This year’s award was given to the Centre due to their continuous efforts to promote fundamental human rights in Bahrain, such as freedom of speech and freedom of association.

“The Prize is a strong call to the Bahraini authorities to comply with international human rights obligations,” the Rafto Foundation wrote in a statement.

“The Prize is also a reminder to the international community that basic human rights cannot be sacrificed for short-term economic and strategic interests.”

Set up in 2002, the BCHR advocates non-violent protests through an extensive and effective use of social media in a political climate where any forms of protests are condemned.

The nonprofit organization has not only sought to promote the rights of Bahraini citizens, but also those of the minorities and migrant workers that live in the country. 

The BCHR has also played a key role in documenting the Bahraini regime’s many human rights violations over the years.

Tensions quickly increased in Bahrain After the Arab Spring broke out in February 2011, with demonstrations demanding the regime’s departure.

Protests in the country continue to this day. Demonstrations are met with excessive military force and heavy-handed measures. Several activists have been imprisoned and tortured in the process, stated the Rafto Foundation.

The Rafto Prize is an annual human rights award that was established in 1986 in the memory of Thorold Rafto, a Norwegian academic and human rights activist.

This year’s award is due to be presented on November 3rd at the Bergen’s Den Nationale Scene.