Latest news with #UK-Bahrain
Daily Tribune
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Tribune
UK Praises Bahrain's Progressive Policies at House of Lords Event
Bahrain's voice on the global stage was celebrated at the prestigious Bahrain Society's Annual Summer Reception, held at the House of Lords in London, where several prominent British figures praised the Kingdom's enduring friendship with the United Kingdom and its growing reputation as a dynamic and open partner. The reception took place on the sidelines of the official visit of His Excellency Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, the Speaker of Bahrain Parliament, and was attended by senior UK dignitaries, diplomats, and members of the Bahrain Society. Lord Philip Hammond, former UK Foreign Secretary, commended Bahrain for its consistent advocacy of openness and its push for deepening trade and diplomatic ties with the UK. He acknowledged Bahrain's proactive role in strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in commerce and investment. Lord Francis Maude, former Senior Cabinet Minister, echoed these sentiments, describing the relationship between Bahrain and the UK as 'strong, deep-rooted, and historic,' stretching back over two centuries of mutual respect and cooperation. Sir Liam Fox, former Defence Secretary, highlighted the responsiveness and flexibility of Bahrain's economic ecosystem. 'Bahrain is open for business and well-positioned for global partnerships,' he remarked, pointing to the Kingdom's economic reforms and investor-friendly policies. Lord Tariq Ahmad, former Minister for the Middle East, praised Bahrain's diplomatic finesse and strategic influence in the region. 'Bahrain is an incredible Kingdom on so many fronts,' he said, underscoring its quiet yet impactful approach to international relations and regional stability. The event not only showcased the depth of UK-Bahrain relations but also reaffirmed shared values of dialogue, development, and diplomacy. It underscored the Kingdom's growing recognition as a trusted ally, a forward-thinking economy, and a voice of moderation in an evolving global landscape.
Daily Tribune
04-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Showcases Progressive Justice Reform at International Conference on Alternative Sanctions
TDT | Manama The Kingdom of Bahrain recently hosted the first International Conference on Alternative Sanctions, drawing ministers, diplomats, and justice officials from around the world to discuss the nation's pioneering approach to criminal justice reform. The event highlighted Bahrain's commitment to rehabilitation, social reintegration, and innovative sentencing alternatives beyond traditional custodial penalties. Dr. Ali bin Fadhel Al-Buainain, Attorney General of Bahrain's Public Prosecution Office, underscored the collaborative nature of the system involving the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and the Supreme Council for Justice. 'By integrating alternative sanctions, we facilitate family reunifications and empower beneficiaries, many of whom have successfully launched their own businesses after completing the programs.' he said. Reflecting on Bahrain's legislative journey, Nawaf bin Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Maawda, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Endowments, traced the roots of the reform back eight years. 'Since 2020, legislative advances have expanded the law's scope, opening greater opportunities for beneficiaries,' he said. 'By 2025, we aim to broaden the system further to not only provide work but also emphasize rehabilitation. Our sanctions now encompass seven to nine distinct types, carefully tailored to achieve the core goals of reintegration and social support.' Shaikh Khalid bin Rashid bin Abdullah Al-Khalifa, General Director of Sentence Enforcement and Alternative Sanctions at the MOI, described the transformation as a societal journey. 'Initially, there was resistance even within our own ranks,' he admitted. 'Through awareness campaigns and rigorous training, society's acceptance grew. Our digital classification programs and psychological support initiatives now underpin a success rate of 97.5%, with over 8,500 beneficiaries reintegrated and 273 currently in open prisons.' Highlighting Bahrain's leadership role in the region, Alastair Long, UK Ambassador to Bahrain, praised the Kingdom's justice reform as 'a model of compassion and human dignity.' He recalled a poignant moment at a recent graduation ceremony when a beneficiary, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed gratitude for a second chance, an experience met with genuine empathy by Bahraini officials. Ambassador Long emphasized the strong UK-Bahrain collaboration in capacity building, including study visits to UK open prisons and academic partnerships, fostering shared expertise in rehabilitation and community-based sentencing. Steven C. Bondy, U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain, echoed similar sentiments, applauding Bahrain's progressive alternative sentencing law and open prison programs as transformative. He highlighted the robust partnership between the two countries across counterterrorism, cybersecurity, judicial affairs, and law enforcement. 'The United States is committed to supporting Bahrain's justice reforms, which have positioned the Kingdom as a regional and global leader,' Ambassador Bondy said. He also cited the recent historic visit of the U.S. Secretary for Homeland Security and the signing of the Congreventive Security Integration Prosperity Agreement (SIA) in 2023 as milestones deepening cooperation. The conference underscored how Bahrain's reform efforts blend tradition and innovation, reflecting local values while meeting international standards. The American Bar Association and the American Correctional Association have both recognized Bahrain's strides in correctional practices, and ongoing international visitor leadership programs are further fostering exchange and learning. Ambassador Bondy stressed the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration—including ministries, the private sector, and civil society—in supporting social services and employment opportunities for beneficiaries. 'These reforms are not just about reducing recidivism; they represent a broader societal commitment to dignity, opportunity, and second chances,' he noted.
