Bahrain Parliamentary delegation explores legislative roles in digital and technological advancements
Riyadh, Dec. 19 (BNA): Bahrain’s parliamentary delegation concluded its participation in the 19th Internet Governance Forum (IGF 2024) Parliamentary Track, held in Saudi Arabia, from December 16-18.
The sessions discussed the role of parliamentarians and legislative bodies in shaping digital policies and laws, enhancing parliamentary contributions to address the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, and building parliamentary capacity to take action on priority issues related to technology and AI.
The delegation was led by Jamal Mohammed Fakhro, First Deputy Chairman of the Shura Council; and included Munir Ibrahim Suroor, Member of the Council of Representatives; Abeer Al Obaidly, Director of Information and Communications Technology at the Shura Council’s Secretariat; Yaqoob Al Yasi, Head of Operations Technical Support in the Council of Representatives; and Mubarak Janahi, Information Security Officer at the Shura Council.
The first session focused on innovation as a critical component of societal development and a core influence of modern existence. The discussion highlighted how innovation addresses social needs and resolves collective challenges, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
The second session reviewed the benefits of digital transformation, including its role in growth, expanding access to global markets, and enhancing education. It also addressed the rapid advancement of digital technologies, their integration into societies, and the risks of inequalities and violating rights. The session emphasised the need to ensure that opportunities developed from digital transformation, beginning with technological innovation, are accessible to all.
Parliamentarians engaged with representatives of private sector companies developing large-scale AI systems, discussing policy practices that promote inclusive innovation and digital transformation. They also examined the safety of AI models and their societal impact.
The third session reviewed the risks faced by users of online technologies and the responsibilities of parliamentarians in crafting effective legislation to enhance online safety. Discussions also focused on balancing innovation and risks in the digital space through cross-sector collaboration.
The fourth session was organised by a global network of young digital leaders. It featured workshops across regions on empowering young leaders to ensure trustworthy AI and promoting dialogue on priorities and perspectives for a more inclusive digital future.
The fifth session discussed the resources parliamentarians and legislative bodies need to play a full role in shaping digital policies.
It also explored ways to build parliamentary capacity to address priority issues, supporting parliamentarians in navigating the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation.
