Bahrain

The government has tightened restrictions on political societies, and some are likely to be dissolved as a result.

Strong oil prices continue to fuel growth, while the rapid development of financial and tourism services is helping Bahrain take advantage of the oil booms being experienced by its... 2005-07-13

Violence broke out at an anti-unemployment demonstration in the capital Manama in June. Popular protests are becoming increasingly frequent, and are usually peaceful. However, the... 2005-07-04

The Economic Development Board is leading a drive to reform the labour market, but political risks are high.

We continue to expect robust growth of 6.8% in 2005 and 5.6% in 2006. The key driver will be this year's high oil prices, which will fuel Gulf demand for Bahrain's banking and tourism... 2005-06-17

Popular protests - rare events a year ago - are becoming increasingly frequent as opposition groups demand more representation in government. Bahrain is one of the more liberal and... 2005-06-10

Pressure for constitutional reform is building, but the government will remain reluctant to yield to opposition demands that the elected parliament should have more power. At present,... 2005-06-10

In late April, tens of thousands marched in support of constitutional reform, in an unusually large demonstration for the small island state. The march was organised by two of the... 2005-04-11

We have upped our oil price forecasts to US$41/b for 2005 and US$30/b for 2006, with risks to the 2006 figure still weighted to the upside. As a result, our forecasts for exports,... 2005-04-11

In late April, tens of thousands marched in support of constitutional reform, in an unusually large demonstration for the small island state. The march was organised by two of the... 2005-04-08