Statement by the Chairperson of NIHR on the Sixteenth Anniversary of its Establishment
On the occasion of the sixteenth anniversary of the establishment of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), Eng. Ali Ahmed Alderazi, Chairperson of the Institution, affirmed that the progress achieved in the human rights field during this period is the result of continuous and integrated efforts, and institutional work based on professionalism and independence, aimed at promoting the human rights framework in the Kingdom of Bahrain and consolidating the principles of justice and equality in accordance with internationally recognized standards.
Alderazi stated: “The establishment of the NIHR on 10 November 2009 was the result of a noble initiative by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, may God protect him. It constituted an important milestone in the process of promoting and protecting human rights in the Kingdom. The support and special attention His Majesty continues to provide has enabled the Institution to carry out its responsibilities with independence and accountability, and to strengthen the national partnership approach in disseminating a culture of human rights and protecting rights and freedoms for all.”
He also valued the constructive cooperation with the esteemed Government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, which has played an active role in enabling the Institution to implement its initiatives and enhance its capacity to achieve its national objectives.
Alderazi explained that over the past sixteen years, the Institution has continued to strengthen its institutional presence through receiving complaints, monitoring the human rights situation, and conducting field visits, in addition to providing proposals and advice on relevant national legislation and public policies. The Institution has also worked to promote human rights awareness through specialized training and outreach programs and by building partnerships with academic and community institutions, contributing to the establishment of sustainable awareness of the importance of respecting rights and freedoms.
