Osama bin Saleh Al-Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the National Committee for Childhood, affirmed that interest in childhood represents a fundamental pillar in the comprehensive development process pursued by the Kingdom of Bahrain under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him, and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, indicating continued investment in childhood development to build a more prosperous future based on the Kingdom’s long track record. This came on the occasion of International Children’s Day, which falls on the twentieth of November every year, and this year comes with the slogan “My Day, My Rights.” The Minister explained that the continued development of national policies, laws and programs supporting children, the most prominent of which is the National Strategy for Childhood (2023-2027), whose implementation is supervised by the National Committee for Childhood in partnership with government and private agencies and institutions. Civil society is among the most important priorities that are being worked on, ensuring the integration of roles and achieving national goals related to child protection and developing their capabilities. He pointed out that one of the most prominent national initiatives is the Child Protection Center, which is the central authority responsible for child protection in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and was established in accordance with the Children’s Restorative Justice Law regarding receiving reports related to children at risk or abuse. He indicated that the Center works to evaluate and treat cases within an integrated system that takes into account the best interest of the child, and also operates a child help and support line. (998) around the clock to provide guidance, support and urgent interventions. He added that the center contributes to raising community awareness of childhood protection issues and promoting the culture of prevention, and includes branch offices for a number of ministries, which enhances integration between official agencies and ensures a unified and effective response to cases that require intervention. He stressed that the Ministry of Social Development works in cooperation with its partners from official, civil and private agencies to enhance community awareness of the rights of children and maintain their safety in the family, society and cyberspace. The Minister of Development also pointed out Social Affairs Chairman of the National Committee for Childhood pointed out that the legislative and service system in the Kingdom of Bahrain, including the restorative justice law for children, child and family protection units, and social care centers, represents an integrated national model for protecting children and ensuring their bright future in a safe and secure environment.
