Bahrain is set for a major overhaul of its juvenile justice system, shifting its focus from punishment to rehabilitation.
A government-drafted amendment to the 2021 Juveniles’ Justice and Protection Law is set to be debated and voted on in the Shura Council during its next session, with strong backing from key institutions, ministries and child welfare advocates.
The proposed changes aim to ensure young offenders are given opportunities to reform rather than being subjected to punitive measures that may hinder their reintegration into society.
They were approved unanimously by MPs earlier this month.
According to the Cabinet, the amendments prioritise support over punishment, ensuring that young offenders receive tailored interventions designed to address the root causes of their behaviour.
The reforms expand judicial discretion, increase government oversight and enhance rehabilitation programmes, reaffirming Bahrain’s commitment to protecting children’s rights.
Courts will have the discretion to place a child under judicial probation within their natural environment rather than in detention centres.
The Child Protection Centre (CPC) or the Interior Ministry’s relevant department will co-ordinate probation, which cannot exceed three years.
Courts may limit a child’s movement within a designated geographical area and impose restrictions on accessing specific websites or digital platforms for two to 12 hours per day.
However, these restrictions cannot interfere with education, religious practices or professional duties.
Judges may order a child to remain at home under the supervision of a guardian or responsible adult, who must provide regular reports on compliance.
The CPC and Interior Ministry will closely monitor children placed under rehabilitative measures to ensure their progress.
Institutions housing children, including juvenile centres, hospitals and social care facilities, must co-operate with authorities and report any significant changes in a child’s condition.
If a minor commits a crime punishable by death, the sentence will be reduced to temporary imprisonment or at least one year in detention.
If a minor commits a crime punishable by life or temporary imprisonment, the penalty will also be reduced.
For misdemeanours with mandatory minimum sentences, judges will have the discretion to impose lesser or alternative penalties.
Courts may replace detention with rehabilitation-focused measures, with progress reviewed every six months.
Judges may adjust or terminate penalties based on the child’s progress.
Shura Council woman and child committee chairwoman Leena Qassim said the new measures will have positive impact on young offenders and society as a whole.
“This legislation strikes a crucial balance between accountability and rehabilitation,” she said.
“We are ensuring that children in conflict with the law are treated fairly and given a real chance at reform.
“Expanding the role of the Child Protection Centre and introducing more flexible judicial measures will provide these children with the guidance and support they need to reintegrate successfully into society.”
The amendment is set to be discussed during the Shura session tomorrow. However, it could be shifted to April 6, if tomorrow is declared as the first day of Eid Al Fitr.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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