Turning sentences into second chances

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

In response to concerns raised by the International Labour Organization (ILO) over compulsory work alongside imprisonment, Bahrain has drafted an amendment requiring most inmates to take part in rehabilitation and training programmes instead of being assigned “employment” duties.

The proposal, issued under Royal Decree No. 68 of 2025 at Riffa Palace, has been referred to Parliament. The Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee will review it as the main committee, with the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee providing comments.

There vised text makes rehabilitation and training compulsory for all inmates, except for remand detainees or those unable to participate due to health reasons. Programmes should, where possible, match an inmate’s existing skills or profession. Executive regulations will outline the programmes, maximum hours, allowances, eligibility conditions, and rules for external training in coordination with relevant bodies. The draft also addresses civil liability for occupational injuries and professional diseases arising from participation in the programmes.

The Cabinet endorsed the draft for parliamentary referral on 17 November 2025. The amendment also modernises Penal Code terminology, replacing references to “prison” and “prisons” with Reformation and Rehabilitation Centres, while focusing on preparing inmates for social reintegration and aligning Bahrain’s penal system with international labour standards.