Bahrain plans to establish a "training institute" to educate all those concerned with implementing Bahrain's National Action Plan for Human Rights by the end of the year, it was revealed yesterday.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr Nazar Al Baharna said the institute would train all stake holders in human rights procedures and to effectively implement them.
"We are committed to completely implement all our human rights commitments to world bodies and have, from today, started applying it in all spheres," Dr Al Baharna said during a formal launch ceremony for the plan at The Regency InterContinental Bahrain hotel.
The plan was launched in April by Dr Al Baharna in the presence of several non-government organisations (NGOs), members of civil societies and diplomats.
"While we are committed, we may not be adequately trained in certain areas. So we need to look at that aspect," he said.
"Whether it is police officers, representatives of civil societies, NGOs, workers or human rights organisations, we have to be prepared to tackle the challenges."
He said training workshops, follow-up meetings and other activities involving police and prison officers, security personnel, the media and the NGOs will be held regularly.
"The idea is to create a positive understanding among various sectors."
He said an inter-ministerial committee is being set up to follow up on the implementation of the plan till a permanent body for the purpose comes into effect.
"We had planned it by the end of the year but we see some logistical delays in its formation. Until that time, the temporary committee will take charge of the programme."
He said Bahrain's election to the UN Human Rights Council recently is ample proof that its steps are being appreciated.
UN Development Programme (UNDP) resident representative Sayed Aqa, who was also present, said he is encouraged by the move.
"This is an indication of Bahrain's commitment to improve human rights and a golden chance for its people to contribute towards its implementation."
Salient features of the plan include stepping up inspections of labour camps to ensure they comply with humanitarian, health and security criteria, as well as increased protection for domestic workers' rights - especially vulnerable groups such as expats and women.
It also includes the creation of a taskforce that will study and make proposals to government bodies on the ratification of human rights treaties, as well as national legislation.
By MANDEEP SINGH, Gulf Daily News
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