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ON THE occasion of Bahrain’s current celebration marking the 22nd anniversary of establishing the Supreme Council for Women, it’s important to reflect with pride on the significant contributions made by women in Bahrain across diverse domains.
We extend our congratulations to Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the wife of His Majesty the King, on the achievements resulting from her endeavours through the council.
These efforts have been instrumental in propelling Bahraini women toward broader avenues of generosity and patriotic input. Undoubtedly, women constitute the cornerstone and bedrock of advancement across all tiers and fields.
The remarkable history of Bahraini women is characterised by a noteworthy attribute: they have not resorted to protesting on the streets to assert their rights, a contrast to the actions of women in numerous other nations.
This unique disposition can be attributed, in my viewpoint, to a combination of factors. Chief among them is the enduring political determination exhibited by the Al Khalifa rulers throughout history, emphasising the significance of integrating women into public life and engaging them across various sectors.
Additionally, the capability and inherent worth of women themselves have empowered them to shoulder responsibilities encompassing family, employment, innovation, and accomplishments.
A third pivotal factor, no less vital, is the cultured, enlightened, and mindful demeanour of Bahraini men – whether as fathers, brothers, sons, managers, or colleagues – toward women. Their equitable and harmonious treatment further contributes to this environment.
In a previous article, I articulated my conviction that the Bahraini approach to empowering women stands apart from comparable endeavours in other nations like Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, or Lebanon. Unlike those who advocate for detachment and liberation from religion, heritage, and traditions, the foundation of Bahrain’s approach rests on a consensus that reverberates throughout the nation.
This consensus centres on the acknowledgment that women’s primary role in Bahrain is nurturing the younger generation, fostering familial and communal stability. This pivotal role is accompanied by their engagement in various other domains such as employment, productivity, innovation, and community service.
Bahrain acknowledges that it does not assert a state of flawlessness concerning women’s rights. This recognition stems from the understanding that society itself has undergone transformations, leading to changes in political, social, cultural, legal, familial, and other fields that cater to women’s evolving needs.
Consequently, the discourse surrounding the attainment of women’s comprehensive rights has transitioned from its previous form. This evolution aligns with the progression of women’s, societal, and human requirements.
However, one constant that remains unwavering is the recognition of women’s significance as individuals who represent half of society. Their pivotal role in nurturing and educating the entirety of society continues to hold steadfast importance.
When we refuse women’s participation in the workforce solely due to their gender, employing social excuses such as safeguarding honour and masculinity, religious arguments like deeming a woman’s voice as immodest, or personal fears of women outshining us, we are acting contrary to the natural order. This fundamental order is rooted in the synergetic relationship between women and men, a harmony that secures the perpetuation of humanity.
Bahraini women have never succumbed to archaic customs, traditions, or cultures. Dating back to the days of pearl diving when men embarked on prolonged sea voyages, women not only assumed the responsibility of childcare and household duties, but also engaged in agricultural work, visited markets, and undertook tasks equivalent to those of men.
The successful Bahraini women we observe today are the descendants of these fearless and progressive women. They embrace authentic Bahraini customs while embracing their capacity for work and productivity.
The role of women as mothers is an innate function that propels them to nurture, educate, instil awareness, and foster growth. A mother’s duty transcends merely bearing and delivering children; she elevates, imparts knowledge, and nurtures the psychological, intellectual, and physical well-being of her children. She ensures their positive development, contributing to a brighter future for both her children and her nation. This role cannot be replicated by a man to the same extent; an educated mother begets an enlightened generation, active and benevolent. Conversely, an uneducated mother may give rise to a cloistered and detrimental generation that threatens itself, society, and the nation. Hence, I assert that women constitute not just half of the present, but the entirety of the future.
The advancement of Bahraini women is a certainty, and the accomplishments they’ve attained evoke pride as they mirror the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Bahrain. Collectively, we anticipate a promising future where our daughters relish enhanced growth and prosperity, ensuring shared contentment and progress for all.
Akram Miknas
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