10 Years of Humane Justice: Bahrain Celebrates Mandela Rules

TDT | Manama

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The Kingdom of Bahrain participated in the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the Nelson Mandela Rules, which emphasize the protection of the dignity and rights of all individuals in detention and the promotion of principles of humane justice.

Speaking on behalf of Bahrain, Brigadier Jassim Jaber Al Dosari, Director of the Alternative Sanctions Department at the Ministry of Interior, highlighted the Kingdom’s positive strides in developing a penal system that balances justice with rehabilitation. He pointed to the Alternative Punishments and Measures Law, enacted in 2017, which prioritizes reform over punishment.

Brig. Al Dosari explained that the law has enabled the implementation of alternative sanctions such as community service, electronic monitoring, house arrest, and participation in rehabilitation programs. More than 8,500 beneficiaries have availed of these measures, with a recidivism rate of only 2.5%, demonstrating the program’s success in supporting the reintegration of individuals into society.
He also highlighted Bahrain’s launch of the region’s first open prison program, designed to gradually integrate inmates into the community by providing opportunities for employment, education, and family contact within a controlled and transparent environment.

“These initiatives are not merely reforms; they reflect Bahrain’s deep belief in giving individuals a second chance and align fully with the principles of the Nelson Mandela Rules in both policy and practice,” Brig. Al Dosari said.
He concluded by affirming Bahrain’s readiness to cooperate with the international community to build effective, humane, and modern rehabilitation systems that uphold the dignity and justice of all individuals.