WOMEN RESEARCH CENTRE
Word of the Director
Dr. Christelle Comair, Head of the WRC
Royal University for Women’s Pioneering Women’s Research Centre: A Catalyst for Research on Women’s Studies in the Region
Royal University for Women (RUW) is proud to share the achievements of its Women’s Research Centre as it concludes a successful inaugural year.
The establishment of this Centre represents a strategic step towards advancing scientific research focused on women’s studies and providing evidence-based policy recommendations to support the empowerment of women in Bahrain and across the Arab region. Appointed as Head of the Women’s Research Centre last November 2023 to launch this pioneering initiative, Dr. Christelle Comair shares with us the Centre’s vision, recent milestones, and the strategic direction that has positioned it as a key research actor in women’s studies nationally, regionally, and internationally.
Expanding the Research Culture
The establishment of the Women’s Research Centre marked a new chapter in RUW’s journey towards academic and research excellence. Throughout this first year, and under the leadership of Professor Riyad Hamzah, the Centre has focused on building a strong foundation, launching its research streams, and establishing partnerships with key local, regional, and international stakeholders. By promoting a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach, the Centre has become a dynamic environment where research excellence, capacity building, and policy development intersect.
The Centre’s strategic approach includes working across RUW’s departments and acting as a bridge between academia and industry, engaging external stakeholders to enrich the university’s research ecosystem. All projects and events initiated by the Centre are developed in close collaboration with relevant departments, ensuring alignment with RUW’s academic objectives and the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national development goals. The Centre also plays a pivotal role in supporting and guiding researchers and emerging talents across the university to elevate their research output and professional profiles.
A Hub for High-Impact Research and Strategic Partnerships
In its inaugural year, the Centre has launched several high-profile, nationally relevant research projects that align with national priorities. These include leading the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) national study in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, hosting a series of roundtables around SDG 5, co-organizing a regional conference on Entrepreneurship, conducting a national study on women in diplomacy in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and pursuing other important research initiatives such as women in sports, sustainability, and women’s health. These projects not only aligns with the Kingdom’s national research agenda but also position RUW as a leading research institution in Bahrain. The outcomes include peer-reviewed publications, presentations at international conferences, and policy-focused white papers, further solidifying RUW’s academic impact.
A Catalyst for Events and Knowledge Sharing
The Women’s Research Centre has also been instrumental in designing and organizing key events and research initiatives. These include a series of SDG research forums, an upcoming sustainability symposium and hackathon in partnership with UN entities, the launch of the Bahrain GEM National Report in partnership with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and the Women in Society conference planned for 2025. These events have attracted significant attention and interest from national and international stakeholders, reinforcing the Centre’s role as a catalyst for research and education on women’s issues.
By focusing on research excellence, capacity building, and strategic partnerships, the Women’s Research Centre at RUW has positioned itself as a leading and dynamic research entity for women’s advancement. We are committed to continuing this journey, building upon the progress made in our inaugural year, and contributing to meaningful change for women through research and knowledge sharing.
About Us
The Women’s Research Centre (WRC) at the Royal University for Women (RUW) was established in November 2023 to promote interdisciplinary research and address critical issues related to women's advancement in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Gulf region. The Center supports national priorities, such as the Bahrain National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women and contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Our mission is to advance women's empowerment through impactful research, strategic collaborations, and innovative initiatives. Additionally, we aim to highlight the Kingdom of Bahrain's efforts and journey to include women as equal and active contributors to the nation’s development. With significant achievements, such as the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor study and the Women in Diplomacy project, the WRC continues to position itself as a key actor in women-focused research and advocacy.
Our vision is to serve as a collaborative platform connecting academia, public policy, and civil society to advance women's leadership and empowerment. Together, we strive to foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and leadership, setting a benchmark for academic excellence in the region.
Overview
The WRC was established to drive impactful research and initiatives that address critical women's issues in Bahrain and the Gulf. The Center aligns with national priorities, such as the Kingdom of Bahrain National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women, and works towards achieving the UN SDGs. As part of its mandate, the WRC celebrates milestones in women’s achievements, including the Supreme Council for Women (SCW)'s annual Bahraini Women's Day.
This year, Bahraini Women’s Day on December 1, 2024, commemorated the theme "Women: Worthy Partner in Nation Building." This celebration coincides with Bahrain’s Silver Jubilee of His Majesty's accession and echoes the National Strategy for the Advancement of Bahraini Women, endorsed by His Majesty in 2005. The WRC is proud to support and highlight these national and regional efforts, contributing to the advancement of women across all sectors.