Universal Periodic Review 27: UK Statement - Bahrain
This statement was delivered by the UK on Bahrain at the 27th Session of the Universal Periodic Review.
The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) takes places at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
The UK recognises Bahrain’s progress on its human rights agenda, including the development of bodies to safeguard rights and provide independent oversight of police behaviour and detention standards. We continue to work to support Bahraini-led reforms on building effective and accountable institutions, strengthening the rule of law, and justice reform.
The UK registered concern at the Council in 2016 and 2017, about a number of developments in Bahrain. These include resuming use of the death penalty; and the deprivation of citizenship, rendering individuals stateless. We encourage the Government to promote social cohesion, inclusivity and freedom of expression for all Bahrainis.
We recommend
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To continue making progress on its reform agenda and to become a role model for the region, including through strengthening the independence, effectiveness and transparency of its oversight bodies, and cooperating with the UN system.
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To implement a national strategy to tackle the trafficking of women and girls; whilst building on their excellent work to ensure the effective protection of all workers – including migrant workers – against discrimination; and to ratify the 2014 ILO protocol to the Forced Labour Convention.
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To adopt an open, merit based selection process when selecting national candidates for UN Treaty Body elections.