New law shields child abuse victims from re-traumatising interviews
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
In Bahrain, child victims of sexual abuse are now protected from repeated questioning, thanks to a single-interview approach introduced under the 2022 Law on Restorative Justice for Children. Justice Minister Nawaf Al Maawda announced that this measure, alongside increased public awareness and professional training, has led to a decrease in cases referred to child justice courts and the Judicial Committee for Childhood.
“This approach spares children the pain of revisiting traumatic experiences multiple times,” said Minister Al Maawda.
The 2022 law focuses on safeguarding children while offering rehabilitation to young offenders. The Justice Minister shared its progress in response to a query from Shura Council member Hala Ramzi.
A Judicial Committee for Childhood has been established to handle cases involving at-risk children or abuse victims. Social and psychological experts provide support for recovery, and many children have shown behavioural improvements.
Specialised courts and facilities, backed by new regulations, ensure effective implementation. The Justice Ministry has conducted 35 training sessions for police, social workers, and other professionals. Public awareness efforts, including workshops and campaigns, further support the initiative.
In 2024, the Ministry of Social Development launched the Himaya campaign to protect children from online exploitation. Early successes include fewer court referrals, and alternative measures have helped reduce reoffending. Bahrain’s law has also gained international recognition for aligning with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
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