Manama : The Public Prosecution, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, the Judicial and Legal Studies Institute, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), launched an international conference titled “Advancing Restorative Criminal Justice – Insights into Evolving Justice Management Systems”.
The conference is a key step in Bahrain’s efforts to modernise its criminal justice systems, focusing on restorative justice as an innovative alternative to traditional punitive measures while promoting human rights. It builds on Bahrain’s pioneering initiatives under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, reflecting 25 years of development in judicial and legal policies.
The conference covers various themes, including the concept and applications of restorative justice, the evolution of penal policies in Bahrain, and international best practices. Sessions highlight challenges in implementing alternative sanctions and restorative measures, showcasing Bahrain’s experience as a model for advancing criminal justice policies.
Attorney General Dr. Ali bin Fadhl Al Buainain emphasised Bahrain’s commitment to legislative advancement, including the Alternative Sanctions and Measures Law, reconciliation provisions, and codified criminal mediation. He noted the institutional and structural developments in Bahrain’s judiciary and prosecution systems, reflecting a modern understanding of accountability and justice. Dr. Al Buainain highlighted that restorative justice serves as a balanced approach to individual rights and public welfare, aiming to enhance human rights protections and establish effective justice mechanisms.
Major General Dr. Shaikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Deputy Chief of Public Security underscored the Ministry of Interior’s role in promoting restorative justice through innovative legal frameworks. He highlighted the Ministerial Edict (76) of 2018, which facilitates the implementation of alternative sanctions and rehabilitation programmes tailored to offenders’ circumstances. He also noted the success of the Open Prisons Programme, which won the Prince Naif Medal for Arab Security, and the establishment of family and child protection offices to enhance social security. He called for further studies on integrating restorative and traditional criminal justice models.
Dr. Abdulmajeed bin Abdullah Albanyan President of Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, highlighted the university’s role in enhancing Arab security through academic programmes and partnerships, including its recognition by the UN for its work in criminal justice and crime prevention. He noted the importance of building human capacities and enhancing legislative frameworks as key pillars of the university’s mission.
Dr. Riyadh Seyadi, Director of the Judicial and Legal Studies Institute, described restorative justice as a philosophy aimed at rebuilding relationships disrupted by crime, emphasising the human dimensions of justice. He highlighted its role in repairing harm through dialogue between victims and offenders, developing trust and understanding, and contributing to community cohesion.
The conference underscores Bahrain’s significant progress in restorative justice, including alternative sanctions that have reduced prison overcrowding and balanced punishment with rehabilitation. It also highlights the role of criminal mediation in fostering reconciliation and the importance of community involvement in supporting modern justice systems.
Discussions extend to the private sector’s role in offering employment and training opportunities for rehabilitated individuals, ensuring sustainable reintegration. International experiences in applying restorative justice to vulnerable groups, including children, women, and persons with disabilities, are also explored.
This scientific event provides a platform for international collaboration and knowledge exchange, reinforcing Bahrain’s status as a global leader in modern justice systems. It reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to human rights, sustainable development, and the continuous evolution of criminal justice strategies.
