7.
7.1
Freedom of conscience and religious belief: Articles (2), (18) and (26)
Article (22) of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bahrain guarantees
the right to freedom of conscience and religious belief, which
stipulates that, “Freedom of conscience is absolute. The State
guarantees the inviolability of worship, and the freedom to perform
religious rites and hold religious parades and meetings in accordance
with the customs observed in the country.”
7.2
In compliance with the recommendation of the Bahrain Independent
Commission of Inquiry No. (1723 / B-2), which states: "To follow-up to
the statement of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa on the
reconstruction of some religious establishments by the Government's
in accordance with administrative regulations at the expense of the
State. The Commission welcomes considering this matter by the
Government as soon as possible.” The Government has implemented
the Royal directives in this regard, starting with the construction of
places of worship and correcting the conditions of the violating
establishments in accordance with the legal framework that preserves
the sanctity and status of these places. Moreover, the Government
directed the competent bodies to allocate a special budget for the
completion of this portfolio. The formal procedures for all the projects
have been completed in accordance with the timetable established in
this regard.
7.3
The NIHR appreciates the Royal Order issued by His Majesty King
Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the establishment of the King Hamad
International Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, which will reflect a
Parallel Report by the National Institution for Human Rights of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Human Rights Committee © 2018
42