Statement by the Child Rights Commissioner on the International Day of the Girl Child
Dr. Maha Al Shehab, Child Rights Commissioner at the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain continues to attach great importance to protecting and promoting children's rights through the development of a legislative and institutional framework that safeguards their dignity and upholds their best interests. She noted that the enactment of the Restorative Justice Law for Children and Their Protection from Maltreatment represents a significant milestone in advancing children's rights, as it establishes an approach grounded in restorative justice and legal protection, in line with relevant international standards.
Her remarks came on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on 11 October. She emphasized that this occasion provides an opportunity to renew commitments to girls' rights, highlight the challenges they may face, and underscore the importance of empowering them to enjoy their rights on an equal basis, develop their capabilities, and fulfil their aspirations in a safe and supportive environment.
She further stressed the importance of continuously strengthening the child protection framework through coordinated efforts and complementary roles among relevant authorities, families, educational, healthcare and social institutions, and civil society organizations. Such cooperation contributes to preventing all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation and discrimination, while raising awareness of children's rights, with particular emphasis on protecting girls and ensuring their full enjoyment of their rights without discrimination.
Dr. Al Shehab explained that the establishment of the position of Child Rights Commissioner at NIHR represents an important institutional step towards placing greater emphasis on children's rights within the Institution's mandate. She reaffirmed NIHR's continued independent role in promoting human rights awareness, monitoring challenges that hinder the enjoyment of these rights, providing relevant recommendations, and cooperating with concerned authorities to strengthen the child protection framework in accordance with national legislation and international human rights standards.
