Information Minister congratulates Bahraini women

Manama, Mar 7 (BNA): Information Affairs Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al-Rumaihi has praised the leading role of Bahraini women in the development of journalism and media sector and supporting the comprehensive and sustainable democratic process based on principles of equality and social justice as stipulated in the reform project of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Marking the International Women’s Day 2016 themed "Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step it up for Gender Equality", the Information Minister extended sincere congratulations to the wife of HM the King, also President of Supreme Council for Women, HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, and Bahraini women. The minister highlighted Bahrain's pioneering efforts in the empowerment of Bahraini women in all walks of life. He noted the prestigious status enjoyed by Bahraini women since the launch of the royal reforms and the establishment of the Supreme Council for Women, issuance of constitutional legislation in line with international standards that guarantee the equality of all citizens regardless of races, colours or creeds. He said that Bahraini women enjoy full political rights for the first time in the era of HM the King, underlining their involvement in the preparation and voting on the National Action Charter, their effective presence in the parliament and municipal councils as voters and candidates, where currently occupy 15% of the Council of Representatives and Shura seats and 10% of the municipal councils. He took pride in women's participation in the decision making process within the three branches of the government, thanks to the support of HM the King, HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier. He expressed pride in women's role in the development of media and communications sector, and their efforts as heads of departments. He said that women represent 30% of the total employees of the Information Ministry, and that 20% are involved in television management, and 50% in radio broadcasting programmes, as well as their participation in preparation and casting of TV and radio news and reports, not to mention their presence in managing newspapers and magazines and as members of Bahrain Journalists Association. The minister stressed keenness, in coordination with the High Authority for Information and Communication, on committing all printed, audio-visual and electronic media to accentuate the Bahraini women's achievements and ban any materials may affront women. He emphasized interest in activating Equal Opportunities Unit at the ministry, integrating women's needs in development programmes, and discussing their issues in mass media as they feature an essential part of the community and an important partner of the reform process and comprehensive development.