Pork In Bahrain: What's The Deal?

In 2016, Bahrain's government rejected a proposal to ban the import and sale of pork in the country. This decision was made despite the country's Muslim roots and the fact that lawmakers had attempted to ban the consumption of pork. The government's stance took into account the large number of non-Muslims living and working in Bahrain, with almost half of the population being foreigners. This decision was reaffirmed in 2015 when MP Abdullah Bin Howail called for a ban on the import, sale, and possession of pork products, arguing that it went against Islamic teachings. However, the Shura Council, the upper chamber of the bicameral parliament, disagreed and stated that a ban would violate the human rights of non-Muslims living in the kingdom. As a result, pork remains legal in Bahrain, and individuals can easily purchase it on the island or bring it into the country without restriction.

Pork is available in some supermarkets in Bahrain

Although Bahrain is a Muslim country, it has rejected proposals to ban the import and sale of pork. The Bahraini government has considered the large number of non-Muslims living and working in the country, almost half of the population, and decided that a ban on pork would violate their human rights.

Bahrain has firmly maintained its stance on allowing the sale of pork despite attempts by lawmakers to reverse this decision. In 2015, MP Abdullah Bin Howail proposed a complete ban on the import, sale, and possession of pork products, arguing that dealing with pork was against Islam and that Bahrain should enforce Sharia rulings. However, the Shura Council, the upper chamber of the bicameral parliament, voted against amendments to the Penal Code that would have criminalised dealing with pork.

Pork is not prohibited in Bahrain, and it is available in some supermarkets. It is also not restricted at customs entry points. However, it is recommended to buy pork from specific supermarkets, as some may have better quality and cleanliness than others.

Pork products can be purchased at Al-Jazeera Supermarket

In Bahrain, a Muslim country, the consumption of pork is a contentious issue. While lawmakers have made multiple attempts to ban the import, sale, and consumption of pork, the Bahraini government has consistently rejected these proposals. The government's stance takes into account the significant number of non-Muslims who live and work in the country, recognizing that banning pork would violate their human rights.

Al-Jazeera Supermarket is committed to providing a wide range of products to cater to the needs and preferences of its customers, which include both Muslims and non-Muslims. By offering pork products, the supermarket respects the government's decision to allow the sale of pork and ensures that those who consume it can do so within the country.

The supermarket chain understands the importance of providing a diverse range of options to satisfy the varying dietary needs and cultural backgrounds of its patrons. This inclusive approach to product offerings contributes to a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all residents and visitors to Bahrain, regardless of their religious beliefs or culinary traditions.

Al-Jazeera Supermarket's decision to stock pork products aligns with the Bahraini government's commitment to ensuring that the country remains a welcoming place for people of all faiths and backgrounds. By rejecting the proposal to ban pork, the government has prioritized the rights and needs of non-Muslims, and supermarkets like Al-Jazeera play a vital role in upholding this decision.

Bahrain rejected a proposal to ban the import and sale of pork

Bahrain Rejects Proposal to Ban the Import and Sale of Pork

Bahrain's government has rejected a proposal to ban the import and sale of pork in the country, citing the interests of the large number of non-Muslims who live and work in the country. The decision, reported by Gulf News, highlights the country's commitment to religious diversity and respect for human rights.

Religious Diversity in Bahrain

Bahrain, a Muslim-majority country ruled by a Sunni king, has a significant population of non-Muslims, with foreigners making up almost half of the total population. The government's decision to reject the ban took into consideration the diverse religious backgrounds of its residents and prioritized their rights to consume pork without restriction.

Sanitary Requirements and Checks

In its response to the proposal, the Bahraini government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all meat imported into the country, including pork, meets stringent sanitary requirements. The government stated that these checks are in place to protect the health and safety of its citizens and residents, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Previous Attempts to Ban Pork

This is not the first time lawmakers in Bahrain have attempted to ban the consumption of pork. In 2015, MP Abdullah Bin Howail proposed a blanket ban on the import, sale, and possession of pork products, arguing that it was against Islam and that Bahrain should adhere to Sharia rulings. However, the Shura Council, the upper chamber of the bicameral parliament, voted to dismiss amendments to the Penal Code that would have criminalized dealing with pork. Shura members emphasized that such a ban would violate the human rights of non-Muslims living in the kingdom.

A Firm Stance by the Government

Despite continued pressure from lawmakers, the Bahraini government has maintained a firm stance against banning the import and sale of pork. This decision reflects the country's recognition of the diverse needs and rights of its citizens and residents, choosing to prioritize inclusivity and respect for religious differences.

Bahrain's decision to not ban pork was influenced by the large number of non-Muslims in the country

However, the Bahraini government rejected this proposal, citing the significant population of non-Muslims in the country. Bahrain is home to a substantial number of foreigners, comprising almost half of the total population. Recognizing the diversity of its populace, the government asserted that a ban on pork would not be in the interest of the non-Muslim community.

The Shura Council, the upper chamber of the bicameral parliament, had previously voted to dismiss amendments to the Penal Code that would have criminalized dealing with pork. Shura members argued that such a ban would violate the human rights of non-Muslims living in the kingdom.

Bahrain's stance on allowing the sale of pork has remained firm despite continued attempts by lawmakers to implement a ban. The government has assured that all meat imported into the country, including pork, undergoes thorough checks to ensure compliance with sanitary requirements.

This decision reflects Bahrain's acknowledgment of the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds of its residents and its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of its non-Muslim population.

MP Abdullah Bin Howail called for a ban on the import, sale and possession of pork products in 2015

In 2015, MP Abdullah Bin Howail called for a ban on the import, sale, and possession of pork products in Bahrain. Howail argued that dealing with pork and related products went against Islam and that Bahrain, as a Muslim country, should enforce Sharia rulings.

Howail's proposal was made just three months after the Shura Council, the upper chamber of the bicameral parliament, voted to dismiss amendments to the Penal Code that would have criminalised dealing with pork. The Shura Council argued that banning pork would violate the human rights of the non-Muslims who lived in the kingdom. Bahrain is home to around 600,000 foreigners, making up slightly more than half of the total population.

The Bahraini government rejected Howail's proposal, citing the large number of non-Muslims in the country. They stated that all meat imported into Bahrain, including pork, met sanitary requirements. The government's stance to allow the sale of pork has been firm despite multiple attempts by lawmakers to reverse it.

Bahrain, a Muslim country ruled by a Sunni king, has faced multiple attempts by lawmakers to ban the consumption of pork. However, the government has consistently prioritised the interests of the significant non-Muslim population in the country.

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