Derasat strengthens regional role with expanded programmers, strategic initiatives in 2024
Manama, Jan. 2 (BNA): Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat) continued its academic, research, and knowledge-based programmes, as well as its strategic initiatives, throughout 2024.
These efforts reinforced its position as a leading regional research institution and a key partner to national entities. The centre achieves this through studies, research, dialogues, and projects in collaboration with international organisations, think tanks, and academic institutions.
In 2024, Derasat signed cooperation agreements with local and international institutions, fostering knowledge exchange and expertise in research, training, and development. Notable partnerships include agreements with Arabian Gulf University, the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, alongside engagements with United Nations entities. These collaborations enhanced Derasat’s contributions to supporting decision-makers through in-depth studies and analyses in political, security, social, economic, and energy fields, addressing regional and global challenges.
One of the centre’s key initiatives was signing an agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to prepare the "2026 National Human Development Report" focusing on digital transformation. The report highlights Bahrain’s achievements in electronic services, leveraging digital technologies to improve public services, enhance economic diversification, and empower citizens in the digital age.
In support of environmental protection and sustainable development, Derasat launched the "Green Houses of Worship" programme in cooperation with the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence (KHGC). The initiative encourages places of worship in Bahrain to install solar panels and adopt alternative energy sources while raising awareness about the importance of investing in renewable energy to align with national energy plans.
The centre strengthened its strategic partnerships with academic institutions and prominent research centres in several friendly and brotherly countries. It also contributed to the establishment of the China-Arab Think Tank Alliance in Shanghai, organised specialised lectures featuring officials and experts from China on bilateral relations and international issues, and continued its collaborations with research and academic institutions in Japan and beyond.
Throughout 2024, Derasat hosted over 24 intellectual dialogues, bringing together more than 2,500 participants, including academics and experts, to discuss key topics such as military technology, digital transformation, trade disputes, health, foreign policy, and strategic planning. The centre also published two journal editions on "Maritime Security" and "GCC Dynamics," underscoring its commitment to addressing regional security challenges.
Derasat researchers actively participated in local and international events, including conferences and workshops. They collaborated with global experts on pressing issues, contributed articles to local and international media on strategic topics, and bolstered the centre’s standing as a prominent regional and global think tank.
Derasat underscored its commitment to research excellence and its dedication to expanding local and international partnerships. The centre aims to continue its innovative initiatives in strategic, economic, energy, environmental, and digital transformation fields while anticipating future challenges in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. These efforts are pursued under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
