Bahrain’s Hunger Strike Crisis: Urgent Actions Needed to Address Grievances

Bahrain: Urgent Actions Needed to Address Grievances Amid Hunger Strike Crisis

Introduction:

The Kingdom of Bahrain is currently facing a critical situation as hundreds of prisoners, including prominent human rights defenders, have embarked on a hunger strike to protest abysmal detention conditions and the denial of healthcare. The strike, which began on August 7, 2023, in Jau prison, the country’s largest prison, has seen more than 800 prisoners join in as of August 30. Human Rights Watch has called on Bahrain to urgently address these grievances and ensure that prisoners are treated humanely, as required under international law.

The Plight of Hunger Strikers:

Many of the prisoners on hunger strike are being held unjustly following trials riddled with rights violations. They have endured years of abuse and are now demanding better detention conditions, access to healthcare, an end to prolonged solitary confinement, more time outside their cells, and family visits without glass barriers, among other basic rights. The hunger strikers, including Abdulhadi al-Khawaja and Abduljalil al-Singace, have specifically highlighted the refusal of prison authorities to refer them to specialists and provide essential medicines.

Abdulhadi al-Khawaja, a prominent human rights defender and co-founder of the Gulf Center for Human Rights and the Bahrain Center for Human Rights, has been serving a life sentence since 2011. His life-threatening cardiac problems have been repeatedly ignored by Bahraini authorities, and his health has significantly deteriorated in recent months. An independent doctor consulting for his family has expressed concerns about his survival given his deteriorating condition, chronic health issues, and the potential for a fatal cardiac arrest.

Abduljalil al-Singace, a Bahraini academic and human rights defender, has also been serving a life sentence since 2011 for his role in the pro-democracy protests. Al-Singace’s health has been deteriorating, with diminished eyesight, arthritis, tremors, and prostate problems. He has been subjected to solitary confinement and denied adequate medical treatment.

Obligation to Treat Detainees Humanely:

Bahrain has an obligation under international law to treat all detainees with humanity and respect for their inherent dignity. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Mandela Rules, strictly prohibit inhumane treatment and require specialized treatment or referral to relevant facilities for prisoners who require it.

International Community’s Responsibility:

Human Rights Watch has urged the international community, especially states with close ties to Bahrain, to use their diplomatic standing to pressure Bahraini authorities into ending their abusive treatment of prisoners. The situation in Bahrain demands immediate attention and action to prevent further harm to the hunger strikers. With over 800 prisoners risking their lives, it is imperative that other countries do not remain silent.

Editorial and Advice:

The hunger strike crisis in Bahrain is a clear indication of the systemic violations of human rights that persist in the country. The Bahraini authorities must take urgent steps to address the grievances of the hunger strikers, release those unjustly detained, and treat all prisoners humanely. Denying access to healthcare and subjecting prisoners to inhumane conditions not only violates their basic rights but also undermines the credibility and reputation of Bahrain‘s justice system.

The international community, particularly countries that have close relationships with Bahrain, must utilize their influence to hold the Bahraini authorities accountable for their actions. Diplomatic pressure, public statements, and the threat of sanctions are some of the tools that can be employed to ensure that Bahrain complies with international obligations and respects the rights of its citizens.

Additionally, international human rights organizations, governments, and individuals should raise awareness about the hunger strike crisis in Bahrain. Activism, advocacy, and public pressure play crucial roles in drawing attention to human rights abuses and pressuring governments to take necessary action.

In conclusion, Bahrain‘s hunger strike crisis calls for immediate and concerted efforts to address the grievances of the prisoners and ensure their humane treatment. The international community must stand in solidarity with the hunger strikers and use all available means to bring an end to the abuse and injustice perpetrated by Bahraini authorities. It is only through such collective action that real change can be achieved and human rights upheld in Bahrain.

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