A/HRC/21/6
efforts to end all conflicts, as well as its achievements in this respect and its cooperation
with the Human Rights Council mechanisms. It commended Bahrain’s commitment to
promoting human rights. Mauritania made recommendations.
95.
Mexico noted that the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture has scheduled a
visit to Bahrain this year, and urged the authorities to accept other outstanding visit requests
by other rapporteurs. Mexico expressed hope that constitutional reforms would bolster the
independence of the legislative and the judiciary and ensure greater Government
accountability. Mexico made recommendations.
96.
Morocco noted that the review was taking place at a historical moment in Bahrain’s
political life, when constitutional amendments necessitated by the outcome of the
comprehensive national dialogue are enabling a move towards democracy. It commended
Bahrain’s commitment to democracy and rule of law through the recent constitutional
reforms. Morocco made recommendations.
97.
The Netherlands commented on the highly visible Government repression in
Bahrain since early 2011. It emphasized that major policy changes would be required with
regard to freedom of speech, including in relation to the Internet, freedom of assembly,
preventive detention and the treatment of detainees. It cited the cases of Mahdi Abu Dheeb
and Nabil Rajab. Mindful of the BICI report, the Netherlands made recommendations.
98.
Nicaragua acknowledged the commitments undertaken by Bahrain at the first UPR
and the progress made in their respect. It expressed satisfaction at the steps taken to
improve women’s rights and noted the recent challenges faced by Bahrain, as well as its
response to demands for social change and the National Consensus Dialogue. Nicaragua
made a recommendation.
99.
Norway expressed concern over the ongoing developments in Bahrain and urged it
to implement the recommendations of the BICI without delay and within a proper time
frame. Norway made recommendations.
100. Oman commended Bahrain’s report which it felt reflected the kingdom’s
commitment to human rights. It commended Bahrain’s acceptance of all of BICI’s
recommendations. Oman made recommendations.
101. Pakistan acknowledged Bahrain’s efforts to fulfil the significant number of
commitments made during the first UPR. It was encouraged by the honest
acknowledgement of challenges and constraints faced. It noted the measures taken to
redress grievances, maintain public safety, public order and national security. Pakistan
welcomed the establishment of the BICI to investigate the events of February 2011 and
encouraged the Government of Bahrain to continue its dialogue with all stakeholders.
102. Palestine commended Bahrain’s report and the establishment of the BICI. It
commended Bahrain’s initiative to build the capacity of law enforcement officers. Palestine
made one recommendation.
103. The Philippines commended Bahrain for incorporating input from civil society
organizations along with relevant Government agencies in the national report. It welcomed
Bahrain’s achievement in drafting a new labour law. The Philippines made a
recommendation.
104. Poland thanked Bahrain for its constructive participation in the UPR process. Poland
was concerned at the trial of civilians before military courts and the harsh sentences
imposed on medical professionals and teachers, as well as the application of the death
penalty without due process. Poland made recommendations.
105. Bangladesh appreciated the engagement of Bahrain with the Commission of Inquiry
(BICI). It praised advancements made with regard to women’s rights and their
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