Derasat Center Publishes Vol.13 of Its Specialized Semi-annual Journal
Date: 22nd August, 2021
The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies published volume 13 of its specialized semi-annual journal Derasat, which provides analyses of security, defence, and economic issues from a strategic perspective.
His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa, Chairman of the Derasat Center Board of Trustees and the journal’s Chief Editor, pointed out in his op-ed titled, “Opportunities and Challenges of the Modern Technological Revolution”, to the rapid global developments in technological advancements, as reflected on all aspects of life, and the continuous release of inventions by the highly competitive Big Tech.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla wrote, “The tech revolution has undoubtedly had a massive impact in aiding countries implement their development plans; and more importantly technology’s role during crises, as seen during the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and how GCC Countries – including the Kingdom of Bahrain – prioritized technological development, since decision-makers in these countries are aware of the need to adopt and acquire advanced global technologies. During this pandemic, Bahrain became a role model in utilizing technology in financial transactions, remote education. Such procedures demonstrated the efficiency of Bahrain’s technological infrastructure; one that His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa was keen on utilizing, supported by the efforts and initiatives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister; by motivating all countries to focus on technology by way of the “UNESCO King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa Prize for the Use of ICT in Education” ; based on His Majesty’s belief in the peaceful utilization of technology to fulfill the sustainable development goals and countries’ prosperity. Moreover, His Majesty issued a Royal Decree to establish the National Space Science Agency in 2014, aiming to place Bahrain on the global track in this area; besides founding the National Center for Cyber Security – and all these initiatives are indicators that reflect the Kingdom’s pursuit towards benefitting from this modern technological revolution, while taking the precautionary measures against the multiple rising technological risks.”
This 13th volume of the Derasat Journal includes various topics. In the Studies section, Dr. Ashraf Mohammed Keshk presents “The EU Experience and Post-Brexit Challenges: Lessons Learned for the Arabian Gulf”. This volume’s special file is titled, “Technology Utilization between Peace and Conflicts”, and includes three studies: “Deploying Technology in Modern Financial Transactions: General Principles and a Case Study from the Kingdom of Bahrain during the COVID-19 Pandemic”, by Dr. Omar Ahmed Al-Ubaydli; “The Impact of Technology on Modern Warfare: Drones as an Example”, by Professor Hasanain Tawfeeq Ibrahim; and “Technological Transfer Challenges for Arabian Gulf Countries”, by Dr. Nadia Saadeddin. All three studies combine to present a comprehensive view of various technological uses, and their regional opportunities and challenges.
The Regional Issues section includes a study by Dr. Khadija Arafa titled, “The East Mediterranean Conflict: A Study of the Implications of Gas Exploration on Complicating Foreign Policy Interactions.”
Two book reviews are also presented: “The Role of Soft Power in Diplomatic and International Relations”, reviewed by Dr. Wejdan Fahad; and “The US Role in NATO’s Survival After the Cold War”, reviewed by Ms. Amani Abdulghani.
The Derasat Journal is a peer-reviewed semi-annual magazine. Its Chief Editor is Dr. Sh. Abdulla bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa, and Managing Editor is Dr. Ashraf Mohammed Keshk.