UN Experts Urge Action to Safeguard Rights of Prisoners in Bahrain’s Jau Prison

The experts expressed deep concern over allegations that since March 2024, prisoners protesting for better conditions have been subjected to severe mistreatment.

Independent human rights experts have called for urgent measures to protect the rights and well-being of prisoners in Jau prison, Bahrain, citing alarming reports of inhumane conditions that could have life-threatening consequences.

The experts expressed deep concern over allegations that since March 2024, prisoners protesting for better conditions have been subjected to severe mistreatment. Reports indicate that detainees in some sections of the prison are being denied essential medical care, regular access to adequate food, and safe drinking water.

"Particularly troubling are claims that authorities have cut off air conditioning, leaving prisoners exposed to extreme heat with temperatures soaring to 50°C," the experts warned. They emphasized that such conditions, compounded by restrictions on prisoners' movements and communication with their families, could amount to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

The experts stressed that these deteriorating conditions could have devastating effects on prisoners' health, especially for those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, kidney, or heart diseases. They called on the Bahraini government to ensure that all detainees have access to adequate healthcare, sufficient food, safe drinking water, and appropriate hygiene and ventilation, especially in the current context of extreme heat.

The experts also urged the government to enter into meaningful dialogue with prisoners and their families to address these concerns and restore humane conditions in Jau prison without delay. They have communicated these issues directly to the Bahraini authorities, emphasizing the government's duty to treat all detainees with dignity and respect.