Bahrain Reaffirms Strong Commitment to Anti-Corruption Efforts on International Day

Bahrain Observes International Anti-Corruption Day

The Kingdom of Bahrain today, December 9, 2025, joined the global community in observing International Anti-Corruption Day, reaffirming its steadfast commitment to strengthening integrity, enhancing transparency, and combating corruption in all its forms. High-ranking officials, including the Minister of Interior and members of the Shura Council, underscored Bahrain's proactive measures and legislative advancements in this critical area. The observance aligns with the 2025 theme, 'Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow's Integrity,' emphasizing the vital role of young people in fostering a culture of integrity.

Minister of Interior Highlights Robust Framework

His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Minister of Interior, issued a statement emphasizing Bahrain's firm rules and practical measures in combating corruption, which have significantly strengthened its regional and international standing. He noted that the Kingdom's approach is guided by the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the continuous follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The Minister highlighted Bahrain's comprehensive legislative and institutional framework, which promotes community partnership, raises awareness, and encourages self-regulation. He also commended the efforts of the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption, Economic and Electronic Security, which has processed 193 reports since the beginning of the year, all handled according to strict legal procedures ensuring confidentiality and fairness.

Shura Council Reinforces Legislative Support

The Shura Council, through its legislative committees, also marked the occasion by stressing Bahrain's ongoing efforts to combat corruption. The Financial and Economic Affairs Committee of the Shura Council, chaired by Khalid Hussain Al Musallam, praised the government's integrated framework of legislation and oversight mechanisms. Furthermore, the Shura Council recently approved the Makkah Convention on anti-corruption cooperation among member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This ratification demonstrates Bahrain's commitment to fighting corruption and aligning its national legal framework with international standards and Vision 2030 goals, promoting technical assistance, training, and expertise sharing among OIC states.

National Initiatives and International Cooperation

Bahrain's commitment extends to various national initiatives and robust international cooperation. The Kingdom has established several mechanisms to foster integrity, including the national anti-corruption hotline, 'Nazaha 992,' launched on International Anti-Corruption Day in 2009, which serves as a bridge between civil society and the Ministry of Interior. Additionally, Bahrain has implemented a compulsory financial disclosure requirement for public officials, a crucial step in unveiling potential conflicts of interest and promoting transparency. Internationally, Bahrain is a party to both the Arab Convention against Corruption and the United Nations Convention against Corruption, actively engaging in global efforts through cooperation and the exchange of expertise to combat this transnational crime.

Continued Progress Towards Good Governance

Officials reiterated that Bahrain's sustained efforts in combating corruption have led to continued progress, reflected in improved global rankings and enhanced attractiveness of the national investment environment, in line with good governance standards. The collective responsibility of the state, society, and individuals in protecting public funds and supporting sustainable development remains a cornerstone of Bahrain's national strategy.