The National Action Charter is a national document that arose from the people of Bahrain and was written by its citizens. It represents their aspirations, the needs of society and its path towards growth and prosperity.

Bahrain marks the anniversary of the vote on the Charter on 14 February each year. The document set out reform and modernisation across fields and gave shape to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s reform project. It prepared the way for the democratic process, setting out Bahrain’s historical, Arab and Islamic identity, foundations of state and society, and Gulf, Arab and international relationships.

In the referendum of 14 February 2001, the Charter won approval from 98.4% of voters. His Majesty described it as a new opening in Bahrain’s history, reflecting political and economic principles supporting a modern and open democratic approach.

Constitutional amendments subsequently put its provisions into effect. Reform required incorporating the Charter’s principles into law and revising or removing legislation that conflicted with them.

A defining feature of the Charter is its comprehensive character and the consensus it brought among Bahrain’s people, opening possibilities for a brighter future.

The royal initiative sought to unite different perspectives around a document that would inaugurate a new era and encourage Bahrainis to work together towards a better future.

Recognition is due to His Majesty the King for insisting that citizens should shape the Charter’s detail and content and decide collectively through a referendum expressing their free will.

Before the Charter, some voices had called for adopting external models. The royal vision instead sought a future chosen by Bahrainis themselves, rooted in their own experience rather than imposed from outside. The referendum brought the people together around that choice.

This approach introduced a phase that surprised some observers, prompted external parties to reassess their positions and attracted international attention.

Its benefits extended beyond constitutional, legislative, legal, economic, political and social institutions to individuals. It opened opportunities for young Bahrainis to work, participate and interact, encouraging perseverance in overcoming challenges and achieving excellence.

The Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s leadership of Team Bahrain helped activate the Charter’s principles through plans and programmes informed by different perspectives presented in specialised workshops.

After twenty-one years, this anniversary offered an opportunity to express gratitude to His Majesty the King for guiding an important period in Bahrain’s history and to the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for his support and stewardship. May the Charter remain a source of pride.