Bahrain is set to consolidate its global position and be a powerful voice on key pressing regional and international issues, including the Palestinian cause, as it aims to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026-2027 term.
This will be the second time Bahrain will push its candidacy from the Asia-Pacific Group, following its 1998-1999 term, in the 15-member council (five permanent and 10 non-permanent).
The five permanent (P5) members are: China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Elections to the non-permanent seats will be held on Tuesday during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
The five seats available for election in 2025, among different regions include one seat for the Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC, currently held by Guyana), two seats for the African Group (currently held by Algeria and Sierra Leone), one seat for the Group of Asia and the Pacific Small Island Developing States (Asia-Pacific Group, currently held by the Republic of Korea) and one seat for the Eastern European Group (currently held by Slovenia).
Speaking in detail about Bahrain’s bid for a non-permanent seat, Mr Hatem said it was a significant step for Bahrain’s global standing and its unwavering commitment to peace and stability.
“Non-permanent membership of the Security Council is an immense responsibility and a testament to Bahrain’s consistent efforts to advance peace and dialogue on both the regional and international levels,” he said.
“Securing a seat would undoubtedly consolidate Bahrain’s global position, and provide a unique platform from which our voice can be heard on critical international issues.
“We believe our balanced, principled and constructive approach to diplomacy, rooted in dialogue, tolerance and coexistence, can contribute meaningfully to the council’s deliberations.”
Mr Hatem added it would allow Bahrain to play an even more direct and active role in shaping resolutions and advancing solutions to global challenges, “thereby solidifying the kingdom’s reputation as an effective international partner in promoting security, peace and sustainable development.”
The official added that at times of regional conflicts it was vital to push for peace and diplomatic engagements.
“The global landscape has certainly evolved since our last term, and indeed our region faces its share of complex challenges,” he stated.
“However, it is precisely at such times that the need for reasoned, diplomatic engagement and a commitment to genuine and enduring peace becomes even more paramount.
“Bahrain’s wise leadership, under His Majesty King Hamad and with the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has consistently advocated for dialogue, de-escalation and inclusive solutions to conflicts.
“Our candidacy at this juncture underscores our belief that active participation within multilateral frameworks like the UNSC is crucial now more than ever.”
He added Bahrain will continue to push for the Palestinian cause with its international and UN partners.
“The Palestinian cause remains a central priority for Bahrain’s foreign policy, and we will continue to advocate strongly for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” said Mr Hatem.
“This includes consistently pushing for a just and comprehensive peace settlement based on the two-state solution, an independent and sovereign Palestinian state on the borders of June 4, 1967, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
“We will work to ensure the Security Council fulfils its responsibilities in upholding international law and relevant UN resolutions concerning the Palestinian issue, and we will continue working with our partners at the Security Council as the Arab Representative on the Council to find a lasting and just solution based on these principles.”
Bahrain’s candidacy has received backing from GCC and Arab states who according to Mr Hatem “have demonstrated strong solidarity, endorsing Bahrain’s bid and actively campaigning on our behalf.
“This collective backing is a testament to our shared aspirations for regional and global peace and security,” he said.
Furthermore, the official highlighted Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani’s official visit to the UN in New York last month to meet regional groups, specifically the Arab Group, 58 member-states of the Organisation of the Islamic Co-operation (OIC), Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member-states, and the Latin American and Caribbean Group, to discuss the kingdom’s candidacy to the Council.
“We are also receiving significant support from other Islamic countries and within the broader Asia-Pacific Group, which is very encouraging,” added Mr Hatem.
“We are confident that this widespread support reflects the international community’s trust in Bahrain’s proven ability to contribute constructively to the Security Council’s work.”
Mr Hatem explained that non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms, play a crucial role within the 15-member Security Council, working alongside the P5.
While only the permanent members possess veto power, non-permanent members are fully involved in all aspects of the Council’s work with the ability to influence and shape security policy through robust diplomacy, informed contributions and building consensus.
“The role of the 10 non-permanent members includes participating in daily security briefings, contributing to the drafting and negotiation of resolutions, sanctions and peacekeeping mandates.
“Their voices and votes hold significant weight, as nine affirmative votes are required for a resolution to pass, including the concurring votes of all five permanent members.”
In addition, he said non-permanent members also chair various subsidiary bodies and expert groups, allowing them to shape agendas and lead discussions on specific thematic issues or conflicts.
Meanwhile, the latest Security Council Report dated May 27 about the elections, mentions about the members pushing for their candidacy this week.
It states that Bahrain has campaigned under the overarching theme “Building Bridges of Peace for the Present and Future”.
“It has emphasised its commitment to various initiatives towards peace and prosperity in the region and beyond, which it has described as a strategic choice,” according to the document.
“Bahrain has also underscored the importance of advancing multilateralism, while strengthening co-operation with the UN and regional organisations.
“If elected, Bahrain has indicated that it will prioritise consolidating peace and stability by focusing on several key areas.
“These include fostering dialogue and coexistence, and promoting respect for international law, including by upholding the UN Charter.”
Bahrain joined the UN in 1971, shortly after gaining its independence.
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