Human rights situation in Bahrain, notably the case of Nabeel Rajab
David Campbell Bannerman, author. – Mr President, here we go again: yet another motion attacking Bahrain – probably influenced by Iran, who claim Bahrain as their own and are intent on destabilising the whole Middle East.
Bahrain is a key ally of EU Member States. Our friendship is of vital importance in political and economic relations, energy and security. Bahrain is also of strategic interest to NATO, and the UK has opened a military base there staffed by 500 military personnel.
Whilst we should have an open and frank dialogue with our Bahraini friends on human rights, welcome reforms are taking place now. Over 8 000 police officers have received human rights training and also 100 members of the judiciary.
Furthermore, the independent Special Investigations Unit, which I have visited, now vigorously investigates any allegation of mistreatment, and this is the first of its kind in the Middle East.
On the matter of Mr Nabeel Rajab: he was found guilty of spreading false information designed to undermine national security, and he does continue to be afforded his full legal rights. It would be better to focus on extreme states such as Iran and the worst execution rate in the world.