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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Kingdom of Bahrain is divided into four governorates and each electoral area is divided into a number of constituencies. In total, there are 40 electoral constituencies.
The Capital Governorate consists of 10 constituencies, the Muharraq Governorate has eight constituencies, the Northern Governorate 12 and the South Governorate 10 constituencies.
Source: Decree No. 71 of 2014 on Electoral Constituencies: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-collection-of-electoral-laws-2014-in/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
i . No information available
Comments:
Source: Decree No. 71 of 2014 on Electoral Constituencies: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-collection-of-electoral-laws-2014-in/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments: No criteria mentioned.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002: Exercising Political Rights, part 3, art. 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
c . Executive
Comments: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries of constituencies in Bahrain is determined by a decree issued by the government.
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 No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, part 3, art. 17 (2):
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Decree No. 71 of 2014 on Electoral Constituencies: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-collection-of-electoral-laws-2014-in/view
Official Website of the Directorate of Election and Referendum - Electoral Constituency: http://www.vote.bh/En/Electoral%20Constituency?cms=iQRpheuphYtJ6pyXUGiNqiQQw2RhEtKe (2014).
Verified: 2024/11/25
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
m . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
g . Inherited monarchy
Comments: The King is the Head of state.
Source: Constitution, art. 33 (A): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The King appoints and dismisses the Prime Minister by Royal Order, and appoints and dismisses Ministers by Royal Decree as proposed by the Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution, art. 33 (D): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution, art. 33: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: The National Assembly consists of two Chambers: the Consultative Council and the Chamber of Deputies.
Source: Constitution, art. 51: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
d . Two-Round System
Comments: A member of the House of Representatives is elected by an absolute majority of valid votes cast in the election. If no candidate achieves this majority in a district, a runoff election is held between the two candidates with the highest number of votes. If there is a tie between the candidates, a draw will be conducted under the supervision of the head of the election committee to determine the winner.
The Chamber of Deputies comprises forty members elected by direct, secret general ballot in accordance with the provisions of the law.
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002, art. 20: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Constitution, art. 56: http://www.shura.bh/en/LegislativeResource/Constitution/Pages/Constitution05.aspx (2014).
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2002, chapter 1, article 1 (b) and chapter 4, section 1, article 33 (a).
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 17, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 27, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, part 3, article 27, organizing referendums and elections, exercising political rights.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, part 3, art. 17 (2):
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Decree No. 71 of 2014 on Electoral Constituencies: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-collection-of-electoral-laws-2014-in/view
The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002, art. 20: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: 2014 version
Source: Code of the Federated States of Micronesia (2014 edition): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/indexcode2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2006/11/17
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections d . Referendums
Comments:
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, part 3, art. 17 (2):
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Decree No. 71 of 2014 on Electoral Constituencies: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-collection-of-electoral-laws-2014-in/view
The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002, art. 20: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Citizens, both men and women, are entitled to participate in public affairs and may enjoy political rights, including the right to vote and to stand for elections, in accordance with this Constitution and the conditions and principles laid down by law. No citizen can be deprived of the right to vote or to nominate oneself for elections except by law.
Source: Constitution, article 1: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/17
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
b . EMB
Comments: The High Election Committee
Source: Decree No. 71 of 2014 Electoral Law article 103: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-collection-of-electoral-laws-2014-in/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
a . President
Comments: The President shall appoint one National Election Director with the advice and consent of the Congress.
Source: The National Elections Code, Title 9, Section 301(1): http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm (2021)
Verified: 2024/08/20
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters
Comments: Any person may file an oral or written complaint of any election irregularity with a member of the board of election present at the polling place.
A petition for recount may be filed by any candidate in an election who believes that there was fraud or error committed in the casting, canvassing, or return of the votes cast at said election. The petition shall be filed with the National Election Director.
Source: The National Election code, Title 9, Section 807: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch08.htm (2021);
The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 901 (1): http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch09.htm (2021)
Verified: 2024/08/20
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: The aggrieved candidate may, within five days after receipt of the decision of the National Election Director, appeal his case to the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 903: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch09.htm (2021)
Verified: 2024/08/20
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body e . Legislature
Comments: Proposals need to be ratified by the President. This seems to be a convention as there seems to be nothing in the law which legislates this.
Source: Burnell Edwards, FSM National Elections Director, interview at PIANZEA workshop April 2002
Verified: 2024/08/20
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments: The Ministry of Justice and Islamic Affairs heads a Supreme Committee to supervise the validity of referendums and parliamentary elections all over the kingdom and to look into all matters forwarded to it by the committees.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 18 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2004/07/22
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The Government prepares the draft budget, including the state revenues and expenses, and presents it to the Chamber of Deputies and the Consultative Council at least two months prior to the end of the fiscal year. Following the submission of the draft budget, the financial committees of either Chamber shall meet in a joint session to discuss the draft budget with the Government, following which each committee submits a separate report to its Chamber. The draft budget is presented to the Chamber of Deputies for discussion and then submitted to the Consultative Council for review in accordance with the constitution, and amendments to the draft budget are possible in agreement with the Government.
Source: Constitution, art. 109: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
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 Representatives and the Consultative Council.
Source: Constitution, art. 109: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
a . For the election period only
Comments: The Supreme Electoral Committee and its sub-committees exist for the election period only.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 17, 18: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
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).
Verified: 2004/07/22
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
a . Governmental
Comments: The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs heads a Supreme Committee to supervise the validity of referendums and parliamentary elections.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 17, 18: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: The Supreme Committee comprises a large number of judges and legal consultants appointed by the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 18: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: The Supreme Committee comprises a large number of judges and legal consultants appointed by the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs. The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs is the head of the Supreme Committee.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 18: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
c . Executive
Comments: The members of the Supreme Committee are appointed by the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 18: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Directorate of Elections and Referendum: http://www.vote.bh/
Verified: 2024/11/25
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Directorate of Elections and Referendum: http://www.vote.bh/
Verified: 2024/11/25
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Directorate of Elections and Referendum: http://www.vote.bh/
Verified: 2024/11/25
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
c . Women
Comments: The preparatory committee for the WomenÂ’s Union, an NGO that works to promote womenÂ’s rights, has prepared a programme to support female candidates, which includes media training for TV and press interviews, and workshops on the importance of womenÂ’s political participation.
Source: http://www.bahrainbrief.com.bh/english/sep-2002.htm
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
f . 21
Comments: Citizens should be 21 years old on the day of referendum or election.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 2 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence e . Other
Comments: 1. Should be 21 years of age of the day of election or referendum
2. Should be of complete mental health
3. Should be a resident of the electoral district according to the CPR. In case of living abroad, the last place of residence in the Kingdom will be his electoral district, if he has no residence in Bahrain then he follows the district of his immediate family.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 2 (2, 3):https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
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 and look into objections regarding the process.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 7: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Evey citizen eligible to vote must be listed in the voters' schedule.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 6: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: There are no political parties in Bahrain.
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration i . Minimum level of literacy j . Other
Comments: Candidacy for Membership in the House of Representatives
Article (11)
Without prejudice to the provisions established in the Law on the Exercise of Political Rights, a candidate for membership in the House of Representatives must meet the following conditions:
a. Must be Bahraini and have held Bahraini nationality for at least ten years. The candidate must not hold any other nationality, except for the nationality of one of the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), provided that Bahraini nationality remains the primary one, and the candidate enjoys full civil and political rights.
b. The candidate’s name must be listed in the electoral roll of the constituency in which they are running.
c. Must be at least thirty (30) full years old on the day of the election.
d. Must be proficient in reading and writing in Arabic.
e. Membership in the Shura Council or the House of Representatives must not have been revoked by a decision from the respective council due to loss of trust, credibility, or failure to fulfill membership duties. However, individuals whose membership was revoked may run for candidacy if the legislative term during which the revocation occurred has ended, or if the council that issued the revocation decides to nullify its effects on candidacy after the conclusion of the legislative session in which the revocation took place.
f. Membership in the House of Representatives must not have been terminated due to resignation during the same legislative term.
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002, art. 11: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Constitution, art. 57: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration j . Other
Comments: The president must be a member of congress for a 4 year term, be a citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia by birth, and a resident of the Federated States of Micronesia for at least 15 years.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia, Article 10, Section 4: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article10.htm (2021)
Verified: 2024/08/20
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention k . Mental health problems
Comments: To be eligible for election as a Member of the Congress, a person shall:
not be under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity, and not have been convicted of a felony by a State or National Court of the Federated States of Micronesia or its predecessor Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 2, Section 201: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2024/08/20
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention k . Mental health problems
Comments: To be eligible for election as a Member of the Congress, a person shall:
not be under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity, and not have been convicted of a felony by a State or National Court of the Federated States of Micronesia or its predecessor Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 2, Section 201: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2024/08/20
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: The President and Vice President may be elected only after the Congress is fully organized. To be eligible for the office of the President and Vice President, a Member must be a member of Congress for a four-year term and shall also have been a resident for at least 15 years and a Citizen by birth of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002, art. 11: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: A nomination paper shall have been filed in the office of the national election commissioner of the State concerned. There shall be deposited with the nomination paper a filing fee of $100. Any person is elected as a write-in candidate shall, after certification of the election results, pay a $100 fee and submit the affidavit, but not the petition, required by this section.
Source: FSMC, Title 9. National elections, Chapter 2 Section 202: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2024/11/25
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties.
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties.
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments: It is prohibited for any candidate to present, through their electoral campaign, gifts, donations, financial or in-kind assistance, or anything similar, or to promise such offerings to any natural or legal person, whether directly or indirectly through intermediaries. It is also prohibited for any person to request such gifts, donations, assistance, or promises from any candidate.
Furthermore, it is prohibited for the candidate to receive funds for their electoral campaign from any entity
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law 2002 article 25: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties
Source:
Verified: 2024/08/20
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/03/30
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2024/08/20
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . 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 No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 24: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
h . Courts
Comments:
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Organizing Referendums and Elections, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, articles 28 and 29.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
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
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME002
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
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#mediaÂ…Â…Â…
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME003
Question: Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
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#mediaÂ…Â…Â…
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME004
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
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#mediaÂ…Â…Â…
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME005
Question: Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME006
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME008
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME009
Question: In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME014
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME015
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME020
Question: Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME021
Question: Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME023
Question: Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
Answer:
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 paperÂ’s 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 groupÂ’s 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
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME024
Question: What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME025
Question: Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME026
Question: What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME027
Question: Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME028
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME030
Question: What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME031
Question: Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections? Please send us a copy.
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: http://www.ijnet.org/FE_Article/codeethicslistsmall.asp?CountryID=791&UILang=1
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME033
Question: Which body, if any, is responsible for regulating free or paid access of political parties or candidates to the media during election campaigns.
Answer:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME034
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME035
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME036
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide political parties with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: The election of members of the House of Representatives shall be conducted based on the individual electoral system.
All media outlets must ensure equal treatment of all candidates in their media coverage.
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law, art. 9, 26: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
ME039
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME040
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME041
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspaper provide individual candidates (legislative) with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME042
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME048
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide presidential candidates with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME049
Question: Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide presidential candidates with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME050
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME051
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide presidential candidates with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME052
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide presidential candidates with paid broadcast for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME053
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide presidential candidates with paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME054
Question: What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
d . No information available
Comments:
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Official Website of the Directorate of Election and Referendum:
Verified: 2024/11/25
ME061
Question: Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?
Answer(s):
a . Person or agency that commissioned the opinion poll c . Characteristics of the sample d . Size of the sample
Comments:
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/
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments: There are no specific legal provisions regulating the blackout period.
All electoral campaigning activities across the Kingdom must cease 24 hours before the scheduled start of the voting process.
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law, art. 27: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
ME063
Question: Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
Answer(s):
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/
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME064
Question: If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
Answer(s):
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/
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME065
Question: When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
Answer:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME066
Question: Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME067
Question: What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
Answer(s):
d . No one with full-time responsibility for media work
Comments:
Source: The Law of the Shura Council and the Parliament issued by Law by Decree no 14 for 2002, exercising political rights.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME069
Question: Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME071
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations, provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME072
Question: Which of the following television stations provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME073
Question: Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide free print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME074
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME075
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME076
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME077
Question: What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
Answer(s):
d . It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.
Comments:
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.
Verified: 2005/05/16
ME079
Question: Overall, how effective do you judge the EMB's ability to communicate through the media during election campaigns to be?
Answer:
b . Quite effective
Comments: It is a dictatorship more than a communication between the governmentÂ’s 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
Verified: 2006/05/08
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The Shura and Representatives Councils Law: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
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 the votes cast. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published on the Official Gazette.
Source: Constitution, art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution, art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
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 the votes cast. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published on the Official Gazette.
Source: Constitution, art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Only the King may submit a proposal
Source: Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD008
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD009
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD010
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD102
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD105
Question: Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD106
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: applicable only for elections
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD107
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD108
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD109
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD011
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD112
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD115
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD118
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD012
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD121
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD127
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/02
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 43 of Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments: not specified
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments: The King
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD035
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify who)
Comments: the king
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify who)
Comments: the king
Source: Article 43, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
c . Never
Comments: The King has the final decision
Source: constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
c . Never
Comments: The King has the final decision
Source: constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 92, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 33, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 33, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 33, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 33, Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD080
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD081
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD087
Question: Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD088
Question: Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD092
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD093
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD097
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD098
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution
Verified: 2005/05/01
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
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 the votes cast. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared, and it shall be published on the Official Gazette.
Source: Constitution, art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Constitution, art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source: Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
g . >2000
Comments: Introduced 2002 in Constitution.
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)" (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
Verified: 2009/08/21
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
g . >2000
Comments: Researcher states DD was introduced into the legal framework in 2002, however, the first referendum was held in 2001. Uncertain about validity of data provided by researcher. Very uncertain about the provision for the sub national level.
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)" (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
Verified: 2009/08/21
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
b . At any polling station in the same voting district
Comments:
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view (2014).
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
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 No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 25: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates
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 No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 25: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/03/30
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
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
Verified: 2005/03/30
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: The vote is carried out by ticking a prepared ballot in a special voting room.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 23: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 3
The largest polling station: 3
Average per polling station:
Source
Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified
2024/11/25
