On May 3 of each year, the world celebrates the International Day of Freedom of the Press, the occasion that reminds us of the importance of the free and responsible word in building societies and documenting the history of nations. In the Kingdom of Bahrain, the national press stands today as a beacon of thought and enlightenment, and an active partner in the comprehensive development process launched by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the king of the country, may God protect and preserve him, since the start of the National Reform Project. In his sublime message, His Majesty, His Majesty, stressed the on the occasion of this day, the constant keenness of the Kingdom of Bahrain and its continuous commitment to support freedom of opinion and expression, stressing the national and constructive role of the press as a basic corner in supporting the development renaissance. It is a message that clearly reflects the high position that the Bahraini press enjoys in seeing its majesty, as an effective tool for spreading awareness and documenting the achievements, and a historical record that preserves the national identity and enhances the values of coexistence and love.
Since the start of the National Reform Project, the Bahraini press has witnessed a qualitative shift in its performance and presence, as it has enjoyed unprecedented freedom to address political, social and economic issues. It has become a platform for an objective discussion that highlights the concerns of society, translates the aspirations of citizens, and explains the complexities of reality in a manner that combines credibility and professionalism. This freedom, guaranteed by the constitution and supported by the vision of His Majesty, made the Bahraini press a honest mirror that reflects the pulse of the street, and a bold voice that transmits the facts and analyzes the challenges.
One of the most prominent achievements of the Bahraini press in light of this march is its ability to keep pace with technical transformations, as the digital media adopted highly efficiently. The number of active users of electronic news platforms in the Kingdom of Bahrain reached about 850 thousand users per month, according to the statistics of the year 2024, which reflects the public’s confidence in the local digital content. During the past two years, Bahraini newspapers have launched more than 20 new interactive platforms, which combine multimedia with direct broadcasting services, which contributes to providing content that is in line with the spirit of the times and responds to the expectations of modern recipient.
It is not possible to talk about this media development without praising the role of the Ministry of Information, which was the main pillar in strengthening the national media sector. The Ministry has worked to sponsor young media cadres through advanced training programs, and to update the media infrastructure to keep pace with the digital transformation. It also contributed to providing media content characterized by quality and professionalism, by setting policies that support the freedom of responsible expression and enhance Bahrain’s position as a regional media center.
As part of this institutional support, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) emerges as a tall and basic rule for information and publishing. Since its founding in 1976, the agency has contributed to strengthening the position of the Bahraini press by providing it with accurate and rapid news and information. Thanks to its comprehensive coverage of national and regional events, from field reports and official data to covering royal and governmental occasions, today we have become a reliable source that keeps the local press at the top of activity and influence, reinforcing the development role of the media in the Kingdom.
The Bahraini press, thanks to His Majesty’s support and directives, was not satisfied with being a witness to development, but rather an active element in formulating it. Through its comprehensive coverage of national files, it contributed to enhancing societal awareness and stimulating constructive dialogue on issues of concern to the citizen. Whether it is by discussing economic policies, highlighting social challenges, or reviewing development achievements, the press has proven that it is not just a news carrier, but rather a partner in building the future.
In this context, it is worth noting the distinguished role of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, may God protect him, who attaches special attention to the press and journalists, by sponsoring the Bahraini Press Day and honoring the distinguished of the Prime Minister of the Press.
The Bahraini press, with its status and presence, is not just a profession, but a human and national message. It is the voice of the truth, the conscience of the nation, and the enlightenment tool that will remain, God willing, at the forefront of supporting Bahrain’s development march, preserving its authentic identity, and inspired by the vision of His Majesty the Great King, which made the freedom of the word a pillar to build a prosperous homeland.
