Bahrain Parliament Joins Global Debate on Terror Victims’ Rights

Virtual IPU seminar examines how parliaments can strengthen justice, support victims and promote prevention

Bahrain’s Parliamentary Division participated in an international virtual seminar organised by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) to mark the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism.

Bahrain was represented by Shura Council member Ali Abdullah Al Aradi at the seminar, titled “From Victims to Influential Voices: Advancing Prevention through Justice, Resilience and Parliamentary Action.”

The discussion focused on how parliaments can strengthen the rights of terrorism victims, improve access to justice and use victims’ experiences to inform public policy, strengthen resilience and support efforts to prevent terrorism.

The seminar drew on model legislative provisions jointly developed by the IPU, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre.

The first session examined protecting the rights of terrorism victims and improving access to justice through parliamentary action. Participants discussed translating international standards and national legal frameworks into effective legislation, institutions and support mechanisms.

The session also addressed barriers to justice, particularly in countries affected by terrorism, as well as access to legal assistance and information and the role of parliamentary oversight.

The second session, titled “From Victims to Influential Voices: Building Resilience and Strengthening Prevention,” explored ways victims can contribute to prevention and resilience-building efforts.

Participants also discussed community resilience, innovative parliamentary approaches to prevention and practical measures to improve access to justice, assistance and support, particularly where institutional capacity is limited.