On January 8, 2018, the Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) organized the inaugural “Derasat Forum” entitled, “Patron of Anarchy and Crisis in the Middle East”. Sessions discussed threats to the Kingdom of Bahrain over the years, regional destabilization and future scenarios.

The Forum comprised three sessions: Session 1: Threats to the Kingdom of Bahrain: past and present Session 2: Examples of destabilization attempts and undermining of national institutions in Arab countries Session 3: Gulf security and future scenarios of hostile policies.

Dr. Sh. Abdulla Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, opened the Forum noting attempts of divisive policies to destabilize the region and urged countries engaged in counter-terrorism efforts to take the initiative and put an end to these policies. The forum was attended by a number of well-known media and subject specialists from the GCC and MENA region including. The final communique recommended the following:

First, to immediately halt all actions that undermine Arab national security and international peace.

Second, to cease all hostilities against the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Third, a call upon the international community to take serious actions to confront all aggressive practices towards the region.

Fourth, to comply with the six principles emanating from the 13 demands, as stipulated in the 2014 Riyadh Agreement, and should initiate a dialogue leading to specifics measure and durable solutions.