Bahrain ‘a human rights pioneer’

TDT | Manama

The role of the legislative branch in protecting and promoting human rights and preparing the National Human Rights Plan was highlighted in a forum organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The virtual session, held under the patronage of Representatives Council Speaker Fawzia bint Abdulla Zainal and Foreign Affairs Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, saw the participation of Shura Council chairman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, members of parliament, British Ambassador Roderick Drummond, and UN Development Programme resident representative Stefano Pettinato.

In her remarks, the Speaker said that Bahrain has achieved numerous successes at the legislative and institutional levels and in taking measures that have contributed to the consolidation of human rights as a culture, a principle and a practical commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and HM the King’s comprehensive development plan that led to the National Action Charter and to the 2002 Constitution and its amendments.

Promoting human rights principles is given special attention by the Representatives Council due to its close association with democratic practices and with the commitment to reinforcing progress in reforms, modernisation, and prosperity in the Kingdom, the Speaker added.

Al Saleh said that HM the King’s wide reform approach guaranteed rights and freedoms for all and contributed to multiple human rights achievements that have made Bahrain a pioneer in the field. Al Zayani highlighted the Kingdom’s pride in its numerous achievements in protecting human rights, the application of the principles of the National Action Charter, the Kingdom’s constitution and laws, and its commitment to the goals of the UN.

The Foreign Minister added that Bahrain has had remarkable achievements in human rights, thanks to its advanced legislative system, the establishment of national human rights bodies, the establishment of the Ombudsman’s Office, the development of rehabilitation and reform centers, the adoption of alternative penalties, the strengthening of efforts to combat human trafficking, and its recent election to the UN Human Rights Council.

Assistant Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Faisal bin Jabur Al Doseri stressed the importance of preparing, through shared action, a clear and comprehensive national plan for Bahrain that will be a new tool for the promotion and protection of human rights. The plan focuses on civil and political privileges, economic, social and cultural rights, and the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities and the elderly.

The forum was the first in a series concerned with preparing the national plan for human rights that the Foreign Ministry has lined up from August to November. The ministry is embarking on wide consultations with national authorities in the Kingdom as well as with international and regional institutions to exchange ideas and learn more about the most important experiences in preparing national plans and strategies.