the Paris Agreement on climate and the Sustainable Development Goals have been reached, there is a widespread perception that the structures of the UN, many of which were established decades ago, are no longer sufficiently fair or effective.The Summit of the Future offers a chance to deliver more fully on promises that have already been made, to ready the international community for the world to come, and to restore trust.“The most important ingredient in international cooperation is trust”’ says Michele Griffin. “Trust in each other. A sense of our shared humanity, our interconnectedness. And the summit is designed to remind all of us, not just governments and not just people who will be at the UN in New York in September, but everyone, that we have to work together to solve our biggest shared problems”.3 Who are the key players?The Summit will be preceded by two Action Days, also held at UN Headquarters, where representatives from civil society, private sector, academia, local and regional authorities, youth, Member States and many more, will have the chance to engage in the main themes of the event.“You look at the UN and you think governments are the key players”, says Griffin. “And that’s true. They’re the ones sitting around the table, but they do so on behalf of their people”.“Civil society actors, young people have been involved throughout and will be at the summit”, explains Ms. Griffin. “Private sector will be here in recognition of the massive role they have in shaping people's lives and opportunities today. This summit is for and by everyone, and everyone should see themselves reflected in it”.4 What happens next?The organizers of the Summit have stressed that the closing of the event will not be the end of the discussions and issues raised over the four days.Michele Griffin describes it as the beginning of a process: “most of the seeds that we plant at this summit will take some time to grow and flourish”, she says, “and all of us have to be involved in holding governments responsible for living up to their commitments on the international stage”.After the Summit, the focus will shift to implementing the recommendations and pledges contained within the Pact for the Future. In November, Azerbaijan will host the UN Climate Conference (COP29), where climate financing will be high on the agenda; December sees the UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in Botswana, where solutions for sustainable development will be sought; and next June, efforts to reform the international financial architecture (including bodies such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, which decide how, and under which conditions, to provide loans, grants and technical assistance to developing countries) will be stepped up in Spain, at the International Conference on Financing for Development (Ffd4).5 How can I get involved?Act Now is the UN’s global campaign to encourage all people to advocate for a better, more peaceful and sustainable future. The platform aims to increase the numbers of those who are speaking up and making a positive difference, whether it’s by volunteering in their local community, taking part in local decision-making, or simply changing their personal habits of consumption to live more environmentally responsible lives.In the lead up to the Summit, the UN Youth Office is also galvanizing young people and allies by launching #YouthLead, an appeal to world leaders to make global policymaking more representative of the communities they serve.
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06 June 2024
WHO Bahrain Country Office on the forefront of the fight against Tobacco
In the lead-up to World No Tobacco Day (May 31st), WHO Bahrain organized a workshop on May 18th to raise awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco use, including for youth.
The event was held at the Royal Humanitarian Foundation and attended by a diverse youth audience.
Participants were provided with essential information and tools to combat tobacco use. Promotional material dedicated to fighting tobacco, including a video, was unveiled. The workshop also included a video production and editing session in preparation for a regional video contest held on World No Tobacco Day 2024.
On May 26th, the WHO Bahrain Country Office held a lecture on World No Tobacco Day for Ministry employees and healthcare professionals. The lecture focused on this year's theme, which urges youth to act against predatory tobacco marketing tactics and provided crucial information to combat tobacco use.
On May 30th, 2024, the WHO Country Office in Bahrain attended the World No Tobacco Day 2024 event at the Ministry of Interior.
The event was organized to enhance community awareness and participation in health issues.
Several internal and external bodies, including Dr Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative in Bahrain, were honoured during the event. Additionally, the winner of the smoking cessation competition organized by the World Health Organization and the Ministry's employees who participated in the tobacco cessation initiative were also recognized.
"We have undoubtedly achieved so much progress on tobacco control, but we still have a long journey ahead. Tobacco and related industries will continue to fight to ensure the dangers of their products are concealed. Still, we must be on our guard against its tactics to protect our current and future generations," said Dr Atatrah.
The event was held at the Royal Humanitarian Foundation and attended by a diverse youth audience.
Participants were provided with essential information and tools to combat tobacco use. Promotional material dedicated to fighting tobacco, including a video, was unveiled. The workshop also included a video production and editing session in preparation for a regional video contest held on World No Tobacco Day 2024.
On May 26th, the WHO Bahrain Country Office held a lecture on World No Tobacco Day for Ministry employees and healthcare professionals. The lecture focused on this year's theme, which urges youth to act against predatory tobacco marketing tactics and provided crucial information to combat tobacco use.
On May 30th, 2024, the WHO Country Office in Bahrain attended the World No Tobacco Day 2024 event at the Ministry of Interior.
The event was organized to enhance community awareness and participation in health issues.
Several internal and external bodies, including Dr Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative in Bahrain, were honoured during the event. Additionally, the winner of the smoking cessation competition organized by the World Health Organization and the Ministry's employees who participated in the tobacco cessation initiative were also recognized.
"We have undoubtedly achieved so much progress on tobacco control, but we still have a long journey ahead. Tobacco and related industries will continue to fight to ensure the dangers of their products are concealed. Still, we must be on our guard against its tactics to protect our current and future generations," said Dr Atatrah.
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22 April 2024
New technologies and SDGs discussed at a student debate at Ahlia University
The United Nations Information Centre for the Gulf Countries (UNIC Manama) participated on 18 April in a student debate organized by Ahlia University in Bahrain on the implications of robotics for achieving the SDGs.
Speaking at the debate, UNIC Manama Director Ahmed Ben Lassoued highlighted the importance of new technologies for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
"However, new technologies, including AI, must be safe, under human control, and governed fairly, inclusively, and transparently," Ben Lassoued said, stressing the importance of the upcoming Summit of the Future, to be held in New York in September this year.
"One key point to be discussed at the Summit is how to leverage better science, technology, innovation, and digital information for sustainable development," he said.
Youth voices matter
"As the custodians of the planet, young people will have to live with the consequences of today's actions - or inaction," Ben Lassoued told the participants.
"The United Nations stands with you in your effort to make your voice heard and count," he said, calling the participants to engage with the United Nations in the lead-up to the Summit.
Speaking at the debate, UNIC Manama Director Ahmed Ben Lassoued highlighted the importance of new technologies for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
"However, new technologies, including AI, must be safe, under human control, and governed fairly, inclusively, and transparently," Ben Lassoued said, stressing the importance of the upcoming Summit of the Future, to be held in New York in September this year.
"One key point to be discussed at the Summit is how to leverage better science, technology, innovation, and digital information for sustainable development," he said.
Youth voices matter
"As the custodians of the planet, young people will have to live with the consequences of today's actions - or inaction," Ben Lassoued told the participants.
"The United Nations stands with you in your effort to make your voice heard and count," he said, calling the participants to engage with the United Nations in the lead-up to the Summit.
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02 December 2024
The UN in Bahrain Holds a Leadership Engagement Session on Disability Inclusion
On the eve of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on 3rd December, the United Nations Country Team in Bahrain conducted an internal leadership engagement session on Monday dedicated to streamlining disability inclusion in the work of the United Nations in Bahrain. "At the United Nations in Bahrain, we recognise the need for participation, representation and inclusion of persons with disabilities at all levels, and their right to shape the conditions of their lives actively," said the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Khaled El Mekwad. "The need to include persons with disabilities is more apparent now than ever. The complete realisation of the human rights of all persons with disabilities is an inalienable, integral and indivisible part of universal human rights and fundamental freedoms," he said, highlighting the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy.The strategy provides the foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion through all pillars of the work of the United Nations. The session underscored the importance of inclusion not only in policies affecting persons with disabilities but in all areas of the United Nations. Representatives from UN entities in Bahrain, attending virtually and in person, reflected on the various initiatives undertaken to strengthen the participation and leadership of persons with disabilities, including training programmes and forging partnerships to integrate and promote disability inclusion.The session also emphasized Bahrain's pioneering role in including persons with disabilities, underscoring that the Kingdom was one of the first countries to sign the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2007 (acceded in 2011). The United Nations and Bahrain have a long-standing cooperation in disability inclusion, including designing and implementing the Action Plan of the National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2022-2026), launched by the Government in 2023.The theme of the 2024 celebration is Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future. The leadership of persons with disabilities is epitomised by the global disability rights movement's slogan, "Nothing About Us Without Us". It connotes the basic requirements of participation, representation, and inclusion and calls for persons with disabilities to shape their living conditions actively."Persons with disabilities already disproportionately bear the brunt of the crises scarring our world — from conflicts and climate disasters to poverty and inequalities — because of persistent discrimination, stigma, and barriers to basic rights and services. But they are also often denied their right to contribute to solutions to these crises," the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.He recalled that at the recently adopted Pact for the Future, held in September at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the world's countries committed to correcting this injustice for persons with disabilities of all ages, for present and future generations."On this important day, and every day, let's work with persons with disabilities to achieve an inclusive and sustainable future for all people," Mr Guterres said.
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01 December 2024
WHO Bahrain: Transformative Impact
Persons with disabilities often confront an array of physical and societal barriers, limiting their full societal engagement and leaving their specific healthcare needs unaddressed.[1] In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) in Bahrain, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), launched collaborative initiatives.[2][3] A landmark advocacy event, 'Public Spaces for All', organized in an accessible-friendly park by WHO Bahrain in partnership with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office on 3 December 2022, the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the necessity of converting public spaces into inclusive environments.[4] Its impact was substantial, highlighting the importance of mainstreaming disability inclusion across all areas of society by promoting physical activity, social inclusion, and health. Building on this success, WHO Bahrain committed to leading the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) thematic group, Disability Inclusion Task Force, in 2023, actively engaging and providing technical guidance on the Ministry of Social Development’s National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities. With sustained backing from WHO, these initiatives in 2022 and 2023, paved the way for inclusive collaboration, propelling the integration of persons with disabilities in all facets of life in Bahrain. This work reflects United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy and WHO’s Policy on Disability, which ensures the disability inclusion marker is taken into account from the planning stage of all public health programmes.[5]
Key WHO ContributionsHosted the 2022 and 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities advocacy events.Recruited the first Disability and Inclusion Officer.Engaged a diverse range of stakeholders, including ministers and public figures, to foster a broad-based dialogue on disability-inclusive environments.Coordinated the UNCT thematic group Disability Inclusion Task Force.Supported the review of the health component and translation of the National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities.Identified and supported a WHO75 Champion and key figure Paralympian, Ruba Al-Omari.Created and distributed inclusive advocacy materials (photographs, videos, graphics) including social media short films promoting physical activity and mental health including the Healthy Habits Campaign.How did Bahrain, with the support of WHO, achieve this?In preparation, WHO Bahrain meticulously engaged key stakeholders, sending high-level invitations to ministers, stakeholders, and the public, ensuring a comprehensive conversation about disability-inclusive public spaces across various societal strata. This effort garnered significant support and patronage from esteemed entities like the Supreme Council of Health, ministries (Health, Social Development, Municipalities, Works, Sustainable Development), and organizations.WHO Bahrain employed a multifaceted communication strategy to convey a powerful message of inclusivity across WHO, UN agencies channels, and government platforms. The event at Hadiqat Diyar was a symbolic moment, commencing with a morning assembly and culminating in a park walk - a powerful emblem of the commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, raising awareness for the need for accessible public spaces. In 2023, WHO Bahrain continued advancing disability inclusion by coordinating the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) thematic group, the Disability Inclusion Task Force. This Task Force aligns with the UN Disability and Inclusion Strategy, launched in 2019, aiming for transformative change via UN agencies in Bahrain strengthening and championing disability inclusion within their programming and operations. WHO Bahrain, as the coordinator of the Task Force, facilitated quarterly meetings where focal points discussed collaborative activities, and reviewed efforts to strengthen systems and operations, joint activities, and training, including, completing the annual UNCT accountability scorecard on disability inclusion.“We hope to build a platform for people, in all their diversity, to voice their stories, and where social determinants of health can be integrated within the very fabric of well-being related health systems. Bahrain’s strides in implementing accessible spaces within the country’s infrastructure provide evidence of a realization to make healthy public environments accessible to all.”- Dr Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative in BahrainWHO Bahrain provided technical support on the health component and review of the translation of the National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities. WHO Bahrain’s role served as a focal point for ongoing communication between the Task Force and the Ministry of Social Development and coordinated the UNCT response to the Ministry's requests for proposals and the implementation of programmes and activities. Through this coordination structure WHO ensured that all UN agencies in Bahrain had the opportunity to collaborate and contribute to the planning of disability inclusion activities.In 2022, WHO Bahrain, jointly with, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, developed a public-focused campaign aimed at behavioural change related to unhealthy diets and physical inactivity using social media channels. The campaign featured eight short videos of young Bahraini athletes from different demographic groups, ensuring gender balance, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.Building on their social engagement, in 2023, WHO Bahrain identified Ruba Al-Omari, a well-known Paralympian and Bahraini athlete, as a WHO75 Champion, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening disability inclusion.[7] WHO Bahrain produced social media short films, featuring Ms Al-Omari, as part of a broader media campaign engaging WHO75 Champions and broadening their reach within the community.WHO’s initiatives in Bahrain have championed equal opportunities for persons with disabilities as a part of its broader mission to achieve 'health for all', aligning with Bahrain's dedication to sustainable development and inclusivity, adhering to the international convention on the rights of persons with disabilities, and aligning with the wider goals of the United Nations, including gender equality and active youth participation.A recent event organized by WHO on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December 2023 focused on the critical role that persons with disabilities play in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and brought together organizations for persons with disabilities, UN agencies, the Ministry of Health, and youth volunteers from the Ministry of Youth Affairs. Looking ahead to 2024, WHO Bahrain is poised to continue advancing the agenda, furthering the integration and empowerment of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of society, contributing to sustainable change on disability inclusion. References World Health Organization. Disability [web portal](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/disability-and-health, accessed 19 March 2024). World Health Organization. Targets of Sustainable Development Goal 3 [web portal] (https://www.who.int/europe/about-us/our-work/sustainable-development-goals/targets-of-sustainable-development-goal-3, accessed 2 February 2024). World Health Organization. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities [web portal] (https://www.who.int/tools/your-life-your-health/a-healthy-world/planet/SDG-11-Sustainable-Cities-and-Communities, accessed 2 February 2024).World Health Organization. Promoting disability-inclusive public spaces in Bahrain [news story] (https://www.emro.who.int/bahrain/news/promoting-disability-inclusive-public-spaces-in-bahrain.html, accessed 2 February 2024). World Health Organization. WHO’s policy on disability [web portal (https://www.who.int/about/policies/disability#:~:text=The%20WHO%20Policy%20on%20Disability%20requires%20WHO%20to%3A,information%20about%20WHO's%20disability%20programme, accessed 19 March 2024). World Health Organization. International day of persons with disabilities [web portal] (https://www.who.int/campaigns/international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities, accessed 2 February 2024). World Health Organization Bahrain. Biannual Newsletter. July – December 2023 [newsletter] (https://www.emro.who.int/images/stories/bahrain/WHO-Bahrain-Newsletter-amended-July-Dec_2023.pdf, accessed 5 February 2024).
Key WHO ContributionsHosted the 2022 and 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities advocacy events.Recruited the first Disability and Inclusion Officer.Engaged a diverse range of stakeholders, including ministers and public figures, to foster a broad-based dialogue on disability-inclusive environments.Coordinated the UNCT thematic group Disability Inclusion Task Force.Supported the review of the health component and translation of the National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities.Identified and supported a WHO75 Champion and key figure Paralympian, Ruba Al-Omari.Created and distributed inclusive advocacy materials (photographs, videos, graphics) including social media short films promoting physical activity and mental health including the Healthy Habits Campaign.How did Bahrain, with the support of WHO, achieve this?In preparation, WHO Bahrain meticulously engaged key stakeholders, sending high-level invitations to ministers, stakeholders, and the public, ensuring a comprehensive conversation about disability-inclusive public spaces across various societal strata. This effort garnered significant support and patronage from esteemed entities like the Supreme Council of Health, ministries (Health, Social Development, Municipalities, Works, Sustainable Development), and organizations.WHO Bahrain employed a multifaceted communication strategy to convey a powerful message of inclusivity across WHO, UN agencies channels, and government platforms. The event at Hadiqat Diyar was a symbolic moment, commencing with a morning assembly and culminating in a park walk - a powerful emblem of the commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, raising awareness for the need for accessible public spaces. In 2023, WHO Bahrain continued advancing disability inclusion by coordinating the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) thematic group, the Disability Inclusion Task Force. This Task Force aligns with the UN Disability and Inclusion Strategy, launched in 2019, aiming for transformative change via UN agencies in Bahrain strengthening and championing disability inclusion within their programming and operations. WHO Bahrain, as the coordinator of the Task Force, facilitated quarterly meetings where focal points discussed collaborative activities, and reviewed efforts to strengthen systems and operations, joint activities, and training, including, completing the annual UNCT accountability scorecard on disability inclusion.“We hope to build a platform for people, in all their diversity, to voice their stories, and where social determinants of health can be integrated within the very fabric of well-being related health systems. Bahrain’s strides in implementing accessible spaces within the country’s infrastructure provide evidence of a realization to make healthy public environments accessible to all.”- Dr Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative in BahrainWHO Bahrain provided technical support on the health component and review of the translation of the National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities. WHO Bahrain’s role served as a focal point for ongoing communication between the Task Force and the Ministry of Social Development and coordinated the UNCT response to the Ministry's requests for proposals and the implementation of programmes and activities. Through this coordination structure WHO ensured that all UN agencies in Bahrain had the opportunity to collaborate and contribute to the planning of disability inclusion activities.In 2022, WHO Bahrain, jointly with, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, developed a public-focused campaign aimed at behavioural change related to unhealthy diets and physical inactivity using social media channels. The campaign featured eight short videos of young Bahraini athletes from different demographic groups, ensuring gender balance, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.Building on their social engagement, in 2023, WHO Bahrain identified Ruba Al-Omari, a well-known Paralympian and Bahraini athlete, as a WHO75 Champion, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening disability inclusion.[7] WHO Bahrain produced social media short films, featuring Ms Al-Omari, as part of a broader media campaign engaging WHO75 Champions and broadening their reach within the community.WHO’s initiatives in Bahrain have championed equal opportunities for persons with disabilities as a part of its broader mission to achieve 'health for all', aligning with Bahrain's dedication to sustainable development and inclusivity, adhering to the international convention on the rights of persons with disabilities, and aligning with the wider goals of the United Nations, including gender equality and active youth participation.A recent event organized by WHO on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December 2023 focused on the critical role that persons with disabilities play in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and brought together organizations for persons with disabilities, UN agencies, the Ministry of Health, and youth volunteers from the Ministry of Youth Affairs. Looking ahead to 2024, WHO Bahrain is poised to continue advancing the agenda, furthering the integration and empowerment of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of society, contributing to sustainable change on disability inclusion. References World Health Organization. Disability [web portal](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/disability-and-health, accessed 19 March 2024). World Health Organization. Targets of Sustainable Development Goal 3 [web portal] (https://www.who.int/europe/about-us/our-work/sustainable-development-goals/targets-of-sustainable-development-goal-3, accessed 2 February 2024). World Health Organization. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities [web portal] (https://www.who.int/tools/your-life-your-health/a-healthy-world/planet/SDG-11-Sustainable-Cities-and-Communities, accessed 2 February 2024).World Health Organization. Promoting disability-inclusive public spaces in Bahrain [news story] (https://www.emro.who.int/bahrain/news/promoting-disability-inclusive-public-spaces-in-bahrain.html, accessed 2 February 2024). World Health Organization. WHO’s policy on disability [web portal (https://www.who.int/about/policies/disability#:~:text=The%20WHO%20Policy%20on%20Disability%20requires%20WHO%20to%3A,information%20about%20WHO's%20disability%20programme, accessed 19 March 2024). World Health Organization. International day of persons with disabilities [web portal] (https://www.who.int/campaigns/international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities, accessed 2 February 2024). World Health Organization Bahrain. Biannual Newsletter. July – December 2023 [newsletter] (https://www.emro.who.int/images/stories/bahrain/WHO-Bahrain-Newsletter-amended-July-Dec_2023.pdf, accessed 5 February 2024).
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28 November 2024
The UN in Bahrain marks the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
The United Nations in Bahrain together with the Embassy of the State of Palestine in the Kingdom of Bahrain organized today in Manama an event marking the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, observed on 29 November.“The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is an opportunity for the international community to recognize the fact that the question of Palestine remains unresolved and that the Palestinian people have not yet achieved their inalienable rights as defined by the General Assembly, namely: The right to self-determination, the right to independence and national sovereignty, and the right of return for refugees,” said the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Khaled El Mekwad. With regard to the situation in Gaza, the Resident Coordinator highlighted the plight of civilians, including those who have been killed, wounded, taken as hostages and caught in the conflict.“The United Nations continues to call for the protection of civilians, including aid workers, medical personnel, journalists and UN staff, and for the cessation of the destruction and damage to hospitals and other civilian infrastructure, including UN buildings,” El Mekwad said. “No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law, which cannot be applied selectively.”El Mekwad highlighted the indispensable role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). “The United Nations is determined to remain in Gaza to provide life-saving assistance, where UNRWA as the backbone of the humanitarian operation, remains indispensable,” he said. “The UN is deeply concerned by the targeting of UNRWA and the possibility of preventing it from continuing its essential work, as mandated by the United Nations General Assembly, in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem.” In his speech the, the Resident Coordinator highlighted the message of the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.“Every year on this day, the international community stands in solidarity for the dignity, rights, justice and self-determination of the Palestinian people,” said Mr Guterres, adding “this year’s commemoration is especially painful as those fundamental goals are as distant as they have ever been.”“It is past time for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages; an end to the unlawful occupation of the Palestinian Territory – as confirmed by the International Court of Justice and the General Assembly; and irreversible progress towards a two-State solution, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions – with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, and Jerusalem as the capital of both States.” International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1977 to commemorate the adoption by the GA on the 29th of November 1947 of Resolution 181 (II) on the partition of Palestine.Mr Hatem Abdulhameed Hatem, Chief of Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and HE Mr Taha Mohammed Abdul Qader, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the Kingdom of Bahrain, also addressed the event, which was attended by representatives of the Government of Bahrain, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and the Civil Society.
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24 November 2024
Bahrain UN Country Team Gender Theme Group strategizes 2025 to advance Gender Equality goals
Since its establishment in 2023, the Gender Theme Group (GTG) of the Bahrain UN Country Team (UNCT) has been driving efforts to enhance gender mainstreaming efforts across the UN’s work in Bahrain. With a commitment to achieving tangible results for women and girls, the GTG recently held a two-day strategic retreat to review achievements and set ambitious priorities for 2025.UN Women and United Nation Population Fund (UNFPA) as co-chairs of the GTG, led the retreat with the participation of UN-Habitat, OHCHR, IOM, UN Information Center (UNIC) and WHO and with the support of the Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO).The retreat kicked off with a review of the GTG workplan 2024 implementation and progress on the UNCT-SWAP Gender Equality Scorecard (GES). The group assessed the annual workplan to identify advancements in integrating a gender perspective into the UNCT joint work. Based on this progress, the GTG drafted the Scorecard annual report, selecting five performance indicators to demonstrate improvements in the UNCT’s collective efforts on gender equality . During the retreat, UN Women introduced the GTG study conducted this year to calculate members’ staff time contribution to the GTG, and which offered key recommendations to strengthen GTG capacity to drive gender results for the UNCT’s joint work. Drawing on the results of the study and other insights, the GTG developed key actions to include in the team’s 2025 workplan.On the second day, UN Women facilitated capacity building sessions to support the GTG in implementing its workplan in line with the global standard and procedures for Gender Theme Groups. The training included a refresher on the Gender Equality Marker (GEM), a tool to assess resource allocation in activities in the UN Country Team Joint Workplan that promote gender equality. An introductory session on Gender Mainstreaming followed, providing guidance on how UN agencies can more effectively integrate gender equality perspectives in their programming. Additionally, a session on gender-based results monitoring and reporting was conducted to examine gender-responsive monitoring structure and explore practical methods for including measurement for gender-related changes to the indicators.The retreat reinforced the GTG’s role in driving accountability and building capacity for UN gender-responsive programming within the UNCT. As Bahrain continues to advance gender equality in line with Sustainable Development Goal 5, the GTG remains committed to achieving cohesive, transformative results for women and girls, contributing to the broader realization of the SDGs.“Building on this year’s achievements, the GTG will ensure that gender equality and women’s empowerment remain central to the UNCT’s joint work in Bahrain bolstered by the technical training conducted during the retreat. The GTG’s collective efforts will ensure that the UN Country Team is able to collaborate effectively with our national partners and contribute to the national development priorities of the Kingdom of Bahrain around women’s empowerment and the Beijing Platform for Action” said Josephine Moss, GTG co-chair and Regional Coordination Specialist from UN Women Regional Office for the Arab States.With a clear roadmap for 2025, the GTG is poised to strengthen its impact on gender equality, ensuring that the UN’s work in Bahrain remains inclusive, effective, and aligned with global standards.
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18 November 2024
Assistant-Secretary General for Youth Affairs visits Bahrain
Dr Felipe Paullier, Assistant-Secretary General for Youth Affairs and Head of the UN Youth Office, visited Bahrain from 3 to 8 November to participate in launching the “Hope Network”, a global youth support network initiated by the Kingdom of Bahrain."My visit to Bahrain has been an incredible opportunity to connect with inspiring young leaders and support the launch of the Hope Network, a platform that brings together governments to exchange best practices and strengthen initiatives with and for youth," said Dr Paullier, highlighting Bahrain's crucial role in hosting this initiative.He also emphasised the role of such a platform during a time of global momentum in youth empowerment, which requires maximising cooperation and collective efforts. Dr Paulier explored with Bahraini officials, including His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, H.E Ms Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, and H.E. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, Minister of Information, impactful opportunities to empower youth."Every moment has been focused on amplifying youth voices and building impactful partnerships. We look forward to scaling up our collaboration to support young people in Bahrain and beyond," he said.Dr Paullier also met the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Bahrain, discussing how empowering young people by providing spaces for their meaningful engagement can deliver on the UN's Youth2030 strategy. "Mainstreaming youth issues is our best chance to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030", he told the UNCT.
"The UNCT will build on the outcomes of this visit to continue working with partners to engage and empower Bahraini youth," said the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, Mr Khaled El Mekwad. The Hope Network’s mission is to advance youth affairs through global policy exchange and strategic national planning to fully leverage the potential of youth as a vital human capital resource. The network also has initiatives to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), allowing youth to launch their own initiatives and creating a helpful environment to support such efforts.This aligns with the UN Youth Office, which leads system-wide collaboration, coordination and accountability on youth affairs, balancing how the United Nations works with and for young people in all their diversity. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the UN Youth Office was created “to advance efforts towards stronger advocacy, coordination, and accountability for and with young people.”
"The UNCT will build on the outcomes of this visit to continue working with partners to engage and empower Bahraini youth," said the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, Mr Khaled El Mekwad. The Hope Network’s mission is to advance youth affairs through global policy exchange and strategic national planning to fully leverage the potential of youth as a vital human capital resource. The network also has initiatives to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), allowing youth to launch their own initiatives and creating a helpful environment to support such efforts.This aligns with the UN Youth Office, which leads system-wide collaboration, coordination and accountability on youth affairs, balancing how the United Nations works with and for young people in all their diversity. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the UN Youth Office was created “to advance efforts towards stronger advocacy, coordination, and accountability for and with young people.”
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Press Release
02 December 2024
The Secretary-General Message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that we need the leadership of persons with disabilities more than ever.Persons with disabilities already disproportionately bear the brunt of the crises scarring our world — from conflicts and climate disasters, to poverty and inequalities — because of persistent discrimination, stigma, and barriers to basic rights and services.But they are also often denied their right to contribute to solutions to these crises.Through the recently adopted Pact for the Future, the countries of the world committed to correcting this injustice for persons with disabilities of all ages, for present and future generations.This includes recognising the essential role of persons with disabilities in shaping the future of digital and assistive technologies — such as those powered by artificial intelligence — driving change across communities, and advocating for their rightful place in decision-making processes that affect their lives.Next year’s World Summit for Social Development will be a key moment to carry these and other commitments forward.In every community, persons with disabilities are changemakers and peacemakers.They are also leaders. On this important day, and every day, let’s work with persons with disabilities to achieve an inclusive and sustainable future for all people.
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Press Release
01 December 2024
The Secretary General Message for International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
The task of building a better world belongs to all people. On International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, we honour the women and men who devote their time, energy and skills to make our world a healthier, more peaceful and humane place for all. Whether responding to natural disasters, supporting communities in conflict or working to alleviate poverty, the selflessness and courage of volunteers shine through. And we are reminded that even the smallest acts have the power to change lives. Our own United Nations Volunteers work to advance peace, justice and equality in 169 countries across the globe. This spirit of solidarity is the lifeblood of the Pact of the Future – adopted in September at the United Nations. The Pact illuminates a path forward grounded in trust and cooperation. Volunteers embody the best of humanity. On this important day, let’s draw inspiration from their example, and resolve to do our part to help shape a better world for all. ***
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Press Release
28 November 2024
The Secretary-General’s Message on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2024
Every year on this day, the international community stands in solidarity for the dignity, rights, justice and self-determination of the Palestinian people. This year’s commemoration is especially painful as those fundamental goals are as distant as they have ever been.Nothing justifies the 7 October terror attacks by Hamas and the taking of hostages. And nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.Yet, more than a year later, Gaza is in ruins, more than 43,000 Palestinians – mostly women and children – have been reportedly killed, and the humanitarian crisis is getting worse by the day. This is appalling and inexcusable.Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, Israeli military operations, settlement expansion, evictions, demolitions, settler violence and threats of annexation are inflicting further pain and injustice.It is past time for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages; an end to the unlawful occupation of the Palestinian Territory – as confirmed by the International Court of Justice and the General Assembly; and irreversible progress towards a two-State solution, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions – with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, and Jerusalem as the capital of both States.As a matter of urgency, I appeal for full support of lifesaving humanitarian relief for the Palestinian people – in particular through the work of UNRWA, which represents an irreplaceable lifeline for millions of Palestinians.The United Nations will continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and their inalienable rights to live in peace, security and dignity.
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Press Release
19 November 2024
The Secretary General Message for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
The epidemic of violence against women and girls shames humanity. Every day, on average, 140 women and girls are killed by someone in their own family. Around one in three women still experience physical or sexual violence. No country or community is unaffected. And the situation is getting worse. Crises of conflict, climate, and hunger have inflamed inequalities. Horrendous sexual violence is being used as a weapon of war. And women and girls face a torrent of online misogyny. The situation is compounded by a growing backlash against women and girls’ rights. Too often, legal protections are being rolled back, human rights are being trampled, and women’s human rights defenders are being threatened, harassed and killed for speaking out. The United Nations Spotlight Initiative and the UNiTE by 2030 to End Violence against Women initiative call on all of us to join forces to end the scourge of violence against women and girls everywhere. The world must heed this call. We need urgent action for justice and accountability, and support for advocacy. Almost thirty years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action promised to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls – it’s beyond time to deliver. ***
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Press Release
24 October 2024
Statement attributable to the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, Mr. Khaled Al Mekwad, on United Nations Day (observed on 24 October)
On United Nations Day, which commemorates the entry into force of the United Nations Charter 79 years ago today, we remember and reflect on how nations united following an unprecedented global conflict to establish this unique organization dedicated to achieving international peace and security and sustainable development for all peoples.In today’s turbulent times, the United Nations serves as a stabilizing force in a world increasingly facing geopolitical divisions, endless wars and conflicts, a climate crisis, including global warming, protracted humanitarian catastrophes, including rising displacement, as well as the dark shadow of nuclear weapons and new weapons.Amid the horrific events unfolding in the Middle East, the United Nations continues to work in extremely challenging conditions to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to those in need and tirelessly reminds the parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law.The United Nations represents hope for a better future where no one is left behind. The recent Summit of the Future offered hope for a revamped multilateral system, with the United Nations at its center, that can deliver on its promises and is more representative of today’s world.For the United Nations Country Team in Bahrain, UN Day is also an opportunity to reflect on the longstanding partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain, and how to develop it in the future.The recent months have been marked by a series of high-level engagements between Bahrain and the United Nations, a testament to the importance of our partnership. This included the participation of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Issa Al Khalifa in the COP-28, and the participation of His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa in the 79th United Nations General Assembly, as well as the visit of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr Antonio Guterres, to Bahrain to attend the 34th Summit of the League of the Arab States chaired by Bahrain.Significant progress has also been made in recent months towards finalizing the new Strategic Cooperation Framework, which will guide the work of the United Nations in Bahrain in 2025-2029. This framework was developed through a consultative and inclusive process with the Government of Bahrain, the Private Sector, and, for the first time, representatives of Civil Society, including youth and women.The United Nations Country Team in Bahrain remains engaged in continuing to support the people of Bahrain in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and their national development aspirations, in line with Bahrain’s Vision 2030.
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