Al-Amn Magazine

SECURITY Regarding his recent attendance at the graduation ceremony for the project’s beneficiaries, he said it was a very moving event, and in his speech, the Minister explained the compassionate way in which the project is being run. “This is the first time such a project has been implemented in this region, and Bahrain must be commended for its regional leadership.» He expressed the United Kingdom’s support of this project and its appreciation for Bahrain. He explained that Bahrain is now establishing a center of excellence and the United Kingdom is proud to be a partner in it. «There is a very strong focus on risk- based rehabilitation and on giving beneficiaries a second chance. Bahrain is committed to ensuring their positive contribution to society, and the United Kingdom looks forward to cooperating more effectively with the justice systems.» Creative initiatives US Ambassador Stephen Bondy emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting reformative criminal justice approaches. He noted that Bahrain’s focus on rehabilitation, through programmes such as alternative sentencing and open prisons, demonstrates a firm commitment to reducing recidivism and promoting social reintegration. He explained that the United States supports Bahrain’s innovative initiatives in developing the penal system, such as the Alternative Sentencing and Procedures Law and the Ma’an programme, modeled after the American D.A.R.E. programme. He added that these efforts have made Bahrain safer and improved the future of youth and all citizens. He noted that Bahrain is emerging as a global leader in this field, and that the United States is working with the Bahraini government to strengthen this program. Bahrain, along with the United States and the United Kingdom, shares a shared long-term vision for security and crime prevention. He emphasized that Bahrain has made great strides in this area and believes that rehabilitation is more effective than imprisonment. «Everyone aspires to early release, and we are contributing to making this process more effective.» He added that the American Correctional Association has been part of this journey for a long time and will continue to do so. Bahrain joined the D.A.R.E. program in 2011, and cooperation continues to this day.” The association has worked closely with Bahrain since 2016, setting evidence-based standards in this field, exchanging ideas on solutions to challenges, achieving common goals, and expanding the scope of the program. He noted that the program looks forward to cooperating with the private sector and other civil and social organizations, which will help it develop and flourish. He praised the efforts of His Excellency the Minister and the growing cooperation between the two countries to continue developing Bahrain’s innovative justice system. Bahrain is a pioneer in achievements. His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Director General of the General Directorate for the Implementation of Verdicts and Alternative Penalties, said Bahrain has always been a pioneer under the leadership of His Majesty the King, may God protect him, and is moving forward with successful achievements and experiences, under the close supervision of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, may God protect him. Stephen Bondy