CIRS Publication Discusses Political Reforms in Bahrain

In a recent study published by the Center for International and Regional Studies at Georgetown’s Qatar campus, Gulf expert Steven Wright discusses political changes implemented in Bahrain since 1999.

“The study shows that internal power-politics in the ruling family largely explain the manner in which the recent reforms were implemented,” says Wright, an expert on Gulf politics and professor at Qatar University. In addition, the study examines key social and political developments in Bahrain and illustrates some of the important challenges that remain within the Kingdom. 

Since Bahrain’s King, Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, assumed power in 1999, Bahrain has witnessed reforms in the political, social and economic spheres. Hamad has given voice to groups that have been traditionally excluded, such as opposition groups and disenfranchised sectarian groups. According to Wright, such willingness for dialogue with the civil society has earned Hamad a great deal of popular support. In addition, he introduced parliamentary and legislative restructuring in support of political reform. 

The National Action Charter, one of Hamad’s most important reforms, was drafted to outline the future structure and principles of government. The Charter led to the transformation of the country into a constitutional monarchy. It received popular support in a referendum held in 2001 and was also endorsed by leading Shi’a clerics in an attempt to build bridges with the government. Additionally, municipal council elections were reconstituted after being suspended for 45 years. In May 2002, Bahrain held its first municipal council elections based on universal suffrage. A parliamentary election was held in October that same year, with a voter turnout of 54% for the first round and 43% for the second. A second round of parliamentary elections was held on November 2006. 

Wright argues that the reforms were driven by a recognition that far reaching political and economic changes were needed in order to combat the risk of a return to the widespread riots that plagued Bahrain in the late 1990s. The riots took place when the mainly Shiite opposition protested the prevalence of discriminatory practices directed against the Shiite majority (roughly 70%) by the dominant Sunni ruling family. 

Despite the reforms, Bahrain still faces socio-economic challenges, which may threaten the new political order. With rising unemployment and inflation, Bahrain faces social and economic challenges. These challenges could lead Bahrain into a vicious cycle where political instability would deter foreign investment, hinder economic growth and lead to further instability. 

According to Wright, the government continues to incorporate changes to ensure growth and stability. The Economic Board of Bahrain was recently established to reform the labor market through legislation, education, and incentives for businesses locating to Bahrain. The Board succeeded in attracting investments and creating more jobs. However, the progress made is still challenged by continued high levels of unemployment. 

The author sees neighboring Qatar as part of a long-term solution. “The Qatar-Bahrain Friendship bridge is the lifeline Bahrain needs to offset its rising unemployment problem,” Wright argues. “It holds the potential for unemployed Bahraini nationals to be absorbed into the Qatari labor market.”