A legislative proposal aimed at preserving public decency, reinforcing societal values and promoting respectful behaviour in public spaces with fines starting from BD100 was presented yesterday.
The draft law, titled ‘Law on the Preservation of Public Decency’, obtained by the GDN, outlines a framework of regulations for conduct in public areas, aligning with Bahrain’s cultural identity and national values.
The proposal by MP Hanan Fardan seeks to fill a legal gap by defining behaviours deemed inappropriate in public spaces and prescribing penalties for violations.
The proposed law defines ‘public decency’ as ‘A set of behaviours and manners that reflect the values, principles and identity of society, in line with the foundational tenets outlined in the kingdom’s constitutional system’.
It will apply to all individuals present in public spaces, including markets, shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, cafés, cinemas, sports venues, medical and educational institutions, public transportation, beaches, parks and other areas accessible to the general public.
Under the draft bill, individuals in public spaces must:
* Respect cultural values and customs of Bahraini society.
* Refrain from wearing immodest clothing or outfits bearing offensive images, symbols or phrases.
* Avoid defacing public property through unauthorised graffiti or writing.
*Abstain from actions or speech that could disturb, harm, frighten or endanger others.
Violators may face a monetary fine of up to BD100, with the penalties doubled for offences repeated within a year. Enforcement will be carried out by designated authorities under the Interior Ministry, which may delegate certain powers to licensed private security companies under ministerial supervision.
The proposal includes provisions for legal recourse, allowing individuals to appeal fines before the appropriate judicial authority.
In a covering letter accompanying the proposal, Ms Fardan emphasised the law’s significance in upholding Bahrain’s cultural fabric.
“This proposal is not just about appearances; it is about protecting the cultural identity, the values and the moral compass of our society,” she said.
“As public spaces become increasingly diverse, there is a growing need to ensure that the shared environment reflects mutual respect.”
She added that the law was designed to serve both residents and visitors.
“Bahrain is a welcoming nation, but like any society, we expect a minimum standard of behaviour in public spaces. This law ensures that everyone, citizens and guests alike, can enjoy our country in a manner that respects its traditions.”
The proposal is accompanied by a detailed explanatory memorandum, highlighting several societal and economic goals:
1. Preserving Cultural Identity: The law aims to uphold traditional values and social norms, reinforcing a sense of national identity.
2. Enhancing Public Order: By discouraging disruptive or inappropriate behaviour, the bill seeks to create a safer and more respectful public atmosphere.
3. Protecting Public and Private Property: The law prohibits vandalism and graffiti in public areas unless authorised, helping reduce maintenance costs and visual pollution.
4. Promoting Tourism and Investment: The proposal highlights that a well-regulated and respectful public environment can enhance Bahrain’s image as a secure and attractive destination for tourists and investors.
“Countries around the world have enacted similar legislation to define acceptable public behaviour,” Ms Fardan noted.
“We are simply ensuring that Bahrain keeps pace with international standards while preserving its unique identity.”
5. Ensuring Fairness and Legal Oversight: The law includes procedures for appeals and judicial review, ensuring individuals’ rights are protected and reducing potential misuse of enforcement powers.
Ms Fardan urged fellow legislators to consider the broader societal benefits of the proposed legislation.
“This law is not about imposing restrictions – it’s about fostering a culture of mutual respect, preserving what makes our society unique, and ensuring that our public spaces remain welcoming and dignified for all.
“The proposed ‘Law on the Preservation of Public Decency’ represents a strategic move by Bahrain’s legislative body to define the standards of conduct expected in public life.
“Rooted in cultural values but framed in modern legislative language, the proposal signals Bahrain’s intent to balance tradition with contemporary governance – ensuring respectful co-existence in the public domain.”
The draft law will be reviewed by the relevant parliamentary committee after referral by Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam.
If passed, it will come into effect six months after it is published in the Official Gazette.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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