AN EXAMINATION OF THE INTEGRATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPLES IN GOVERNMENTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Abstract

This study aims to explore sustainable project management in Bahrain and to identify current gaps in the field. The overall objective of project management in Bahrain is the striking of an appropriate and practical balance between social, environmental, and economic interests in order to achieve long-term sustainability. The research gap identified in this study is the lack of understanding of how to effectively integrate sustainability into project management in Bahrain. The research question that guides this study is: how can sustainable practices be effectively integrated into project management in Bahrain? The study begins with a comprehensive literature review, which includes a background on project management, the concept of sustainability generally, and the concept of sustainability as applied to project management itself. The review also examines the factors that impact sustainable development practices, such as balancing social, environmental, and economic interests, short- and long-term orientation, local and global orientation, value, and ethics, as well as transparency and accountability. It also discusses the differences between sustainable development and project management, as well as the frameworks used to integrate project management and sustainability. The literature review also includes a discussion of the main variables from identified frameworks, and Bahrain cultural dimensions. The thesis will draw on Hofstede’s Theory of Culture to understand the influence of cultural factors on working culture in project management in Bahrain. A conceptual framework is also developed to guide the research.

The study employs a mixed methods approach, including semi-structured interviews and content analysis, to collect data from seven organizations in Bahrain. The organizations include the International Civil Aviation Organization building, Air control center building project, Al Nawras, Bahrain International Airport, Bahrain Rail Project, Water Garden City, and Bahrain Metro. The data collected is analyzed using content analysis, with the aim of identifying emerging themes and patterns related to sustainable project management in Bahrain. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper comprehension of the efficient integration of sustainable practices into project management in Bahrain. Specifically, the study underscores the significance of harmonizing social, environmental, and economic concerns to attain enduring sustainability. It also pinpoints the obstacles and hindrances to sustainable project management in Bahrain, encompassing a limited understanding and awareness of its objectives and conceptual framework, a fragile regulatory environment, and cultural influences. This study provides useful insights for organizations and practitioners in Bahrain, as well as for other countries in the region, in terms of how to effectively integrate sustainable practices into project management. The findings can be used to develop policies, guidelines, and strategies for sustainable project management, and to educate and train project managers in Bahrain on the importance and benefits of sustainable practices. The study also contributes to the existing literature on the broader elements of sustainable project management and how national, regional and cultural differences can impact what are regarded as accepted frameworks and practices. It also provides an approach as to how such differences can be effectively integrated into current practice where appropriate and advantageous.