As we have recently embarked on a new year, Bahrain and the world continues to face challenges arising from the global pandemic and other issues. Below is a look at what some Bahrainis are expecting in 2022.
“I think we have done great as a country in 2021. We have faced the pandemic; all the preventive measures were excellent and the plans by the government to revive the economy are positive. Hope that we continue on this right path and never go slow or lack behind”. Maryam 32
“The recent rise in COVID cases presents a challenge to the government, businesses and the Bahraini society as a whole. All I hope for, is for Bahrain to be able to overcome the economic challenges caused by the pandemic”. Faisal 27
“Bahrain is truly transforming into a better version of itself. Even with the increase in taxes and harsh conditions resulted by the pandemic, we have survived, and we will continue to survive in 2022”. Khalid 29
“Hoping to see fruitful results of the economic recovery plan initiated by the government. There will hopefully be more jobs and Bahrain could lower its unemployment rate”. Ahmed 27
“More housing units have recently been distributed by the government. I wish the government continues to take positive steps to enhance the lives of Bahrainis whether by distributing housing units or opening the market and creating job opportunities”. Abdullah 38
“The one thing Bahrain needs to work on is a revamp of the educational system. As we know education is free, however the standard of education seems to be deteriorating in the past decade”. Manal 30
“I hope that we do not witness another increase in the value added tax this year. Many of us are concerned about these increases and hope that the government does not pressure us”. Salman 32
“I hope the government continues providing support to entrepreneurs and small businesses. As young people we aim at being independent by starting our own businesses and this kind of support has helped us on so many levels”. Sarah 27
“We need to put Bahrain on the international map and diversify the tourism sector. The country has benefited so much from hosting events such as the F1, but we still need to find other ways of attracting tourism and international investment. We cannot simply rely on one international event to draw attention to our country”. Hamad 35
“We will be witnessing another round of parliamentary and municipal elections by the end of this year. I wish to see qualified candidates running for the elections and a parliament that truly represents us and addresses our concerns”. Aisha 36
“Awareness needs to be built on the necessity of voting and voting for the right person, prior to the elections. We do not want to end up with an inexperienced parliament that can hardly get anything done. Hoping to see a more active role by NGOs in this regard”. Fatima 34