The National Assembly is the collective name for Bahrain's two-chamber legislature as established in the 2002 Constitution. It brings together an elected chamber and an appointed chamber to consider legislation, approve the annual budget, and perform representative and oversight roles within the kingdom's political system. The Assembly operates under constitutional rules that balance parliamentary procedures with the powers of the monarchy.

Composition

The National Assembly consists of 80 members, divided equally between two bodies:

  • Council of Representatives — the lower chamber, made up of 40 members elected by Bahraini citizens. The chamber is commonly referred to as the lower house and plays a direct representative role in proposing and debating laws. Lower house
  • Consultative Council — the upper chamber, composed of 40 members appointed by the King. The Consultative Council is intended to provide specialist expertise and review. Upper house

Powers and procedures

Both chambers sit separately to discuss and initially approve measures, but they together form the National Assembly for purposes of lawmaking. The Assembly debates bills, approves the state budget, and can question ministers. Final enactment of legislation requires the constitutional procedures that include submission to the head of state for assent. Committee work and plenary sessions are used to examine proposals in detail.

Leadership and joint sessions

When the National Assembly meets in a combined session, the body is presided over by the Speaker of the Consultative Council. If that speaker is unable to chair a joint sitting, the Speaker of the Council of Representatives assumes the role. Each chamber also elects its own presiding officers and organizes internal committees to manage legislative business.

History and context

The current bicameral structure was set out in the 2002 Constitution as part of broader political reforms in Bahrain. It replaced earlier institutional arrangements and re-established a formal parliamentary framework combining elected representation with royal appointments. This model reflects an attempt to blend popular participation with continuity and experience provided by appointed members.

Role and debates

The presence of an appointed upper chamber has been a notable feature of Bahrain's system. Supporters argue it brings technical knowledge and stability; critics contend it can temper the influence of directly elected representatives. Discussions about the balance between the two chambers and the scope of parliamentary powers continue to form part of Bahrain's political discourse. For more information about the country's institutions and legislative practice see general references on Bahrain and its parliament: Bahrain, parliament.