A draft law granting the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) broader authority to amend all annexes linked to the regulation of international trade in endangered wildlife and plant species is on the Shura Council’s table.
The public utilities and environment affairs committee confirmed that the proposal is constitutionally and legally sound and aligns with Bahrain’s international environmental obligations, particularly under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Committee chairman Dr Mohammed Ali Hassan said the amendment was essential to ensure Bahrain keeps pace with fast-changing global environmental standards.
Currently, the SCE is authorised to amend only Annex (3) of the law. Any changes to Annexes (1) and (2), which list the most endangered species, require a full legislative amendment – a process the committee warned could hinder compliance with periodic CITES updates, which occur every three years.
Under the proposed amendment, the council would be empowered to add or remove species from all annexes, allowing Bahrain to respond swiftly to international decisions and emerging environmental risks.
The proposal had already received backing from MPs, along with endorsements from the SCE, the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, and the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
According to the SCE, the existing legal framework does not reflect the evolving nature of endangered species classifications, which are routinely revised by the CITES Conference of the Parties. Delays in updating national annexes could expose Bahrain to regulatory gaps and affect international trade.
Dr Hassan stressed that the amendment is grounded in Article (9) of the Constitution, which obliges the state to take measures to safeguard the environment and protect wildlife.
“The law strengthens national efforts to conserve biodiversity while maintaining a balance between environmental protection and sustainable development,” he said. “It reinforces Bahrain’s role as a responsible partner in regional and international environmental co-operation.”
Following its review, the committee recommended approval of the draft law in principle.
It will now be debated and voted on by the Shura on Sunday.
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