Feb 15, 2026
The Kingdom of Bahrain achieved a new human rights and diplomatic milestone with the election of Ghada Hameed Habib, Secretary-General of the Ombuds Office, as Regional Director for Asia on the Board of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI). She is the first woman from the region to hold this high-level international position.
This election represents global recognition of Bahrain’s standing in the international oversight community, as the IOI comprises over 200 independent ombudsman institutions from across the world.
This achievement also strengthens Bahrain’s influence within the IOI system, where the institute’s six regional offices serve strategic roles as decentralised hubs to promote the work of ombudsman offices, facilitate the exchange of technical expertise among members, draft regional regulations, and develop institutional capacity. Bahrain’s leadership in the Asia region will thus play an important role in shaping oversight policies and aligning them with international standards of integrity and transparency.
The Ombudswoman expressed pride in Bahrain’s election to this important international post, highlighting that the achievement reflects the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in strengthening human rights protection mechanisms. She noted that Bahrain’s experience in independent oversight has become an inspiring model respected by the international community and global human rights institutions.
She further noted that her new role as Regional Director for Asia will focus on enhancing regional cooperation, with the IOI’s regional offices serving as the foundation for improving oversight performance through specialised training, research, and the exchange of best practices among member countries.
The Ombudswoman emphasised that she will work to strengthen Bahrain’s and Asia’s presence in decision-making within the IOI and to develop modern oversight mechanisms that enhance the efficiency of grievance offices across the continent, serving public expectations and institutional integrity.
She also expressed apprectiation to the Ministry of Interior, led by General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, for their strong support enabling the Ombuds Office to perform its mission independently and impartially, and to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its tireless diplomatic efforts in highlighting Bahrain’s achievements internationally. She also highlighted local partners who contributed to the success of the national oversight efforts and commended the dedication and professionalism of the members and staff of the Ombuds Office.
