Source: Ministry of Youth Affairs
Decree-Law No. (21) of 1989 Regarding the Law of Associations, Clubs, and Private Youth & Sports Organizations
Decree-Law No. (21) of 1989 in Bahrain regulates social, cultural, youth, and sports organizations, defining their establishment, functions, and governance, applying to clubs, private bodies, and institutions not primarily for financial gain, with oversight by the Ministry of Labour & Social Affairs for general entities and the General Organisation for Youth & Sports for youth/sports bodies. This key legislation provides the framework for non-profit organizations in these sectors, allowing for amendments and additions to cover new areas like youth empowerment centers and Paralympic committees.
Key Aspects of the Decree:
- Regulatory Scope: Governs social and cultural associations, sports clubs, and private organizations operating in the youth sector.
- Legal Standing: Applies to organizations not primarily driven by financial gain, established by individuals or legal entities for social, educational, or charitable purposes.
- Supervision: Oversight is shared between the Ministry of Social Development (for general associations) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs (for sports and youth bodies).
- Financial Integrity: Funds collected by these entities are legally treated as "Public Funds" regarding the application of the Penal Code to ensure accountability.
Resolution No. (1) of 1990 Regarding the Model Bylaws for the Statute of Clubs
The Model Bylaws serve as the primary regulatory document for sports and social clubs in Bahrain, established under the authority of Decree-Law No. (21) of 1989. These bylaws grant clubs a "legal personality" upon their registration in the Official Gazette and define their core mission as the integrated physical, spiritual, and mental development of youth. The document provides a standardized governance framework that ensures all clubs operate with transparency, financial accountability, and alignment with national community development goals.
Key Aspects of the Bylaws:
Membership Categories: Establishes four types of membership: Active (requires age 18+ and full civil rights), Affiliate (spouses/children), Associate (youth under 18), and Honorary.
General Assembly Authority: Defines the General Assembly as the supreme authority of the club, responsible for approving budgets, electing board members, and dismissing boards if financial confidence is lost.
Electronic Governance (2020 Update): Following Decision No. 150 of 2020, clubs are now authorized to hold General Assembly meetings and conduct voting through approved electronic means.
Financial Discipline (2021 Update): Under Decision No. 16 of 2021, a strict 90-day grace period is implemented for membership fee payments, after which membership rights are frozen until the debt is settled.
GSA Oversight: Ensures that all major decisions, including club mergers or dissolutions, require the final approval of the General Sports Authority