Executive Summary This report tracks the escalating violations related to Ashura rituals in Bahrain from May to the end of June 2026. It documents a growing pattern of security and administrative restrictions targeting the Shia community’s freedom of religion and belief during preparations for the month of Muharram and the Ashura season. The information is[…]
19
Jun
Jun
The 2026 Ashura season is witnessing a serious increase in restrictions and violations against the religious rituals of the Shia community in Bahrain. This is a continuation of restrictive policies from previous years, marked by security and administrative interference in the practice of rituals and the expression of religious and cultural identity. Contrary to what[…]
08
Jun
Jun
Introduction Since May 2026, Bahrain has been waging an unprecedented crackdown on its Shia citizens, manifested through a wave of raids, citizenship revocations, and mass arrests targeting dozens of preachers, religious reciters (rawadid), activists, and clerics. The number of detained clerics has reached 53. This is unfolding against a backdrop of acute regional tensions linked[…]
19
Mar
Mar
On 17 March 2026, Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) delivered an intervention during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, under the General Debate. The organization highlighted the ongoing and escalating religious persecution faced by the Shia community in Bahrain, particularly during religious occasions, through increasing restrictions on[…]
11
Sep
Sep
On September 10, 2025, Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) delivered an intervention during the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. During the General Debate under Item 2, ADHRB highlighted the dangerous escalation of violations of religious freedoms, reflecting entrenched policies of sectarian discrimination against Shia citizens in Bahrain.[…]
