In October last year, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the country, may God protect and preserve him, delivered a pivotal national speech during the opening of the third session of the Shura and Representatives Council, in which he highlighted a fundamental issue that touches the depth of the national existence, which is the issue of rooting the Bahraini identity.
His Majesty pointed out the importance of implementing an integrated study to measure the extent of Bahrain’s readiness to consolidate the components of its national identity, which reflects the leadership’s keenness to transform the concept of identity into an institutional project that enhances the national presence in various fields.
Rooting national identity means a conscious return to the roots from which the Bahraini personality was formed, and recalling the values, traditions and legacies that shaped the cultural and social fabric of society throughout its history.
But this rooting does not mean isolation or stagnation. Rather, it calls for a modern and renewed understanding of identity that interacts with the present, without dissolving in it, and maintains authenticity, without rejecting development.
Identity is not a static form, but rather an awareness of belonging, which enhances the continuity of history in the present, gives the individual a sense of responsibility towards his society, and instills in him pride in his culture and values.
In essence, it represents the hidden bond that unites the people of the country, and makes sacrifice for it an act stemming from deep faith, not just a legal obligation.
Societies that do not have a clear cultural reference are easy to penetrate intellectually and disintegrate socially, which threatens the unity of their existence and internal cohesion. Therefore, preserving identity is one of the first lines of defense in protecting societal security.
The royal vision here emphasizes that preserving national identity is not limited to the cultural aspect, but rather constitutes a fundamental pillar of national security.
Building a society that has a strong awareness of its identity means building a solid internal front capable of resisting negative influences and consciously interacting with variables without compromising on constants.
Hence, assigning the competent authorities to study the extent of Bahrain’s readiness in this field reflects a practical trend towards integrating identity within the national policy system.
Identity is no longer just a feeling or emotional affiliation. Rather, it must be measured and supported by organized educational, media, and cultural projects that ensure its sustainability in future generations.
When this national project is implemented effectively, its results will be directly reflected in shaping individuals’ awareness, strengthening their connection to their homeland, and increasing their participation in the development process.
Vital fields, such as education, media, and the arts, will witness a renewed launch in an authentic Bahraini spirit, balancing global openness and adherence to cultural specificity.
National identity and belonging must remain fundamental pillars in the journey of any society that aspires to continue with strength and stability.
Peoples who preserve their identity preserve their existence and establish a balanced development path that links the past, present and future.
God willing, Bahrain will remain, as His Majesty intended, a homeland firmly rooted in its authenticity, renewed in its vision, strong by the affiliation of its people, and fortified by their identity.
