Bahrain Prisoner Release, Open Debate Welcome

(New York, February 12, 2001)-Human Rights Watch today welcomed Bahrain's release of most of the country's remaining political prisoners prior to this week's popular referendum on proposed political reforms. The group also commended the government for encouraging public debate in the country around the proposed reforms.  
 

"It's good news that Bahrainis, for the first time in a long time, can publicly criticize the government one day and still be around to do it again the next day, " said Hanny Megally, executive director of the Middle East and North Africa division of Human Rights Watch. "But many aspects of these political reforms still have to be clarified. It seems that Bahrain is still a long way from democracy."  
 
In a background analysis of the proposed National Charter, on which Bahrainis will cast "yes" or "no" votes on February 14-15, Human Rights Watch called for the abolition of State Security Courts and of all trials in Bahrain that do not correspond to international fair-trial standards. Human Rights Watch also urged that all Bahraini exiles be allowed to return home.  

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Related Material

HRW Backgrounder
Background Briefing, February 12, 2001

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