An analysis of Bahrain's reform process, 1999-2005: Elite driven reform, developmental challenges, and strategic opportunities

Abstract

This study offers the first detailed analysis on the social, economic, and political elite driven reforms undertaken in the Kingdom of Bahrain by King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa in the significant timeframe of 1999-2005. This era has witnessed the most fundamental changes in the country since the historic situation of 1973-75. Therefore, in accordance with the thesis' objectives, an original contribution is offered firstly through the detailed and micro level examination and analysis of the character of the reforms. Such analysis is largely absent from any scholarship on this topic. Secondly, it provides a comprehensive identification of the obstacles and challenges facing the implementation of future reforms and changes. The thesis focuses on a variety of differential factors within broad social, economic, political, and human rights spectrums. It provides an identification of policy relevant initiatives which would likely counter the obstacles to future reform. Here it is suffice to say that current policy relevant scholarship and indeed government practice may indicate that strategic vision exists but fails to appreciate that on a broad level there is an acute lack of detailed policy planning. This study shows how the lack of bureaucratic project management and analysis, at a bureaucratic agency level, on new initiatives is the overarching factor, which inhibits the successful advancement of reform for the future. Furthermore, attention is given to particular localised initiatives that also need to be undertaken. Finally, and most importantly, this thesis offers a new interpretation through a pragmatic analysis of this era of reform. Indeed, it offers a comprehensive understanding and meaning to the reforms and changes in Bahrain for scholarship in this field. Moreover, it builds on the existing body of scholarship on GCC states politics in particular and the Arab region in general, by showing the uniqueness of Bahrain and ultimately the need for a country specific solution to its existing barriers to future success.