Bahrain's Political System: Democracy Or Not?

Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy ruled by the Sunni Muslim royal family, the Al Khalifa. While the country holds elections, these are largely deemed a state mechanism to preserve the status quo. The government has been accused of suppressing dissent and pursuing all forms of opposition, with protestors and political activists facing long sentences and torture in prisons. The last major opposition parties were dissolved in 2016 and 2017, and the only independent media outlet was closed in 2017. Bahrain has also been criticised for its treatment of prisoners, with human rights groups reporting inhumane conditions, torture, and the suppression of freedom of expression.

Bahrain's political isolation laws

The laws target activists and human rights defenders arrested during the 2011 pro-democracy and anti-government uprising, as well as former lawmakers and others who resigned or boycotted their elected posts to protest repressive government policies.

The laws have been used to prevent former opposition figures from running for office, with at least 12 people prohibited from standing for election in 2018. The laws have also made it difficult for civil society organizations to form boards and carry out their activities, with groups such as the Bahrain Human Rights Society, the Bahrain Women's Union, and the Bahraini Society for Resisting Normalization affected.

In addition to political and civil isolation, the Bahraini government also uses economic sanctions against opposition figures, denying them "Good Conduct Certificates". These certificates are required for citizens and residents to obtain employment, apply for university admission, or join a sports or social club. Former prisoners often wait months or years for the certificate, and some opposition figures are denied it outright, harming their ability to support themselves and their families.

The political isolation laws are part of a broader pattern of repression and human rights abuses in Bahrain, including arbitrary arrests, censorship, and restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and association.

The country's human rights record

Bahrain's human rights record is a contentious issue, with the country facing criticism from various international organisations and human rights groups. The country's human rights situation is especially concerning given its status as a constitutional monarchy with a history of political repression and instability.

Bahrain has been ruled by the Al Khalifa family since the late 1700s, and the current political system is largely dominated by the Sunni royal family, with the Shia population facing systematic discrimination and persecution. The country's Shia-Sunni divide is a prominent feature of its sociopolitical landscape, and the regime has been accused of using this divide to silence opposition.

Political Repression and Dissent

One of the most significant human rights concerns in Bahrain is the repression of political opposition and dissent. The government has effectively silenced political opposition through "political isolation laws", which bar members of opposition groups from running in elections or participating in civil organisations. The last major opposition parties, al-Wifaq and Wa'ad, were dissolved in 2016 and 2017, respectively, and independent media has been banned since 2017.

The government has also been accused of arresting, prosecuting, and harassing rights defenders, journalists, and opposition leaders, including for their social media activity. Bahrain denies access to independent rights monitors and the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture.

Freedom of Expression and Assembly

Bahrain's constitution provides for freedom of speech and assembly, but these rights are restricted in practice. The government limits freedom of expression and the press through prosecutions under libel, slander, and national security laws. Individuals who express critical opinions publicly or on social media often face repercussions, and the government has been known to monitor and intercept communications of activists, journalists, and human rights advocates.

The right to peaceful assembly is also restricted, with the anti-terrorism law prohibiting unlicensed gatherings of more than five people and the Ministry of Interior maintaining a ban on public demonstrations. Small-scale political demonstrations are generally allowed, but participants are careful to obscure their identities.

Prison and Detention Conditions

Prison and detention conditions in Bahrain have been described as harsh, with reports of physical abuse, inhumane treatment, and inadequate sanitary and medical care. There have been allegations of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment by government security officials.

Political Prisoners

There have been reports of political prisoners in Bahrain, including individuals convicted of organising illegal protests or expressing anti-monarchical sentiments. The government has been criticised for denying access to independent humanitarian organisations and for failing to address concerns regarding prison conditions and political prisoners.

Women's Rights and Gender-Based Violence

While Bahrain has taken some steps to expand women's economic and political rights, they remain severely underrepresented in government and business. The country has the oldest Political Empowerment Programme for women in the Gulf region, and women's participation rates in elections have increased over time. However, cultural and religious norms continue to restrict women's rights, and gender-based violence remains a concern.

Migrant Workers and Foreign Nationals

Bahrain's treatment of migrant workers and foreign nationals has also come under scrutiny. The country's kafala sponsorship system has been criticised for contributing to the socioeconomic exclusion of migrant workers, who make up a significant portion of the population.

Sectarian Tensions and Discrimination

Sectarian tensions between Shia and Sunni populations have shaped Bahrain's domestic politics, and the government has been accused of using these tensions to its advantage. Shia citizens face systemic discrimination and are underrepresented in government jobs. They also face restrictions on religious holidays and are frequently stripped of their citizenship.

International Response and Concerns

The international community, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, have expressed concern over Bahrain's human rights record. There have been calls for the country to advance criminal justice reforms and respect international human rights standards.

In summary, Bahrain's human rights record is a complex and contentious issue, with the country facing criticism on multiple fronts. The government has been accused of political repression, limiting freedom of expression and assembly, and failing to address concerns regarding prison conditions and political prisoners. While there have been some positive developments, particularly in women's rights and political participation, systemic discrimination and human rights violations persist.

The role of the Al Khalifa monarchy

The Al Khalifa monarchy, led by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, is the ruling family of Bahrain. The current king became the Emir of Bahrain in 1999 and proclaimed himself a constitutional monarch in 2002. The Al Khalifa family has ruled Bahrain since 1783, and the current king is a descendant of the first hakim of Bahrain, Ahmed ibn Muhammad ibn Khalifa.

The Al Khalifa monarchy holds significant power in Bahrain, with the king appointing the prime minister and presiding over the Council of Ministers. The monarchy also has strong ties to the country's military and security forces, with the Crown Prince, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, serving as Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The Al Khalifa family also leads several ministerial and governmental posts, including the Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Finance.

The Al Khalifa monarchy has faced criticism and allegations of human rights abuses, including the suppression of dissent and the targeting of opposition leaders, journalists, and human rights defenders. There have been reports of arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. The monarchy has also been accused of pursuing all forms of dissent, with protesters and political activists facing long sentences and torture in prisons.

In recent years, the Al Khalifa monarchy has taken steps towards economic development and social reform. However, the country's political system remains a hereditary monarchy, with limited political participation and representation for the Shia population, who make up a significant portion of Bahrain's population.

The impact of the 2011 Arab Spring

The 2011 Arab Spring had a significant impact on Bahrain, with the country experiencing mass anti-government protests that were met with violent suppression by security forces. Here is a detailed overview of the key effects of the Arab Spring on Bahrain:

Protests and Government Response:

On February 14, 2011, Bahrain witnessed its first "Day of Rage" protests, inspired by similar upheavals in Egypt and Tunisia. Activists from the country's Shia majority organized demonstrations through social media, protesting discrimination by the Sunni dynasty and demanding a new constitution and a democratically elected government. The police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets, and the clashes resulted in the deaths of two protesters. The focal point of the protests was Pearl Roundabout in Manama, which was later cleared by security forces, leading to more deaths and injuries.

Economic Impact:

The Arab Spring had a notable economic impact on Bahrain. The country lost over $2 billion, with a decrease in GDP and public finance. Public expenditure increased as the government attempted to improve living standards by providing financial compensation to families. Additionally, the unrest led to the cancellation of events like the Bahrain Grand Prix, which further affected the economy. Bahrain's economic openness decreased as other countries became reluctant to interact with them.

Political Repercussions:

The aftermath of the 2011 protests saw a crackdown on opposition groups and the imprisonment of dozens of accused protest leaders. Hundreds of Shia workers suspected of supporting the protests were fired, and dozens of Shia mosques were demolished. An independent investigation commissioned by the government concluded that excessive force and torture were used against protesters. Despite implementing some recommended reforms, the government further clamped down on dissent in subsequent years, including banning independent media outlets and imposing political isolation laws.

Regional Dynamics:

In March 2011, around 1,000 Saudi troops and 500 police officers from the United Arab Emirates were deployed to Bahrain at the ruling family's request to protect government facilities and maintain order. This intervention reflected the region's concern about the potential spread of the protest movement.

Long-Term Consequences:

The Arab Spring protests had lasting effects on Bahrain's sociopolitical landscape. The Shia-Sunni divide became more prominent, with the regime using it to silence Shia-dominated opposition. Bahraini Shia faced increased persecution and restrictions. Additionally, the signing of the Abraham Accords and the normalization of relations with Israel created another potential division between the ruling monarchy and its people.

The influence of religion on politics

Religion plays a significant role in shaping the sociopolitical landscape of Bahrain, a country with a Sunni Muslim royal family ruling over a population that is predominantly Shia Muslim. The constitution of Bahrain designates Islam as the official religion, with Sharia law serving as the principal source of legislation. While the constitution guarantees freedom of conscience and worship, the government has imposed certain limitations on these rights.

The government's recognition of Islam as the official religion has significant implications for the country's politics and governance. The influence of religion is evident in various aspects of Bahrain's political system:

• Electoral Politics: Bahrain's electoral politics are influenced by the religious divide, with Shia and Sunni Muslims constituting the majority of the population. This divide has been politically instrumentalized by the regime, often to silence Shia-dominated opposition. The country's two parliamentary chambers hold elections every four years, but these are largely deemed a mechanism to maintain the status quo.
• Political Parties and Societies: Bahrain's political landscape includes religious-based political parties and societies, which operate similarly to political parties and can conduct political activities. These groups must register with the Ministry of Justice and Islamic Affairs (MOJIA) and are subject to certain restrictions, such as obtaining licenses for religious gatherings and obtaining approval for the construction of places of worship.
• Representation in Government: The religious divide is reflected in the composition of Bahrain's government. While Shia Muslims make up a majority of the population, they are underrepresented in government jobs. The Sunni ruling family holds most government positions, and Sunnis are often favored for positions in the security forces, civil service, and military.
• Legislative Process: The influence of religion is also evident in the legislative process. The constitution provides for freedom of expression, but with the caveat that it should not infringe on "the fundamental beliefs of Islamic doctrine." The law prohibits anti-Islamic publications and mandates imprisonment for offending the state's official religion. Additionally, religious groups must register with the MOJIA and are subject to content restrictions on sermons and religious teachings.
• Citizenship and Naturalization: The government's citizenship and naturalization processes have been criticized for favoring Sunnis over Shias. Shia activists claim that the government recruits Sunnis from other countries for security forces and expedites their naturalization, while excluding Shia citizens from these opportunities.
• Foreign Policy: Bahrain's foreign policy decisions are also influenced by religious considerations. The country's normalization of relations with Israel, for example, has created tensions between the ruling monarchy and its predominantly Shia population, who have historically faced persecution and restrictions on religious holidays.
• Human Rights: The influence of religion on politics in Bahrain has had implications for human rights. The government has been accused of targeting Shia clerics and community members for arrest, detention, and questioning. Additionally, the country's laws and practices related to citizenship revocation and the treatment of prisoners have raised human rights concerns.

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