E/C.12/BHR/CO/1

Bahrain (CESCR 03-08-2022)

The Committee considered the initial report of Bahrain at its 18th, 19th and 20th meetings, held on 24 and 25 February 2022, and adopted the present concluding observations at its 30th meeting, held on 4 March 2022.

Concluding observations

C. Principal subjects of concern and recommendations

Non-discrimination

14. 15. The Committee is concerned that:

(a) While the constitutional and legislative framework of the State party contains anti-discrimination provisions, there is no comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation and policy framework, and the prevalence of widespread discrimination in practice, stigmatization and negative stereotypes hinder the access of certain individuals and groups, such as persons with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, to economic, social and cultural rights (art. 2 (2));

14. While noting that there is no provision in law that is directly discriminatory, the Committee recommends that the State party:                                     

(a) Adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation and a policy framework aimed at ensuring equality and addressing direct, indirect, multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination on any ground;

(e) Take all measures necessary to eliminate negative stereotypes and stigmatization of members of marginalized groups, such as persons with disabilities, persons living with HIV, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and refugees, including through awareness-raising campaigns for the public, health-care providers, teachers, social workers and law enforcement and other public officials;