Over 1,300 Beneficiaries of NIHR Programs and Activities During the First Half of 2026
Yasser Ghanim Shaheen, Secretary-General of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), affirmed the Institution’s continued efforts to promote a culture of human rights, build capacities, and enhance human rights and legal knowledge and skills among various segments of society. He noted that more than 1,300 people benefited from over 40 training and awareness programs and activities implemented during the first half of 2026. A total of 1,329 beneficiaries participated, comprising 624 males (47%) and 705 females (53%).
He explained that the activities included lectures, training programs, awareness sessions, and field visits, targeting university and school students, legal and human rights professionals, representatives of government entities and civil society organizations, as well as individuals interested in human rights issues.
Shaheen added that the Institution places particular emphasis on supporting university students and developing their knowledge and practical and research skills in the field of human rights through a number of programs and initiatives. These include the Legal Clinic and Human Rights Program, implemented in cooperation with the University of Bahrain, and the Human Rights Research Fellowship Program. These initiatives contribute to bridging academic knowledge and practical application while developing participants’ research, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
He further noted that the programs covered a wide range of topics, including human rights and fundamental freedoms; protection, monitoring, documentation, and complaint-handling mechanisms; the preparation of reports and legal opinions; practical skills development; and the use of artificial intelligence applications. They also introduced participants to the Institution’s role and facilitated the exchange of relevant expertise and practices.
The Secretary-General affirmed that these figures reflect the Institution’s commitment to expanding access to its programs and activities and strengthening partnerships with relevant entities and stakeholders, thereby contributing to the promotion of a culture of human rights and the development of national capacities.
He added that the Institution will continue, in the coming period, to develop its training and awareness programs, diversify their themes and target groups, and strengthen cooperation and partnerships with national, regional, and international entities. These efforts aim to keep pace with emerging developments in the field of human rights, facilitate the exchange of expertise and best practices, and further strengthen the human rights framework.
