Bahrain Torture Survivors Struggle with Long-Lasting Trauma

Bahrain (Washington Insider Magazine) – A new report by Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) reveals that political prisoners in Bahrain continue to suffer long-term psychological and social consequences due to torture and mistreatment during arrest, interrogation, and imprisonment.

Key Findings:

• Victims’ Trauma: Survivors report anxiety, depression, PTSD, and social withdrawal due to past abuse.
• Alleged Mistreatment: Detainees were reportedly beaten, sexually assaulted, and threatened during interrogations.
• Lack of Mental Health Care: Bahrain’s prisons allegedly deny medical treatment, worsening the victims’ conditions.
• Calls for Accountability: ADHRB urges impartial investigations, reparations, and psychological support for victims.

Background:

• Bahrain’s Crackdown: Since the 2011 pro-democracy protests, the Bahraini government has intensified repression of dissent.
• Media & Opposition Silenced: Independent media and opposition groups have been banned since 2017.

Global Criticism: Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned Bahrain for systematically marginalizing opposition voices.