Second Topic - The Right to Communicate with the Outside World Preface: 1. The right to communicate with the outside world is one of the most imperative minimum rights that must be recognized for persons whose freedom is restricted. This right contributes directly to supporting the mental health condition of the inmate and imparting reassurance and stability, which undoubtedly reflects on him/her and enhances his/her positive behavior. This can be achieved by granting the inmate the right to communicate with his/her family, friends, or those who are entitled to facilitate his/her daily life. The right to communicate with the outside world is an important element of social cohesion as well. 2. Given the importance of this right and its key role in the rehabilitation of inmates, this topic will be addressed in two requirements. The first requirement will be devoted to talking about international and national grounds related to the right to communicate with the outside world. The second requirement will highlight the NIHR’s efforts in protecting the right to communicate with the outside world, while the relevant recommendations will be presented in the third requirement. Requirement One torture and ill-treatment, as confirmed by several relevant international instruments, as well as the provisions of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the relevant national legislation. International and National Basis Pertaining to the Right to Communicate with the Outside World 1. The right to communicate with the outside world is one of the most important minimum rights that must be recognized for inmates. This right contributes directly to supporting the inmate’s mental health and serves to build his/her confidence and stability. It is achieved by granting the inmate the right to communicate with his/her family, friends, or whoever has the right to facilitate his/her daily affairs. It is an essential part of the social rehabilitation of the inmate and an important element to returning to his/her community. 3. Regarding international human rights instruments, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which the Kingdom of Bahrain acceded under Law No. (56) of 2006, affirms, in Paragraph (b) of Article No. (14), this right by saying that, “Everyone charged with a criminal offence shall be entitled to the following minimum guarantees, in full equality: (b) to have adequate time and facilities for the preparation of his defense and to communicate with counsel of his own choosing.” 2. The right to communicate with the outside world is also a basic guarantee that protects inmates from being subjected to violations such as 4. In addition, Paragraph (3-a/b) of Article No. (14) of the same Covenant stipulates that, “Everyone charged 69