By Mazen Mahdi, Foreign Correspondent
Bahraini female officers take part in yesterday's graduation ceremony at the UN House in Manama. Mazen Mahdi / The National
MANAMA // Mixed assessments about the extent of discrimination and violence against women in Bahrain were offered yesterday as the country marked the 10th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
“I’m optimistic about the prospects of addressing this issue across the Gulf states,” Dr Banna Bazaboun, the head of the Manama-based Batelco Care Centre for Family Violence Cases (BCCFVC) said following a graduation ceremony for a new police officers who had been trained with the United Nations’ help to deal with such cases.
“The efforts are no longer limited to the civil society, but they have expanded to encompass the government and official levels who are seeking to tackle this issue by improving their policing and court systems,” Dr Bazaboun said.
She added that across the Gulf serious efforts were being made to combat violence against women by taking preventive steps and raising awareness. She mentioned Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar as places where significant progress has been made.
Her optimism was not shared by the Bahrain Human Rights Society (BHRS), which released its annual report yesterday, painting a much less hopeful picture of the situation in the country because of unfulfilled legislative commitments and continued reports of human trafficking.
The report criticized the government for not fulfilling its international commitments to treaties protecting women’s rights that it had ratified and for not allowing the human rights groups and civic organizations to play a bigger rule in drafting legislations and recommendations addressing women’s rights.
A study carried out by the Bahraini Supreme Council for Women (SCW) in 2006 found that violence against women was carried out mainly by their husbands (89.8 per cent), followed by their brothers (18.4 per cent fathers (16.2 per cent), strangers (6.8 per cent). Other relatives were responsible for the remaining violence perpetrated against Bahraini women, according to the study.
Women’s rights in the region have received renewed attention during the past three years, after several Gulf and Middle East countries – including Bahrain – were identified by the US state department’s annual human trafficking report as states that tolerate the practice.
The Bahraini government had rejected the claims, but has since embarked on legislative reforms, carried out law enforcement operations and taken part in joint civic and international efforts to address the issue of women’s rights.
The BHRS report welcomed the adoption of an anti-human trafficking law in Bahrain last year, but expressed reservations over the fact that the law did not call for compensation for the victims. It also said that trafficking in people was still taking place and that most of the victims were women from Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa and some Arab countries that were either contracted or misled into working in nightclubs and bars.
The BCCFVC, which opened in 2007, claims to be the first of its kind, a specialised centre in the Arab world to offer preventive and therapy services for victims of family violence. According to the centre’s figures, it has dealt with 6,016 cases in the past two years.
Dr Bazaboun said 10,045 people had so far benefited from the centre’s direct awareness seminars and services since they began operating at the centre, while it continues to carry out awareness campaigns in the media alongside its specialised training.
The UN secretary general, Ban Ki-moon, on Tuesday pushed the UN drive to combat violence against women even further by introducing a new initiative.
“Today I launched a Network of Men Leaders who will support the UNiTE [to End Violence Against Women] campaign and act as role models for men and boys everywhere. Members of the Network will work to raise public awareness, advocate for adequate laws, and meet with young men and boys,” Mr Ban said in New York.
He said that up to 70 per cent of women, at some point in their lifetime, experienced physical or sexual violence by men. Most suffered at the hands of their husbands, partners or someone they know.
“This means men have a crucial role to play in ending such violence as fathers, friends, decision makers, and community and opinion leaders,” he said.
Dr Bazaboun, who has carried out specialised training for police officers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, as well as in Bahrain, also emphasised the importance of men participating in the training and awareness seminars, as they represented the other part of the equation in the cycle of violence.
“It is important to have men play a role in combating violence against women. Three quarters of our board is made up of men at the BCCFVC, and at the centre we train policemen and policewomen side by side because they whole society should be involved in this effort,” she said.
mmahdi@thenational.ae
Showing posts with label Bahrain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bahrain. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Bahrain: Women pledge TV rights push
Gulf Daily News
By ANITA THOMAS, Posted on » Monday, May 04, 2009
A SERIES of public service announcements by women's groups could soon be aired on national television.
It follows a three-week workshop in which they were taught how to use computer technology to write, film and edit video messages.
The scheme was organised by the New York-based Barefoot Workshop, along with the Bahrain-based Smart Coaching and Research Centre.
Representatives of seven Bahraini women's organisations have written, directed and filmed a series of 30-second public service announcements, which were first screened last night at the Gulf Hotel.
The announcements aim to raise awareness of women's issues such as access to technology, participation in next year's national elections, domestic abuse, illiteracy and youth development.
Organisers hope they will also be broadcast on national television, posted on the Internet and even distributed to mobile phones.
Awareness
"We hope to support societies in Bahrain, particularly women's societies, to raise awareness about various issues faced by them," said programme director Alison Fast.
"We hope that this will be the first of a series of movements that will create awareness about the issues present within the society.
"Each women's society we have worked with has its own agenda for moving forward and has been equipped to spread public service announcements through the channels they choose and to the audience that they are aimed at."
The societies hope their messages will reach wider audience as possible thanks to advanced technology.
"We are hoping to be able to air the announcements on television where the majority of people can have access to them," said Ms Fast.
"Even illiterate people will be able to view them because nearly everyone watches television these days.
"Also sending them to people as messages on their mobile phones and posting them on the Net will definitely help reach more people."
Participating organisations included the Bahrain Young Ladies Association, Bahraini Society for Women's Development, Bahrain Women's Association - Human Development, Al Reef Young Lady Society, Hamad Town Women's Society, Awal Women's Society, Smart Coaching and Research Centre and the Batelco Care Centre for Family Violence Cases.
By ANITA THOMAS, Posted on » Monday, May 04, 2009
A SERIES of public service announcements by women's groups could soon be aired on national television.
It follows a three-week workshop in which they were taught how to use computer technology to write, film and edit video messages.
The scheme was organised by the New York-based Barefoot Workshop, along with the Bahrain-based Smart Coaching and Research Centre.
Representatives of seven Bahraini women's organisations have written, directed and filmed a series of 30-second public service announcements, which were first screened last night at the Gulf Hotel.
The announcements aim to raise awareness of women's issues such as access to technology, participation in next year's national elections, domestic abuse, illiteracy and youth development.
Organisers hope they will also be broadcast on national television, posted on the Internet and even distributed to mobile phones.
Awareness
"We hope to support societies in Bahrain, particularly women's societies, to raise awareness about various issues faced by them," said programme director Alison Fast.
"We hope that this will be the first of a series of movements that will create awareness about the issues present within the society.
"Each women's society we have worked with has its own agenda for moving forward and has been equipped to spread public service announcements through the channels they choose and to the audience that they are aimed at."
The societies hope their messages will reach wider audience as possible thanks to advanced technology.
"We are hoping to be able to air the announcements on television where the majority of people can have access to them," said Ms Fast.
"Even illiterate people will be able to view them because nearly everyone watches television these days.
"Also sending them to people as messages on their mobile phones and posting them on the Net will definitely help reach more people."
Participating organisations included the Bahrain Young Ladies Association, Bahraini Society for Women's Development, Bahrain Women's Association - Human Development, Al Reef Young Lady Society, Hamad Town Women's Society, Awal Women's Society, Smart Coaching and Research Centre and the Batelco Care Centre for Family Violence Cases.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Bahrain: Five laws passed without changes
Gulf Daily News
MPs yesterday approved five laws passed to them by the Shura Council without discussion or amendments.
Both chambers are in dispute over several articles in the five laws but MPs decided yesterday that they could pass them without any delay because there were no major differences.
The laws will be now ratified by His Majesty King Hamad.
Among them is granting equal rights to the children of Bahraini women married to expatriates as those with Bahraini fathers.
The Shura Council decided to include a new article last month in the law.
It stipulates that children of Bahraini women have to be permanent residents in order to benefit from equal rights.
The bill allows expatriate wives the same treatment as their Bahraini counterparts in services such as government fees, education, health and an exemption from residency visa requirements.
Parliament also agreed with the Shura Council to reject an amendment among several others to the Trade Unions Law that would have allowed more than one union in the same establishment on the basis that it would create tension and division between employees.
MPs also agreed with councillors on setting up a new medical licences and services authority, after a vote to reject the Shura Council amendments was halted by parliament chairman Khalifa Al Dhahrani early this month, asking MPs to study it further.
They also approved an amended bill by the council granting GCC nationals equal rights as Bahraini businessmen when setting up businesses in Bahrain.
Parliament was also on its way to insist on its decision in regard to three other laws amended by the council but decided to postpone discussions until tomorrow's extraordinary session, which was later cancelled as MPs voted for a day off.
Parliament had earlier approved a bill to pay pensions of the deceased in the government, private and military sectors to distant relatives if they had no close family members.
However, the council rejected the bill, saying that pensions were not inheritance and could not be dealt with in the manner MPs wanted.
Services committee chairman Dr Ali Ahmed said parliament was hoping to approve all of Shura's decisions but found it difficult to approve the remaining three bills.
"I have been very lenient with councillors despite some disagreements on their approach to articles in the medical licences and services authority," he said.
"My committee liked the addition of children of Bahraini women and the ban on the formation of several unions in one establishment and according to that I recommended their approval. "But I have a huge dispute with councillors over the pension laws and parliament would have insisted on its previous decision if MPs did not decide to postpone discussing it. "Thankfully the major laws have been approved and are now in the hands of His Majesty King Hamad to ratify."
MPs yesterday approved five laws passed to them by the Shura Council without discussion or amendments.
Both chambers are in dispute over several articles in the five laws but MPs decided yesterday that they could pass them without any delay because there were no major differences.
The laws will be now ratified by His Majesty King Hamad.
Among them is granting equal rights to the children of Bahraini women married to expatriates as those with Bahraini fathers.
The Shura Council decided to include a new article last month in the law.
It stipulates that children of Bahraini women have to be permanent residents in order to benefit from equal rights.
The bill allows expatriate wives the same treatment as their Bahraini counterparts in services such as government fees, education, health and an exemption from residency visa requirements.
Parliament also agreed with the Shura Council to reject an amendment among several others to the Trade Unions Law that would have allowed more than one union in the same establishment on the basis that it would create tension and division between employees.
MPs also agreed with councillors on setting up a new medical licences and services authority, after a vote to reject the Shura Council amendments was halted by parliament chairman Khalifa Al Dhahrani early this month, asking MPs to study it further.
They also approved an amended bill by the council granting GCC nationals equal rights as Bahraini businessmen when setting up businesses in Bahrain.
Parliament was also on its way to insist on its decision in regard to three other laws amended by the council but decided to postpone discussions until tomorrow's extraordinary session, which was later cancelled as MPs voted for a day off.
Parliament had earlier approved a bill to pay pensions of the deceased in the government, private and military sectors to distant relatives if they had no close family members.
However, the council rejected the bill, saying that pensions were not inheritance and could not be dealt with in the manner MPs wanted.
Services committee chairman Dr Ali Ahmed said parliament was hoping to approve all of Shura's decisions but found it difficult to approve the remaining three bills.
"I have been very lenient with councillors despite some disagreements on their approach to articles in the medical licences and services authority," he said.
"My committee liked the addition of children of Bahraini women and the ban on the formation of several unions in one establishment and according to that I recommended their approval. "But I have a huge dispute with councillors over the pension laws and parliament would have insisted on its previous decision if MPs did not decide to postpone discussing it. "Thankfully the major laws have been approved and are now in the hands of His Majesty King Hamad to ratify."
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Bahrain: Bahrain's Shaikha Mai wants better laws, closer media cooperation
Gulfnews
By Habib Toumi, Bahrain Bureau Chief
Published: April 14, 2009, 15:03
Manama: Bahrain's culture and information minister has called for the codification of press freedom to help promote media standards and reinforce liberties.
"We will, persistently and inexorably, move towards the codification of the freedom of the press as part of the general and public freedoms that must be expanded and developed. All legal and administrative obstacles should be removed so that press freedom can be guarantees are built on robust foundations and exercised within an enlightened and advanced environment," said Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammad Al Khalifa.
"We strongly believe that the press plays a crucial role in the civil dialogue that reinforces freedoms and empowers people to comment on them and explain them," she told members of the International Federation of Journalists who were holding a forum in Bahrain.
According to Shaikha Mai, the media has a crucial role in helping the world confront formidable challenges that include creating employment opportunities, addressing problems related with population growth, wars, climate changes and the need protection of civilizations and heritages.
"In the face of such challenges, we need to stimulate solidarity within the media and develop general commitments to international rights and to civil and political pledges and covenants. We should transfer these international accords to our local legislation and review our laws and rules accordingly. We do need robust partnerships for the sake of the future of the press: ethically and professionally and in terms of knowledge and training," she said.
Genuine partnership with the Brussels-based International Federation of Journalists which has around 600,000 members, could result in improving performances, enhancing practices, spreading the values related to diversified media and bolstering professional standards through training programmess and outstanding initiatives, said the minister who was given the media portfolio last September in a limited cabinet reshuffle.
Bahraini journalists have been pushing for the adoption of a new press law that would guarantee greater freedom and the abolition of jail sentences for reporters and editors.
The government last year presented a law draft, but the parliament has yet to decide on its merits.
Journalists are weary that conservative lawmakers in the lower house would oppose lifting prison jails under the claim that people working in the media should not be given any special privileges.
The Bahrain Journalists Association has been lobbying for the promulgation of a more tolerant press law.
By Habib Toumi, Bahrain Bureau Chief
Published: April 14, 2009, 15:03
Manama: Bahrain's culture and information minister has called for the codification of press freedom to help promote media standards and reinforce liberties.
"We will, persistently and inexorably, move towards the codification of the freedom of the press as part of the general and public freedoms that must be expanded and developed. All legal and administrative obstacles should be removed so that press freedom can be guarantees are built on robust foundations and exercised within an enlightened and advanced environment," said Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammad Al Khalifa.
"We strongly believe that the press plays a crucial role in the civil dialogue that reinforces freedoms and empowers people to comment on them and explain them," she told members of the International Federation of Journalists who were holding a forum in Bahrain.
According to Shaikha Mai, the media has a crucial role in helping the world confront formidable challenges that include creating employment opportunities, addressing problems related with population growth, wars, climate changes and the need protection of civilizations and heritages.
"In the face of such challenges, we need to stimulate solidarity within the media and develop general commitments to international rights and to civil and political pledges and covenants. We should transfer these international accords to our local legislation and review our laws and rules accordingly. We do need robust partnerships for the sake of the future of the press: ethically and professionally and in terms of knowledge and training," she said.
Genuine partnership with the Brussels-based International Federation of Journalists which has around 600,000 members, could result in improving performances, enhancing practices, spreading the values related to diversified media and bolstering professional standards through training programmess and outstanding initiatives, said the minister who was given the media portfolio last September in a limited cabinet reshuffle.
Bahraini journalists have been pushing for the adoption of a new press law that would guarantee greater freedom and the abolition of jail sentences for reporters and editors.
The government last year presented a law draft, but the parliament has yet to decide on its merits.
Journalists are weary that conservative lawmakers in the lower house would oppose lifting prison jails under the claim that people working in the media should not be given any special privileges.
The Bahrain Journalists Association has been lobbying for the promulgation of a more tolerant press law.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Bahrain: Mothers fighting for justice
By BASMA MOHAMMED, Posted on » Wednesday, April 08, 2009
THREE Bahraini mothers took their fight for justice to the gates of parliament yesterday, as MPs gathered inside the building for their weekly meeting.
They were hoping to persuade MPs to pass a much-awaited Family Law, saying they were fed up with women suffering at the hands of the Sharia courts.
Mother-of-four Amal Juma Abdulla led the hour-and-a-half protest and claimed women were crying out for a Family Law, which would put down in writing how courts should handle domestic disputes.
Sharia judges issue verdicts in divorce cases, child custody battles and inheritance disputes, based on their interpretation of Islamic law.
However, women's rights campaigners have claimed for years that judges often discriminate against women.
"We are demonstrating to call on MPs to find a Family Law for the Jaffari court (which handles domestic cases of the Shi'ite community)," said Ms Abdulla.
"They are discussing the Family Law for the Sunni court, but we are reminding them that we are suffering as well."
The demonstration was organised to vent frustration at MPs for failing to come up with a Family Law to protect women.
However, some clerics are said to oppose the move due to fears it could loosen their grip on the community.
"Some MPs are against this law," claimed Ms Abdulla.
"They should discuss women's problems - not only men's."
Disputes
It was her second protest in a week, having demonstrated outside the Justice Ministry with three of her children on March 31.
The GDN reported at the time that her divorce proceedings had apparently been cancelled after three years by the Sharia court, because she refused to accept child support of BD100 a month from her estranged husband.
She is still legally married to him because she rejected the final settlement, which would have also seen her pay him a one-off BD500.
She is also embroiled in a court dispute with her husband over ownership of their house, which is in her name and was given to them after they were forced to sleep rough because their old home became dangerously dilapidated.
The 33-year-old housewife was joined at yesterday's protest by Zahra Sabah Nasser Hassan and Fadheela Salman.
They held up signs that said: "Sorry MPs, but we are women suffering from injustice. Is our suffering forever?" and "We are abandoned women asking for a law that can protect us."
Ms Salman was there to extend support, but Ms Hassan appeared in the GDN in February after the Crown Prince's Court answered her call for a new home.
It offered her a new house after the Sharia court evicted her from the home she shared with her ex-husband.
The mother-of-two fought for child support and a housing allowance from her ex-husband between 2004 and 2008, but the Sharia court evicted her after ordering her ex-husband to pay her BD70 a month for housing.
THREE Bahraini mothers took their fight for justice to the gates of parliament yesterday, as MPs gathered inside the building for their weekly meeting.
They were hoping to persuade MPs to pass a much-awaited Family Law, saying they were fed up with women suffering at the hands of the Sharia courts.
Mother-of-four Amal Juma Abdulla led the hour-and-a-half protest and claimed women were crying out for a Family Law, which would put down in writing how courts should handle domestic disputes.
Sharia judges issue verdicts in divorce cases, child custody battles and inheritance disputes, based on their interpretation of Islamic law.
However, women's rights campaigners have claimed for years that judges often discriminate against women.
"We are demonstrating to call on MPs to find a Family Law for the Jaffari court (which handles domestic cases of the Shi'ite community)," said Ms Abdulla.
"They are discussing the Family Law for the Sunni court, but we are reminding them that we are suffering as well."
The demonstration was organised to vent frustration at MPs for failing to come up with a Family Law to protect women.
However, some clerics are said to oppose the move due to fears it could loosen their grip on the community.
"Some MPs are against this law," claimed Ms Abdulla.
"They should discuss women's problems - not only men's."
Disputes
It was her second protest in a week, having demonstrated outside the Justice Ministry with three of her children on March 31.
The GDN reported at the time that her divorce proceedings had apparently been cancelled after three years by the Sharia court, because she refused to accept child support of BD100 a month from her estranged husband.
She is still legally married to him because she rejected the final settlement, which would have also seen her pay him a one-off BD500.
She is also embroiled in a court dispute with her husband over ownership of their house, which is in her name and was given to them after they were forced to sleep rough because their old home became dangerously dilapidated.
The 33-year-old housewife was joined at yesterday's protest by Zahra Sabah Nasser Hassan and Fadheela Salman.
They held up signs that said: "Sorry MPs, but we are women suffering from injustice. Is our suffering forever?" and "We are abandoned women asking for a law that can protect us."
Ms Salman was there to extend support, but Ms Hassan appeared in the GDN in February after the Crown Prince's Court answered her call for a new home.
It offered her a new house after the Sharia court evicted her from the home she shared with her ex-husband.
The mother-of-two fought for child support and a housing allowance from her ex-husband between 2004 and 2008, but the Sharia court evicted her after ordering her ex-husband to pay her BD70 a month for housing.
Bahrain: New Family Law draft only partial
By MOHAMMED AL A' ALI, Posted on » Wednesday, April 08, 2009
A FAMILY Law for the Sunni community could soon be approved, with MPs yesterday passing a version of the bill to parliament's legislative and legal affairs committee for revision.
However, it will only apply to Sunnis since Shi'ite MPs opposed an earlier version following complaints from their religious leaders.
The government referred the new draft to parliament on Sunday, after withdrawing the original on January 13 following opposition from Shi'ite clergymen.
Opponents claimed only senior clerics should have the power to come up with such a law, with six senior religious leaders suggesting Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani should draft it from his home in Iraq.
Critics were backed by all 17 MPs from the Al Wefaq bloc, regarded as the Shi'ite community's voice in parliament.
The bloc had threatened to veto the original bill if not withdrawn.
Domestic disputes are resolved in Sharia courts, with separate systems for the Sunnis and Shias.
Sharia judges base verdicts on their interpretation of Islam, but a Family Law would standardise procedures.
Women's rights activists have long campaigned for the law, saying the existing system fosters discrimination against women.
A FAMILY Law for the Sunni community could soon be approved, with MPs yesterday passing a version of the bill to parliament's legislative and legal affairs committee for revision.
However, it will only apply to Sunnis since Shi'ite MPs opposed an earlier version following complaints from their religious leaders.
The government referred the new draft to parliament on Sunday, after withdrawing the original on January 13 following opposition from Shi'ite clergymen.
Opponents claimed only senior clerics should have the power to come up with such a law, with six senior religious leaders suggesting Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani should draft it from his home in Iraq.
Critics were backed by all 17 MPs from the Al Wefaq bloc, regarded as the Shi'ite community's voice in parliament.
The bloc had threatened to veto the original bill if not withdrawn.
Domestic disputes are resolved in Sharia courts, with separate systems for the Sunnis and Shias.
Sharia judges base verdicts on their interpretation of Islam, but a Family Law would standardise procedures.
Women's rights activists have long campaigned for the law, saying the existing system fosters discrimination against women.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Bahrain: Tough laws urged to protect women
NINETY-ONE per cent of Bahraini mothers filing for divorce have been physically abused by their husbands, a survey has revealed.
According to the study, 2,165 women out of 2,391 surveyed had been abused after bearing children, while after marriage and before pregnancy it was 152 (6pc) and during the engagement period it was 74 (3pc).
Bahrain Women's Union president Mariam Al Ruwaie said the survey showed there was a strong link between violence against women and personal status.
She called upon the authorities of Bahrain to toughen up the country's laws against those who commit violence against women.
The rights activist pointed out that article 353 of Bahrain's penal code stipulated that whoever raped or had illegitimate sex with a woman would not be punished if the situation was corrected by marriage.
However, she said, such laws allowed abusers to get away with their crimes.
"There is an urgent need to find a legal platform that criminalises abuse," said Ms Al Ruwaie.
"We need to pass a protection against family violence law that has already been presented to parliament, and we need to amend the penal code for stricter punishments."
The survey was conducted by the union at 13 family council centres and law offices in Bahrain.
It revealed that violence against women was ethically and socially acceptable.
It found that in 623 (19pc) cases recorded at the centres and law offices, the wife continued to suffer without getting a divorce while her case remained in the court.
The survey revealed that in such cases 40pc dragged on for less than a year, 32pc for five to eight years, and 2pc for eight to 10 years.
Out of 247 cases filed, 110 (45pc) women were still waiting for a divorce after a year or less. While 102 women (41pc) were still waiting for a divorce after one to three years, and 10 (4pc) after eight to 10 years.
The main reason women asked to be separated from their husbands was in 27pc of cases due to his immoral behaviour.
While in 23pc of cases it was because the husband failed to take proper financial responsibility for his wife and children.
Other reasons were that the woman's husband was psychologically ill or had abandoned her.
Ms Al Ruwaie presented the results of the survey at the United Nations celebration to mark International Women's Day.
The event was held at the Cultural Hall, near the Bahrain National Museum, yesterday and was attended by government officials and representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and members of the media.
Ms Al Ruwaie applauded the co-operation and co-ordination of the government and NGOs on the issue of combating domestic violence.
She said recent steps in this direction included the creation of a committee for domestic violence against women at the Health Ministry, as well as a training programme for the police and Public Prosecution on how to deal with victims of abuse.
Another positive step, she noted, was the Dar Al Aman shelter, which had been established by the Social Development Ministry and was now being run by the Bahrain Sociologists Society.
"However, all these steps are still modest and don't meet the requirements for the escalating problem of violence against women," said Ms Al Ruwaie.
Meanwhile, Ms Al Ruwaie said steps are also needed to protect housemaids from domestic violence.
She said according to 2001 figures (the latest available), there were 29,583 domestic helpers in Bahrain of which 21,291 were women. However, more up to date data on domestic helpers was needed, she said.
"In Bahrain there is a lack of societies or organisations that work for the rights of domestic workers and there are no statistics on abuse cases towards them that have gone to court," she added.
-- Gulf Daily News By REBECCA TORR
According to the study, 2,165 women out of 2,391 surveyed had been abused after bearing children, while after marriage and before pregnancy it was 152 (6pc) and during the engagement period it was 74 (3pc).
Bahrain Women's Union president Mariam Al Ruwaie said the survey showed there was a strong link between violence against women and personal status.
She called upon the authorities of Bahrain to toughen up the country's laws against those who commit violence against women.
The rights activist pointed out that article 353 of Bahrain's penal code stipulated that whoever raped or had illegitimate sex with a woman would not be punished if the situation was corrected by marriage.
However, she said, such laws allowed abusers to get away with their crimes.
"There is an urgent need to find a legal platform that criminalises abuse," said Ms Al Ruwaie.
"We need to pass a protection against family violence law that has already been presented to parliament, and we need to amend the penal code for stricter punishments."
The survey was conducted by the union at 13 family council centres and law offices in Bahrain.
It revealed that violence against women was ethically and socially acceptable.
It found that in 623 (19pc) cases recorded at the centres and law offices, the wife continued to suffer without getting a divorce while her case remained in the court.
The survey revealed that in such cases 40pc dragged on for less than a year, 32pc for five to eight years, and 2pc for eight to 10 years.
Out of 247 cases filed, 110 (45pc) women were still waiting for a divorce after a year or less. While 102 women (41pc) were still waiting for a divorce after one to three years, and 10 (4pc) after eight to 10 years.
The main reason women asked to be separated from their husbands was in 27pc of cases due to his immoral behaviour.
While in 23pc of cases it was because the husband failed to take proper financial responsibility for his wife and children.
Other reasons were that the woman's husband was psychologically ill or had abandoned her.
Ms Al Ruwaie presented the results of the survey at the United Nations celebration to mark International Women's Day.
The event was held at the Cultural Hall, near the Bahrain National Museum, yesterday and was attended by government officials and representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and members of the media.
Ms Al Ruwaie applauded the co-operation and co-ordination of the government and NGOs on the issue of combating domestic violence.
She said recent steps in this direction included the creation of a committee for domestic violence against women at the Health Ministry, as well as a training programme for the police and Public Prosecution on how to deal with victims of abuse.
Another positive step, she noted, was the Dar Al Aman shelter, which had been established by the Social Development Ministry and was now being run by the Bahrain Sociologists Society.
"However, all these steps are still modest and don't meet the requirements for the escalating problem of violence against women," said Ms Al Ruwaie.
Meanwhile, Ms Al Ruwaie said steps are also needed to protect housemaids from domestic violence.
She said according to 2001 figures (the latest available), there were 29,583 domestic helpers in Bahrain of which 21,291 were women. However, more up to date data on domestic helpers was needed, she said.
"In Bahrain there is a lack of societies or organisations that work for the rights of domestic workers and there are no statistics on abuse cases towards them that have gone to court," she added.
-- Gulf Daily News By REBECCA TORR
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Bahrain: Law soon to outlaw violence against women
Khaleej Times
Violence against women will be considered a punishable crime under a law being drafted by a non-governmental organisation.
An announcement in this respect was made by Al Hawar ‘Dialogue’ Society as part of its celebrations of the International Women’s Day.
“The law, being drafted in association with lawmakers, recommends tough punishments for those found guilty of abusing women,” Chairman of the society, Sayed Adnan Jalal, told Khaleej Times. “We would also review international laws concerned as well as similar experiences in the neighbouring countries.”
Jalal said that many lawmakers had welcomed a plan for women’s well-being, especially steps to protect their psychological health.
“We think the law would help raise awareness about the violence against women, especially after a recent survey shows that 35 per cent of people feel that women provoke others to abuse them, while 29 per cent believe that in some cases women promote violence against them.”
Jalal said the increasing violence against women should be tackled by NGOs and other bodies concerned, especially by promoting the laws that could prevent men from causing any physical harm to women.
He stressed the need for the implementation of the family law and an amendment to the penal code to outlaw violence against females.
He attributed the increase in violence against women to the ongoing economic meltdown, saying the crisis is affecting the stability of families.
Violence against women will be considered a punishable crime under a law being drafted by a non-governmental organisation.
An announcement in this respect was made by Al Hawar ‘Dialogue’ Society as part of its celebrations of the International Women’s Day.
“The law, being drafted in association with lawmakers, recommends tough punishments for those found guilty of abusing women,” Chairman of the society, Sayed Adnan Jalal, told Khaleej Times. “We would also review international laws concerned as well as similar experiences in the neighbouring countries.”
Jalal said that many lawmakers had welcomed a plan for women’s well-being, especially steps to protect their psychological health.
“We think the law would help raise awareness about the violence against women, especially after a recent survey shows that 35 per cent of people feel that women provoke others to abuse them, while 29 per cent believe that in some cases women promote violence against them.”
Jalal said the increasing violence against women should be tackled by NGOs and other bodies concerned, especially by promoting the laws that could prevent men from causing any physical harm to women.
He stressed the need for the implementation of the family law and an amendment to the penal code to outlaw violence against females.
He attributed the increase in violence against women to the ongoing economic meltdown, saying the crisis is affecting the stability of families.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Bahrain: Barrier-Breaking Bahraini Masters Diplomatic Scene
Nonoo Is First Jewish Ambassador From an Arab Nation
By Nora Boustany
Washington Post Foreign Service
It takes charm, courage and chutzpah to master the Washington diplomatic scene, and Houda Ezra Nonoo, Bahrain's first female ambassador here and the first Jewish ambassador of an Arab country, is well on her way.
The granddaughter of Iraqi Jews who migrated to the tiny archipelago in the Persian Gulf, Nonoo came into public view in 2004 as a founding member of the Bahrain Human Rights Watch Society. She helped bring attention to the plight of domestic workers and other foreign laborers and worked to promote the rights of women and children.
In 2006, Nonoo was appointed to the Shura Council, the upper chamber of parliament. She replaced her brother Ibrahim, the first Jewish member of the council, who decided to devote himself to his business concerns.
Then news leaked out that King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifae had informed U.S. officials of his intention to name Nonoo as ambassador here. Bahrain's news media shot down the move to name a "Jewish ambassador" as a public relations stunt by the Sunni dynasty, which rules over a disgruntled Shiite majority in this country of about 700,000 people.
"When newspaper headlines said the government was sending a Jewish envoy to Washington, that really upset me. I was hurt because I am Bahraini. They took my religion and forgot I was Bahraini," Nonoo said, adding that her grandfather served on the 1934 municipal council, which was elected. "I think I was chosen because of my work on human rights. I was outspoken, and that is what catapulted me into this position. I never expected to be here serving my country in this capacity."
Asked about reports that some Shiites felt left out when Nonoo was appointed, her predecessor, Nasser Beloushi, said: "We don't think about it in that way -- Sunni, Shiite, Christian or Jewish. You are a Bahraini first, and you should serve your country. Bahrain is that way."
Beloushi said Nonoo's father was a well-known financier and "one of the original pillars of our banking system. He was trusted and well liked." His money exchange business grew into the Bahrain Financial Company.
"Her brother's merchant companies are highly regarded and successful," added Beloushi, who said he knows him well.
Nonoo's grandparents initially considered heading to India but settled on the sleepy, barren island surrounded by oyster beds and coral reefs. Her grandfather, Ibrahim, started out with a money exchange business, the oldest such company in Bahrain.
About 500 Jews lived in Bahrain in the early 1940s, according to Ali al-Jalawi, a Bahraini author who has written a book about the community. After the creation of Israel in 1948, attacks on the homes of Bahraini Jews triggered an exodus from Manama, the capital. But Nonoo's family stayed.
"They never thought of leaving Bahrain, because it is their country and what they know. It is hard to just get up and go. Home is where the heart is," she said, sitting in her spacious, sun-flooded office on International Drive.
Today, 36 Jews live in the country, and they are all related, Nonoo said. There is one synagogue in Manama but no rabbi. A "learned scholar" presides over special religious celebrations and funerals, and kosher meat is flown in from London. The last bris was performed 80 years ago, and the last Jewish wedding took place in 1965, she said. Such functions are now held abroad.
Nonoo said she is not strictly religious but observes the high holidays, fasts on Yom Kippur and is respectful and mindful of "basic" Jewish traditions.
"At the end of the day, I am always going to be a Bahraini. Culturally and morally, I am an Arab," she said.
When Nonoo goes on speaking tours in the United States, she is often asked the same questions: Can she go out in Bahrain? Can she walk around without a veil? Is she allowed to drive? The answer to all of the above is yes.
Born in 1964, Nonoo attended a coed school run by Italian nuns, and her classmates included Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus and Bahais. They had play dates at one another's homes. "I never felt I was different," she said.
At 15, she was sent to boarding school in England, where she obtained a bachelor's degree in accounting from City of London Polytechnic. She also received an MBA from the International University of Europe in Waterford.
When she presented her credentials to President Bush this summer, Nonoo said she was nervous and slightly apprehensive, but "the door opened and he made me feel just like a friend."
Soon after her arrival, Nonoo attended the Meridian Ball, one of the glitziest events of the year, where diplomats, officials and A-listers get together for dessert, champagne and dancing after embassy dinners. "Everyone wanted to meet me. I had just arrived and I was overwhelmed," she admitted.
But Omani Ambassador Hunaina Sultan Ahmed al-Mughairy, another woman representing an Arab Gulf country, took Nonoo under her wing, she said with gratitude.
The demands of accompanying her country's foreign minister to appointments in New York on Tuesday morning did not prevent Nonoo from hosting her first big reception in Washington that afternoon.
Radiant and exuding a natural liveliness, Nonoo greeted well-wishers to an event at the Ritz-Carlton marking Bahrain's National Day. Understated yet chic in pumps, a tapered black lace dress and a short red satin jacket, she stood next to her husband, a British citizen of Iranian descent, and her defense attache. An oud player in traditional Gulf robes strummed lilting melodies in the background.
In Washington, Nonoo lives in a two-bedroom apartment but is contemplating revamping the embassy's old residence. Her husband, now visiting their sons, ages 16 and 17, helps run Gulf Computer Services in Bahrain, a family business. They often meet in London, where her older son studies.
"She is a breath of fresh air," noted Ina Ginsberg, a Washington member of the American-Bahrain Friendship Council. "She adds a new voice to the conversation. It takes guts for any woman to come here as ambassador, but she is going to be a trailblazer."
Arab League Ambassador Hussein Hassouna, who recently joined Nonoo on a speaking engagement at Harvard University, said he was taken by her intelligence and warmth. "She is a great addition. Arab countries do well to send women and envoys from minority communities."
By Nora Boustany
Washington Post Foreign Service
It takes charm, courage and chutzpah to master the Washington diplomatic scene, and Houda Ezra Nonoo, Bahrain's first female ambassador here and the first Jewish ambassador of an Arab country, is well on her way.
The granddaughter of Iraqi Jews who migrated to the tiny archipelago in the Persian Gulf, Nonoo came into public view in 2004 as a founding member of the Bahrain Human Rights Watch Society. She helped bring attention to the plight of domestic workers and other foreign laborers and worked to promote the rights of women and children.
In 2006, Nonoo was appointed to the Shura Council, the upper chamber of parliament. She replaced her brother Ibrahim, the first Jewish member of the council, who decided to devote himself to his business concerns.
Then news leaked out that King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifae had informed U.S. officials of his intention to name Nonoo as ambassador here. Bahrain's news media shot down the move to name a "Jewish ambassador" as a public relations stunt by the Sunni dynasty, which rules over a disgruntled Shiite majority in this country of about 700,000 people.
"When newspaper headlines said the government was sending a Jewish envoy to Washington, that really upset me. I was hurt because I am Bahraini. They took my religion and forgot I was Bahraini," Nonoo said, adding that her grandfather served on the 1934 municipal council, which was elected. "I think I was chosen because of my work on human rights. I was outspoken, and that is what catapulted me into this position. I never expected to be here serving my country in this capacity."
Asked about reports that some Shiites felt left out when Nonoo was appointed, her predecessor, Nasser Beloushi, said: "We don't think about it in that way -- Sunni, Shiite, Christian or Jewish. You are a Bahraini first, and you should serve your country. Bahrain is that way."
Beloushi said Nonoo's father was a well-known financier and "one of the original pillars of our banking system. He was trusted and well liked." His money exchange business grew into the Bahrain Financial Company.
"Her brother's merchant companies are highly regarded and successful," added Beloushi, who said he knows him well.
Nonoo's grandparents initially considered heading to India but settled on the sleepy, barren island surrounded by oyster beds and coral reefs. Her grandfather, Ibrahim, started out with a money exchange business, the oldest such company in Bahrain.
About 500 Jews lived in Bahrain in the early 1940s, according to Ali al-Jalawi, a Bahraini author who has written a book about the community. After the creation of Israel in 1948, attacks on the homes of Bahraini Jews triggered an exodus from Manama, the capital. But Nonoo's family stayed.
"They never thought of leaving Bahrain, because it is their country and what they know. It is hard to just get up and go. Home is where the heart is," she said, sitting in her spacious, sun-flooded office on International Drive.
Today, 36 Jews live in the country, and they are all related, Nonoo said. There is one synagogue in Manama but no rabbi. A "learned scholar" presides over special religious celebrations and funerals, and kosher meat is flown in from London. The last bris was performed 80 years ago, and the last Jewish wedding took place in 1965, she said. Such functions are now held abroad.
Nonoo said she is not strictly religious but observes the high holidays, fasts on Yom Kippur and is respectful and mindful of "basic" Jewish traditions.
"At the end of the day, I am always going to be a Bahraini. Culturally and morally, I am an Arab," she said.
When Nonoo goes on speaking tours in the United States, she is often asked the same questions: Can she go out in Bahrain? Can she walk around without a veil? Is she allowed to drive? The answer to all of the above is yes.
Born in 1964, Nonoo attended a coed school run by Italian nuns, and her classmates included Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus and Bahais. They had play dates at one another's homes. "I never felt I was different," she said.
At 15, she was sent to boarding school in England, where she obtained a bachelor's degree in accounting from City of London Polytechnic. She also received an MBA from the International University of Europe in Waterford.
When she presented her credentials to President Bush this summer, Nonoo said she was nervous and slightly apprehensive, but "the door opened and he made me feel just like a friend."
Soon after her arrival, Nonoo attended the Meridian Ball, one of the glitziest events of the year, where diplomats, officials and A-listers get together for dessert, champagne and dancing after embassy dinners. "Everyone wanted to meet me. I had just arrived and I was overwhelmed," she admitted.
But Omani Ambassador Hunaina Sultan Ahmed al-Mughairy, another woman representing an Arab Gulf country, took Nonoo under her wing, she said with gratitude.
The demands of accompanying her country's foreign minister to appointments in New York on Tuesday morning did not prevent Nonoo from hosting her first big reception in Washington that afternoon.
Radiant and exuding a natural liveliness, Nonoo greeted well-wishers to an event at the Ritz-Carlton marking Bahrain's National Day. Understated yet chic in pumps, a tapered black lace dress and a short red satin jacket, she stood next to her husband, a British citizen of Iranian descent, and her defense attache. An oud player in traditional Gulf robes strummed lilting melodies in the background.
In Washington, Nonoo lives in a two-bedroom apartment but is contemplating revamping the embassy's old residence. Her husband, now visiting their sons, ages 16 and 17, helps run Gulf Computer Services in Bahrain, a family business. They often meet in London, where her older son studies.
"She is a breath of fresh air," noted Ina Ginsberg, a Washington member of the American-Bahrain Friendship Council. "She adds a new voice to the conversation. It takes guts for any woman to come here as ambassador, but she is going to be a trailblazer."
Arab League Ambassador Hussein Hassouna, who recently joined Nonoo on a speaking engagement at Harvard University, said he was taken by her intelligence and warmth. "She is a great addition. Arab countries do well to send women and envoys from minority communities."
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Bahrain: Women are Trailblazers
Bahrain's pioneering strides in providing modern education for women since the 1920s were hailed yesterday. "The establishment of modern education for women was a unique and historic turning point which had no parallel in the region," His Majesty King Hamad said in his National Day address at the headquarters of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), also marking the Accession Day and Bahraini Woman's Day.
Present were Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
"Bahraini women are trailblazers, showing the path of achievement to their sisters in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula," he said.
The King described the achievement as a defining moment for women to learn, contribute to nation-building and rear new generations.
His Majesty hailed the decision of the SCW to celebrate Bahraini Woman's Day.
"The National Day and Bahraini Woman's Day are twins in the same fabric," he said.
That long-dated march, he said, has yielded a generation of brilliant Bahraini women holding key positions as ministers, ambassadors, MPs, judges, barristers, engineers, teachers, nurses and administrators.
He also hailed women's voting rights as another milestone for modern Bahrain.
"The efforts to anchor the culture of human rights in Bahrain date back to the establishment of the first girls' school eight decades ago," His Majesty said.
He urged a national consensus to approve the draft family code, which, he said, "epitomises our common national will".
"Bahrain can't be left behind as other Islamic countries, from different doctrines and jurisprudence schools, have already approved similar laws," he said.
"Such a law would reflect Islam's radiant teachings and promote the type of social order advocated by religions," he said.
He also described the draft law as a step in the right direction to empower Muslim women and further anchor human rights and reflect the country's deep commitment to values and principles.
"All eyes will be turned to the National Assembly to debate the draft law and undertake the necessary decisions," he said.
His Majesty bestowed the Shaikh Isa First Class Order on SCW chairwoman Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.
His Majesty yesterday received a cable of congratulations from Shaikha Sabeeka marking the National and Accession Days.
-- Gulf Daily News
Present were Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
"Bahraini women are trailblazers, showing the path of achievement to their sisters in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula," he said.
The King described the achievement as a defining moment for women to learn, contribute to nation-building and rear new generations.
His Majesty hailed the decision of the SCW to celebrate Bahraini Woman's Day.
"The National Day and Bahraini Woman's Day are twins in the same fabric," he said.
That long-dated march, he said, has yielded a generation of brilliant Bahraini women holding key positions as ministers, ambassadors, MPs, judges, barristers, engineers, teachers, nurses and administrators.
He also hailed women's voting rights as another milestone for modern Bahrain.
"The efforts to anchor the culture of human rights in Bahrain date back to the establishment of the first girls' school eight decades ago," His Majesty said.
He urged a national consensus to approve the draft family code, which, he said, "epitomises our common national will".
"Bahrain can't be left behind as other Islamic countries, from different doctrines and jurisprudence schools, have already approved similar laws," he said.
"Such a law would reflect Islam's radiant teachings and promote the type of social order advocated by religions," he said.
He also described the draft law as a step in the right direction to empower Muslim women and further anchor human rights and reflect the country's deep commitment to values and principles.
"All eyes will be turned to the National Assembly to debate the draft law and undertake the necessary decisions," he said.
His Majesty bestowed the Shaikh Isa First Class Order on SCW chairwoman Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.
His Majesty yesterday received a cable of congratulations from Shaikha Sabeeka marking the National and Accession Days.
-- Gulf Daily News
Monday, December 15, 2008
Bahrain: Families Backed by Law
MANAMA: A breakthrough draft law aimed at protecting family life and ensuring the rights of husbands and wives was approved yesterday. The move came as Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting.
The draft law acknowledges family as a cornerstone of society and focuses on the need to ensure harmony in it.
The new law complements current legal provisions organising matrimonial relationships and marital laws.
The Cabinet stressed the importance of gender equality.
The amendments outline rules regulating marriages and divorces, and defines the rights of children.
The new legislation would be inclusive of Sunni and Jaafari doctrines.
The law specifies the rules and regulations governing marriage terms, contracts as well as the rights of husbands and wives. It also defines the different types of marriages, in addition to other key issues, particularly alimony and ways of establishing paternity.
The draft family code specifies different types of divorces and terms governing the dissolution of marriage. It also specifies key Sharia issues, including the period that the wife has to observe after the death of her husband and custody rights.
-- Gulf Daily News
The draft law acknowledges family as a cornerstone of society and focuses on the need to ensure harmony in it.
The new law complements current legal provisions organising matrimonial relationships and marital laws.
The Cabinet stressed the importance of gender equality.
The amendments outline rules regulating marriages and divorces, and defines the rights of children.
The new legislation would be inclusive of Sunni and Jaafari doctrines.
The law specifies the rules and regulations governing marriage terms, contracts as well as the rights of husbands and wives. It also defines the different types of marriages, in addition to other key issues, particularly alimony and ways of establishing paternity.
The draft family code specifies different types of divorces and terms governing the dissolution of marriage. It also specifies key Sharia issues, including the period that the wife has to observe after the death of her husband and custody rights.
-- Gulf Daily News
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Bahrain: Obama 'model for poll candidates'
By REBECCA TORR, Gulf Daily News
CANDIDATES for Bahrain's next elections are being advised to follow the example of US President-elect Barack Obama if they are serious about winning a seat in parliament or municipal councils.
Women in particular should try to emulate the way the next leader of the free world started fundraising and drumming up support early, according to former Shura Council member Dr Fakhria Diari.
She said even though Bahrain's next polls are two years away, it is never too soon to start laying the foundations of a successful campaign.
"One woman in parliament is not enough," she told the GDN.
"We lack funding here and we need full time help, we must work hard on fundraising.
"We must go to the private sector and have them participate in the campaign.
"Phone companies can help by giving free calls for their campaign."
Dr Diari, who admitted she was considering running for a municipal council seat, said candidates also needed a large network of volunteers of all ages to help them with their campaign.
She suggested lobby centres similar to those in the US, which teach volunteers how to knock on doors and win over voters.
"We have a lot of youth volunteers, but it would be good to have senior citizens - it helps them feel alive and gives them purpose," she said.
"Volunteers in the US will call up people who haven't voted yet or send them a message or e-mail to remind them and the youth go out knocking doors asking people to vote for their party."
Dr Diari was speaking after taking part in the Election Exchange Programme in the US.
The month-long programme was sponsored by the US Department of State's Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and implemented by the American University, in Washington, DC.
Programme organisers chose 44 female political leaders from the Middle East and North Africa to exchange experiences and points of view on politics, as well as observe the US presidential campaigns.
Participants were mainly focused in Washington, DC, but were also sent to different states to observe the local election process.
Dr Diari, who visited Raleigh, in North Carolina, and Denver, in Colarado, now hopes to bring US experts to Bahrain to conduct workshops on how candidates can structure their campaigns.
She is also recommending workshops, ongoing training and exchange programmes for MPs and Shura Council members.
However, Dr Diari said compared to many other countries in the region, Bahrain was honoured that women had support from the highest level - from His Majesty King Hamad and his wife Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.
She said she was hopeful that more women would be elected to parliament in 2010, even though only one woman won a parliamentary seat last time.
"In 2006, 80 women stood for election and it's a hard job to be in parliament, they need to be able to talk in front of thousands of people and the women must have a political background.
Dr Diari said in Denver the group visited a businesswomen's club, which volunteered time to support election campaigns.
"Women's groups here should support women candidates," said Dr Diari.
"If we do what they (the US) are doing, 100 per cent women will be elected into parliament.
"If 51pc of women voted for women, then women would be successful, but some women don't believe in women and give the vote their husband gives.
Dr Diari said during the group's visit to Washington they met with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, but claimed everyone was unhappy with her answers to their questions.
She asked Ms Rice if President George Bush made the right decision by invading Iraq, but said she evaded the question.
The group also met President Bush at another meeting and two questions were taken.
"It was nice to meet them and they received us, but the answers from Bush and Rice were not satisfactory," she said.
"They would not explain and that's why I think Obama is the right person and I hope he will do right."
Dr Diari's visit to Raleigh and Denver was sponsored by Meridian International Centre, which promotes international understanding through the exchange of people, ideas and the arts.
In Denver, Dr Diari visited the office of Obama and the Meridian International Centre.
In Raleigh she visited various places including the First Baptist church and the North Carolina Centre for Voter Education.
"In North Carolina I attended Obama's campaign and I was shocked how hard he worked," she said.
"He gave a beautiful speech. He said: 'We don't need war, we need peace and education for children and we need not see a single tear in a mother's eyes.'
"I spoke to Americans there and they said: 'We have confidence in this president that he will solve our racial problems.'
Dr Diari said in Raleigh she liked that during Halloween the police department invited thousands of children and their families for a celebration where they were given sweets and enjoyed face painting.
She said this was a good way for children to learn about police and overcome fear of them.
"Children are always scared of police and I was thinking, I wish we could take children to police during Gargaoon (in Ramadan)," she said.
"The police there have monthly visits for families and for child protection education, it would be nice to do this here."
CANDIDATES for Bahrain's next elections are being advised to follow the example of US President-elect Barack Obama if they are serious about winning a seat in parliament or municipal councils.
Women in particular should try to emulate the way the next leader of the free world started fundraising and drumming up support early, according to former Shura Council member Dr Fakhria Diari.
She said even though Bahrain's next polls are two years away, it is never too soon to start laying the foundations of a successful campaign.
"One woman in parliament is not enough," she told the GDN.
"We lack funding here and we need full time help, we must work hard on fundraising.
"We must go to the private sector and have them participate in the campaign.
"Phone companies can help by giving free calls for their campaign."
Dr Diari, who admitted she was considering running for a municipal council seat, said candidates also needed a large network of volunteers of all ages to help them with their campaign.
She suggested lobby centres similar to those in the US, which teach volunteers how to knock on doors and win over voters.
"We have a lot of youth volunteers, but it would be good to have senior citizens - it helps them feel alive and gives them purpose," she said.
"Volunteers in the US will call up people who haven't voted yet or send them a message or e-mail to remind them and the youth go out knocking doors asking people to vote for their party."
Dr Diari was speaking after taking part in the Election Exchange Programme in the US.
The month-long programme was sponsored by the US Department of State's Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and implemented by the American University, in Washington, DC.
Programme organisers chose 44 female political leaders from the Middle East and North Africa to exchange experiences and points of view on politics, as well as observe the US presidential campaigns.
Participants were mainly focused in Washington, DC, but were also sent to different states to observe the local election process.
Dr Diari, who visited Raleigh, in North Carolina, and Denver, in Colarado, now hopes to bring US experts to Bahrain to conduct workshops on how candidates can structure their campaigns.
She is also recommending workshops, ongoing training and exchange programmes for MPs and Shura Council members.
However, Dr Diari said compared to many other countries in the region, Bahrain was honoured that women had support from the highest level - from His Majesty King Hamad and his wife Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.
She said she was hopeful that more women would be elected to parliament in 2010, even though only one woman won a parliamentary seat last time.
"In 2006, 80 women stood for election and it's a hard job to be in parliament, they need to be able to talk in front of thousands of people and the women must have a political background.
Dr Diari said in Denver the group visited a businesswomen's club, which volunteered time to support election campaigns.
"Women's groups here should support women candidates," said Dr Diari.
"If we do what they (the US) are doing, 100 per cent women will be elected into parliament.
"If 51pc of women voted for women, then women would be successful, but some women don't believe in women and give the vote their husband gives.
Dr Diari said during the group's visit to Washington they met with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, but claimed everyone was unhappy with her answers to their questions.
She asked Ms Rice if President George Bush made the right decision by invading Iraq, but said she evaded the question.
The group also met President Bush at another meeting and two questions were taken.
"It was nice to meet them and they received us, but the answers from Bush and Rice were not satisfactory," she said.
"They would not explain and that's why I think Obama is the right person and I hope he will do right."
Dr Diari's visit to Raleigh and Denver was sponsored by Meridian International Centre, which promotes international understanding through the exchange of people, ideas and the arts.
In Denver, Dr Diari visited the office of Obama and the Meridian International Centre.
In Raleigh she visited various places including the First Baptist church and the North Carolina Centre for Voter Education.
"In North Carolina I attended Obama's campaign and I was shocked how hard he worked," she said.
"He gave a beautiful speech. He said: 'We don't need war, we need peace and education for children and we need not see a single tear in a mother's eyes.'
"I spoke to Americans there and they said: 'We have confidence in this president that he will solve our racial problems.'
Dr Diari said in Raleigh she liked that during Halloween the police department invited thousands of children and their families for a celebration where they were given sweets and enjoyed face painting.
She said this was a good way for children to learn about police and overcome fear of them.
"Children are always scared of police and I was thinking, I wish we could take children to police during Gargaoon (in Ramadan)," she said.
"The police there have monthly visits for families and for child protection education, it would be nice to do this here."
Monday, November 17, 2008
Middle East: Women of Jordan join the Women Business Leaders Summit in Bahrain
Women business executives from Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon and Palestine joined together with women business leaders from the US joined to share their experiences and exchange best practices in a variety of panel discussions and fact finding visits around Bahrain and Dubai over the course of the week.
In their meeting with Deputy King Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, his royal highness 'Hailed the role of women in various domains in which they have proved their extraordinary ability to manage different businesses. He also urged them to create contact channels among Arab and US business women', Gulf Daily News.
The Bahrain summit, which builds on the previous success of Washington D.C. summit and the summit held in Jordan last February 2007, addresses the challenges faced by all women in business, and establishes connections on professional levels.
The summit programme included meetings with H.E. Sheikha Mai Al Khalifa and Sheikha Meriam Al Khalifa. Delegates visited the cultural and economic zones of Bahrain and participated in presentations and brainstorm sessions focusing on the exchange of business information and exports and joints ventures, as well as the capitalisation on existing and potential business relationships between the delegates and the organisations they represent.
'The Women Business Leaders Summit has been a unique spot for the Arab business women leaders to exchange their experiences with their business counterparts from the Middle East and the US. The Arab women were historically good merchants and we know that borders frequently visited by traders are seldom in disputes. I would also like to thank the chairman of the Red Cross Ms Bonnie McElveen-Hunter who has inspired the group with her dedicated efforts and focus on business and women leadership. Women from Jordan represented the ICT sector through the participation of ESKADENIA Software and the Information Technology Association of Jordan (int@j), Bidaya Corporate Communications, the Pharmaceutical industry through the participation of Hikma Pharmaceuticals, and Jordan's reputable NGO INJAZ,' said Doha Abdelkhaleq, member of the board of directors of the Information Technology Association of Jordan int@j and Executive Director at ESKADENIA Software.
-- AMEINFO.COM
In their meeting with Deputy King Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, his royal highness 'Hailed the role of women in various domains in which they have proved their extraordinary ability to manage different businesses. He also urged them to create contact channels among Arab and US business women', Gulf Daily News.
The Bahrain summit, which builds on the previous success of Washington D.C. summit and the summit held in Jordan last February 2007, addresses the challenges faced by all women in business, and establishes connections on professional levels.
The summit programme included meetings with H.E. Sheikha Mai Al Khalifa and Sheikha Meriam Al Khalifa. Delegates visited the cultural and economic zones of Bahrain and participated in presentations and brainstorm sessions focusing on the exchange of business information and exports and joints ventures, as well as the capitalisation on existing and potential business relationships between the delegates and the organisations they represent.
'The Women Business Leaders Summit has been a unique spot for the Arab business women leaders to exchange their experiences with their business counterparts from the Middle East and the US. The Arab women were historically good merchants and we know that borders frequently visited by traders are seldom in disputes. I would also like to thank the chairman of the Red Cross Ms Bonnie McElveen-Hunter who has inspired the group with her dedicated efforts and focus on business and women leadership. Women from Jordan represented the ICT sector through the participation of ESKADENIA Software and the Information Technology Association of Jordan (int@j), Bidaya Corporate Communications, the Pharmaceutical industry through the participation of Hikma Pharmaceuticals, and Jordan's reputable NGO INJAZ,' said Doha Abdelkhaleq, member of the board of directors of the Information Technology Association of Jordan int@j and Executive Director at ESKADENIA Software.
-- AMEINFO.COM
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Bahrain: Report Seeks More Rights for Bahraini Women
MANAMA - Five issues challenging gender equality in Bahrain will be raised in a report to be reviewed at the 42nd session of the Panel of the Convention of Elimination of Discriminations Against Women (CEDAW) to take place in November.
The report was drafted by 21 women organisations that demanded the withdrawal of all the reservations on CEDAW and ratifying the Optional Protocol.
The absence of family law, violence against women, nationality law, political participation, domestic workers and human trafficking are the five issues need to be solved for better empowerment of Bahraini women, according to the report.
It highlighted that despite the demand of Bahraini women organisations and other NGOs to issue a family law since 1982, such law has not been issued yet.
The absence of the law has created legislative gap because of the different and contradicting interpretations of Shariah by the Sunni and Shia judges.
The absence of such law is considered great discrimination against Bahraini women and violation of her human rights in accessing justice, assurance and security.
The report demands the introduction of anti-abuse law to protect women from all types of violence, impose stronger punishment for rape crimes and educate the concerned authorities on how to deal with violence cases and construct a shelter for violently abused women.
The report also demands immediate amendments to be carried out to the outdated nationality law to give equal citizenship rights to female and male Bahrainis. Women, who are married to non Bahrainis, are deprived from giving their nationality to their children.
These children are abandoned all their citizenship rights, of which healthcare, land ownership, political participation, high education and employment. The situation gets worse when the women get divorced or abandoned or when the husbands expire.
The report reveals that the percentage of Bahraini women in political participation is almost negligible.
-- Khaleej Times
The report was drafted by 21 women organisations that demanded the withdrawal of all the reservations on CEDAW and ratifying the Optional Protocol.
The absence of family law, violence against women, nationality law, political participation, domestic workers and human trafficking are the five issues need to be solved for better empowerment of Bahraini women, according to the report.
It highlighted that despite the demand of Bahraini women organisations and other NGOs to issue a family law since 1982, such law has not been issued yet.
The absence of the law has created legislative gap because of the different and contradicting interpretations of Shariah by the Sunni and Shia judges.
The absence of such law is considered great discrimination against Bahraini women and violation of her human rights in accessing justice, assurance and security.
The report demands the introduction of anti-abuse law to protect women from all types of violence, impose stronger punishment for rape crimes and educate the concerned authorities on how to deal with violence cases and construct a shelter for violently abused women.
The report also demands immediate amendments to be carried out to the outdated nationality law to give equal citizenship rights to female and male Bahrainis. Women, who are married to non Bahrainis, are deprived from giving their nationality to their children.
These children are abandoned all their citizenship rights, of which healthcare, land ownership, political participation, high education and employment. The situation gets worse when the women get divorced or abandoned or when the husbands expire.
The report reveals that the percentage of Bahraini women in political participation is almost negligible.
-- Khaleej Times
Bahrain: 'Safe haven' like jail say women
A GOVERNMENT shelter that is supposed to protect women and children from abuse is allegedly mistreating those in its care.
Several victims at the Dar Al Aman shelter have told the GDN that they have been treated like prisoners.
They claim they are not allowed out of the shelter without permission and only for official engagements such as visiting the courts or their lawyer.
The women allege that they are confined to their rooms at night and told when they should sleep and wake up.
In addition, they allege the shelter withholds their meals if they fail to comply with the 'rules' and when they do receive food it is a small portion and of poor quality and is sometimes even stale.
The shelter has further been accused of failing to provide adequate supplies of basic necessities such as blankets, toiletries, nappies and toilet rolls.
The women claim the shelter gives them no privacy and their personal stories are shared freely and they are made to feel small and of low class.
One of the victims, who didn't want to be named, claimed that her and her four daughters were given insufficient food and toiletries and treated like slaves.
"It's a prison without bars," she told the GDN.
"The house is beautiful, but inside is terrible, there is no humanity.
"There is no privacy, they examine every step you take.
"It's horrible, my self-esteem is very bad, I want to cry but I have to be strong for my daughters.
"We came for help and now we need help."
Another victim at the shelter claimed the managers speak to her in a rude manner as if she was a "street woman".
The woman, who wants to remain unnamed, alleged she was stopped from leaving the shelter and all her movements were dictated.
"I feel like I'm in a prison, I'm only allowed to go out during my court hearing," she said.
"I'm not even allowed to go to the cold store to buy things for my children.
"During Eid I was even banned from leaving the shelter to go for a celebration at my embassy.
"They are constantly yelling, they wake us up at 9am, but some of us don't sleep at night because we have young children who stay up late."
One victim at the shelter claimed the managers threatened to throw her out on the streets and call her husband to take her children.
"One of the officials is constantly yelling. She is inconsiderate and doesn't respect us," said the women, who wanted to remain anonymous.
"Me and my roommate were banned from breakfast because we didn't go to bed at 10pm."
Another resident at the shelter claimed the problems at the shelter began when the administration changed earlier this year.
She said punishments for not obeying management orders included confiscating all mobile phones for 14 days, withholding meals and confining them to the shelter.
"We are only allowed to leave with an escort to the court, Public Prosecution or our lawyers, in addition to other important errands, it's as if we are prisoners of war," said the woman.
"When we complained, saying each case is different and we are adults and mothers, we got no response.
"We complained about the food, the restaurant contracted brings the worse meals and repeatedly offers the same food and the cost doesn't exceed BD2."
She said most of the women don't have money to buy extra food for their children and that during Ramadan everyone, including children, was forced to fast because meals weren't served during the day.
"We were banned from Suhoor (last meal before fasting) for two days because we ate our iftar in the main hall instead of the kitchen because there are so many cockroaches," she explained.
"When we complained about the kitchen's condition, they used normal bug spray and the situation continues until this day.
"We are confined to our rooms by 12 midnight, making us feel we are prisoners and it is difficult when we are all going through hardships and if we stay up late we are not given breakfast."
The shelter was established in 2006 by the Social Development Ministry and since May this year has been managed by the Bahrain Sociologists Society. Shelter consultant Huda Al Mahmood told the GDN that she was aware of the allegations that had been made by some of the women and there would be a Press conference organised by the ministry to discuss the issues.
She said the shelter was a new facility in Bahrain and it was still learning how best to serve the women.
"We are open to criticism," she told the GDN.
"The women are subjects of violence and we are open to improve our services to them."
Ms Al Mahmood didn't comment on the allegations. However, she said the shelter was providing an important service that had only recently been available in Bahrain.
"No matter what shortage there is, we are still providing a service," she said. "There will be shortages and will work them out and improve."
-- Gulf Daily News
Several victims at the Dar Al Aman shelter have told the GDN that they have been treated like prisoners.
They claim they are not allowed out of the shelter without permission and only for official engagements such as visiting the courts or their lawyer.
The women allege that they are confined to their rooms at night and told when they should sleep and wake up.
In addition, they allege the shelter withholds their meals if they fail to comply with the 'rules' and when they do receive food it is a small portion and of poor quality and is sometimes even stale.
The shelter has further been accused of failing to provide adequate supplies of basic necessities such as blankets, toiletries, nappies and toilet rolls.
The women claim the shelter gives them no privacy and their personal stories are shared freely and they are made to feel small and of low class.
One of the victims, who didn't want to be named, claimed that her and her four daughters were given insufficient food and toiletries and treated like slaves.
"It's a prison without bars," she told the GDN.
"The house is beautiful, but inside is terrible, there is no humanity.
"There is no privacy, they examine every step you take.
"It's horrible, my self-esteem is very bad, I want to cry but I have to be strong for my daughters.
"We came for help and now we need help."
Another victim at the shelter claimed the managers speak to her in a rude manner as if she was a "street woman".
The woman, who wants to remain unnamed, alleged she was stopped from leaving the shelter and all her movements were dictated.
"I feel like I'm in a prison, I'm only allowed to go out during my court hearing," she said.
"I'm not even allowed to go to the cold store to buy things for my children.
"During Eid I was even banned from leaving the shelter to go for a celebration at my embassy.
"They are constantly yelling, they wake us up at 9am, but some of us don't sleep at night because we have young children who stay up late."
One victim at the shelter claimed the managers threatened to throw her out on the streets and call her husband to take her children.
"One of the officials is constantly yelling. She is inconsiderate and doesn't respect us," said the women, who wanted to remain anonymous.
"Me and my roommate were banned from breakfast because we didn't go to bed at 10pm."
Another resident at the shelter claimed the problems at the shelter began when the administration changed earlier this year.
She said punishments for not obeying management orders included confiscating all mobile phones for 14 days, withholding meals and confining them to the shelter.
"We are only allowed to leave with an escort to the court, Public Prosecution or our lawyers, in addition to other important errands, it's as if we are prisoners of war," said the woman.
"When we complained, saying each case is different and we are adults and mothers, we got no response.
"We complained about the food, the restaurant contracted brings the worse meals and repeatedly offers the same food and the cost doesn't exceed BD2."
She said most of the women don't have money to buy extra food for their children and that during Ramadan everyone, including children, was forced to fast because meals weren't served during the day.
"We were banned from Suhoor (last meal before fasting) for two days because we ate our iftar in the main hall instead of the kitchen because there are so many cockroaches," she explained.
"When we complained about the kitchen's condition, they used normal bug spray and the situation continues until this day.
"We are confined to our rooms by 12 midnight, making us feel we are prisoners and it is difficult when we are all going through hardships and if we stay up late we are not given breakfast."
The shelter was established in 2006 by the Social Development Ministry and since May this year has been managed by the Bahrain Sociologists Society. Shelter consultant Huda Al Mahmood told the GDN that she was aware of the allegations that had been made by some of the women and there would be a Press conference organised by the ministry to discuss the issues.
She said the shelter was a new facility in Bahrain and it was still learning how best to serve the women.
"We are open to criticism," she told the GDN.
"The women are subjects of violence and we are open to improve our services to them."
Ms Al Mahmood didn't comment on the allegations. However, she said the shelter was providing an important service that had only recently been available in Bahrain.
"No matter what shortage there is, we are still providing a service," she said. "There will be shortages and will work them out and improve."
-- Gulf Daily News
Bahrain: Women seek better deal
TEN Bahraini women caught up in divorce wrangles and other domestic disputes demonstrated outside parliament yesterday, asking MPs to intervene and protect women's rights in Sharia courts.
Campaigner Amal Juma Abdulla led them in the demonstration coinciding with parliament's weekly session.
"We want to be the voice of all Bahraini women facing problems in courts.
"We respect our Islamic laws and our judges, we are only asking for our rights and nothing else."
MPs Hassan Sultan and Hussain Jassim met the women during their hour-and-a-half demonstration and were given a letter from Ms Abdulla.
"Mr Sultan told us he will present the letter at the session. He was very sympathetic about our cases and said these issue were well-known," said Ms Abdulla.
"I think if it is well-known, why don't they fix the law or implement some serious changes that can help us."
The letter highlighted various issues, including delayed hearings and alleged bias in favour of men.
In the letter, the women called for the intervention of the country's leadership.
Ms Abdulla has already met Supreme Judicial Council deputy head and Cassation Court head Shaikh Khalifa bin Rashid Al Khalifa and Justice and Islamic Affairs Ministry assistant under-secretary for court and notary affairs Judge Khaled Agagi to explain the issues they were trying to raise.
By BASMA MOHAMMED, Gulf Daily News
Campaigner Amal Juma Abdulla led them in the demonstration coinciding with parliament's weekly session.
"We want to be the voice of all Bahraini women facing problems in courts.
"We respect our Islamic laws and our judges, we are only asking for our rights and nothing else."
MPs Hassan Sultan and Hussain Jassim met the women during their hour-and-a-half demonstration and were given a letter from Ms Abdulla.
"Mr Sultan told us he will present the letter at the session. He was very sympathetic about our cases and said these issue were well-known," said Ms Abdulla.
"I think if it is well-known, why don't they fix the law or implement some serious changes that can help us."
The letter highlighted various issues, including delayed hearings and alleged bias in favour of men.
In the letter, the women called for the intervention of the country's leadership.
Ms Abdulla has already met Supreme Judicial Council deputy head and Cassation Court head Shaikh Khalifa bin Rashid Al Khalifa and Justice and Islamic Affairs Ministry assistant under-secretary for court and notary affairs Judge Khaled Agagi to explain the issues they were trying to raise.
By BASMA MOHAMMED, Gulf Daily News
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Bahrain: Move to Integrate Arab Youth with Regional Development
Manama — About 400 Arabs have showed their keenness to become members of the first Arab Youth Society in the region. The society will be established officially in Bahrain after Eid Al Fitr.
President of Bahrain Youth Society and founder of Arab Youth Society Ali Sharafi told Khaleej Times on Tuesday that the society is a dream come true to unite the Arab youth in a single organisation and associate themselves with regional development.
The Ministry of Social Development here announced in August the launch of the Arab Youth Society that will soon set up its offices in Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries.
“From the second day of Eid, I will start my second tour to Arab cities starting with Doha to attract more youth to join the organisation,” he said while highlighting that 19 Arabs are official members in the society. Membership is open to all Arab youth as the society aims to promote youngsters in the region.
- Khaleej Times
President of Bahrain Youth Society and founder of Arab Youth Society Ali Sharafi told Khaleej Times on Tuesday that the society is a dream come true to unite the Arab youth in a single organisation and associate themselves with regional development.
The Ministry of Social Development here announced in August the launch of the Arab Youth Society that will soon set up its offices in Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries.
“From the second day of Eid, I will start my second tour to Arab cities starting with Doha to attract more youth to join the organisation,” he said while highlighting that 19 Arabs are official members in the society. Membership is open to all Arab youth as the society aims to promote youngsters in the region.
- Khaleej Times
Monday, September 15, 2008
BAHRAIN: NATIONAL COMMITTEE TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING HOLDS ITS FIRST MEETING
THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING HELD ITS FIRST MEETING TODAY UNDER THE CHAIRMANSHIP OF FOREIGN MINISTRY ASSISTANT UNDERSECRETARY FOR COORDINATION AND FOLLOW-UP SHAIKH ABDULAZIZ BIN MUBARAK AL KHALIFA AND IN THE PRESENCE OF THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS REPRESENTING FOREIGN, INTERIOR, JUSTICE AND ISLAMIC AFFAIRS, INFORMATION AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTRIES AS WELL AS REPRESENTATIVES OF BAHRAIN HUMAN RIGHTS SOCIETY, BAHRAIN YOUNG LADIES ASSOCIATION AND THE MIGRANT WORKER PROTECTION SOCIETY (MWPS).
SHAIKH ABDULAZIZ WELCOMED THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND CONVEYED TO THEM THE GREETINGS OF FOREIGN MINISTER SHAIKH KHALID BIN AHMED BIN MOHAMMED AL KHALIFA AND HIS BEST WISHES FOR THE COMMITTEE TO SUCCEED IN ACHIEVING ITS GOALS.
HE ALSO STRESSED THE NEED FOR THE COMMITTEE TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE UPCOMING CONFERENCE WHICH WILL BE HELD IN BAHRAIN ON NOVEMBER 16 AND 17.
SHAIKH ABDULAZIZ CALLED UPON ALL CONCERNED SIDES TO POSITIVELY COOPERATE WITH THE COMMITTEE POINTING OUT THAT A WORK TEAM HAD BEEN FORMED TO LOOK INTO THE PHENOMENON OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
-- BNA
SHAIKH ABDULAZIZ WELCOMED THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND CONVEYED TO THEM THE GREETINGS OF FOREIGN MINISTER SHAIKH KHALID BIN AHMED BIN MOHAMMED AL KHALIFA AND HIS BEST WISHES FOR THE COMMITTEE TO SUCCEED IN ACHIEVING ITS GOALS.
HE ALSO STRESSED THE NEED FOR THE COMMITTEE TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE UPCOMING CONFERENCE WHICH WILL BE HELD IN BAHRAIN ON NOVEMBER 16 AND 17.
SHAIKH ABDULAZIZ CALLED UPON ALL CONCERNED SIDES TO POSITIVELY COOPERATE WITH THE COMMITTEE POINTING OUT THAT A WORK TEAM HAD BEEN FORMED TO LOOK INTO THE PHENOMENON OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
-- BNA
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Bahrain: Municipal Council to highlight women’s achievements
The contribution of women to Bahrain's culture and democratic process will be the focus of the first Women Forum to be organised by the Northern Municipal Council.
The two-day event, scheduled to be held from October 18, will also discuss the impact of low standards of living on women.
It will be attended by officials from the UN, ministries, women's organisations and Northern Governorate charities.
A competition is being held leading up to the event, with more than 40 applicants registering so far, said the council's women's committee public relations head Majida Al Asfoor.
Competitors have to carry out research work focusing on the forum's three main topics, she added.
Ms Al Asfoor said that on the first day of the conference, the three topics will be discussed and the top three winners in the competition will be awarded as well as pioneering women in various fields.
The event will also feature an exhibition highlighting Bahrain's heritage.
In addition, the forum will honor distinctive women in various fields in Bahrain. A workshop will be organised on the second day by the council's women's committee head Mariam Al Haikee.
Ms Al Asfoor said that the committee recently held two workshops, conducted by political and social activist Fatima Fairooz as part of preparations for the forum.
---Gulf Daily News
The two-day event, scheduled to be held from October 18, will also discuss the impact of low standards of living on women.
It will be attended by officials from the UN, ministries, women's organisations and Northern Governorate charities.
A competition is being held leading up to the event, with more than 40 applicants registering so far, said the council's women's committee public relations head Majida Al Asfoor.
Competitors have to carry out research work focusing on the forum's three main topics, she added.
Ms Al Asfoor said that on the first day of the conference, the three topics will be discussed and the top three winners in the competition will be awarded as well as pioneering women in various fields.
The event will also feature an exhibition highlighting Bahrain's heritage.
In addition, the forum will honor distinctive women in various fields in Bahrain. A workshop will be organised on the second day by the council's women's committee head Mariam Al Haikee.
Ms Al Asfoor said that the committee recently held two workshops, conducted by political and social activist Fatima Fairooz as part of preparations for the forum.
---Gulf Daily News
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Bahrain: Lawmaker slams call to introduce sex-education clinics in Bahrain
Manama: A Salafist lawmaker denounced the calling of a society to promote the establishment of clinics to enhance awareness on sex education and contraception methods to unmarried youth.
MP Jassim Al Saidi told Gulf News on Wednesday that such clinics were against Islamic regulations and could promote sinful relations, despite their aims to prevent sexual transmitted diseases among youth.
The President of Bahrain Youth Forum Fatima Ali published a statement in local newspaper in the first week of July, 2008, discussing a paper she presented at a gathering in Tunisia that called for the establishment of the clinics.
“Such statements shouldn’t be made as they are calling upon youth to be engaged in sexual relations outside the marriage-lock and defend such demands as ways to prevent diseases, while youth societies should promote the adults of the future to protect the Islamic principle to stay clean and healthy,” he explained.
---Gulf News
MP Jassim Al Saidi told Gulf News on Wednesday that such clinics were against Islamic regulations and could promote sinful relations, despite their aims to prevent sexual transmitted diseases among youth.
The President of Bahrain Youth Forum Fatima Ali published a statement in local newspaper in the first week of July, 2008, discussing a paper she presented at a gathering in Tunisia that called for the establishment of the clinics.
“Such statements shouldn’t be made as they are calling upon youth to be engaged in sexual relations outside the marriage-lock and defend such demands as ways to prevent diseases, while youth societies should promote the adults of the future to protect the Islamic principle to stay clean and healthy,” he explained.
---Gulf News
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