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The Kingdom of
Bahrain re-confirmed its commitment to the protection of human
rights by hosting a two-day workshop on Safeguards against Torture
and Other Ill-treatments. The aim of the workshop was to deepen the
understanding and functioning of safeguards against torture as they
are enshrined in international law and to encourage participants to
reflect on national law and practice in the light of these
international standards.
In a ceremony to mark the opening of the workshop, H.E. Dr. Nezar Al
Baharna, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, affirmed that this
workshop was part of the efforts of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the
protection and promotion of human rights on its territory, and its
commitment to the implementation of voluntary pledges and
recommendations to the Human Rights Council. “The Constitution of
the Kingdom of Bahrain guarantees human rights at all levels of
political, civil and social rights and provides that no person shall
be a victim of physical or mental torture, enticement or degrading
treatment. This workshop … will touch upon many important topics
that help humanity to progress and maintain their rights.”
Also speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Firas Gharaibeh, UNDP
Deputy Resident Representative, stated that “States must take
persistent and effective measures to prevent and combat all acts of
torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or
punishment. These acts should be considered offences under domestic
criminal law.” He went on to thank the Government of Bahrain and its
leadership for taking bold steps in meeting their pledges and
commitments regarding human rights.
The workshop was organized by UNDP and the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs; with representatives from the Swiss-based Association for
the Prevention of Torture (APT) conducting the training. APT is an
independent, politically neutral NGO that specializes in initiatives
for the prevention of torture.
Participants from the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Justice,
Ministry of Islamic Affairs, and the Public Prosecution participated
in the workshop and engaged in various sessions on why we need
safeguards, and safeguards in Bahraini legislation and practice.
They concluded with drafting some concrete recommendations on how
safeguards against torture can be further strengthened in Bahrain.
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