New Report Says Bahrain “Trials” Violate International Law

A report released today by the Ved Nanda Center for International and Comparative Law found that the government of Bahrain is continuing to prosecute civil society leaders in violation of international law and the recommendations of a government-appointed human rights commission.  The trial of human rights attorney, Mohammad al-Tajer, is scheduled for February 7th while … Read more

Bahrain National Consensus Dialogue

Helen Clark meets King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa (courtesy of UNDP)

Like many countries in the Middle East, Bahrain is undergoing tensions and changes manifested in the “Arab Spring” uprisings.  Bahrain’s monarchy and citizens are engaged working to to determine the future shape of the country’s government through a dialogue centered on acceptable forms of government, citizen participation, and ways to sustain the country’s position as … Read more

U.S. Liability for Bahraini Human Rights Violations

Zaynab Alkhawaja, daughter of Bahraini human rights activist Abdulhadi Al Khawaja

If the U.S. approves the next shipment of arms to Bahrain, should it be liable for aiding and abetting violations of international law committed by Bahrain? The answer is clearly yes based on the precedent of the prosecution of former Liberian President Charles Taylor.  Taylor is awaiting a final judgment from the Special Court for … Read more