MANAMA: Bahrain is committed to human rights principles and all regional and international agreements in this field, the Interior Minister said yesterday.
“The kingdom is a democratic and reformist state that respects and protects human rights,” Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa said, as he received a delegation from the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, led by Frej Fennich, chief of the Middle East and North Africa Section.
UN Resident Co-ordinator in Bahrain Peter Grohmann, Inspector-General Major-General Ibrahim Habib Al Ghaith, and Chief of Public Security Major General Tariq Al Hassan were also present.
The minister highlighted the ambitious political, social and economic reform project launched by His Majesty King Hamad more than 10 years ago, and said this reinforced Bahrain’s democratic approach and public participation from the grassroots level – through elected parliamentary and municipal organisations.
“It was this reform project that also led to the appointment of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) composed of eminent international experts last year,” he said.
Shaikh Rashid detailed the security situation in Bahrain and steps taken by the ministry in response to the recommendations of BICI.
The BICI recommendations have led to the establishment of the Office of an independent Ombudsman, the introduction of audio-visual cameras for recording of police interviews, extensive training for policemen by international experts, a recruitment and integration strategy that takes into account the experiences of countries abroad, and arrest and detention procedures that now go beyond those found in some countries in the West.
Reiterating the ministry’s commitment to principles of transparency and accountability while dealing with human rights issues, Shaikh Rashid said it was looking into all complaints and allegations in order to take appropriate procedures.
“We will also focus on preventive steps to limit individual violations,” he added.
The visiting delegation was briefed on the ministry’s strategies for development of security sectors through intensive training, hi-tech equipment and robust procedures.
The minister also explained how police forces have followed the highest level of self-restraint and commitment to law enforcement and human rights, despite being exposed to terror attacks.
Referring to the temporary ban on rallies and public gatherings, he said the move was made necessary as rallies had became violent and were violating the rights of others.
“All procedures are being reviewed to ensure that the right to assemble is exercised peacefully in accordance with the Constitution, and that this right is protected,” he said.
The delegates in turn spoke highly about their visits to the Royal Academy of Police to witness the human rights training and courses provided to public security personnel. They also visited a police station to witness the arrest procedures in place.
The delegation visited the Directorate of Reformation and Rehabilitation, and was briefed on services provided to inmates meeting international human right criteria.