Manama: His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has issued Edict (25) of 2026, which amends certain provisions of Edict (35) of 2023 concerning the establishment and formation of the National Human Rights Committee. This decision follows a proposal by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and subsequent approval by the Cabinet.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the amendments include renaming the "National Human Rights Committee" to the "International Human Rights Affairs Committee." This change will be reflected in the title of Edict (35) of 2023 and wherever the previous title appears within the edict's provisions.
The newly named International Human Rights Affairs Committee will be chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The committee will include a diverse membership, ranging from key government officials to representatives of various national bodies. Members include the Chief Executive of Government Hospitals, Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, and the Secretary-General of the Ombuds Office, among others. Their term will last three years, renewable for additional terms.
Edict (42) of 2024, which previously reconstituted the National Human Rights Committee, is repealed as part of this amendment. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with relevant authorities, is tasked with implementing the provisions of this edict. The changes are effective immediately upon issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.