NIHR: The Institute Continues to Cooperate with International Bodies for the Protection of Human Rights
Bahrain’s National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) has called on international organisations to validate and verify all claims to avoid repeatedly publishing misleading information.
NIHR Chairperson, Eng. Ali Ahmed Al-Derazi has affirmed that the institution continues to cooperate with national and international bodies that work for the promotion and protection of human rights. He added that the institution is ready to receive and investigate any concerns raised.
Al-Derazi confirmed that access to healthcare for all citizens and residents, whether in court-ordered detention centres or within the community, is a protected constitutional right. He stressed that the quality and standard of healthcare provided to inmates is the same as that provided to everyone within the public health system. This includes diagnostics, medical treatment and specialized care, as well as individual dietary requirements and rehabilitation services.
The NIHR chairperson emphasised that Bahrain has put in place internationally recognized and effective safeguards to ensure that the rights of all prisoners are upheld. He explained that any inmate or their family can raise any concern or complaint with a number of independent oversight bodies, such as the NIHR, and receive a full and transparent investigation.
Al-Derazi added that agencies such as the Prisoners and Detainees Rights Commission and the Ombudsman conduct periodic inspections of prison conditions, including of healthcare provision, and they issue public reports and recommendations on their findings.
Al-Derazi pointed out that no person in Bahrain is arrested or is in custody because of peaceful political activity. Freedom of expression is expressly protected under Article 23 of the Bahraini constitution, which includes the right to freedom of assembly, and it is legal to organise demonstrations and marches. The Bahraini Press and Publication Law protects journalists and the independent press freedoms, and it is only limiting if public channels are used to incite, promote, or glorify violence or hatred. In these circumstances the authorities have a duty to investigate, and if appropriate prosecute such incidents.
The NIHR chairperson acknowledged that Bahrain has made significant strides in human rights reform. He stated that Bahrain has made noteworthy progress in children rights through the Child Restorative Justice law. Al-Derazi also made reference to Bahrain’s successful efforts in combatting human trafficking, upholding women rights, tackling discrimination and protecting the rights of migrant workers.
