Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 41st Session

Universal Periodic Review of Bahrain

Statement by Australia

7 November 2022

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia welcomes the engagement of Bahrain in the Universal Periodic Review process.

Australia acknowledges the efforts of Bahrain to improve human rights since the last review, including the work of the independent Ombudsman and National Institute for Human Rights, and the adoption of a National Human Rights Plan (2022-2026). 

Australia remains deeply concerned by reports of torture, enforced disappearance, and abuse of detainees.  We believe that strengthening the rule of law and democratic institutions, and ensuring accountability for human rights violations, are essential to protecting human rights. 

Australia recommends that Bahrain:

1. Comply with the Convention against Torture, including by ensuring all detainees are fully protected against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
2. Uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, including by ending detention of people for expressing views critical of the government and ending the ban on protests.
3. Immediately implement a formal moratorium on the death penalty with a view to its abolition.

[164 words]