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Bahrain's alternative sentencing model inspires regional justice reform
Bahrain's pioneering alternative sentencing model is influencing justice reform efforts across the Arab region, legal and law enforcement experts said at the First International Conference on Alternative Sentencing.
Speaking during the conference's second session, which focused on alternative sanctions and future challenges, participants highlighted the importance of balancing justice, rehabilitation, and public safety through modern sentencing practices.
The session was chaired by Dr. Mohammed Muqbil, Assistant Undersecretary for State Cases and International Cooperation at Bahrain's Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
Transition
Egypt's former Interior Minister, Major General Ahmed Gamal El Din, noted that his country is transitioning from traditional incarceration to rehabilitation-focused facilities equipped with modern healthcare, drug treatment programmes, and educational services.
He emphasised the role of technology in administering alternative sanctions while protecting public security and individual rights.
Brigadier General Osama Majed Al-Majed, Assistant Director General of Kuwait's General Directorate of Correctional Institutions, outlined recent legal reforms in his country, including the new Domestic Violence Law and Alternative Sentencing Law No. 5 of 2025.
These laws promote community service and rehabilitation as judicial alternatives, aiming to reduce reoffending and support reintegration.
Collaboration
He also called for continued regional collaboration in shaping responsive legal frameworks.
Colonel Dr. Ali Al-Zuabi from the UAE Ministry of Interior shared the UAE's preventive justice strategy, which focuses on crime deterrence through advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and smart surveillance systems.
He highlighted the importance of community involvement and the growing use of digital tools, such as electronic community service platforms.
