Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The European Union and the Kingdom of Bahrain held their sixth dialogue on human rights in Manama yesterday. The two sides exchanged information on the latest developments in the European Union and Bahrain and agreed to continue an open and constructive dialogue to jointly address challenges related to the human rights situation and exchange experiences and best practices.

According to a statement issued in Brussels on Thursday evening, the dialogue covered a wide range of topics, such as freedom of expression and association, the rule of law, including the right to a fair trial and the death penalty, women's rights and gender equality, labor rights and freedom of religion or belief. Individual issues were also raised with Bahraini interlocutors.

The European Union commended Bahrain for its continued efforts in promoting interfaith dialogue and committed itself to continuing to support its efforts to promote an inclusive and open society. The European Union welcomed the adoption of the National Human Rights Action Plan, highlighting the importance of its full and speedy implementation. They also discussed cooperation in multilateral forums and preparations for the upcoming Universal Periodic Review of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The member states of the European Union present in Bahrain participated in the dialogue as observers. The Co-Chairs agreed to hold the next dialogue on human rights in Brussels in 2023. Bahrain reiterated its invitation to the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights to visit the country. The EEAS delegation visited the National Institute of Human Rights.