(By Ezza Ibrahim)
Ms. Ibrahim is a final-year law student at the International Islamic University, and is currently working as an intern in the legal department of OICOA Member Institute, Federal Tax Ombudsman of Pakistan.
As the 10th board meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Ombudsman Association (OICOA) nears, the spotlight shines on a trailblazing figure in the realm of human rights and law enforcement, Her Excellency Ghada Hameed Habib. Hailing from Bahrain, Her Excellency’s presence at this prestigious event is not just a formal participation but a testament to her groundbreaking journey. As the first woman to assume the role of Ombudswoman in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Gulf Cooperation Council region, she brings an aura of historic significance and a wealth of experience to the meeting in Pakistan.
Her journey to the apex of the Independent Ombudsman Office for the Ministry of Interior in Bahrain is nothing short of remarkable. Armed with an academic foundation from AMA International University and Ain Shams University in Cairo, her career is a blend of intellectual rigor and practical expertise. Her trajectory from academic excellence to professional distinction mirrors her dedication to public service and human rights advocacy.
Her role as Deputy Ombudswoman and later as the Chief of the Prisoner and Detainee Rights Commission from 2019 to date underlines her deep-seated commitment to the protection of human rights within the criminal justice system. This period in her career highlights her ability to navigate the complexities of the Ombudsman’s role, ensuring that the rights of those in detention are safeguarded and upheld.
In her capacity as the Director of International Cooperation and Development Directorate from 2013 to 2019, Her Excellency further expanded her horizons. Her involvement in international conferences and training sessions enriched her understanding of leadership, human rights principles, and prison inspection standards. This role not only emphasized her commitment to global collaboration but also her eagerness to imbibe diverse perspectives and practices.
Beyond administrative roles, Her Excellency’s contributions to human rights are both profound and impactful. Her significant efforts in developing principles and standards for the Independent Ombudsman Office, especially regarding visits to prisons and places of detention, are commendable. These standards, aligning with United Nations rules and international treaties, reflect her dedication to aligning local practices with global benchmarks.
Her Excellency’s engagement with foreign entities, including embassies, diplomatic missions, and international human rights organizations, showcases her commitment to fostering global partnerships and maintaining transparency. Her interactions with foreign journalists and media professionals further underscore her dedication to openness and accountability in her role.
As a member of the National Human Rights Committee, Her Excellency plays a crucial role in coordinating with government bodies on human rights issues. This position underscores her influence in developing effective mechanisms for addressing and responding to human rights concerns, further cementing her status as a champion of human rights.
As Her Excellency Mrs. Ghada Hameed Habib prepares to attend the 10th board meeting of the OICOA, her inspiring journey serves as a beacon for others in the field. Breaking barriers and setting new standards, her work in shaping the practices of the Ombudsman Office in Bahrain has been pivotal. Her character, unwavering dedication to human rights, and commitment to international cooperation exemplify the essence of a true leader in the field of Ombudsman services. Her story is not just one of personal achievement but a narrative of relentless pursuit of justice and equality.
