GCC legislative leaders yesterday stressed the need for stronger regional initiatives to integrate the voices of youth in policymaking.
Proposals included the creation of a Gulf Youth Council, increased funding for entrepreneurship and innovation, and new legislation to promote digital literacy and AI readiness.
Bahrain’s own initiatives in youth media and innovation were cited as models for the wider Gulf.
The leaders were speaking at the 19th Periodic Meeting of the Presidents and Speakers of the Shura, Representatives, National and Ummah Councils of the GCC at the Royal Saray Resort, Seef.
The high-level event brought together parliamentary leaders from all six Gulf states, alongside the Arab Parliament and the GCC secretariat general, to align regional legislative priorities ahead of next month’s 46th GCC Summit in Bahrain.
A key highlight of the discussions was the empowerment of women and youth, now recognised as a cornerstone of Gulf development strategies. Delegates stressed that female representation in Gulf public life has advanced rapidly, with women now holding nearly half of leadership positions in several states and playing an increasingly prominent role in national parliaments.
Presiding over the meeting, National Assembly and Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to collective Gulf action. He noted that the gathering coincides with Bahrain’s preparations to host the GCC Summit, ‘reflecting the region’s determination to strengthen joint institutions and advance integration in economic, political and social spheres’.
Arab Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Yamahi praised the GCC’s pioneering role in Arab co-operation and highlighted its steadfast support for Arab causes, particularly the Palestinian issue.
He described Gulf parliaments as ‘pillars of Arab diplomacy and dialogue’, expressing pride that his first international engagement in his second year as Arab Parliament chief was with Gulf partners in Manama.
Shura Council Chairman and delegation head Ali Saleh Al Saleh underscored the meeting’s importance in bolstering parliamentary co-ordination amid global challenges.
He emphasised the role of legislature in “supporting diplomacy, promoting peace, and driving sustainable development,” while pledging Bahrain’s continued efforts to enhance mechanisms that foster unity and co-operation across the GCC.
GCC secretary general Jassim Al Budaiwi commended the meeting’s focus on forward-looking themes such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation and climate sustainability. He pointed to the success of the UAE-hosted forum earlier this year on ‘AI Governance in Legislative Institutions’ as a milestone for building a unified Gulf framework on technology and law.
Mr Al Budaiwi confirmed that the recommendations and resolutions from the meeting will be formally presented at the GCC Leaders’ Summit next month, where heads of state will review proposals on women’s participation, youth engagement, digital governance and environmental legislation.
The session concluded with a collective affirmation that Gulf parliaments will continue to act as ‘strategic partners’ to their governments, ‘shaping legislation that promotes innovation, equality, and security’.
Leaders praised the ongoing efforts of Kuwait, current chair of the GCC Council, and expressed appreciation to Bahrain for hosting the event with ‘exceptional organisation and generosity’.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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