Bahrain reaffirms commitment to criminal justice reform efforts
• Model of international best practice in inmate rehabilitation, correctional reform
The Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to advancing criminal justice and reforming its correctional system. This was emphasised by the Director of the Alternative Sentencing at the Ministry of Interior, Major Jassim Jabr Al Dossairi, as he took part in a high-level discussion held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York under the theme 'A Second Chance: Addressing the Global Challenge of Prisons.'
The event was convened in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners.
During the session, Al Dossairi outlined the implementation of the Alternative Sentencing Programme and the Open Prison Initiative, both of which aim to reintegrate beneficiaries into society gradually and effectively.
These initiatives, he noted, serve as a model of international best practice in inmate rehabilitation and correctional reform.
He further affirmed that the programme forms part of the pioneering initiatives under the comprehensive reform project of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and is receiving direct support from the government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, as well as close follow-up by His Excellency Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa.
The discussion concluded with wide international acclaim for Bahrain's innovative efforts in developing its correctional system through the adoption of alternative, non-custodial penalties.
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