Bahrain's National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) is considering a series of recommendations to strengthen its activities following a capacity assessment review with the APF.

The aim of the review was to determine the extent to which the NIHR had implemented the recommendations of a capacity assessment undertaken by the APF in 2017.

It also provided an opportunity to identify any challenges the NIHR has faced in implementing the recommendations and to recommend further actions to strengthen the institution's operations so it can continue to respond effectively to human rights issues in Bahrain.

Held virtually from 14-21 March 2021, the capacity assessment review was facilitated by Pip Dargan, APF Principal Adviser, Capacity Assessments and International Engagement and Rosslyn Noonan, APF Expert NHRI Consultant.

The review involved discussions with the NIHR Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary General and Commissioners, as well as unit heads and staff members. Consultations were also held with representatives of four government agencies and representatives of civil society.

"The review provided a valuable opportunity to capture the experience and insights of the NIHR commissioners and staff members, and to assess the progress that has been made since the last capacity assessment," said Ms Dargan.

The capacity assessment and review processes aim to support NHRIs to assess their institutional and internal capacities and their ability to effectively fulfil their mandate to promote and protect human rights at the national level.

Since 2008, the APF has facilitated capacity assessments with 21 APF member institutions and undertaken capacity assessment reviews with 6 APF members since 2015.