Bahrain has stepped up preparations to ensure faster and more effective communication with the public during major incidents, disasters and emergencies.
In a written reply to MPs, Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain said authorities had already developed comprehensive media strategies to provide rapid information and guidance to citizens and residents in times of crisis.
The response came after MPs called for structured media plans to deal with emergencies, including raising public awareness and using modern technology to deliver timely information.
“The government has already developed comprehensive media plans to deal with all types of risks included in the National Risk Register,” Mr Al Buainain said. “These plans ensure that information and guidance can be delivered quickly to the public using all available technological tools.”
According to the minister, a specialised crisis media team has been formed to manage communications during emergencies. The team includes experts from multiple fields such as strategic communication, public awareness, media relations, digital media, editing and international communication.
“These specialists work together to ensure co-ordinated messaging and effective communication with the public during major incidents or emergencies,” Mr Al Buainain explained.
The plans are aligned with the operational framework of the National Communication Centre (NCC), which is updated periodically alongside the National Risk Register to reflect emerging threats and risks.
Authorities are also conducting simulations and scenario planning exercises to strengthen preparedness for different types of crises.
Mr Al Buainain said the government regularly develops programmes that simulate crisis situations to test response strategies and coordination among agencies. The simulations rely on both traditional and modern communication tools to ensure the plans are practical and ready for real-world implementation. Officials say this approach enhances co-ordination between government bodies and ensures rapid mobilisation of communication channels when emergencies occur.
The crisis communication plans involve the co-ordinated use of multiple media platforms, including national broadcasting and digital channels. Mr Al Buainain said implementation mechanisms had been established across several institutions, including Bahrain Radio and Television, Bahrain News Agency, and various social media platforms.
As part of wider preparedness efforts, the government has also launched the National Civil Protection Platform, which aims to increase public awareness and provide guidance on dealing with emergencies.
The platform offers information on different types of emergencies and provides alerts and warnings to the public when necessary.
Mr Al Buainain said the initiative forms part of Bahrain’s broader strategy to strengthen national capabilities in disaster and emergency management.
“The government continues to enhance preventive measures and preparedness levels on a permanent and periodic basis,” he said.
“These efforts support the Kingdom’s objective of building an integrated national system for managing emergencies and disasters in co-operation with relevant international organisations.”
The reply is amongst 20 government responses to parliamentary proposals that will be discussed during Tuesday’s session.
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