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Bahrain

Boundary Delimitation
Direct Democracy
Electoral Management
Electoral Systems
Legislative Framework
Media and Elections
Parties and Candidates
Vote Counting
Voter Education
Voting Operations
Voter Registration

Boundary Delimitation

BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?

a. Yes

Comments: The Kingdom of Bahrain shall be divided into a number of constituencies each consisting of a number of electoral districts. Each electoral district elects one candidate.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:55:44 UTC

BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:

a. The legislature (national/subnational)

Comments: A decree will be passed on defining the constituencies, electoral districts and their boundaries, and the number of sub-committees required to carry out the process of the elections and ballot counting.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:56:14 UTC

BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?

h. Not applicable

Comments: A decree will be passed on defining the constituencies, electoral districts and their boundaries, and the number of sub-committees required to carry out the process of the elections and ballot counting. There are no criteria for the boundaries drawn.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:57:00 UTC

BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?

g. Not applicable

Comments: No criteria mentioned.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:58:54 UTC

BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:

a. Legislature (specify chamber)

Comments: A decree will be passed on defining the constituencies, electoral districts and their boundaries. This decree which is announced by the King and the Council of Ministers is responsible for drawing the boundaries.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:59:17 UTC

BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?

m. Not applicable

Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:59:44 UTC

Direct Democracy

DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.

a. Name and Title: Riva Matar
b. Job Title: Researcher
c. Organisation: ANND
d. Contact Address. Ashrafieh, Beirut - Lebanon
e. Telephone: 03/ 48 47 78
g. Email: rivamatar@hotmail.com

Last updated: 2006-10-30 14:57:44 UTC

DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level? Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:

a. Mandatory referendum

b. Optional referendum

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 19:57:14 UTC

DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?

a. Constitutional

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 19:58:02 UTC

DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?

a. Constitutional

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 19:58:24 UTC

DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:00:54 UTC

DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:01:15 UTC

DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:01:48 UTC

DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.

a. Constitutional

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:02:13 UTC

DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.

a. Constitutional

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:02:41 UTC

DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:03:00 UTC

DD100 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:56:46 UTC

DD101 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:57:08 UTC

DD102 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?

d. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:57:28 UTC

DD103 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?

d. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:57:50 UTC

DD104 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?

d. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:58:10 UTC

DD105 Who is responsible for checking the signatures?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:58:39 UTC

DD106 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?

g. Not applicable

Comments: applicable only for elections
Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 14:57:47 UTC

DD107 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?

g. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 14:59:38 UTC

DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?

g. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:01:29 UTC

DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?

i. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:02:11 UTC

DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:03:22 UTC

DD110 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?

i. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:02:46 UTC

DD111 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?

i. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:03:11 UTC

DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?

h. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:03:40 UTC

DD113 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?

h. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:04:55 UTC

DD114 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?

h. Not applicable

Source: Electoral Law
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:05:12 UTC

DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:05:39 UTC

DD116 What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:05:59 UTC

DD117 What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:06:20 UTC

DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:06:48 UTC

DD119 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:08:43 UTC

DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:03:36 UTC

DD120 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:18:04 UTC

DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:18:25 UTC

DD122 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:18:48 UTC

DD123 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:19:06 UTC

DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?

a. not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:20:15 UTC

DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?

a. n

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2006-10-30 14:57:44 UTC

DD127 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-02 15:21:46 UTC

DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level? Date (yyyy)

a. Mandatory referendum 2002
b. Optional referendum 2002

Source: constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:04:08 UTC

DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)

a. Mandatory referendum 2002
b. Optional referendum 2002

Source: constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:04:36 UTC

DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?

e. Other (specify who)

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:05:19 UTC

DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?

b. No

Source: constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:05:44 UTC

DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:06:32 UTC

DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:07:01 UTC

DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:07:37 UTC

DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:07:59 UTC

DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:08:19 UTC

DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:08:54 UTC

DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes

Comments: The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published in the Official Gazette
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:09:18 UTC

DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:09:37 UTC

DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:09:52 UTC

DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:10:07 UTC

DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?

k. None

Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:10:54 UTC

DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?

k. None

Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:11:19 UTC

DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?

k. None

Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:11:45 UTC

DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?

e. None

Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:12:11 UTC

DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?

f. Other (specify)

Comments: The King
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:12:48 UTC

DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?

d. Legislature

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:13:16 UTC

DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?

d. Legislature

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:13:32 UTC

DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:14:03 UTC

DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:14:23 UTC

DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?

e. Other (specify who)

Comments: the king
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:15:02 UTC

DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?

e. Other (specify who)

Comments: the king
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:15:25 UTC

DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.

c. No quorum required X

Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:16:00 UTC

DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.

c. No quorom required X

Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:16:23 UTC

DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?

a. Simple majority (>50%)

Comments: The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:17:21 UTC

DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?

a. Simple majority (>50%)

Comments: The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of those who cast their votes
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:18:04 UTC

DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?

c. Never

Comments: The King has the final decision
Source: constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:19:34 UTC

DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?

c. Never

Comments: The King has the final decision
Source: constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:19:57 UTC

DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?

d. Not applicable

Comments: Fifteen members of the Consultative Council or the Chamber of Deputies are entitled to request proposing an amendment to the Constitution. Any member of the two chambers is entitled to propose laws. Each proposal shall be referred to the relevant committee in the chamber in which the proposal was made for an opinion. If the chamber sees fit to accept the proposal, it shall refer it to the Government to formulate it as a draft amendment of the Constitution or as a draft law and present it to the Chamber of Deputies during the same or succeeding period.
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:20:58 UTC

DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?

d. Not applicable

Comments: Fifteen members of the Consultative Council or the Chamber of Deputies are entitled to request proposing an amendment to the Constitution. Any member of the two chambers is entitled to propose laws. Each proposal shall be referred to the relevant committee in the chamber in which the proposal was made for an opinion. If the chamber sees fit to accept the proposal, it shall refer it to the Government to formulate it as a draft amendment of the Constitution or as a draft law and present it to the Chamber of Deputies during the same or succeeding period.
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:21:30 UTC

DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the “Comments” section below.

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:24:06 UTC

DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the “Comments” section below.

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:24:26 UTC

DD51 What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:24:46 UTC

DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?

f. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:25:15 UTC

DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?

f. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:25:36 UTC

DD54 Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?

h. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:26:05 UTC

DD55 Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?

e. None

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:26:38 UTC

DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:27:05 UTC

DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?

f. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:29:23 UTC

DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?

g. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:29:55 UTC

DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?

e. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:31:29 UTC

DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?

f. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:32:13 UTC

DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?

f. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:32:54 UTC

DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 92, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:33:16 UTC

DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?

k. Not applicable

Source: Article 33, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:33:39 UTC

DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?

a. not applicable

Source: Article 33, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:35:04 UTC

DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?

d. Not applicable

Source: Article 33, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:35:31 UTC

DD69 When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?

c. Not applicable

Source: Article 33, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:35:51 UTC

DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?

a. not applicable

Source: Article 33, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:36:17 UTC

DD71 Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?

c. Not applicable

Source: Article 33, Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:36:37 UTC

DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:37:29 UTC

DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:37:48 UTC

DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:38:11 UTC

DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:38:38 UTC

DD76 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:41:09 UTC

DD77 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:42:05 UTC

DD78 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:42:28 UTC

DD79 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:42:49 UTC

DD80 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:43:07 UTC

DD81 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:44:33 UTC

DD82 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:45:03 UTC

DD83 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:46:11 UTC

DD84 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a recall? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.

e. Not applicable X

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:47:11 UTC

DD85 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:48:04 UTC

DD87 Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:49:00 UTC

DD88 Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:49:40 UTC

DD89 Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:50:13 UTC

DD90 Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:51:16 UTC

DD91 Where can proposals for a recall be signed?

g. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:51:32 UTC

DD92 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:52:33 UTC

DD93 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:53:18 UTC

DD94 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:53:52 UTC

DD95 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:54:30 UTC

DD96 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?

e. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:55:00 UTC

DD97 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:55:23 UTC

DD98 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:55:42 UTC

DD99 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?

f. Not applicable

Source: Constitution
Last updated: 2005-05-01 20:56:18 UTC

Electoral Management

EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:

a. Name of Institution The Supreme Committee
b. Full Address Manama Bahrain.
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Arabic.

Comments: The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs heads a Supreme Committee to administer Referendums and Parliamentary Elections all over the Kingdom.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002. Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 18.
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:26:12 UTC

EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:

a. National level

Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 18.
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:27:34 UTC

EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:

b. The Prime Minister

Comments: As the head of the national electoral body is the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs and the ministers report to the Prime Minister so the national electoral body reports to the Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 2, part 1, article 47.
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:28:45 UTC

EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:

c. The legislature

Comments: The government prepares a draft of budget and expenditures then presents it to the legislative power consisting of the Chamber of Deputies and the Consultative Council.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 5, article 109.
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:29:29 UTC

EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:

c. The legislature

Comments: The government prepares a draft of budget and expenditures then presents it to the legislative power consisting of the Chamber of Deputies and the Consultative Council.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 5, article 109.
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:30:15 UTC

EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:

a. For the election period only

Comments: The national electoral management body and its committees and sub-committees exits for the election period only.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17 and 18.
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:30:58 UTC

EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:

d. Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment

Comments: The chairperson of the national electoral management body is the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs and the Ministers are all appointed by the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33(d).
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:32:00 UTC

EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?

a. Total number: 243,449 eligible voters

Source: www.bahrainbrief.com.bh/english/back-issue.htm
Last updated: 2004-07-22 18:32:56 UTC

Electoral Systems

ES01 How is the Head of State selected?

g. Inherited monarchy

Comments: The King is Head of State.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:19:09 UTC

ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?

e. Appointed

Comments: Appointed by the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33(d). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:19:36 UTC

ES03 Does the country have a president?

b. No

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 1, article 1 (b) and chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:20:12 UTC

ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):

b. Two chambers

Comments: The national legislature consists of two chambers: the Consultative Council and the Chamber of Deputies.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, article 51. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:20:50 UTC

ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?

d. Two-Round System

Comments: Elections for the Chamber of Deputies were held over two rounds for 40 single-member districts in which absolute majority(50+1) was required in the first round. The first round was on October 24 and the second on October 31, 2002.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 2, article 56. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 1, article 8. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:21:23 UTC

ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?

j. By appointment

Comments: The 40 members of the Consultative Shura Council are appointed and dismissed by a Royal Order from the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, article 1. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:22:12 UTC

ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?

h. Not applicable

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 1, article 1 (b) and chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:23:23 UTC

ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?

b. Specially delimited constituencies

Comments: The Kingdom of Bahrain shall be divided into a number of constituencies each consisting of a number of electoral districts. Each electoral district elects one candidate.
Source: Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:23:52 UTC

ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?

a. National level

Comments: The 40 members of the Consultative Council are appointed by the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:24:47 UTC

ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?

b. No

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 17, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:25:10 UTC

ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:

e. Not applicable x

Source: www.bahrainbrief.com.bh/english/sep-2002.htm Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:25:46 UTC

ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?

b. No

Comments: The 40 members of the Consultative Council are appointed by the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:26:42 UTC

ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:

e. Not applicable x

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:27:11 UTC

ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?

a. No minimum

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 27, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:27:46 UTC

ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:28:10 UTC

ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?

a. No minimum

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 27, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:28:41 UTC

ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:29:43 UTC

ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:

a. At fixed intervals (specify length)

Comments: The Chamber of Deputies is elected every 4 years and the King has the right to add 2 more years on the 4 years.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 2, article 58. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 1, article 10. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:30:28 UTC

ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:

a. At fixed intervals (specify length)

Comments: The Consultative Council is appointed by the King every 4 years.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 54- The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, article 2. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:31:09 UTC

ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):

a. Voting takes place on one day

Comments: The process of voting in the Elections will continue from 8 am to 6 pm, if in any district there are voters who have not cast their ballot then the process will continue in that district only. If all voters registered in the schedule have completed the process ahead of time then the chairman can declare the end of voting after the final voter casts his ballot.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 21, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:32:02 UTC

ES21 Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 52. Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 21:32:46 UTC

Legislative Framework

LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?

c. Decree

Source: Decree number 14, 2002. Exercising Political Rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?

a. January 2000 or later

Source: The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF03 The national electoral law covers:

a. National elections

d. Referendums

Comments: The national electoral law covers the referendums and the national elections for the Chamber of Deputies.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002. Exercising Political Rights,part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?

a. Voting is voluntary

Comments:
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 1; International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?

a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections

Comments: There are just the elections of the Chamber of Deputies. No other elections are held.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?

c. Not applicable

Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 1, article 1 (b) and chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a).
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?

c. Specially Appointed/Elected Electoral Tribunal

Comments: The chairmen of the committees appointed by the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs have the full power of any Judicial Authority with regards to the offences committed in their premises or are intended to be carried out in the location.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 4, article 35. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?

b. Ministry

Comments: The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs appoints the Chairmen and members of the committees as well as their locations.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?

a. Candidates

c. Voters

e. Other

Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 4. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF10 What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?

e. Special Electoral Tribunal

Comments: The chairmen of the committees appointed by the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs have the full power of any Judicial Authority with regards to the offences committed in their premises or are intended to be carried out in the location. The Law by Decree number 10 for the year 1973, regarding the election of the National Council is now rendered void and any other laws contravening the principles of this law are null.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002. Exercising Political Rights, part 4, article 35 and 36. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

LF11 Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?

f. Other

Comments: The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 15. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:51:27 UTC

Media and Elections

ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.

a. Name and Title: Riva Matar
b. Job Title: Researcher
c. Organisation: ANND
d. Contact Address: Ashrafieh Beirut - Lebanon
e. Telephone: 03/ 48 47 78
g. Email: rivamatar@hotmail.com

Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:45:02 UTC

ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?

b. Government owned

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda. Bahrain's domestic radio and television stations are state-run. Some homes have access to satellite TV channels
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/country_profiles/790690.stm#media
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME03 Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?

b. Government owned

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda. Bahrain's domestic radio and television stations are state-run. Some homes have access to satellite TV channels
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/country_profiles/790690.stm#media
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?

b. Government owned

c. Privately owned

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda. Bahrain's domestic radio and television stations are state-run. Some homes have access to satellite TV channels
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/country_profiles/790690.stm#media
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?

c. Competition exists between government newspaper and at least one private newspaper

Comments: Newspapers must obtain the approval of the information minister and the Cabinet before being allowed to publish. It is prohibited to criticize the king and Islam, insult the heads of Arab or Islamic countries, incite "sectarian hatred," or publish "false information" or any news that harms "national unity."
Source: http://www.cpj.org/attacks03/mideast03/bahrain.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:47:15 UTC

ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?

d. Not applicable: no private radio stations exist

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda.
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:48:40 UTC

ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?

d. Not applicable: no private television stations exist

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda.
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:50:04 UTC

ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?

e. Print media

Comments: Not fully independent. A new press law implemented by the government in October 2002 imposes harsh restrictions on the press, undermining the limited democracy that was introduced in this tiny Persian Gulf archipelago after elections that year.
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:52:24 UTC

ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?

a. a

Comments: There is a freedom access on information except on the following: a) Legal judgments issued by courts of various degrees & the translations thereof. b) Official documents such as texts of laws, Amiri decrees, administrative resolutions, international conventions, their translations, and various official documents. c) Publicly published or broadcast news. d) Works which are public property
Source: Articles 2, 3 and 4 of the Law Decree No. 10 for the year 1993 in respect of the Protection of Copyrights
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:52:57 UTC

ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster? Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)

a. T

Source: http://www.ijnet.org/FE_Article/MediaLaw.asp?UILang=1&CID=101580
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:10:54 UTC

ME14 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?

d. Not applicable: no private radio stations exist

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda.
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:49:23 UTC

ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?

d. Not applicable: no public radio stations exist

Comments: Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda.
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:47:47 UTC

ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?

a. a

Comments: The Law Decree No. 10 for the year 1993 in respect of the Protection of Copyrights Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda. The government continued to prohibit the publication or broadcast of information
Source: Articles 5, 6 and 7 of the Law Decree No. 10 for the year 1993 in respect of the Protection of Copyrights
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?

a. T

Source: Article 45, The Law Decree No. 10 for the year 1993 in respect of the Protection of Copyrights
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:10:54 UTC

ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?

a. Government

Comments: The Minister of Information shall issue the necessary resolutions for the implementation of this Law, and any provision in conflict therewith shall be repeated
Source: Article 45, The Law Decree No. 10 for the year 1993 in respect of the Protection of Copyrights
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:55:59 UTC

ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?

e. Government departments

Comments: The Minister of Information shall issue the necessary resolutions for the implementation of this Law, and any provision in conflict therewith shall be repeated
Source: Article 45, The Law Decree No. 10 for the year 1993 in respect of the Protection of Copyrights
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:57:15 UTC

ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?

a. a

Comments: The law includes an assortment of restrictions and stipulates fines, prison terms, or closure of publications for those that violate them. Newspapers must obtain the approval of the information minister and the Cabinet before being allowed to publish. It is prohibited to criticize the king and Islam, insult the heads of Arab or Islamic countries, incite "sectarian hatred," or publish "false information" or any news that harms "national unity." The information minister can keep both local and foreign publications out of the country if they are deemed to break the law, and he can also seek court-ordered closures of newspapers and refer journalists to court for prosecution.
Source: http://www.cpj.org/attacks03/mideast03/bahrain.html
Last updated: 2005-05-16 15:57:42 UTC

ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?

a. Yes

Comments: Authorities applied the law in at least three cases. In March, prosecutors charged editor Mansour al-Jamri and reporter Hussein Khalaf, both with the independent daily Al-Wasat, with violating a government-imposed media blackout surrounding the arrests of three alleged members of a terrorist cell. The journalists face up to six months in prison and a 1,000 dinar (US$2,650) fine if convicted, according to the papers lawyer. In September, Radhi al-Musawi, a member of the local political group National Democratic Action Society, was briefly detained and charged with defaming a government tourism agency employee. The employee had been accused of corruption in the groups newsletter, Al-Democrati. Editor-in-chief Anwar Abdul Rahman and reporter Mariam Ahmed, both of the Arabic daily Akhbar al-Khaleej, were tried on charges of defaming several judges of an Islamic religious court. The case came after their newspaper ran a report in May about a Bahraini woman who staged a hunger strike outside the Justice Ministry after losing custody of her two daughters in the court.
Source: http://www.cpj.org/attacks03/mideast03/bahrain.html
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME24 What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?

a. Law

Comments: It is a part of the Shura Council Law.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3 and Law by decree no. 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:10:54 UTC

ME25 Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?

c. Government

g. EMB by law or regulations

Comments: It is regulated by the Ministry of Justice and Islamic affairs with the cooperation of the ministry of Information. Freedom of speech and the press are sharply restricted. Privately-owned newspapers refrain from criticizing the regime, while radio and television are government-owned and offer only official propaganda.
Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/country_profiles/790690.stm#media
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME26 What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?

a. Placing limits on what the media may report about an election

b. Requiring balance in media news coverage of an election

c. Placing limits on when the media may report about an election

Comments: The 1979 Press Law forms the legal basis for control and censorship of the press. No newspaper can be issued without the authorization of the Ministry of the Interior following a decision by the Council of Ministers (Article 19). The Minister of Information has the power to examine any written material before and during printing and to ban the printing of any newspaper or other publication if the content of the material contradicts the provisions of the Press Law (Article 5).
Source: http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:01:55 UTC

ME27 Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?

a. Yes

Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3 and Law by decree no. 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:02:41 UTC

ME28 What form does the authority, if any, of the EMB to enforce remedies or sanctions against the media in case of breach of the rules on media coverage of elections take

a. Enforcement of a right of reply, correction or retraction

b. Administrative penalty

c. Other (specify)

Comments: The Minster of Information has the right to only ban the article. The Prime Minister may suspend the publication of a newspaper for up to two years or cancel its licence if it is proved to be serving the interests of a foreign country or opposing the interests of Bahrain.
Source: http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:04:06 UTC

ME30 What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?

a. Criminal prosecution

b. Administrative sanction

c. Other (specify)

Comments: The Minster of Information has the right to only ban the article. The Prime Minister may suspend the publication of a newspaper for up to two years or cancel its licence if it is proved to be serving the interests of a foreign country or opposing the interests of Bahrain. Any attempt to bypass the Ministry of Information can lead to withdrawal of press credentials and in the case of foreign journalists, expulsion
Source: http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:08:34 UTC

ME31 Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections? Please send us a copy.

b. No

Source: http://www.ijnet.org/FE_Article/codeethicslistsmall.asp?CountryID=791&UILang=1
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:09:05 UTC

ME33 Which body, if any, is responsible for regulating free or paid access of political parties or candidates to the media during election campaigns.

a. EMB

Comments: The election campaigns are free of charge and regulated by the EMB. Any candidate can campaign from the date the nominations are accepted as per the article 22 part 3 of the Law of the Shura Council and the parliament.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no. 14 for the year 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:11:29 UTC

ME34 Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable because political organizations are entirely prohibited, and those who attempt to establish them may be subjected to heavy penalties.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, organizing referendums and elections. Exercising political rights. http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME35 Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable because political organizations are entirely prohibited, and those who attempt to establish them may be subjected to heavy penalties.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, organizing referendums and elections. Exercising political rights. http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME36 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide political parties with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable because political organizations are entirely prohibited, and those who attempt to establish them may be subjected to heavy penalties.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, organizing referendums and elections. Exercising political rights. http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?

h. Not applicable

Comments: Not applicable because political organizations are entirely prohibited, and those who attempt to establish them may be subjected to heavy penalties.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, organizing referendums and elections. Exercising political rights http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?

b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising x

Comments: Not applicable because political organizations are entirely prohibited, and those who attempt to establish them may be subjected to heavy penalties.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, organizing referendums and elections. Exercising political rights http://www.article19.org/docimages/334.htm
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME39 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?

b. Government owned

Comments: The mass media is required to treat all candidates equally.
Source: Part 3, article 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:22:07 UTC

ME40 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?

b. Government owned

Comments: The mass media is required to treat all candidates equally.
Source: Part 3, article 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:22:42 UTC

ME41 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspaper provide individual candidates (legislative) with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?

b. Government owned

c. Privately owned

Comments: The mass media is required to treat all candidates equally.
Source: Part 3, article 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:22:13 UTC

ME42 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?

a. Equal regardless of size and previous performance

Comments: The mass media is required to treat all candidates equally.
Source: Part 3, article 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME48 Which of the following types of television stations provide presidential candidates with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: Chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. Chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME49 Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide presidential candidates with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: Chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. Chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME50 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?

h. Not applicable

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: Chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. Chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME51 Which of the following types of radio stations provide presidential candidates with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: Chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. Chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME52 Which of the following types of television stations provide presidential candidates with paid broadcast for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: Chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. Chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME53 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide presidential candidates with paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?

e. None

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME54 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?

i. Not applicable

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?

b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising x

Comments: Not applicable. The King is the Head of State by inherited monarchy. There are no presidential elections.
Source: chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002. chapter 1, article 1 (b) of The Constitution of Bahrain 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?

b. There are no laws in this regard x

Comments: The candidate is bound by the following during his election campaign: 1- to abide by the principles of the Constitution and respect the rule of law. 2- to respect the freedom of opinion of others 3- to maintain the National Unity and National Security and to avoid any action that will cause disunity or that will create factions between citizens 4- not to carry out any campaigning in Government Ministries and their administrative bodies and general organizations 5- not to interfere into the campaign of other candidates personally or by other intermediaries. Federations, societies, workers unions are prohibited in carrying out or participating in any campaign for any candidate 6- it is prohibited to organize and hold meetings for campaigns or to give speeches in places or worship, universities, educational institutes Government or private schools, public places roads or streets or buildings used by the ministries and their affiliates like general organizations and corporations. The election campaigns are free of charge.
Source: Part 3, articles 22 to 27 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?

a. ......... NA

Comments: The election campaigns are free of charge for all candidates and the mass media should cover them equally freely.
Source: Part 3 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:31:43 UTC

ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?

b. None x

Comments: The election campaigns are free of charge for all candidates and the mass media should cover them equally freely.
Source: Part 3 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?

c. No

Source: Part 3, articles 22 to 27 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:32:36 UTC

ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?

a. ......... N

Source: Part 3, articles 22 to 27 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002.
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:10:54 UTC

ME61 Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?

a. Person or agency that commissioned the opinion poll

c. Characteristics of the sample

d. Size of the sample

Source: http://www.arabo.com/links/,197,211,202,221,202,199,193,199,202/,200,225,199,207/,199,225,200,205,209,237,228/
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:36:10 UTC

ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?

g. Not applicable

Source: http://www.arabo.com/links/,197,211,202,221,202,199,193,199,202/,200,225,199,207/,199,225,200,205,209,237,228/
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:37:23 UTC

ME63 Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?

e. Other (specify)

Comments: Opinion polls are not taken manually. Through the internet
Source: http://www.arabo.com/links/,197,211,202,221,202,199,193,199,202/,200,225,199,207/,199,225,200,205,209,237,228/
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:39:19 UTC

ME64 If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?

d. Other (specify)

Comments: Opinion polls are not taken manually. Through the internet.
Source: http://www.arabo.com/links/,197,211,202,221,202,199,193,199,202/,200,225,199,207/,199,225,200,205,209,237,228/
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:40:00 UTC

ME65 When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?

c. After all polls close, after official results are available

Comments: The official results are announces by the chairman of the EMB and then they are announced through the official gazette and the media.
Source: Articles 28 and 29, part 3 of the Law by decree no. 14 for the year 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:41:19 UTC

ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?

b. No

Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:43:22 UTC

ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?

d. No one with full-time responsibility for media work

Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:44:52 UTC

ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?

g. Other (specify)

Comments: Each municipality will decide on the special locations where campaign posters, pictures and slogans are to be placed with each candidate given equal space.
Source: Article 23, Part 3 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:46:27 UTC

ME71 Which of the following types of radio stations, provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?

b. Government owned

Comments: All mass media will treat all candidates equally and free of charge.
Source: Part 3, articles 22 and 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:48:52 UTC

ME72 Which of the following television stations provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?

b. Government owned

Comments: All mass media will treat all candidates equally and free of charge.
Source: Part 3, articles 22 and 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:48:56 UTC

ME73 Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide free print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?

b. Government owned

c. Privately owned

Comments: All mass media will treat all candidates equally and free of charge.
Source: Part 3, articles 22 and 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:49:00 UTC

ME74 Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?

e. None

Source: Part 3, articles 22 and 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:50:00 UTC

ME75 Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?

e. None

Source: Part 3, articles 22 and 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:50:05 UTC

ME76 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?

e. None

Source: Part 3, articles 22 and 26 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:50:10 UTC

ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?

d. It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.

Source: Part 3 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Last updated: 2005-05-16 16:51:15 UTC

ME79 Overall, how effective do you judge the EMB’s ability to communicate through the media during election campaigns to be?

b. Quite effective

Comments: It is a dictatorship more than a communication between the governments EMB and the media.
Source: Part 3 of the Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights. http://www.freedomhouse.org/pfs99/reports.html http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/country_profiles/790690.stm#media
Last updated: 2006-05-08 17:17:42 UTC

Parties and Candidates

PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?

g. Not applicable

Comments: There are no parties that support candidates, most of the candidates have the backing of national societies after allowing them to support their candidates in elections and campaigning for them. The government has left the decision open to the new parliament as to how individual members want to organise themselves for future contests. The election of the members of the parliament will comply with the regulations of the individual candidate elections.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 1, article 9. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:45:14 UTC

PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?

g. Not applicable

Comments: The 40 members of the Consultative Council are appointed by the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, article 33 (f) and 52. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:45:57 UTC

PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?

a. Age

b. Citizenship

f. Registration

i. Minimum level of literacy

j. Other

Comments: A member of the Chamber 1 must: (a) The candidate should be a Bahraini enjoying full political and social rights. (b) The candidate's name must be on the list of nominees for the constituency the nominee represents. (c) The candidate's age must not be less than 30 years on the day of election. (d) The candidate should be able to read and write Arabic. (e) The candidate must not have been removed from a position on the Shura Council or the parliament by the order of the body he/she was a member of due to loss of trust or credibility or due to negligence of his duties as a member.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 2, article 57. Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 11. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:47:00 UTC

PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?

a. Age

b. Citizenship

f. Registration

i. Minimum level of literacy

Comments: A member of the Chamber 2 must: (a) The candidate should be a Bahraini citizen enjoying full political and civil rights. (b) The candidates' name should be on the list of nominations. (c) The person's age on the day of his appointment should not be less than 30 years. (d) The selected person must either be experienced and (or) one of those who have performed distinguished service(s) to the country in one of the following fields: members of the ruling family, former minister, those who have worked at the post of ambassadors and the ministers' plenipotentiary, former members of the judicial bodies, retired security officials, former senior government officials, senior scholars, businessmen and professionals, former members of the parliament, those who have exceptional popular trust and support.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 2, article 57. The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, article 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:47:34 UTC

PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?

k. Not applicable

Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:47:54 UTC

PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?

a. Current criminal incarceration

e. Offences against electoral law

g. Holding of government office

n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)

Comments: The nomination of ministers, judges, and public prosecutors to the parliament will not be accepted unless they resign from their posts prior to the nomination.
Source: Constitution 2002, part 1, article 3. Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, articles 17 and 18. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:48:18 UTC

PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?

o. Not applicable

Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:48:39 UTC

PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?

c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)

Comments: The Chamber 1 is the only part of constitution where there are elections done. Any person with the qualifications cited above in question PC 03 can be a candidate in the legislative elections in Chamber 1. Chamber 2 is appointed and the Head of State is The King so no presidential elections.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33(a) and section 2, articles 52, 53 and 56. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:49:11 UTC

PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?

b. Deposit requirement (specify)

Comments: Any person to be nominated for parliament must apply in writing on a special form to the supervisory committee for verification of polls and elections. He/she has to mention in this application the constituency s/he will represent.The form must not contain any irrelevant information otherwise it will be negated. The application form must be accompanied by a receipt for a cash deposit from the treasury of the Ministry of Justice and Islamic Affairs: which is non refundable, must be 200 Bahraini dinars which will be used to fund social activities.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 12. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:49:39 UTC

PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?

e. Not applicable

Comments: The 40 members of the Consultative Council are appointed by the King; and no registration is required, just to meet the qualifications cited above.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (f). Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, article 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:50:04 UTC

PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?

e. Not Applicable

Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 1, article 1 (b) and chapter 4, section 1, article 33(a). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:50:26 UTC

PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?

a. No

Comments: Candidates have to make their own financial arrangements.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued, by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:50:59 UTC

PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?

d. Not Applicable

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections. Exercising Political Rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:51:21 UTC

PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:

e. Not Applicable

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections. Exercising Political Rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:51:40 UTC

PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?

f. Not applicable

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections. Exercising Political Rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:52:00 UTC

PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?

e. Not Applicable

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections. Exercising Political Rights. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:52:25 UTC

PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?

a. Yes

Comments: Bahraini Election Reform, Bahrain - $600,000: Program assisted Bahraini political parties and civil society groups in preparing for the October 2002 legislative elections and will subsequently help train and prepare those elected to operate efficiently in the legislative process.
Source: http://www.useu.be/Categories/GlobalAffairs/Middle_East/July1503MEPIFactSheet.html Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:52:46 UTC

PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?

c. As related to the election period and between elections

Source: http://www.useu.be/Categories/GlobalAffairs/Middle_East/July1503MEPIFactSheet.html Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:53:06 UTC

PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?

j. Not applicable

Source: http://www.freedomhouse.org/research/freeworld/2002/countryratings/bahrain2.htm Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:53:29 UTC

PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?

j. Not applicable

Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002. Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, organizing referendums and elections. Exercising political rights. http://www.bahrainbrief.com.bh/english/sep-2002.htm Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:53:49 UTC

PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?

b. Regulated body specially created for this purpose

Comments: Special political program reforms.
Source: http://www.useu.be/Categories/GlobalAffairs/Middle_East/July1503MEPIFactSheet.html Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:54:11 UTC

Vote Counting

VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?

d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)

f. Same ballot papers used nationwide

Comments: The vote is carried out by ticking a prepared ballot card in a special voting room. The voter can not make more than one choice in the referendum or election. Votes that are conditional or marked more than once or marked on a paper other than the ballot card or a ballot card carrying a mark that indicates the identity of the voter will be disqualified and void.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, articles 23 and 26. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:54:48 UTC

VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?

s. Not applicable

Comments: The 40 members of the Consultative Council are appointed by the King.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 4, part 3, section 1, articles 33 (f) and 52. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:55:10 UTC

VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?

s. Not Applicable

Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 1, article 1 (b) and chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:55:32 UTC

VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?

a. At the polling stations

Comments: When the designated time for voting ends the chairman of every sub-committee will announce the end of the voting process after making sure every voter listed has cast his ballot, and register it in a report to be signed by the chairman and the general secretary so the committee can then begin the ballot counting at the polling station.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002,Exercising Political Rights, part 3, articles 24. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:55:55 UTC

VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?

b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box

l. Counted by hand

Comments: When the designated time for voting ends the chairman of every sub-committee will announce the end of the voting process after making sure every voter listed has cast his ballot, and register it in a report to be signed by the chairman and the general secretary so the committee can then begin the ballot counting.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued, by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 20. Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, articles 24. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:56:48 UTC

VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?

b. Sub-district level

Comments: The chairman of the sub-committee for the electoral district will announce the result of the election and the number of votes received by each candidate. The chairman and the secretary sign the register and the register along with the ballot papers are to be sent to the Supreme Election Committee, which will take over the task of announcing the final results and to inform the winners of their membership to the Parliament. The General Secretariat of the Parliament will after the announcement of the results issue certificates of membership to the winners.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:57:17 UTC

VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?

b. District level

Comments: The Kingdom of Bahrain shall be divided into a number of constituencies each consisting of a number of electoral districts. Each electoral district elects one candidate.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights. part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:57:45 UTC

VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?

a. Physically transported

Comments: The chairman of the sub-committee for the electoral district will announce the result of the election and the number of votes received by each candidate. The chairman and the secretary sign the register and the register along with the ballot papers are to be sent to the Supreme Election Committee, which will take over the task of announcing the final results and to inform the winners of their membership to the Parliament. The General Secretariat of the Parliament will after the announcement of the results issue certificates of membership to the winners.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:58:24 UTC

VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?

a. Ballots

f. Certificate of result

g. Ballot boxes

Comments: Register, ballot papers and sealed ballot boxes are to be sent to the Supreme Election Committee.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 20. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:58:54 UTC

VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?

h. Accompanied by police or other security personnel

Comments: Nothing is mentioned about security measures during transport.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 20. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:00:33 UTC

VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?

e. Court order

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:01:02 UTC

VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?

e. Not applicable

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued, by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:01:33 UTC

VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?

b. An individual candidate

Comments: Every candidate in an electorate has the right to contest in cassation the results of the elections in his constituency within 15 days from the date of announcement of the final election results. And if it was proven to the court then the court will review the documents.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:01:52 UTC

VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?

h. Courts

Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:02:11 UTC

VC15 Are preliminary results announced?

a. Yes

Comments: The chairman of the sub-committee for the electoral district will announce the result of the election and the number of votes received by each candidate.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 20. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:02:35 UTC

VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?

a. hours: X

Comments: After the closing of polls and the counting of ballots, preliminary results will be announced.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, section 2, part 2, article 20. Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:02:55 UTC

VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?

c. Not applicable

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, articles 28 and 29. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:03:22 UTC

VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)

a. hours:

Comments: The Supreme Election Committee announces the final results and informs the winners of their membership to Parliament.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, articles 28 and 29. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 23:03:40 UTC

Voter Education

VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?

h. Political parties/ candidates

i. Media

Comments: Candidates are free to organise their election campaigns in accordance with the law and the constitution, which means that each candidate must respect the freedom of opinion of others, adhere to sustaining national unity and must not interfere in the campaigns of other candidates. Every candidate will have equal space to hang election posters and banners. The law prohibits the holding of festivals or gatherings, or the distribution of gifts near ballot stations, as this will be considered an illegal approach to electors. Equality of media coverage is guaranteed for all candidates under the law.
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:12:20 UTC

VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?

b. Election time only

Comments: The final stage is the election campaign which culminates in the ballot itself on the Election Day.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:12:53 UTC

VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?

a. No

Comments: The election campaigns are the candidates' responsibility. Each candidate has its own way but according to the Law.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:13:24 UTC

VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?

a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns

b. Media advertisement

Comments: Every candidate will have equal space to hang election posters and banners. The law prohibits the holding of festivals or gatherings, or the distribution of gifts near ballot stations, as this will be considered an illegal approach to electors. Equality of media coverage is guaranteed for all candidates under the law.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament, issued by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:14:13 UTC

VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?

b. Media advertisement

Comments: There is no civic education activities carried out.
Source: Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued, by Decree no 14 for 2002, part 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:14:55 UTC

VE06 Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:

c. Women

Comments: The preparatory committee for the Womens Union, an NGO that works to promote womens rights, has prepared a programme to support female candidates, which includes media training for TV and press interviews, and workshops on the importance of womens political participation.
Source: http://www.bahrainbrief.com.bh/english/sep-2002.htm Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:17:24 UTC

Voting Operations

VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?

b. No

Comments: There is no code of conduct, however there are rules and regulations to be followed.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 4. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:32:04 UTC

VO03 Where can electors vote?

b. At any polling station in the same voting district

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 28. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:32:48 UTC

VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?

b. Citizens residing outside the country

c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)

Comments: Any citizen eligible voter registered in the voters schedule living abroad has the right to cast his vote in referendum or election in the normal procedure or through electronic means according to the directives of the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs. They can vote in the Embassies, Consulates, or Diplomatic Mission.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 25. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:33:40 UTC

VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?

a. Embassies

b. Consulates

e. By mail

f. Other

Comments: Any citizen registered in the voters schedule living abroad has the right to cast his vote in referendum or election in the normal procedure or through electronic means according to the directives of the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs. They can elect in the Embassies, Consulates, or Diplomatic Mission.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002. Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 25. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:35:44 UTC

VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?

a. No

Comments: The process of voting in the Elections will continue from 8 am to 6 pm, if in any district there are voters who have not cast their ballot then the process will continue in that district only. If all voters registered in the schedule have completed the process ahead of time then the chairman can declare the end of voting after the final voter casts his ballot.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:36:24 UTC

VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?

f. Not applicable

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:41:02 UTC

VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:

g. Not applicable

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:41:26 UTC

VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?

b. No

Comments: There is no maximum number in any polling station; when all voters registered in the scheduled has cast their ballots then the chairman can declare the end of voting after the final voter casts his ballot.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 24. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:41:44 UTC

VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?

b. No no maximum

Comments: There is no maximum number in any polling station; when all voters registered in the scheduled has cast their ballots then the chairman can declare the end of voting after the final voter casts his ballot.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 24. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:42:05 UTC

VO11 How do electors cast their votes?

a. By manually marking the ballot

Comments: The vote is carried out by ticking a prepared ballot in a special voting room.
Source: Law by Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 23. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:42:38 UTC

VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?

a. The smallest polling station: 3
b. The largest polling station: 3

Comments: In each polling station there is a sub-committee consisting of a chairman and 2 members.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:43:02 UTC

VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?

a. hours: no training mentioned

Source: Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:43:38 UTC

VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?

a. hours: no training mentioned

Source: Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:44:11 UTC

Voter Registration

VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?

f. 21

Comments: The citizen practicing his political rights should be 21 years of age on the day of referendum or election.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 2 (1). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:19:20 UTC

VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?

a. Citizenship

e. Other

Comments: The voter should be also of complete mental health. Besides, he/she should be a resident of the electoral district. In case he/she is living abroad, the last place of residence in the Kingdom will be his/her electoral district. If s/he has no residence in Bahrain then s/he follows the district of his/her immediate family.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 2 (2, 3). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:19:55 UTC

VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?

a. Criminal Incarceration

Comments: A person is prohibited from practicing political rights if s/he is sentenced for a crime or incarcerated, until s/he finishes her/his sentence.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 3. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:20:28 UTC

VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?

e. Other

Comments: In every electoral district a committee is to be appointed by the order of the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs called "The Elections and Referendums Supervisory Committee" comprising of the chairman from a judicial or legal body and two members, one of them takes the position of the secretary. This committee is authorized to prepare the voters' schedule, receive and sort the application for candidacy, prepare the candidates' schedules; to look into objections regarding the process, all in all the committee is in charge of ensuring the elections or referendums are sound and valid.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 7. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:22:16 UTC

VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?

a. National citizens register

Comments: The list is to be in alphabetical order based on the official documents in coordination with the Central Population Registration at the Central Statistics Organization.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 8 (1, 2, 3, 4). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:23:02 UTC

VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?

d. During the election period

Comments: The Elections and Referendums Supervisory Committee will be formed before every parliament ends its term.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 14. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:23:48 UTC

VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?

a. Links to national population records

Comments: The list is to be in alphabetical order based on the official documents in coordination with the Central Population Registration at the Central Statistics Organization.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 1, article 8 (1, 2, 3, 4). Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:24:40 UTC

VR08 Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?

a. Yes

Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 2, article 6. Updated on March 10, 2005
Last updated: 2005-03-30 22:27:49 UTC

VR09 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of registration supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?

a. Percentage: high percentage

Last updated: Thu, 27 Nov 2003 14:02:45 GMT

May 20, 2008 07:18 AM

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