On September 10, 2025, Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) delivered an intervention during the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. During the General Debate under Item 2, ADHRB highlighted the dangerous escalation of violations of religious freedoms, reflecting entrenched policies of sectarian discrimination against Shia citizens in Bahrain.
The 2025 Ashura season in Bahrain witnessed a dangerous escalation in violations of religious freedoms, reflecting entrenched policies of sectarian discrimination against Shia citizens. These actions undermine the right to freedom of religion and belief, guaranteed by the Bahraini Constitution and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The authorities launched the largest campaign in years, issuing over 60 summonses and arrests targeting preachers, eulogists, Ma’tam leaders, and even minors, for participating in religious gatherings. Security forces also raided more than 15 areas, forcibly removing models and Husaini banners, and desecrated historic Shia religious sites, including the Al-Khawaja Mosque in Manama.
The most serious incident occurred on 25 June in Duraz, when security personnel brutally assaulted Hasan AlAnfooz during a peaceful protest. He sustained a fractured skull and a cerebral hemorrhage, leaving him in a prolonged coma and unable to speak or walk. This took place amid total impunity and under an official justification that contradicts the facts on the ground.
Mr. President, this exposes the stark contrast between the government’s rhetoric— claiming the Ashura season passed successfully— and the reality of continued repression and sectarian targeting.
These violations call for immediate actions to safeguard religious freedoms and bring an end to Bahrain’s policy of impunity.
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