The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat) recently hosted a thought-provoking dialogue titled “The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Experience in the UN Security Council: From Recent Past to Near Future.” This initiative forms part of Bahrain’s intellectual preparation for its upcoming second term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (2026–2027). The dialogue reflects a strategic approach that integrates political readiness with knowledge-based preparation, reinforcing a vision-driven and substantive diplomatic model.

Twenty-five years after its first term (1998–1999), Bahrain is poised to re-engage with the Security Council, backed by strengthened institutional capabilities and an expanded network of international partnerships. The Kingdom has secured the support of 186 countries—a clear testament to the international community’s confidence in Bahrain’s commitment to international law and its strategic preference for dialogue in addressing global challenges.

This phase marks a significant expansion of Bahrain’s regional and international roles. The Kingdom has increasingly hosted multilateral events, including the 3rd Asian Youth Games held this October, which showcased exemplary organizational governance and national readiness. Bahrain also topped Arab countries in the “Law and Order” index of the 2025 Gallup Global Safety Report, underscoring its effectiveness in maintaining stability and fostering an environment conducive to international engagement.

Bahrain’s upcoming membership coincides with a period of heightened focus within the Security Council on global issues—most notably, African affairs, which comprise nearly 70% of the Council’s agenda. The Palestinian cause remains central, serving as a continuous test of the credibility of the international system. Within this context, Bahrain is expected to spotlight strategic priorities aligned with its national vision, including:

• Maritime security
• Counterterrorism and combating extremism
• Food, water, and environmental security
• Humanitarian action
• Empowerment of women and youth
• Disarmament efforts and prevention of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

This renewed membership offers Bahrain a platform to present a balanced model that harmonizes values and interests, emphasizing consensus-building and expanding avenues for peaceful solutions. Such an approach will enhance the effectiveness of the Security Council and affirm Bahrain’s role as a bridge between regional dynamics and global governance structures.