.jpg?20260312')
A major legislative overhaul is essential to provide a stronger and more flexible framework to support people of determination, who are a key segment of Bahraini society, said Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi.
“There are ideas and projects that have been presented by community societies and we are studying them,” Mr Al Alawi told the Shura Council yesterday.
“We must always direct the compass in the right direction to serve people of determination in the best possible way, and we are working to do that through support from everyone.”
His remarks came as the council discussed the services committee’s report on Decree Law No (34) of 2025, which amends provisions of Law No (74) of 2006 concerning the care, rehabilitation and employment of persons with disabilities.
People of determination represent a significant part of Bahrain’s population, and over the past two decades, the kingdom has gradually progressed from a primarily welfare‑based approach to one centered on empowerment, inclusion, and equal opportunity, in alignment with international conventions and national development priorities.
Presenting the committee’s findings, rapporteur Leena Qassim said the decree law aims to modernise the legislative framework in line with contemporary human rights concepts. It also aims to enhance dignity and rights, and ensure full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life on an equal footing with others.
“The amendment reflects the need to review and update existing legal frameworks to align with national policies and the government programme aimed at empowering this group and providing an inclusive legislative environment,” she said.
A key change in the decree law is the reorganisation of provisions related to the committee overseeing disability affairs.
The former term ‘Higher Committee’ has been replaced with a more flexible definition – ‘the committee established under Article (16) of the law’ – with its name, formation and term of membership to be determined by a decision issued by the Prime Minister.
Ms Qassim explained that this approach introduces greater organisational flexibility, allowing the committee’s structure to evolve in line with administrative and policy changes without requiring repeated legislative amendments.
The amendments also update terminology throughout the law to ensure consistency between legal texts and current administrative structures.
Shura Council member Dr Ali Al Haddad said the decree law represents a significant step in strengthening the rights of people of determination and modernising institutional frameworks.
“This group is an integral part of society, and we cannot speak of comprehensive development or social justice without guaranteeing their rights and full participation,” he said. “The approach has evolved from traditional care to empowerment, inclusion and respect for human dignity, recognising their capabilities and removing barriers – whether physical, legislative or societal.”
Meanwhile, Jawad Buhussain said Bahrain’s model in caring for people of determination is considered among the leading examples globally, due to its commitment to continuous development based on international best practices.
“The decree law updates terminology, reorganises the national committee and unifies legal provisions,” he said. “This strengthens rights, enhances inclusion and provides equal opportunities in education, rehabilitation, employment and social participation.”
Following deliberations, the Shura Council approved the decree law by roll-call vote.
Members were also notified about a ministerial response by Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma on integrating students with disabilities. The question was submitted by member Abdulla Al Nauimi.
A statement on the BDF anniversary, which falls on February 5, was read out during the session by Secretary-General Kareema Al Abbasi.
&uuid=(email))