Call to remove Bahraini law allowing rapists to escape punishment by marrying victim

TDT | Manama                                                          

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Julia Cassano and Tofoof AlMansoor

Rape laws in Bahrain are currently the subject of renewed criticism, with critics claiming that they are unjust and impose an excessive burden on rape victims, particularly women.

Women are put in a tough situation by the current regulations since they are frequently asked to present proof that the act was not consensual, which may be challenging to do, especially when there are no witnesses or tangible proof. Another problem is that if a rapist marries his victim, he might avoid prosecution.

It has been extensively criticized as a violation of women's rights, as Bahraini law's Article No. 353 of the Penal Code from 1976 contains this clause.

Nawaf Al Maawada, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Endowments, stated that rapists will not escape punishment and that Bahrain is a traditional Muslim culture with respect offered to many religions during the weekly session of parliament. He also noted that governments need to study and update legislation as society and cultures evolve.

The clause effectively lets a rapist avoid prosecution by marrying his victim, legalizing the crime, and sustaining a climate of impunity.

These rules, according to their critics, give the impression that rape is not taken seriously in Bahrain and that victims do not receive the safety and assistance they need when going through a rigorous act.

Additionally, they contend that the existing legal framework deters victims from coming forward and reporting crimes, which can fuel a cycle of abuse and violence. Additionally, when women receive the right care and have safe settings to speak up, this encourages them to do so and, in turn, inspires other women to do the same.

Revisions to Bahrain's rape laws have been demanded in recent years. Governments are realizing that laws need to adapt along with society, as society itself is evolving on a global scale. The Bahraini parliament has made many requests to get Article 353 out of the 1976 Penal Code.

Despite the complexity and sensitivity of the rape laws in Bahrain, it is obvious that they need to be changed if rape victims are to receive the protection and assistance that they are entitled to as fellow human beings. It is anticipated that the administration will take these issues seriously and strive quickly to implement significant change to build a modernized society that is progressive and where everyone feels safe and secure.