Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa has emphasised that promoting human rights principles is integral to the work of the Interior Ministry, highlighting initiatives such as community policing, the Alternative Sentencing Programme, and the Open Prisons Programme.
General Shaikh Rashid made the statement yesterday as he met members of the Shura Council’s Human Rights Committee, led by chairman Dr Mohammed Al Khozaie.
The minister commended the Shura Council’s role in addressing national matters and its contributions in supporting security efforts to safeguard the country and its achievements.
General Shaikh Rashid noted that the development of security programmes aligns with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad, and the government’s ongoing support, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in implementing projects and rehabilitation programmes that enhance social cohesion.
The minister commended Bahrain’s National Human Rights Plan for its initiatives to strengthen the kingdom’s human rights framework. He described the Alternative Sentencing Programme and the Open Prisons Programme as national models that have received international recognition for their high standards and innovative rehabilitation programmes.
The minister underscored the importance of legislative support to expand these initiatives for the benefit of society. He also highlighted the role of community police in implementing the Ma’an (Together) Programme to combat violence and addiction. He noted that the programme has been expanded to include curricula promoting tolerance and countering extremism, underlining the importance of protecting young people from various risks.
The committee members commended the efforts of Interior Ministry personnel in upholding and protecting human rights. They also praised the achievements of the Alternative Sentencing Programme and underscored their commitment to legislative development to enhance national security and protect public resources.