Today, the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) organised a discussion session titled “Human Rights in the Criminal Justice System of the Kingdom of Bahrain: Features, Lessons Learned, and Future Outlook” in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The session coincides with the global observance of Human Rights Day and the 40th anniversary of the United Nations’ adoption of the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The event was attended by a distinguished group of officials and members from national institutions, mechanisms, and bodies concerned with protecting human rights within the criminal justice system, law enforcement authorities, and civil society organisations.
The organisation of this session reflects SIU’s contribution to national efforts to strengthen the rule of law, uphold justice, and protect human dignity. It aligns with the goals and initiatives of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Human Rights Plan (2022-2026). The session aimed to highlight achievements in the field of human rights protection within Bahrain’s criminal justice system, share experiences, enhance cooperation and coordination among relevant entities, and propose ideas and visions for future action, while ensuring ongoing training, education, and awareness-raising efforts.
The session was attended by judges, members of the Public Prosecution, and representatives from the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Labour. Also in attendance were representatives from the Supreme Council for Women, the National Institution for Human Rights, the Ombudsman’s Office, the Legislation and Legal Opinion Commission, the Royal Police Academy, the Inspector General’s Office at the National Intelligence Agency, Public Hospitals, the Institute for Judicial and Legal Studies, and the National Committee for Human Rights.
The discussions addressed Bahrain’s efforts to protect human rights within the criminal justice system in line with international standards, the development of national legislation, and the successful practices and lessons learned from national mechanisms and institutions in this area. Participants also discussed challenges and ways to enhance communication and develop strategies to ensure respect for individual rights and the promotion of justice.
