On 20th September 2024, ADHRB delivered an intervention at the United Nation Human Rights Council session 57 under item 3 during the General Debate. ADHRB drew the Council’s attention to the rising summonses, arrests, and trials related to freedom of expression, occurring alongside the recent releases in Bahrain.
We draw the Council’s attention to the rising summonses, arrests, and trials related to freedom of expression, occurring alongside the recent releases in Bahrain.
With the onset of demonstrations in support of Gaza in October 2023, Bahrain witnessed a dangerous escalation of repression. Widespread arrests targeted participants in popular movements, including over 50 minors, some of whom remain detained and on trial. The crackdown extended to the digital space, where dissenting opinions were criminalized.
Last March, the Bahraini Ministry of Interior launched systematic arrest campaigns targeting the families of detainees and many who expressed solidarity with the political prisoners’ strike. Among them is Ali Muhana, who has been summoned 12 times this year, and is currently detained for demanding prisoners’ rights.
Despite promises to the contrary, Bahraini authorities have yet to demonstrate a genuine commitment to a new chapter for those released. Instead, they insist on restricting their civil liberties and re-arresting or summoning anyone demanding these rights.
Mr. President, while we welcome the release of detainees, we affirm that there can be no reform without emptying the prisons, securing justice, and ensuring accountability.
