Bahraini authorities are reportedly violating the rights of children detained amid political protests, with serious abuses revealed by Human Rights Watch and Americans for Democracy and Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB). Although many children were released in 2024, new arrests have continued. The organisations emphasise the urgent need for Bahrain to halt these abuses and to consider detention only in exceptional circumstances, compensating those whose rights have been denied during important developmental years.
Niku Jafarnia from Human Rights Watch highlighted, “No child or adult who is participating in peaceful protest should be arrested, tortured, and abused.” Many children have faced physical and psychological violence in detention, with reports of torture and inadequate access to legal support. Cases document situations where children were initially detained without charges, with prolonged detentions violating their rights and wellbeing.
Testimonies reveal harrowing experiences of torture and coercion during interrogations, with reports of violent threats and severe mistreatment. Denial of essential medical care and education has compounded the trauma, as many have lost schooling and access to vital health services while incarcerated. Released detainees now grapple with ongoing restrictions such as travel bans and limited employment opportunities.
The issue escalated during 2024 with 57 arrests relating to pro-Palestine protests, leading to claims of rights abuses by children. ADHRB notes that numerous children faced arbitrary detention and pressure to confess to crimes under duress. Previous reports documented the alarming trend of children facing abuses since 2021, with inadequate legal protections during interrogations.
International law asserts a prohibition against unnecessary detention of youth, calling for alternative responses. Bahrain’s own laws are critiqued for not safeguarding the rights of children during detention effectively. There’s a strong call for the release of unjustly detained minors and for the international community to hold Bahrain accountable for human rights violations.
The Bahraini government is urged to amend its laws to ensure children’s legal rights during interrogations and to offer remedies to those affected by abuse. Amidst these voices, calls for international accountability echo louder, stressing the need for governments supporting Bahrain to re-evaluate their alliances amid these reported abuses.
Bahraini authorities are accused of violating the rights of detained children amidst political protests, with reports of abuse, torture, and inadequate legal protection. Although many children were released in 2024, new arrests continue, raising concerns about ongoing rights violations. Advocacy groups urge Bahrain to reform its laws and practices regarding youth detention and to ensure accountability for abuses committed against minors.
In summary, Bahraini authorities continue to violate the rights of detained children, employing severe abuses that hinder their growth and education. Despite the release of some minors, the ongoing pattern of detention and mistreatment raises urgent concerns. Global advocates stress the necessity for Bahrain to reform its practices, uphold children’s rights, and ensure accountability, while the international community is called upon to reconsider its support for such a regime.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
