On 21st March 2024, ADHRB delivered an intervention at the United Nation Human Rights Council session 55 under item 4 during the General debate. ADHRB urged the council to ensure accountability prevails over political considerations in addressing human rights violations.
We express deep concern over the United States’ unwavering support for countries with poor human rights records, notably evident in its continued support for conflicts currently happening in Gaza, despite the International Court of Justice’s warnings to Israel to prevent genocide. This support extends to countries suppressing their citizens’ rejection of this war and their governments’ adherence to related decisions, as seen in Bahrain.
Currently, Bahrain is leading suppression campaigns against citizens expressing their dissenting opinions regarding their government’s involvement in the American-led coalition against Yemeni forces in the Red Sea. Peaceful protests have been met with the arrest of hundreds of participants, including dozens of children.
In addition, Bahrain arrested the opposition leader Ebrahim Sharif in December 2023, for his tweets opposing Bahrain’s joining of the coalition and its normalization with Israel.
The US’ prolonged support for Bahrain perpetuates a culture of impunity. We urge the council to address this issue, questioning the continuance of American support for countries with weak human rights records driven by political motives. How can we ensure accountability prevails over political considerations in addressing human rights violations?
