8. 8.1 Freedom of opinion, expression, peaceful assembly, and freedom of association: Articles (19), (21), (22), (25) and (26) The Constitution of the Kingdom of Bahrain guarantees the right to freedom of opinion and expression in Article No. (23), stipulating that: “Freedom of opinion and scientific research is guaranteed. Everyone has the right to express his opinion and publish it by word of mouth, in writing or otherwise under the rules and conditions laid down by law, provided that the fundamental beliefs of Islamic doctrine are not infringed, the unity of the people is not prejudiced, and discord or sectarianism is not aroused”. In addition, the Constitution, in Article No. (26) guarantees the enjoyment of the right to confidentiality. 8.2 Decree-Law No. (47) of 2002 on the Regulation of Press, Printing and Publishing deals with provisions related to printing, publishing, and regulation of the press; but, to date, no amendment has been issued on its provisions. 8.3 Law No. (51) of 2012 amending certain provisions of the Penal Code promulgated by Decree-Law No. (15) of 1976, revoked Article No. (134 bis), which criminalizes the broadcast of false news, statements or rumors abroad about the domestic conditions in the country. It further revoked Article No. (174) which criminalizes the making, possessing, and distribution, or posting of pictures that offend the country’s reputation, and amended Article No. (69 bis), which provides that the interpretation of the restrictions on the right to expression in the Penal Code or any other law is the necessary framework for a democratic society in accordance with the principles of the National Action Parallel Report by the National Institution for Human Rights of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Human Rights Committee © 2018 45