The APF has been supporting Bahrain’s National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) to strengthen its efforts in protecting and promoting human rights throughout the country. 

Following the deferral of its re-accreditation at the most recent session of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions' (GANHRI’s) Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA), the NIHR is developing an action plan to address the recommendations of the SCA and strengthen its compliance with the Paris Principles. This includes its work in addressing serious human rights violations in places of detention and its cooperation with civil society organisations and human rights defenders in Bahrain.

To support this work, the APF’s Legal and Policy Manager, Phillip Wardle, travelled to Bahrain to hold discussions with NIHR leadership and some of its external stakeholders from 5-7 February.

During the visit, Mr. Wardle met with NIHR Chairperson, Ali Ahmed Al Derazi, to discuss strategies for enhancing the institution’s effectiveness in protecting human rights. Mr Wardle also had the opportunity to consult with Her Excellency, Ms. Ghada Hamid Habib, the Ombudsman of Bahrain, to discuss the role of the Ombudsman’s Office in monitoring places of detention, as well as senior representatives from the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs.

The NIHR leadership commended the longstanding partnership between the APF and NIHR, highlighting the strength of cooperation, and expressed their commitment to further collaboration. The APF looks forward to continued engagement with the NIHR to advance human rights in Bahrain.

Date: 29 February 2024