The Shura Council has ranked first in the Arab world and 13th globally out of 115 parliaments across 86 countries in the Digital Maturity Index (DMI), as detailed in the World e-Parliament Report 2024 by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). This recognition reflects the council’s success in implementing digital initiatives, enhancing technology infrastructure, and modernising digital systems to align with global standards.
The Shura Council secured the top position in the Arab region and third globally among 15 parliaments evaluated for parliamentary systems. This ranking highlights the council’s advanced use of information technology and digital tools to support legislative processes and its adoption of the e-Parliament model.
The council also ranked first in the Arab world and 10th globally in public engagement, focusing on fostering transparency and encouraging active public participation in the legislative process. These achievements underscore Bahrain’s leadership in digital transformation and its commitment to modernising parliamentary functions.
Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the Shura Council, attributed this achievement to the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa regarding digital transformation.
He noted that the royal speeches during previous sessions have underscored the importance of digital and economic reform, guiding the council in developing initiatives that leverage Bahrain’s high digital capabilities.
The chairman emphasised the council’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance legislative work and support government initiatives and acknowledged the continuous support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in this field.
The 2024 global election parliament report by IPU serves as an international testament to the council’s commitment to digital tools that facilitate legislative work.
He noted that the council actively engages in parliamentary seminars and meetings regarding digital tools and AI to enhance experiences and highlight its successful implementation of modern technologies across various sectors.
The report provides a comprehensive evaluation of digital technology usage in parliaments worldwide, based on a survey that offers insights into how parliaments benefit from digital transformation. It also outlines ten key characteristics of a digital parliament and essential traits for strategic leadership in the digital realm.
BNA(R)
