RUSI Journal, Oct 2012, Vol. 157, No. 5
By Matthew Willis
Britain’s longstanding and complex relationship with Bahrain was put under intense pressure by the unrest that spread through the Gulf state in February 2011. The kingdom’s regional strategic significance, and its enduring dependability, make it a key ally for the UK – yet Britain’s values-driven policy also compelled it to encourage negotiation and reform, rather than unconditionally support the Bahraini government’s repressive approach. Matthew Willis analyses the bilateral relationship between the two countries, and shows how, so far, Britain has had little success in encouraging the Gulf state to reform.

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Further Analysis: Middle East and North Africa, The Gulf Region, UK, Europe