His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain commended the Ministry of Interior for its success in implementing the alternative sentencing program, which is the first of its kind in the region. The King highlighted the commitment and efforts of constitutional and legislative bodies in developing criminal justice measures based on restorative justice and human rights principles. He thanked General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Interior Minister, and all officials involved in the initiative, which has gained international recognition. The King emphasized the importance of the program’s goals and directed for further development to expand opportunities for beneficiaries to benefit from it.
During a gathering at Sakhir Palace, HM the King congratulated the team for their successful efforts in providing beneficiaries with new opportunities for social reintegration and family stability. He welcomed attendees and praised the longstanding Bahraini tradition of such gatherings, which strengthen community ties. General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah expressed gratitude to HM the King for his support of the alternative sentencing law, which aims to embrace youth and provide them with opportunities for rehabilitation within their families, communities, and country. The minister highlighted the role of the Public Prosecution in coordinating between the police and the judiciary to ensure the success of the program.
General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah also highlighted the significant role of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in the success of the alternative sentencing program since its launch in 2018. The program has successfully reintegrated 7,458 beneficiaries with a compliance rate of 97.5%, which is one of the highest globally. The Interior Minister expressed gratitude to HM King Hamad for recognizing the efforts of the members of the General Directorate of Verdict Enforcement and Alternative Sentencing, praising their commitment and determination to serve their nation.
In his speech, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah emphasized that youth do not belong in prison and should be embraced by their families, communities, and country instead. He stated that the alternative sentencing law was guided by HM the King’s directives, leading to the formulation of required programs in partnership with other entities. The success of the program is attributed to the collaborative efforts of various agencies, including the police, judiciary, and the Public Prosecution, in implementing the alternative sentencing program effectively.
In conclusion, the alternative sentencing program in Bahrain has been praised for its unique approach to criminal justice based on restorative justice and human rights principles. The success of the program in reintegrating beneficiaries and achieving a high compliance rate has gained international recognition. The commitment and efforts of constitutional and legislative bodies, as well as the support of HM the King and other officials, have been instrumental in the success of the alternative sentencing program. Moving forward, there are plans to further develop the program and expand opportunities for beneficiaries to benefit from it, ensuring continued success in promoting social reintegration and family stability in Bahrain.
