Bahrain is stepping up its efforts to combat crime by bringing in experts in sociology, psychology, and IT to work with the Ministry of Interior. This move comes in response to a government-backed proposal to improve crime prevention and rehabilitation. The government highlighted the importance of these disciplines in maintaining safety and security in society, noting that they already employ specialists in these areas. Additionally, efforts are being made to keep up with new technologies in fields like computer engineering and IT to address increasingly sophisticated crimes.
The government also emphasized its focus on information security, pointing to the establishment of the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security in 2004 and the National Cyber Security Centre in 2017 as significant steps in combating cyber threats. Upholding human rights is a key aspect of the government’s approach, with law enforcement officers and prosecutors receiving training to ensure human rights are respected in accordance with national laws and international agreements. The Ministry of Interior’s Community Police Directorate works with various groups in society to address new social issues and develop strategies for tackling emerging crimes.
The Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) is integrating advanced technology into government operations, with a focus on assessing emerging technologies and their potential use within administrative bodies to improve performance and effectiveness. The iGA is also developing ethical guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in the public sector to ensure responsible use, particularly in handling personal data. In terms of rehabilitation, the government is committed to reintegrating offenders into society through successful programs like alternative sentencing and open prisons, with specialists in psychology and social work providing crucial support in this area.
The government expressed its gratitude to the Council of Representatives for its involvement in these efforts, highlighting the collaboration between the government and the council in upholding human rights, improving public services, and refining the approach to public safety. By working together, both parties are able to address crime prevention and rehabilitation effectively, ensuring the safety and security of Bahraini society. This collaborative approach, combined with a focus on technology and human rights, demonstrates Bahrain’s commitment to tackling crime and enhancing public safety through expertise and innovation.
