BIPD to boost political, democratic practice awareness

Manama, Jan. 6 (BNA): The development of political awareness and the promotion of democratic practices by instilling sound principles in society have established a balanced structure to invigorate the principles of the reforms launched by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Information Affairs Minister and Chairman of Bahrain Institute for Political Development (BIPD) Ali Al Romaihi has said. Democracy and political participation have become an essential feature of Bahraini society which is now endowed with a high degree of awareness and positive attitude towards assuming national responsibilities, Al Romaihi added as he reviewed the 2017 report of the institute. He said that 13 functions were held throughout the year that included 79 training and awareness-building sessions and workshops for 3,892 people. Events included conferences, round tables, meetings and summer camps prepared and presented by 83 experts and academics. “We had an 83 per cent participation by Bahraini lecturers and trainers while the others were from Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan and Egypt,” Al Romaihi said. BIPD published 14 booklets covering political, rights, legal and economic issues and looked after nine students, including seven girls, throughout the year to boost their skills and bolster their aptitudes. “The institute has contributed with a qualitative leap in the development of awareness, political capacity-building, the dissemination of the culture of democracy and the promotion of democratic approaches and the exercise of constitutional powers. This was possible through training and awareness programmes that attracted large segments of the Bahraini society,” Al Romaihi said. “I stress the Institute's keenness to develop innovative ways and means and embrace the best training and awareness methods thanks to distinguished expertise and competencies. BIPD will thus achieve its objectives in supporting the process of democratic transformation and the development of political awareness. I do emphasise that partnership is crucial for achieving goals.” Al Romaihi added that BIPD will in 2018 continue its role in spreading awareness, promoting political education and developing skills for decision-makers and youth. “There will a greater focus on significant issues in light of current challenges and the prevailing atmosphere in the region as a whole. Democratic achievements will be highlighted and political awareness among young people and youth will be increased through a range of programmes aimed at promoting the values of good citizenship and deepening the sense of patriotism and political participation.”