Legislative System Strengthens Human Rights, Says Foreign Minister

Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani has praised the Kingdom’s comprehensive legislative and democratic framework, saying it continues to strengthen and protect human rights, freedoms and dignity under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Marking the International Day of Parliamentarism under the theme “The Future of Human Rights is Written in Parliaments,” Dr. Al Zayani highlighted the role of Bahrain’s parliamentary work in developing legislation and measures that support civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.

He said the country’s legislative progress aligns with government programmes, the National Human Rights Plan, and international human rights agreements and conventions.

The Foreign Minister also praised key legislative achievements that have gained regional recognition, including advanced laws related to alternative sentencing, the Open Prisons Programme, child restorative justice, combating human trafficking, protecting women and families, and regulating press and electronic media.

He noted that these modern laws and policies have contributed to promoting respect for fundamental rights and freedoms without discrimination based on gender, origin, language or religion, while reinforcing justice, transparency, accountability and the rule of law within the constitutional framework of separation and cooperation between authorities.

Dr. Al Zayani emphasized that Bahrain’s legislative system has supported the Kingdom’s development and human rights progress by enhancing citizen participation, increasing the representation of youth and women, and promoting values of citizenship, tolerance and coexistence.

He also highlighted the contributions of national institutions, including the Supreme Council for Women, the National Human Rights Institution, the Ombudsman, the Prisoners and Detainees Rights Commission, the Special Investigation Unit at the Public Prosecution, the Bahrain Institute of Political Development, the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, civil society organizations, and media and cultural institutions in supporting the country’s rights framework.