The Public Prosecution has introduced the "Safe Expression Box", a child-friendly support initiative aimed at improving the way child victims are assisted during criminal investigations, particularly by creating a more secure environment that responds to their emotional and psychological needs.
Developed by the Public Prosecution's Social Research Section, the initiative draws on international best practice in the use of anatomical dolls and interactive tools, adapted to suit Bahrain's legal and social context.
Dalal Al Attawi, Head of the Social Research Group at the Public Prosecution, said the initiative is designed to help child victims, especially in sexual abuse cases, communicate their experiences in a manner appropriate to their age and level of development. She said the tools facilitate communication, support more accurate psychological and social assessments, and help children feel more at ease during pre-investigation preparation and interviews.
The initiative was piloted with 10 female child victims. The trial found that the use of anatomical dolls and interactive materials enabled the children to describe incidents, express their feelings and identify relevant body parts with greater clarity and confidence than conventional interview techniques. It also reduced anxiety, improved children's understanding of questions and strengthened the quality of information gathered.
The project further enhanced the ability of social workers and psychologists to identify children's emotional and behavioural needs, build trust with them and conduct more comprehensive assessments.
The "Safe Expression Box" forms part of the Public Prosecution's wider efforts to adopt child-centred practices and improve the support provided to child victims in line with international professional standards and the principle of the best interests of the child.
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