BPA-2019-Report-En-Final-01.Pdf

Bahrain in 2019... A Cybercrime Syndrome

The tenth annual report Freedom of press in Bahrain 2019

Organization concerned with defending freedom of expression in Bahrain Founded in London 9th July 2011

All Rights Received E-mail: [email protected] website: www.bahrainpa.org

Special Thanks to the National Endowment for Democracy for the continuous support @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 03 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Bahrainis’ exercise of their natural right to expression has become an electronic crime Introduction cases that constitute violations of the press and public freedoms such as to criminalized is it instance, unprecedented an In expression. of right the Twitter accounts thatpostsor the of ‘retweet’ authorities‘follow’ consider “provocative and seditious.” As such, Bahrain country in the world to take such action. has become the only February 2011 amounted to a total of 1,595. Violations included killing amounted to a total of 1,595. Violations February 2011 and arrests, torture and ill-treatment, trials, defamation, obstructionwork, and promoting discriminatory-both political and sectarian-policies, of and inciting hatred and violence In some cases. The Bahrain Press Association has, over the past year, documented 68 Repercussions of this policy were not only limited to those considered by the state to be activists or political and human rights advocates but also included affiliated journalists with and pro-state activists groups. Towards the end of 2019, the violations that Bahrain witnessed since the past year. Through this policy, the state seeks Through to this tighten policy, the its past year. grip on the cyberspace after had taken absolute control of the local on the one hand, and banning press of political all forms association on the other. that, always and forever, aims to spread false news, split the unity national line, provoke sedition, threaten civil peace fabric, and to destabilize security in Bahrain. and social These charges have been replicated in all investigation, cases and of judicial arrest, trials that affected Bahrainis over security crisis in early 2011. security crisis in early 2011. Association, Press Bahrain the of report annual tenth the of name very The Bahrain 2019: a Cybercrime Syndrome, indicates the security authorities’ a as expression of freedom of practice healthy any of vision frantic overtly cybercrime a is policies its and state the about opinions Expressing crime. The year 2019 marked a milestone at the level of the Bahraini authorities Bahraini the of level the at milestone a marked 2019 year The targeting of media expression,freedoms, freedom of and the right to engage in journalistic work. It is one of the worst years when compared to all previous years, specifically since the beginning of the political and @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 04 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime 19 Thus, the public sphere was completely locked down and Unit. Cybercrime Interior’s of Ministry the to over handed The Unit is devoted to reading tweeters and journalists’ whispers, interpreting utterances, and summoning their definition now includes “anyone who, bypromotes, any means, glorifies, justifies,actions favors, that constitute terrorist activities.” the The Bahraini Paradoxically, or encourages broader. even is interpretation judiciary Council of Representatives, whose role is safeguarding the penal authorities freedoms, has been competing with in turning againstTweeters and journalists and issuing statements demanding their accountability. 20 also documented 51 cases of interrogation and detention of religious singers during Ashura processions. Tweeters Tweeters have criticized the suffering freedom in the country. Among the violations documented this past year were 21 trials against journalists and Tweeters, of whom onlyinterrogation cases, one 9 has arrests, and been acquitted. 16 22 threats and obstructionincidents were of work documented. Moreover, Bahrain Press Association has state. state. The expanding discontent was clearly evident in the among social sectors affiliated with the state itself. Indeed, muzzling and dissident voices stifled freedoms reached unbearable levels. Pro-government writers and them for interrogation or arresting them for trials. It was a brutal year during which Bahrain turned into a perilous police state. The construction of the wall of fear was completed, and the media sphere was left muted, leaving only one dominant voice--the voice of the severe penalties under both the penalty code and the Anti-terrorism Law. Anti-terrorism the and code penalty the both under penalties severe amended state the apparatus, security its through repression more Adding the Anti-terrorism Law to expand its scope of targeting dissidents. The it the foundation it the foundation of total elimination expression of freedom of and press freedoms. Association The believes that the passage of this bill is a full- fledged crime, especially that the many under media the places also It press. the of of freedom the on restriction the articles impose a flagrant fire of the government, and leaves journalists unprotected, vulnerableto About 25% of the journalists, articles and the agencies they of work for, may face. About 20 the articles new were dedicated to regulating trials and penalties, which range from hefty law stipulate penalties that fines to the imprisonment of journalists. After reviewing this draft bill, the Bahrain Press Association considered On 27 October 2019, the Cabinet started discussing a bill draft regulating regulating draft bill a discussing started Cabinet the 2019, October 27 On approval. its after parliament the to submitted be to media, and press the freedoms during the year 2019 68 violations of freedom of expression and press @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 05 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Threats and obstruction of work Threats and posts.” On 30 May 2019, the Ministry circulated SMSs to all registered Bahraini numbers threatening anyone who follows what it called “pro- terrorist accounts” to face legal proceedings. The Ministry of the Interior Law, expanding the scope of targeting and persecution of social media Law, activists. and citizens threatened 2019) May (22 Interior the of Ministry Bahraini The residents for merely “following” Twitter accounts the Ministry considers “inflammatory and seditious,” and more severely “retweeting any of their division and spreading false news. It also threatened to take legal action against him. The statement referenced ‘Tweets’ thatabout posed questions the Prime Minister’s position and scenarios of disqualifying him. On 22 May 2019, the King ratified an amendment to the Anti-terrorism activist Hassan Abdulnabi of running The account is known for publishing leaks about wing the ‘Na’ibTa’ib’ account on ‘Twitter.’ (repentant MP) conflicts inside the Bahraini rulingfamily. On 21 May 2019, the Ministry of Interior issuedthe a statementhead of accusing the Bahrain Press Association, Adel Marzooq, of promoting The Civil Service Bureau (1 May of 2019) meetings announced with the the organization Media Affairs Committeesocial concerningregulations on public sector employees their use of to impose disciplinary media. The Bahraini Ministry of the Interior issued a statement (19 May cyber- and al-Mohafaza Yousuf activist rights human both accusing 2019) “insulting the Bahraini army participating officials, state in on the calling Yemen statement war”. a signed MPs (13 Bahraini April Thirty-five 2019) especially those in charge of judicial institutions, “to assume their role in holding accountable those who violate the law, threaten civil peace and spread lies and fabricated news on social media.” society (WAAD). The Foreign Affairs, Defense and National Security CommitteeBahraini of the Council of Representatives (11 April 2019) criticized El-Sheikh, Ibrahim a writer in Akhbar Al Khaleej newspaper. for what it claimed The Ministry of Justice and Islamic Affairs March(7 2019) did not allow a colloquium at the headquarters of the National Assembly Association. the in uprising 1965 ‘March titled colloquium, the considered Ministry The national memory’ against the law as the guest speaker (Ibrahim Kamal al-Din) was a former leader in the dissolved National democratic action @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 06 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime 19 Royal House, posted on her social media account (6 July 2019) describing those who participated in Al-Jazeera’s documentary ‘Bahrain: Playing with Fire’ as “traitors.” On 22 “supreme July, orders” banned the weekly column of the writer Ibrahim Al-Sheikh newspaper. It in has ‘Akhbar been Al-Khaleej’ stopped untilreport. Photographer the Musa Abdali time (26 July) They was London. in of this beaten staff embassy Bahraini the by tortured and also put a wet shirt in his mouth and hands tied his behind The threats by Prince Nasser bin Hamad Al The Khalifa threats on by his Prince Nasser bin Hamad account on ‘Instagram’ (2 July 2019) led to the removal of the head of the sports section in the Ayyam’ newspaper Aqeel ‘Al- al-Sayyid and the suspension journalist of Abdullah sports Al-Babtain fromafter the work. newspaper published a poll That came that sports sector’s of dissatisfaction with the performance revealed the the Minister of Youth and Sports Affairs Ayman Tawfeeq Al-Moayyed. Maha Al-Khalifa, a member of the Bahraini (1 June 2019) issued a statement renewingto its citizens threats that “retweeting what the seditious accounts inflammatory post or and showing support or applause by commenting on their seditious the content expose individual to legal accountability.” 20 political association.” Affairs of the Ministryseminar in the headquarters of the of National Assembly Association. The Justice (22 Department claimed that the topic ‘The Future of the Gulf Cooperation December 2019) canceled a Council’ “touches on the internal affairs of other countries.” In addition, dissolved a of member a “was Saleh, Ali journalist renowned speaker, the of the ‘Voice of Manama’ news platform, The explanation. any providing without Al-Fardan Hani whose journalist Bahraini editor-in-chief is the Bahrain International Airport security authorities (15 November) denied access to the American journalist Matthew Cassel and deported him on a plane to another destination. The Department of Associations Political back after his sit-in on the roof of the embassy to protest the authorities’ intention to carry out two death sentences against dissidents. The Information Affairs Authority (August 2019) suspended the website for pursuing media professionals and activists. of the society as justifications peaceful coexistence among the components manipulated manipulated supreme meanings such as The state has The state @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 07 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association (3 February 2019) a broadcaster Bahraini of court fined Bahrain for compensation thecivil a as dinars thousand two Shurouqi), TV, Mohammed former Al-Bishri (Al- insulting former MP Mohammed Khaled on social media. A local court (21 February 2019) sentenced an unnamed ‘Tweeter’ to one year over charges regime.” the of hatred inciting and media, social on of figures “insulting Saudi The first-instance court (13 Marc 2019) sentenced the The third-instance (minor) criminal sentenced an unnamed suspect to three months with court (7 January) immediate effect for “offensivelyMinistry tweeting of Interior against on his social the media account.”January On 16 2019, a Bahraini court sentenced the former MP Al of Wifaq Ali bloc al-Ashiri to one month in prison and a fine of 500 dinars forTweet his declaring that he and his elections. the family will boycott Trials and Legal Proceedings and Legal Trials prison, a fine of 200 dinars, and a bail of 500 dinars to stop the execution the stop to dinars 500 of bail a and dinars, 200 of fine a prison, social of the sentence until the appeal. She was charged with “misusing media”. A local court (11 December) sentenced Bahraini photographer The Supreme Criminal Appeals Court (17 September 2019) denied the release of prominent human rights advocate Nabil Rajab based on the penal code and alternative measures. The Lower November) Criminal sentenced the Court psychiatristDr. (14 Sharifa Swar to one year in on the 14th of February anniversary.” Youssef Najah Tweeter for amnesty an issued King The 2019) August (10 on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. races sentence since 2017 for writing on Facebook “No to Formula One She was spending a 3-year prison on the occupied land of Bahrain.” the date of the verdict and fined him 500 dinars. A local court (3 July) fined July) (3 court local A dinars. 500 him fined and verdict the of date the journalist Ja`far al-Jamri 100 dinars after being convicted of “slandering a member of the civil society.” A local court (17 to area Al-Malikiyah July the from Hassan Muhammad Jassim citizen 2019) Bahraini sentenced disobedience civil for calling pamphlets “distributing for prison in months 6 opposition leader Ibrahim Sharif to six months in prison for a that Tweet was deemed a derogatory insult to former Sudanese President Omar al- starting years, three for penalty the suspended court the However, Bashir. February and 2011 December 2019 violations of freedom of expression between Documenting Documenting 1595 @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 08 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime 19 19 20 20 Summons and Interrogation against him after he posted a Tweet criticizingassessing his Ministry’s the son’s academic delay in certificate for three years. phone from the Hoora police station. she However, failed to comply with the summons as “security summons by phone are illegal and cannot be trusted.” The General Directorate of Anti-Corruptionand Economic and Electronic Security (25 December) summoned the Aqeeljournalist Swar for interrogation about a complaint filed by the Ministry of Education On 12 November, the Cyber Mohammed Hassan Crime Al-Aradi Unit for summoned interrogation concerning cyber he statements made activist at a symposium held at the about the unfair progressive distribution of Al-Manbar scholarships. On Society 15 December, Security authorities summoned human rights advocate Ebtisam Al-Sayegh by the Cyber Crime Unit summoned the cyber Abdullah Al-Sahliactivist for interrogation about publishing a video clip in which he criticized the head of the Civil Service Bureau, Ahmed Al-Zayed, for “not implementing the Bahrainization plan.” and lawyer Abdullah Hashim, for interrogation about Tweets on their social their on Tweets about interrogation for Hashim, Abdullah lawyer and prominent summoned Unit Crimes Cyber the June, 1 On accounts. media writer and journalist Aqeel Sawar for interrogation about hisTweet that criticised the Ministry of Interior’s statement that and outlawed ‘following’ ‘retweeting’ accounts of what it considered “seditious”. On 27 October, Bahrain’ association who said that an airplane took him from Turkey to Tel Tel to Turkey association who said that an airplane took him from Bahrain’ about 2019 February 2 on him re-interrogated Unit The unknowingly. Aviv concerning the government performance. Tweets other On 18 April 2019, the Public Prosecutor summoned journalist Jaafar al- Jamri, cyber activist Abeer al-Jalal, political activist Ibrahim al-Manna’ie On 23 January 2019, the Cyber-crimes Unit summoned Jaafar al-Jamri for interrogation about a Tweetsarcastic about a member of the ‘This is Musa Abdali, who lives in London, to 5 years in prison and a fine of 2,000 of fine a and prison in years 5 to London, in lives who Abdali, Musa and sabotage of pictures publishing and cell terrorist a “forming for dinars Hassan photographer sentenced 2019) December (11 court local A riots.” Qambar to life imprisonment for “joining a terrorist cell, photographing riots and vandalism and sending photos abroad.” @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 09 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime 19 accused him of “publishing false news.” The Public Prosecutor (15 May 2019) Abdullah Hashim arrested on lawyer charges of “exploiting his personal account in publishing false and unfounded news that would harm the public order.” Security forces affiliated to the Ministry of Interior arrested (31 July 2019) member of the Unitary National Assemblage Ali Jassem on charges of “insulting God on the social media platform Instagram”. The Bahraini Public Prosecution (14 April 2019) detained the writer Ibrahim publishing his article titled Al-Sheikh ‘Media Misinformation and our for military interrogation catastrophes.’ The upon Public Prosecutor2019) also (16 April arrested former MP Mohammed Khaledhis Tweet in for support of the writer Ibrahim Al-Sheikh and Arrests and Detentions Arrests 20 penalties to the Anti- terrorism Law bill that will allow suing journalists and link The state is The state is new a drafting رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 01 January 20 19 1 4 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 11 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime 7 1 19 On 16 January, a Bahraini court sentenced the former MP a Bahraini court sentenced On 16 January, A one-month imprisonment for the former MP one-month A | 3 months for “insulting the Minister of Interior”... | 3 months for “insulting the Minister of Interior”... 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain |

his Tweet announcing the family’s decision to boycott the elections. The court decision to boycott the elections. announcing the family’s Tweet his the imprisonment. “Some people are stipulated a bail of 100 dinars to suspend As if they are not living or following the still asking if I will vote in the elections! of my aggravated political situation in Bahrain. I am a Bahraini citizen deprived political and civil rights; therefore, my family and I will boycott the parliamentary and municipal elections. No to the political isolation law.” Ali al-Ashiri... and a fine of 500 dinars for Ali al-Ashiri to one month in prison Wifaq bloc Al of Iran and threatened candidates in the elections.» The defendant’s Tweet was deemed offensive by the Ministry of Interior. against the accused as the elements ofthe crime of insulting a state authority were present. He posted on his personalTwitter account Tweets that included derogatory remarks about the Ministry of Interior.» The was Tweet a response to a statement by the Cyber Crimes Unit, published in a local newspaper. It stated that «there are social media accounts run from On 7 January, the third-instance (minor) criminal courtsentenced anunnamed defendant to 3 months with immediate effect for “offensively Tweeting against the Ministry of Interior using his social media account.” The defendant’s identity was not disclosed, but the court said that it «was reassured about the evidence @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 12 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Tel Tel On 23 Cybercrime

Cybercrime Cybercrime 31 23 16 1 1 1 19 19 19 Hossam Sorour 15-year imprisonment was Journalist al-Jamri was interrogated... Journalist al-Jamri On 31 January, the appeals court upheld the sentence of On 31 January, 20 20 20 #Bahrain | #Bahrain |

the entrance to his village of Al-Daraz.” the entrance to his village of upheld... April 2016, a local photographer Hossam Sorour to 15 years in prison. On 21 near court sentenced him to 15 years in prison for “being involved in a bombing latter stated that he was not aware of the plane that transported him to he was not aware of the plane that latter stated that mocking the also started a sarcastic hashtag Al-Jamri in December 2018. Aviv Al-Jamri. case against by Fateel, leading him to file a justifications made January, the Cyber Crime Unit summoned the former ‘Al-Wasat’ journalist the former ‘Al-Wasat’ the Cyber Crime Unit summoned January, Tweet about a member was interrogated about a sarcastic Jaafar al-Jamri. He Fadil Fateel, after the association, the cleric Sheikh of the “This Is Bahrain” رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 02 February 20 19 2 4 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 14 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association

Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime On 2 On 2 11 21 2 7 2 2 2 1 19 19 19 19 One year for a Tweeter for “insulting Saudi One year for a Tweeter TV presenter Al-Shorouki fined 2000 dinars... Al-Shorouki fined TV presenter Ibrahim Sharif For “insulting Omar al-Bashir,” Journalist al-Jamri was interrogated... was al-Jamri Journalist On 11 February, the Lower Criminal Court held the first session February, On 11 On 21 February, a local court sentenced a not identified Tweeter a local court sentenced a not identified On 21 February,

figures”... social to one year in prison. He was convicted of “insulting Saudi figures on media” and “inciting hatred of the regime.” president.” During interrogation, Sharif denied the charges emphasizing that president.” During interrogation, Sharif framework of his opinion on the events in “the matter does not go beyond the trial to a hearing on 19 of the same The court decided to postpone the Sudan.” another session on March 13. month, which in turn postponed it to Omar al-Bashir.” Ibrahim Sharif Tweeted on 25 December 2018 saying, “Go on 25 December 2018 Tweeted Ibrahim Sharif Omar al-Bashir.” back of a tank claiming Al-Bashir came on the Zul .. 30 years ago, Omar away, reign, civil wars worsened, the secession to “rescue” [the country]. During his and humiliated the noble Sudanese of the south took place. He impoverished and the departure of the authoritarian freedom people. It is time for Sudanese’s trial began... the former Secretary-General of the of the trial of dissident Ibrahim Sharif, Association, on charges of “insulting the Sudanese President dissolved WAAD Muhammad al-Bishri (Al-Shorouki), 2000 dinars. The court determined the (Al-Shorouki), 2000 dinars. Muhammad al-Bishri Mohamed former MP as a civil compensation for the aforementioned amount committed on his Al-Shorouki considered to be an “insult” Khaled for what it social media account. On 3 February, a Bahraini court fined the former presenter of Bahrain TV, TV, of Bahrain court fined the former presenter a Bahraini On 3 February, February, the Cyber Crime Unit summoned journalist Jaafar al-Jamri, for the for the al-Jamri, Jaafar journalist summoned Unit Cyber Crime the February, interrogated summon. He was after a previous nearly a week second time, performance. the government’s commenting on Tweets about his رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 03 March 20 19 4 3 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 16 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association On

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19 19 19 19 6 months for Ibrahim Sharif and 500 dinars to Sharif and 500 dinars 6 months for Ibrahim A colloquium on the March 1965 uprising was was uprising 1965 the March on colloquium A Dr. Sharifa Swar was summoned... Sharifa Swar Dr. Journalist Fadhil al-Mansi was summoned... Journalist Fadhil al-Mansi On 7 March, the Ministry of Justice and Islamic Affairs did not allow not allow Affairs did Islamic and of Justice Ministry March, the On 7

suspend the penalty... that was Tweet 6 months in prison for a opposition leader Ibrahim Sharif to President Omar al-Bashir considered insulting the former Sudanese for a period of 3 years, starting from ordered that the sentence be suspended of 500 dinars. the date of the verdict, with a fine WAAD society.”” WAAD the head of the Political Associations’ Affairs Office of the Ministry of Justice of the Ministry Affairs Office Associations’ of the Political the head in the national memory’ ‘The uprising of March 1965 to cancel the colloquium: Ministry of The March. was planning to hold on Monday 11 Association that the breaks the law since its decision that “the mentioned colloquium Justice justified in the legally dissolved Kamal al-Din] is a former leader the speaker [Ibrahim banned... of the National the headquarters 1965 uprising at on the March a colloquium issued a statement Association Assembly The National Association. Assembly a request from received Assembly the National that “[t]his morning, explaining complainants,” “spreading false news” and “misuse of social media.” Nawaf Al-Awadhi, Head of the Capital Prosecution, said, “The Public Al-Awadhi, Nawaf Prosecution has started investigations about the case and will take, in the course of investigations, what the law has authorized it to uncover Swar was summoned for April, Dr. the circumstances of the case.” On 10 the interrogation again, where she was charged with “public defamation of Public Prosecutor summoned Dr. Sharifa Swar, a psychiatrist, for interrogation Sharifa Swar, Public Prosecutor summoned Dr. revealed about a video clip she posted on her Instagram account in which she among the students of Hamad Girls the spreading use of a drug called ‘Lyrica’ Secondary School. on 3 November 2018. The report titled “hookah cafes above the law” was about The report titled “hookah cafes above on 3 November 2018. a case was filed against him. unlicensed cafes but after publication, 18 March, Bahrain Public Prosecution summoned journalist Fadel Al-Mansi for summoned journalist Fadel 18 March, Bahrain Public Prosecution a report published in the newspaper interrogation. He was interrogated about رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 04 April 20 19 4 7 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 18 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime ,” the 11 4 On 11 April, the Foreign Affairs, Defense Defense Affairs, the Foreign April, On 11

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19 A Parliamentary committee instigated against against instigated committee Parliamentary A The prosecution accuses Sharifa Swar of The prosecution accuses Sharifa 20 #Bahrain | | #Bahrain

#Bahrain | prescription, and that drug was not seized with any of the students at any time.” prescription, and that drug was not seized with any of the students at The video includes individuals talking about the dismissal of a student from her The video includes individuals talking about the dismissal of a student The Prosecution also looked at school because of dealing in a regulated drug. for complaints submitted by those whose names were mentioned in the video being exposed to defamation.” is not classified He added that “the drug that was said to be circulated (Lyrica) as a prohibited drug but rather a drug that could only be obtained by psychiatrist Sharifa Swar with “public defamation of the complainants,” psychiatrist Sharifa Swar with “public of social media.” “spreading false news” and “misuse Head of the Capital Prosecution, stated that “the Public Al-Awadhi, Nawaf clip Prosecution has completed its investigations concerning a reported video that was circulated on social media. «spreading false news”... breaches through circulating false news during wartime.” This follows El- This circulating false news during wartime.” breaches through catastrophes,’ ‘Media misinformation and our military article entitled Sheikh’s correspondent, the coverage of the UAE Sky News in which he criticized Yemen. Arab, for the war in Al Mohamed “We know well the agenda the writer represents, especially with his vicious especially the writer represents, well the agenda know “We by Qatar terrorist Muslim Brotherhood backed connections with the added. Parliamentary committee to take immediate its given authority, with Public Prosecutor, It also called “the it constitute serious against the writer of the article, since judicial procedures writer Ibrahim El-Sheikh... Ibrahim writer Council of Representatives of the Bahraini Security Committee and National for what it Al Khaleej newspaper, Akhbar a writer in Ibrahim El-Sheikh, attacked war.” Yemen in the Bahraini army participating “assault on the claimed an @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 19 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA ت البحرين 2019: ُمتالزمة فالجرائم االلك�ونية التقرير السنوي شالعا� للحريات الصحافية وا إالعالمية ي� البحرين 2019 Al- On

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civil peace and spread lies and fabricated news, in order to keep the society lies and fabricated news, in order civil peace and spread safe.” news» publishers... of judicial institutions, “to especially those in charge calling on state officials, the law in holding accountable those who violate assume their role best disposer of affairs.” He was released on 18 April after the Prime Minister best disposer of affairs.” He was released on 18 account.” Twitter intervened and soon deleted his Prosecutor summond former MP Mohammed Khaled for his Tweet in support Tweet Mohammed Khaled for his Prosecutor summond former MP its detention over charges of Al-Sheikh and ordered of the writer Ibrahim “publishing false news.” His tweet, which he posted on his personal account, stated: “And what they wanted has been achieved, and Ibrahim the column disappeared from Gulf News. God suffices us, for He is Sheikh’s The writer was released on 18 April after the Prime Minister intervened and Al- Minister intervened and April after the Prime The writer was released on 18 Sheikh wrote an article of apology. on social media, proved his skeptical approach to the government’ on social media, proved his skeptical external relations. false news regarding the coalition In addition, he published an article containing it Accordingly, powers and capabilities. forces, thus losing confidence in its mock allegations and misinformation.” perceives its victories as nothing but 14 April, the Bahraini Public Prosecution summoned writer Ibrahim Al- writer Ibrahim April, the Bahraini Public Prosecution summoned 14 Media Misinformation and our Sheikh for interrogation about his article, Khaleej. It ordered his arrest for Al Akhbar military catastrophes, published in Al-Thawadi said, “the prosecution Abdullah The chief prosecutor interrogation. and circulated on his personal account reviewed what the accused had posted @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 20 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime 18 17 14 On 17 April, the Bahraini Public April, On 17

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Tweets... Abeer al-Jalal, political activist Ibrahim al-Mannai Jaafar al-Jamri, cyber activist Activists explained that interrogations that were Abdullah Hashem. and lawyer they posted over Tweets conducted by the Cyber Crime Directorate focused on the past days. Bahrain Tribune’s editor-in-chief... Bahrain Tribune’s Tribune newspaper, Mahmoud al-Mahmoud. He accused al-Mahmoud of al-Mahmoud. He accused al-Mahmoud Mahmoud newspaper, Tribune after publication and “insulting a British businessman “spreading false news” but he was acquitted in the court. an amount of money,” that he had embezzled the appeals court April, when to a hearing on 29 The case was adjourned upheld his acquittal. Prosecution appealed the acquittal issued for the editor-in-chief of the Bahrain the acquittal issued for the editor-in-chief Prosecution appealed رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 05 May 20 19 5 8 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 22 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA ت البحرين 2019: ُمتالزمة فالجرائم االلك�ونية التقرير السنوي شالعا� للحريات الصحافية وا إالعالمية ي� البحرين 2019 On

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5 May, the Bahrain Public Prosecution summoned journalist Jaafar Al-Jamri for Public Prosecution summoned journalist Jaafar the Bahrain 5 May, in the presence of his attorney interrogation. He was interrogated, account, which implied criticism of Twitter he wrote on his Tweets content of matters of public affairs. activities on social media, driven by our national responsibility and to maintain media, driven by our national responsibility activities on social civil peace.” concerning their use of social media. their use of social concerning stated, Al-Zayed, bin Zayed Ahmed Service Bureau, The head of the Civil of human resources, on 5 May included deputy assistants “The meeting held in all government and communication managers human resource managers for government employees’ aimed to clarify the necessary rules institutions, and public sector employees’ use of social media... use of social employees’ public sector Affairs with the Media holding meetings Bureau announced Civil Service employees for public sector regulations to impose disciplinary Committee with what he published, and ordered his pretrial detention, after he had been with what he published, and ordered his pretrial detention, after he had public charged with spreading false news, knowing that it could undermine the as well as misuse of social media.” He was released before he spent the order, but the case against him continued. stipulated pretrial term on 21 May, posted over a lengthy period of time. The posts included false information and posted over a lengthy period of time. comments attributed to the accused that would cause confusion and instability as well as question the performance of the authorities and their in the society, ability to maintain security and protect society.” The prosecution said that it “interrogated the accused and confronted him about Tweets on his Twitter account. Twitter on his Tweets about statement that he “abused his personal The Public Prosecution stated in a news that would harm the public account in spreading false and unfounded office initiated its investigation and looked at the The Public Prosecution order. personal account, which appeared to be news published on the defendant’s on charges of «disseminating false news»... on charges of «disseminating Hashem, where he was interrogated Abdullah Crimes Unit summoned lawyer @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 23 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association

.” .” Cybercrime Cybercrime . . On 19 May, the the the May, May, On 19On 19

21 19 5 5 19 19 | The Ministry of Interior criminalizes following | The Ministry of Interior criminalizes | The Ministry of Interior accuses al-Mohafaza and and and al-Mohafaza al-Mohafaza accuses accuses Interior Interior of of Ministry Ministry | The | The 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

messages.” In his response to the Ministry, Marzooq said, “Gentlemen in the messages.” In his response to the Ministry, Ministry of Interior: My account is verified and I have been living in Britain Commenting on for 8 years after receiving political asylum, as you know. is neither disagreements among state officials is a purely journalistic work; it incitement nor insult.” based on ‘Tweets’ that posed questions about the Prime Minister’s position and based on ‘Tweets’ scenarios of disqualifying him. from abroad and account is managed The Ministry said that “Adel Marzooq’s society. aims to spread the spirit of discord among the components of Bahraini Legal actions are being taken against him and anyone promotes his dubious the account of the head of the Bahrain Press Association... Bahrain Press the account of the head of the of Interior issued a statement accusing the head of the the Ministry On 21 May, and spreading Adel Marzooq, of promoting division Association, Bahrain Press was The statement legal action against him. false news, and threatened to take by external parties in Iran, Qatar, Iraq and European countries, in addition and European countries, in addition and European countries, in addition Iraq Iraq in Iran, Qatar, in Iran, Qatar, by external partiesby external parties were issued.” “The were issued.” “The against whom judicial convictions against whom judicial convictions to fugitive individualsto fugitive individuals implementing a systematic implementing a systematic have, for some time, been have, for some time, been aforementioned accountsaforementioned accounts spirit of discord and spirit of discord and and its people, and spread the and its people, and spread the plan to discredit Bahrainplan to discredit Bahrain the Ministry added. the Ministry added. components of society,” components of society,” division among thedivision among the publishing leaks about wing conflicts inside the Bahraini ruling family family the Bahraini rulingthe Bahraini ruling conflicts inside conflicts inside leaks about wing leaks about wing publishing publishing fake accounts on fake accounts on them both of “standing behind them both of “standing behind The statement accusedThe statement accused the country the country false news and seeking to destabilize false news and seeking to destabilize social media, circulatingsocial media, circulating published on their published on their the accusations in posts they the accusations in posts they They denied and refutedThey denied and refuted that, “there is a network that, “there is a network The Ministry of Interior saidThe Ministry of Interior said social media accounts.social media accounts. are managed are managed most of which most of which security, security, social social Bahrain’s Bahrain’s of websites that offendof websites that offend Abdulnabi of managing “Na’ib Ta’ib” account... account... Ta’ib” Ta’ib” “Na’ib “Na’ib of managing of managing Abdulnabi Abdulnabi both human rights both human rights accusing accusing issued a statement issued a statement Ministry of the InteriorMinistry of the Interior Bahraini Bahraini Abdulnabi of running Abdulnabi of running Hassan Hassan and cyber-activist and cyber-activist al-Mohafaza al-Mohafaza Yousuf Yousuf advocate advocate is known for is known for The accountThe account on “Twitter.” on “Twitter.” (repentant MP) account (repentant MP) account Ta’ib” Ta’ib” the “Na’ibthe “Na’ib @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 24 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association .” . .” Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime 30 22 22 5 5 5 On 30 May, the Ministry of Interior disseminated On 30 May,

... On 22 May, Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa approved the approved bin Isa Hamad King Bahraini May, On 22

19 19 19 ... On 22 May, the Ministry of Interior Tweeted a bilingual (Arabic Tweeted the Ministry of Interior On 22 May,

The Ministry of Interior circulates text messages The Interior criminalizes ‘following’ and The Interior criminalizes A law extending criminalization of government of government criminalization law extending A ... | | | 20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

in marked drop in the number of followers of these accounts.The Cyber in marked drop in the number of followers of these accounts.The Cyber and Crime Directorate stated: “Following seditious and inflammatory accounts retweeting them leaves you subject to legal accountability.” threatening citizens phones warning that following seditious accounts that SMSs to citizens’ criticizes the government on social media subjects to legal accountability The messages sparked a wave of panic, as many citizens began to ‘unfollow’ That was evident many accounts critical of the government on social media. The Cyber Crime Directorate stated: “Following seditious and inflammatory The Cyber Crime Directorate stated: you subject to legal accountability accounts and retweeting them leaves and English) message to both citizens and residents threatening punishment and English) message to both citizens considers “inflammatory and accounts the Ministry Twitter for merely “following” these accounts post. It threatened that seditious,” let alone retweeting what to “legal accountability” is sufficient to subject a person or ‘retweeting’ ‘following’ [of these accounts] is a national duty and that “the immediate shutting down ‘retweeting’ period not exceeding five years, and with a fine of no less than two thousand fine of no less than years, and with a exceeding five period not thousand dinars (13 dollars) and not exceeding five dinars (5.2 thousand justifies, any means, promotes, glorifies, praises, by whoever, thousand dollars) inside or whether activity, constituting a punitive terrorist or encourages acts outside the Kingdom.” critics is ratified critics scope of prosecuting expanding the Law,” of the “Anti-terrorism amendment critics. government for a punished with imprisonment that “he shall be stipulated The amendment رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 06 June 20 19 6 4 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 26 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association On 1

Aqeel Aqeel ... On 1 On 1 Cybercrime

Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime ... 10 10 1 1 6 6 6 6 On 10 June, the first hearing of poet and journalist

... . On 10 June, the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Commerce On 10 June, the Minister of Industry,

19 19 19 19 ... The first court hearing for the journalist, Jaafar Bahraini Minister of Commerce said that he Bahraini Minister of Commerce The Interior renews its threats to citizens The Interior renews its threats Journalist Aqeel Swar was summoned was Aqeel Swar Journalist | | | | 20 20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

ما_وعيت_إال_وأنا_في_القدس criticism of the visit of the “This Is Bahrain” delegation to Jerusalem. Al-Jamri indicated that his Tweets on the hashtag were responses to his Tweets Al-Jamri indicated that his He did not mention Sheikh Fateel, pointing out that the latter Twitter. followers of the claimed that he received threats of assault and murder after the spread lawsuit against him are fragile, Al-Jamri added that the pillars of the hashtag. noting that Sheikh Fateel had nursed rancour against him after the massive Al-Jamri, was held trial was held on charges of “insulting a member of civil Al-Jamri’s Jaafar upon society”. He stated that the Public Prosecution summoned him on 5 May that the a complaint filed against him by Sheikh Fadhil Fateel. He also added Public Prosecution charged him with “slander and libel” for using the hashtag # hates Al-Ayyam Al-Ayyam to make any press statement to Al Zayani, refused Zayed R. Tourism, in which he was speaking to the media. newspaper during a press conference and don’t want to answer its Al-Ayyam The Minister openly said, “I don’t like the minister’s The newspaper published questions.” “what statement saying that he did was undemocratic.”accountability.” June, the Ministry of Interior issued a statement renewing its threats to citizens June, the Ministry of Interior issued and seditious accounts post or that “sharing/retweeting what inflammatory accounts by commenting on their seditious showing support for owners of these accountability.” content expose the individual to legal be silent about electronic flies with their vulgar rehtoric. We will remain silent We will remain flies with their vulgar rehtoric. be silent about electronic when you shut down Include these words in your lawsuit about eavesdropping. seek help from His Majesty.” my account. We a statement by the Ministry of the Interior, in which citizens and residents in which citizens of the Interior, by the Ministry a statement are considered accounts that be punished if they ‘follow’ were threatened to worst thing Tweet, Swar said: “This is the seditious”. In his “inflammatory and Have fear of knew the meaning of freedom of expression. ever since Bahrain and corruption, nor will we remain silent about naturalization will not God. We June, the Cyber Crime Unit summoned prominent writer and journalist journalist writer and prominent Unit summoned Crime the Cyber June, of the by the Director General was interrogated interrogation. He Swar for Security, and Electronic and Economic Anti-Corruption of General Directorate to in response Swar’s Miraj, regarding Al Tweet general Bassam brigadier رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 07 July 20 19 7 6 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 28 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association

Almost On On ...

... Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime Abdullah al- Advisor and Advisor and 4 3 2 7 7 7 19 19 19 On 2 July, Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the King’s the King’s Al Khalifa, bin Hamad Nasser Sheikh July, On 2 wo journalists of Al-Ayyam newspapers were Al-Ayyam wo journalists of Journalist Jaafar Al-Jamri fined 100 dinars Journalist Jaafar Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad threatens ‘Al-Ayyam’ ‘Al-Ayyam’ threatens Hamad bin Nasser Sheikh

| | | ... 20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

Youth and Sports, which infuriated Prince Nasser. and Sports, which infuriated Prince Nasser. Youth Al-Babtain to stay at home and not attend The newspaper’s management asked As for the head of the sports his regular workday until they decide about him. Aqeel al-Sayyid, he was replaced by journalist Nasser Muhammad, section, whose name was clearly marked on the newspaper’s as the sports supplement head of the sports section. removed 48 hours after the Prince’s threatening post. Prince’s removed 48 hours after the removed the head of the sports section, Al-Ayyam, the local newspaper, 4 July, dismissed sports journalist Aqeel al-Sayyid, from his position and son, Sheikh Nasser posted by the King’s Babtain within 48 hours of the threat of the poll about the Ministry of Al-Babtain was the editor Al-Khalifa. bin Hamad on 29 September. on 29 September. On 3 July, a local court fined journalist Ja`far al-Jamri 100 dinars after being a local On 3 July, Al-Jamri has appealed of the civil society.” convicted of “slandering a member to the appeals court for consideration the verdict, and the case was transferred Affairs in the national clubs sector.’ The poll conveyed the opinion of clubs The poll conveyed clubs sector.’ Affairs in the national the level of Affairs at Youth and Sports of the Ministry of on the performance on 10 indicators. during the first half of 2019 based national clubs sector were not in favour of the Ministry. all of the answers poll that revealed the sports sector’s the sports poll that revealed of the performance dissatisfaction with Al-Moayyed, who is Tawfeeq Ayman Affairs and Sports Youth of the Minister is guaranteed, but lying “Freedom of expression one of his close associates. threat to This was understood as a Nasser posted. is not allowed,” Prince under the title ‘Dramatic it had published a poll on 1 July the newspaper after Sports Youth and of with the performance of the Ministry satisfaction decline newspaper the National Security youth affairs, for charity and representative published a threat and Sports, Youth Council for of the Supreme Chairman a after it had published on Instagram on his account newspaper Al-Ayyam to @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 29 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association

Authorities Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime On 6 July, Maha Maha July, On 6

17 17 7 On 26 July, Photographer Musa Abdali Photographer Musa On 26 July,

7 7 1 19 19 19 | Photographer Musa Abdali was beaten at the | Photographer Musa | 6 months for a citizen for «distributing leaflets”... «distributing for citizen a for months 6 | | Sheikha Maha Al-Khalifa threatens Bahrainis Bahrainis threatens Al-Khalifa Maha | Sheikha 20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

claiming that Abdali “threatened to jump off the roof of the embassy before the claiming that until embassy staff intervened to curb what he had done to ensure his safety the police arrived.” until the British police stormed the embassy building to rescue him. He filed a until the British police stormed the embassy building to rescue him. He to criminal complaint with the British police saying that he had been subjected an assassination attempt by the embassy staff. His lawyer stated that “the police have started investigating these accusations, which they described as serious.”]The Bahraini embassy issued a statement in the British capital, demanding the revocation of death penalty against the in the British capital, demanding the broadcast the sit-in Al-Mulla. Media agencies Ahmed Al-Arab and Ali activists via his mobile phone live video. put a Abdali said that he was beaten and tortured by the embassy staff who did not stop The assault wet shirt in his mouth and tied his hands behind back. Bahrain embassy in London”... embassy in London after he staged a sit- was beaten by the staff of the Bahraini intention to carry out of the authorities’ in on the roof of the embassy in protest Ali climbed up the roof of the embassy Abd death sentences against opponents. said that the suspect distributed leaflets calling for civil disobedience on the said that the suspect distributed leaflets protests (14 February), when he was anniversary of the start of the Bahrain to trial. arrested the same day and brought On 17 July, A local court sentenced Bahraini citizen Jassim Muhammad Hassan local court sentenced Bahraini A On 17 July, in prison for distributing leaflets. from the Malikiyah area to 6 months who appeared in Al-Jazeera’s documentary... Al-Jazeera’s in appeared who broadcast the documentary. The documentary, which was later broadcast, which was later broadcast, The documentary, broadcast the documentary. who led the military squad testimony of a Bahraini officer featured an exclusive It also showed two Roundabout) in 2011. Al-Lulu (Pearl that stormed Dawar the Bahraini government of Salafi militants who admitted that secret testimonies fellows to assassinate dissidents. asked them and their Tamer Almisshal’s program ‘What’s hidden is greater’ on the Qatari TV channel TV channel greater’ hidden is the Qatari on program ‘What’s Almisshal’s Tamer participated in the episode the Bahraini guests who Al-Jazeera. She described and described them as broadcast yet but only the promo) (which had not been campaign on national television This comes as part of a pre-emptive “traitors.” that lasted for nearly two and statements by officials and government media, to attacked after announcing its intention Al-Jazeera was weeks, in which Al-Khalifa, a member of the Bahraini Royal House, posted on her social media posted on Bahraini Royal House, a member of the Al-Khalifa, documentary Al-Jazeera’s in who participated threatening those account, journalist episode of the Palestinian It was an Playing with Fire.’ ‘Bahrain: رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 08 أغسطس 20 19 8 4 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 31 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association

Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime and the 10 4 5 On 31 July, security forces affiliated with On 31 July,

8 8 8 8 19 19 19 19 On 5 August, Bahraini authorities arrested actress Najla August, Bahraini authorities arrested On 5

| A royal amnesty for Tweeter Najah Youssef... Tweeter Najah royal amnesty for | A | Actress Najla Abdul Redha arrested for posting | Actress Najla | Political association member arrested for | Political association member | The ‘Information’ suspends ‘Voice of Manama’ Manama’ of ‘Voice suspends ‘Information’ | The In August, the Information Affairs Authority suspended the website website the suspended Authority Affairs the Information August, In

20 20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

One races on the occupied lands of Bahrain .. [these races] are nothing more One races on the occupied lands of Bahrain .. [these races] are nothing Al-Khalifa family to whitewash their criminality and their than a means for the record of grave human rights violations.” prison that the detainee was on Town Her family received a phone call from Isa her way home. On 10 August, security authorities released Tweeter Najah Yusef by a royal Tweeter Najah August, security authorities released On 10 of Eid decree the king issued pardoning a number of prisoners on the occasion was sentenced to 3 years in a mother of four children, Yusef, al-Adha. Najah prison in 2017 after she had written on her Facebook account “No to Formula “contrary to public morality,” according to a statement by the Public Prosecution. according to a statement by the Public “contrary to public morality,” The videos she posted on her Instagram are dance clips, which include seductive movements. a dance video... Abdul Redha (31 years old) after she posted video clips that were deemed On 4 August, the head of the Northern Governorate Prosecution, Abdel- August, the head of the Northern Governorate Prosecution, On 4 in another statement that “the prosecution ordered Al-Maawda, said Rahman with public infringing on religion, his pretrial detention after he was charged decided to and misusing means of communication, and thus libel and slander, transfer him in custody to trial.” the Ministry of Interior arrested Ali Jassem, a member of the Unitary National the Ministry of Interior arrested and Economic and Anti-Corruption of The General Directorate Assemblage. on charges of insulting person was arrested Electronic Security stated that “A media platforms ‘Instagram’ the Divine Entity on one of the social [against him].” necessary legal measures were taken «insulting the Divine Entity»... the Ministry of Information (currently the Information Affairs Authority). The Authority). Affairs (currently the Information of Information the Ministry radio and with “Oman Net” 2006 in cooperation was founded in newspaper (NED) as part of the National Endowment for Democracy with the support of Arabian Gulf and in the nine community radio stations a project to establish Yemen. website... the Bahraini editor-in-chief is platform, whose of Manama” news of the “Voice is noteworthy explanation. It providing any Al-Fardan, without Hani journalist by newspaper licensed an official electronic is of Manama’ that the ‘Voice رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 09 September

20 19 9 6 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 33 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime 10 9 9 Cybercrime On 17 September, the Supreme Criminal On 17 September,

... On 10 September, a local court sentenced lawyer Ali lawyer sentenced local court a September, On 10

19 19 Nabil Rajab’s release denied under the Nabil Rajab’s Al-Ayyam to dismissed 3 journalists to “cut to dismissed Al-Ayyam | | | 6 months for a lawyer on charges of “insulting “insulting of on charges for a lawyer months | 6 In September 2019, Al-Ayyam newspaper, owned by Nabeel Al- by Nabeel owned newspaper, Al-Ayyam In September 2019,

... 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

banning specific places, pledging not to contact certain parties, undergoing banning specific places, pledging not to contact certain parties, undergoing or electronic surveillance, attending rehabilitation and training programs, repairing damages caused by crime. Appeals Court refused to release prominent human rights defender Nabil Rajab Appeals Court refused to release prominent human rights defender Nabil pursuant to Law No. (18) of 2017 regarding penalties and alternative measures approved by the King on 17 July 2019. Al-Jishi, affirmed that “the court refused to release his Mohamed His lawyer, of place in penalty another order to judge the allows which law, this under client” These penalties include community service, house arrest, the original penalty. Alternative Penal Code by dismissing foreign and part-time employees. by dismissing foreign and part-time Hamar the media advisor to the King of Bahrain, informed three of its staff advisor to the King of Bahrain, informed Hamar the media Journalists are: that their contracts were terminated. without prior notice at who worked Shakal and Ibrahim Badr, Ayman Al-Giousy, Muhammad “to cut told them that their dismissal was The newspaper different sections. since the beginning of 2019 that the newspaper started costs.” It is the measure costs” the Divine Entity”... Divine the social media.” the Divine Self on for “insulting to 6 months in prison al-Sayegh the prison later ruled to replace the appeals court appealed and The defendant punishment. as an alternative with community service sentence @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 34 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime On 23 September, On 23 September,

23 18 9 9 9 19 19 19 | Dr. Sharifa Swar brought to trial... | Dr. |One year for a Tweeter for “insulting the Divine a Tweeter |One year for On 18 September, the Third Minor Criminal Court sentenced Tweeter Tweeter Court sentenced Third Minor Criminal the On 18 September,

20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain

copy and study the documents and submit requests.” A series of adjournments copy and study the documents and submit requests.” took place, 10 October then 21 October and later to 14 November. The prosecution charged Swar with “publicly defaming the complainants .. The prosecution charged Swar with “publicly defaming the complainants Swar’s And misusing means of communication.” Dr. spreading false news .. Al-Othman, requested an adjournment and a copy of the Mohamed attorney, Al-Othman but The hearing was adjourned to 1st October, case documents. to said that “The court has set a very close session that does not allow time Psychologist Sharifa Swar was sent to the Lower Criminal Court on charges Psychologist Sharifa Swar was sent to the Lower Criminal Court on charges of of “misuse of social media” after publishing a video that revealed a network Hamad among the students of ‘Lyrica’ influential people distributing drug called Girls Preparatory School. and slandering another person on the same platform. person on the same platform. and slandering another of expression and judgment, the court said that “freedom In the grounds of has the right to guaranteed and that everyone criticism is constitutionally on the This freedom halts if it transgresses publicly. express his/her opinion religion or consideration, of others and touches their honor, rights and freedoms beliefs .. which necessitates punishment.” Self”... the Unitary National of the political bureau of the of Ali Jassem, a member self” on ‘Instagram’ year in prison for “insulting the divine Assemblage, to one @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 35 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Al- Cybercrime 9 19 | 51 summonses during the religious season of season the religious during summonses | 51 In Septembr, security authorities carried out a massive assault assault out a massive carried authorities security In Septembr,

20 #Bahrain

Mahdi Al-Manami - Al-Nuwaidrat (9 September), Sayyed Ahmad Al-Wada’ii - Al-Wada’ii Ahmad Al-Nuwaidrat (9 September), Sayyed Al-Manami - Mahdi Barbar (10 September), Sheikh Issa al-Mu’min - Diar (10 September). Karzakan (8 September), Sheikh Issa al-Mu’min - Dair (8 September), Mullah Karzakan (8 September), Sheikh Issa al-Mu’min - Dair (8 September), (8 A’ali - Al-A’ali Qasim Zinedine - Daraz (8 September), Sheikh Hassan Ali Mahanna (8 September), Sayyed Saied Hussein - Sitra September), Ustaz Abdullah (Hajji Smud) - Dumistan (8 September), Abdel-Majid (8 September), Al-Dumistan (9 September), Sayyed Maytham al-Muhafazah - Sheikh Jasim (9 September), Mullah A’ali - Al-A’ali Barbar (9 September), Sheikh Mamdouh Aziz Al-Khadran - Hamad City (7 September), Sheikh Hani Al-Bannaa - Daih Al-Khadran - Hamad City (7 September), Sheikh Hani Aziz Aqeel al-Ghanimi - Daraz (8 September), Sheikh (7 September), Sheikh - Al-Khadran Aziz Amir Malillah - Naiem (8 September), Sheikh Al Abdullah - Barbar (8 September), Al Wadaii Ahmad Hamad City (8 September), Sayyed - Ashur Ali Al-Shakhuri - Shakhura (8 September), Sheikh Sheikh Hassan al-Shahrakani - Shahrakan (6 September), Sheikh Issa al-Mu’min - Saar (6 al-Shahrakani - Shahrakan (6 September), Jamra (6 September), Ali al-Mahfuz - Bani September), Sheikh Mohammad Al-Asfour Jamil Al-Buri (Abu Sajjad) - Buri (6 September), Abdallah reciter Abdallah (6 September), reciter Al-Shakhurah (obsequies/ma’tam leader) - (7 A’ali - Al-A’ali Sheikh Hassan Al-Buri (Abu Sajjad) - Buri (7 September), Al-Nuwaidrat (7 September), Sheikh Al-Manami - September), Mullah Mahdi Mirza (5 September), Sheikh Hamed Ashour (5 September), reciter Ahmad Al Ahmad reciter Ashour (5 September), Mirza (5 September), Sheikh Hamed Al Naiem (5 September), Al-Maatouq - Sheikh Munir (5 September), Awainaty Fadel Al-Bilady - al-Bilad al-Qadeem (5 September), Sheikh reciter Hady Al-Sayegh - Muharraq (5 Abu Saiba (5 September), Sheikh Jaafar Al-Zaki - Al-Daraz (6 September), Sayyed Jaber Al-Khal - September), Sheikh Zahir below: Jamra (4 September), Sheikh AlJamri - Bani Attia Abdul Mohsen Mulla Sheikh Al Al-Maatouq - (4 September), Sheikh Munir Al-Ajimi - Karana Mahmoud Al Daraz (4 September), reciter Zinedine - Naiem (4 September), Mullah Qasim (5 Al Burhama (4 September), Sheikh Issa Eid - Karzakan Ali Hammadi - (5 September), Sheikh Jawad September), Sheikh Sadiq Rabie - Sanabis The number of summonses reached 51, including 36 clerics and preachers, reached 51, including 36 The number of summonses in addition to 3 other and 7 administrative summonses, 5 religious singers, individuals. noting that a the names of those who were summoned, The following are chronologically shown summoned more than once, as number of them were Many of them were charged with “insulting the Umayyad caliph Yazid ibn Yazid Umayyad caliph with “insulting the were charged Many of them religious aimed at informing preachers and The interrogations Mu‘awiya.” they should refrain from under close observation and that singers that they are be projected on the political or religious issues that could involvement in any political reality. Ashura... Ashura season, the religious singers during preachers and religious against dozens were Over the season, Shiite community. by the which is celebrated or poems. of their sermons regarding the content for interrogation summoned رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 10 October 20 19 10 2 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 37 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime On 27 October, the On 27 October,

7 6 1 10 On 6 October, the Cyber Crime Unit Crime the Cyber October, On 6

19 19 | Activist Abdullah Al-Sahli summoned for Abdullah | Activist | A video brings the Muharraq Fans Association Association Fans Muharraq the brings video | A 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain

Bureau, Ahmed Al-Zayed, for “not implementing the Bahrainization plan.” He Al-Zayed, for “not implementing the Ahmed Bureau, for interrogation at the Public Prosecution was also summoned on 30 October His first trial session on the for the same reason. He was released later. charges began on 24 November . criticizing director of the Service Bureau... criticizing director of the Service for interrogation Al-Sahli Abdullah activist Cyber Crime Unit summoned cyber he criticized the head of the Civil Service about publishing a video clip in which bottom .. because of its sports performance.” The video clip caused him to be caused him to be The video clip performance.” because of its sports bottom .. presidency. association’s removed from the President to interrogation... to President and the Association Fans the Muharraq Club the President of summoned about the a post on Instagram after publishing Saad Mahboub Team National “Riffa is at the ruling family club. is known as the Al Riffa, which rival club, رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 11 November 20 19 11 9 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 39 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime In November, In November,

On 12 November, On 12 November,

3 11 11 19 19 On 3 November, the Ministry of Health issued a statement issued a statement the Ministry of Health On 3 November,

bacterium continues and the souls are blown with the wind.’ The report quoted The report quoted wind.’ and the souls are blown with the bacterium continues that “a bacterium called medical complex stating sources in the government in treating premature across ward 307 specializing spread ‘Pseudomonas’ quarantine infected Department of Pediatrics does not infants, and that the curtains.” them in separate beds divided by children; it only puts against the Al-Watan newspaper after it had published the day before a news the day before after it had published newspaper Al-Watan against the one of the Hospital, a bacterium in Salmaniya the spread of report about accused the official statement, the ministry In its country. main hospitals in the warning that it “ would not and intimidating people,” newspaper of “exaggerating of freedom of expression to be crossed.” allow the red lines a report titled ‘Salmaniya the newspaper published On 2 November, newspaper... the same day. the same day. the Cyber Crime Unit summoned cyber activist Mohammed Hassan Al-Aradi the Cyber Crime Unit summoned cyber activist Mohammed Hassan at the for interrogation concerning statements he made at a colloquium held of scholarships. He Al-Manbar Society about the unfair distribution progressive Education. was summoned upon a complaint against him filed by the Ministry of and Al-Aradi stated that the ministry accused him of “insulting the minister on demanding his resignation” and that he “submitted his responses and left” criticizing scholarships distribution policy... seeking to destabilize security in the country). The prosecution pressed the country). seeking to destabilize security in the Hassan charges of “photographing sabotage and riots” against photographer Abdali, who lives abroad in Qambar who sent the photos to photographer Musa the British capital, London. photographers Hassan Qambar and Musa Abdali... and Musa photographers Hassan Qambar case against photographers Hassan Qambar the Public Prosecution filed a new terrorist cell Abdali (along with 30 other people accused of forming a and Musa @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 40 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA ت البحرين 2019: ُمتالزمة فالجرائم االلك�ونية التقرير السنوي شالعا� للحريات الصحافية وا إالعالمية ي� البحرين 2019 Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime On 14 November, On 14 November,

15 15 12 14 11 11 11 11 19 19 19 19 On November 18, the Cyber Crime Unit of the Ministry of

On 15 November, security authorities at Bahrain International On 15 November,

Interior summoned cyber activist Arif Al-Mullah for interrogation. He reported Arif Interior summoned cyber activist that his interrogation was focused on opinions he had expressed on social Electricity media, in which he criticized the inaccurate meters that the Ministry of installed. interrogation... filmmaker and multimedia journalist based in the Middle East. His work focuses filmmaker and multimedia journalist conflict and persecution in the Middle on documenting stories of people facing and Europe.``` Africa, East, North the country... Matthew Cassel and deported American journalist Airport denied access to the Matthew Cassell is a documentary him on a plane to another destination. execution of the judgment until the appeal. The law case was concerning a The law case was until the appeal. execution of the judgment few individuals talked circulated on social media in which video clip that was drug dealing. of a student from her school for about the dismissal the Lower Criminal Court sentenced psychologist Dr. Sharifa Swar to one year Sharifa Court sentenced psychologist Dr. the Lower Criminal dinars to suspend the her 200 dinars, and a bail of 500 in prison and fined @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 41 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association . .” Al- Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime On 27 On 27 .” Social media

30 28 27 11 11 11 On 30 November, security authorities arrested On 30 November,

19 19 19 | TV presenter Muhammad Al-Shorouki arrested | TV presenter Muhammad | Two foreign women and a Bahraini arrested for foreign women | Two | Al-Nabaa newspaper closed down... closed newspaper | Al-Nabaa 20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain On 28 November, security authorities arrested two foreign girls and a On 28 November,

for «offending Kuwait”... for a fresh start that responds to the demands of the digital media market.” It is for a fresh start that responds to the demands of the digital media market.” not really known whether the newspaper will resume or will cease publication permanently. On 2 December, the Public Prosecution ordered they transfer to trial on charges the Public On 2 December, media.” of “posting pornographic photos and encouraging prostitution on social The case was scheduled for a hearing on the 4th of the same month. the newspaper’s editor-in-chief, said that “The decision Abdel-Moneim El-Meir, are ready to restructure the institution demanded to stop the issuance until we On its official Twitter account, the Ministry of Interior said, “Commenting on On its official on social media, it is to protect public the indecent photos that were circulated acts of moral turpitude another Bahraini morals, two foreign girls who committed in the incident using his car citizen (28 years) who was involved taken along a coast in the country circulated nude pictures of the two foreigners photographing themselves in “positions of moral turpitude” photographing themselves ... acts. Bahraini youth on charges of indecent “Taking legal measures against a person after he posted a video clip on some “Taking referring to the social media websites that includes offense of a sister country,” State of Kuwait. admitted He appeared before the Public Prosecution on 1 December 2019 and arrest.” The aforementioned was released three days after his the charges. the former presenter of Bahrain TV, Muhammad Al-Bishri (Al-Shorouki), after Muhammad TV, the former presenter of Bahrain channel that was considered insulting YouTube he had posted a video on his Twitter account, the Ministry of Interior said, to a “sister country”. On its official to restructure the institution demanded to stop the issuance until we are ready institution demanded to stop the to restructure the digital media market.” It is responds to the demands of the for a fresh start that or will cease publication the newspaper will resume not really known whether permanently. Nonetheless, information indicate that it actually stopped because of the stopped because that it actually information indicate Nonetheless, speaks of, that the newspaper grip on the movement tightening authorities’ especially after the current expressed by the newspaper, especially after on imposed on political a colloquium that criticized restrictions Al-Minbar hosted associations. the newspaper’s decision editor-in-chief, said that “The Abdel-Moneim El-Meir, November, the weekly newspaper, Al-Nabaa, affiliated with the ‘Al-Minbar Al- the ‘Al-Minbar with affiliated Al-Nabaa, newspaper, the weekly November, publishing. that it stopped announced (Muslim Brotherhood), Society Islami’ the Dar restructuring of its stopping to “the attributed The newspaper newspaper publishes the Foundation which and Information Nabaa Press رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 12 December 20 19 12 5 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 43 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime Cybercrime On 15

15 11 11 12 12 12 19 19 19 | Hoora police station summoned human rights | Life sentence for photographer Hassan | Life sentence for photographer | Photographer Musa Abdali sentenced to 5 to sentenced Abdali Musa | Photographer On 11 December, a local court sentenced photographer Hassan a local court sentenced December, On 11

On 11 December, a local court sentenced Bahraini photographer photographer Bahraini court sentenced a local December, On 11

20 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain #Bahrain

summonses via phone are were illegal and cannot be trusted. the phone are Security summonses over saying, “I am fine so far. Tweeted She do not illegal and I do not trust them as they bring back painful memory that I wish to experience again, neither myself nor any person.” advocate Ebtisam Al-Sayegh for interrogation ... advocate Ebtisam rights defender Ebtisam security authorities summoned human December, Organization for Democracy and Human Al-Sayegh, a member of the ‘Peace’ Rights, by phone from the Hoora police station, asking her to come for Al-Sayegh said that she would not comply with the order as interrogation. But years, as he had been previously convicted with other charges pertaining to his years, as he had been previously convicted activities of photographing protests. Qambar... a terrorist cell .. photographing riots Qambar to life imprisonment for “joining Thus, the Abdali].” abroad [to Musa and vandalism .. and sending videos exceeded the barrier of one hundred sentences under which he was detained photos of sabotage and riots.”He appeared before the Public Prosecution on 1 the Public Prosecution appeared before sabotage and riots.”He photos of released was The aforementioned the charges. 2019 and admitted December arrest.” three days after his years... for of 2,000 dinars prison and a fine UK) to 5 years in Abdali (resident of Musa and 30 other people court charged him The with. he was convicted the charges and “publishing the country” seeking to destabilize a terrorist cell with “forming @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 44 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime Cybercrime 25 22 12 12 On 22 December, the Department of Political Political of the Department December, On 22

19 19 On 25 December, the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption the General Directorate of On 25 December,

| Journalist Aqeel Swar summoned for | Journalist | ‘Justice’ intervenes to cancel a colloquium at a colloquium cancel to intervenes | ‘Justice’ 20 20 #Bahrain #Bahrain

summons. Upon arrival, the two interrogating officers told him that the claimant summons. Upon arrival, the two interrogating They interrogated him about the content of a is the Minister of Education. in which he criticized the Ministry after it had rejected the assessment Tweet making his statement, Swar signed the After master’sof his son’s degree. proceedings and left. interrogation... Swar Aqil Swar. summoned journalist and Economic and Electronic Security in the criminal investigations received a summons to appear for interrogation any information or the reasons for this building, without providing him with the National Assembly... National the Association (WAAD). council (GCC)’. In a phone call with the President of the National Democratic of the National call with the President In a phone council (GCC)’. on the grounds that “the colloquium the Ministry justified its decision Assembly, and that one of on the internal affairs of other countries” to be held touches in reference “a member of a dissolved political association,” the participants is Action in the opposition National Democratic former membership Saleh’s Associations Affairs of the Ministry of Justice canceled a colloquium in the a colloquium of Justice canceled of the Ministry Affairs Associations renowned The speaker, Association. Assembly of the National headquarters of the gulf cooperation about ‘the future planning to talk Ali Saleh, was journalist رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA @BahrainPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report The Bahrain Press Association 2019 Events Press Release, Special Reports 20 19 1 4 Cybercrime @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 46 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association The

... | Bahraini Press Association – 8th of November Association – 8th 2019 | Bahraini Press #London

Bahraini Press Association (BPA) Association Bahraini Press and Law “a Crime” for Bahrain New Press Action Cease Government Must Journalists; practiced, since 2011, systematic policies towards press freedoms and freedoms freedoms and freedoms press towards policies systematic 2011, since practiced, of expression and opinion in the country. endorsement. journalists penalties possible the declare articles 85 bill’s new the of 25% Around The bill specialized 20 breached. law is the and their employers would face if articles to form trials and has government penalties the where period critical a that at comes This journalists. imprisoning start with huge fines and ends with freedom of the press, where it places the publishing media under the control of terrorism and penalties to related laws under journalists the and government, the together. The cabinet has debuted its weekly meeting (Sunday the 27th of October 2019) studying the Press and Media bill so it would be sent to the parliament after The Bahraini Press Association confirms that,and Media after bill reading in Bahrain, the bill the establishes to new Press containexpression, freedoms and of opinion, the press; which overrides the Bahrain before levels the of reforms project, press and freedoms abiding by in the country’s constitution. The Association warns that the bill is a full crime and especially a total that disappointment, many of the bill’s articles contain blatant restrictions on the Journalist Imprisonment imprisoning journalists. This comes at a critical period where the government has government the where period critical a at comes This journalists. imprisoning freedoms and freedoms press towards policies systematic 2011, since practiced, of expression and opinion the country. in studying the Press and Media bill so it wouldendorsement. be sent to the parliament after journalists penalties possible the declare articles 85 bill’s new the of 25% Around The bill specialized 20 breached. the law is and their employers would face if articles to form trials and penalties that start with huge fines and ends with The Association warns that the bill is a full crime and especially a total that disappointment, many of the bill’s the publishing freedom of the press, where it places media under the control of articles contain blatant restrictions terrorism and penalties to related on laws under journalists the and government, the the together. The cabinet has debuted its weekly meeting (Sunday the 27th of October 2019) Bahraini Press Association confirms that, after reading the new Press and Media and Press new the reading after that, confirms Association Press Bahraini bill in Bahrain, the bill establishes tothe containbefore Bahrain freedomsin freedoms press of of levels opinion,the overrides which expression, press; the and constitution. country’s the by abiding and project, reforms @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 47 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association a specialized party (Ministry of Information) to block websites as well. Article 62 states that it’s the ministry’s right to issue calls to “shutdown a press institution for a duration of 30 days,” and articles 57, 58, and 70 state that courts can block newspapers and websites for a duration that reaches almost a whole year. same time, place legal escapes to violate and restrain them. Blocking or Shutting Down a Press Institution The bill provided the closure and blocking to right gave bill the but newspapers solely, rulings judicial to that confine didn’t it and places, and websites in four The article doesn’t oblige the governmental and private sector parties to journalists give information, but statistics, it specified and available news that doesn’t pose a legal problem or that breaches in with “providingthe general order its information, in the case of publishing or attainment.” Association sees that such wordings are in line with The Press rights, yet, at the The Right to Gather Information It doesn’t differ much for the right to obtain information than press freedom, for only is information obtain to right journalist’s the that indicated has article 6th the “permissible in accordance to the laws of its source.” more restrictions on press freedom. Article 13 also barred the prevented the publication of any item that is conflicts with the constitution or contravenes with commitments mentioned in the code of The honor. bill, in its first article, defined the code of honor as “the basis of the minister.” the of order the by issued ethics journalistic for behavior organizational it indicated in the 2nd article of the bill that “Press freedom (…) is guaranteed in accordance to the conditions and provisions based on this law and its executive list and the decisions issued by the ministry.” The ministry didn’t accompany the bill with the executive list, and it’s unknown what are the explanations that this list would include, and whether it will contain in.” against time any at modulated easily be can clause this that sees Association The journalists that tackleArab, regional,or international affairs. what’s the And it questions: definition of blemish in this clause and what are its boundaries? but freedom, press limit that articles these with suffice didn’t authorities reality, In These clauses were worded so that they could easily adapt with any accusation easily adaptthey could These clauses were worded so that against the journalists. Among these clauses are huge fines for journalists in the case of publishing or spreading what is considered “a blemish in the ruler or a prime minister ofArab, Islamic, or an any other state that the kingdom has diplomatic representation Press Freedom freedom, press on stresses bill the that time the at that confirms Association The yet its articles contain it with several vague expressions that could hold many considered explanations. are that clauses There 19 define 68 are and 67, 66, many 65, 64, Articles clauses accountability. that could place a prohibited journalist which would lead, under if breached, the journalist to strict accountability. @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 48 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association The Association confirms as well that the Ministry of Information, and for the past past the for and Information, of Ministry the that well as confirms Association The the it granting or newspapers with dealing when side trustworthy a wasn’t years, most decrees, illegal issued ministry the that Especially ones. down shut to right prominently Al-Wasat newspaper banning from publishing (June 2017) for pure rule. judicial a without and reasons “political” The Association saw that it’s not the ministry’s right anyway to block newspapers block to anyway right ministry’s the not it’s that saw Association The rights judiciary the grant that articles the of obliteration calling for and websites, offenses. criminal major under unless newspapers, block to a discussion with civil society institutions to draft a law that preserves freedoms and protects journalists, indicating that the bill in its current format only enforces systematic a to dedication the and work journalistic on oppression governmental opinion and expression in the country. freedom of targets policy that In this context, the Bahraini Press Association refuses the extents of governmental of extents the refuses Association Press Bahraini the context, this In control that reaches the work of cinema, as it declared its wonder from the government’s disregard to placing a law that permits the proclamation of media and private broadcast outlets. Association The also calls the government to stop the bill and pave the road for The bill granted the committee vast powers to supervise movies, amongst that as “scenes that it sees as a breach to the the right to delete what is described constituents of the state or society or religion or morals and decency”. And the bill grants the ministry the right in “issuinginstructions and to cinema that owners or supervisors aim to maintainnational, moral, the artistic, cinema programs and decency-related standards.” under religious, Cinema and Visual Media Cinema and Visual and article law designated clauses specialized work, The in monitoring cinematic Monitoring of Committee “The called ministry the in committee a form to stated 36 Publications.” Recorded and Movies Cinema preserved piece to the ministry at the latter’s request. Association The sees that involving platforms and news accounts and others in this law reveals the governmental intentions to control the general atmosphere, where the government what’s to broadcasted tighten online. its grip on all what’s written and don’t have published origins, websites and platforms and services, accounts websites and for platforms for news live broadcast and podcasts, websites for print newspapers, Audiovisual content, websites or channels e-programs or that platforms use or organized activities under this law.” The bill also obligates websites to preserve all published what’s and provide the Internet Monitoring The Association is surprised from censorship some on of websites the and e-news bill’s media articles outlets, has where article 41 rulings apply on “electronicpublishing houses, electronic newspapers that states that the bill’s @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 49 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association To

... | Bahraini Press Association – 14th of November 2019 November – 14th of Association Press Bahraini | #Beirut

against Journalists, NGOs call for immediate actions NGOs call for against Journalists, On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Day to End Impunity On the International Saadoon said that since the beginning of the October popular 2019, journalists journalists protestsof havedozens in experiencedare difficultthere Iraq situations,and therethem, areto many on 01 loyal groups or authorities from threats which has resulted in many independent journalists fleeing outside the country. provide not did organisations its and community international the that added She the required protection to journalists in orderagainst them, so to dispel there must be firm and the strong mechanismsfear targeted regarding remain they that crimes wonder violations of no is it otherwise media, the against committed and exposed to the risk, and that the voice of truth remains silent. Cyber Crimes law to target online activism. Marzooq called on the international community to act immediately and provide support for at-risk journalistsand put more pressure on repressive governments to respect freedom of the press. tragic a as it describing Yemen, in journalists of situation the about talked Yassin reality in one of the most dangerous countries to live and work as a journalist, to attend due to the closure of some roads as Lebanon. a result of popular protests in Marzooq talked about the massive violations that have been committed against journalist in Bahrain by authorities and the fact that after the closure of the only independent newspaper in the using the is government the that country added He freely. “Al-Wasat” views their publish there to journalists is no space left for organisation Against Torture (OMCT). The event included a seminar which was moderated an Abeer GCHR Bader Yassin, in by addition Adel to Marzooq speakers from BPA, Khalid Ibrahim from independent journalistYemen, and from Mustafa Saadoon from the Two IOHR. speakers, Roula Mikhael of Maharat and Vanessa Bassil of were MAP, unable (GCHR), IFEX, International Media Support (IMS), Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights (IOHR), Association Maharat for Foundation, Peace Media (MAP), Metro Development for Center Palestinian Advocacy, and Rights Journalists’ for Center and Media Freedoms (MADA), PEN International, Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM), Syrian League for Citizenship, and the World conclusion of an event in Beirut entitled “No to impunity for the crimes committed crimes the for impunity to “No entitled Beirut in event an of conclusion region.” Arab the in journalists against The sponsoring NGOs are the Americans in for Bahrain Democracy & (ADHRB), Human Bahrain Rights Press Center Association for (BPA), CIVICUS, Human Committee to Rights Protect Development (BCHR), Journalists Refqan (CPJ), Organisation Bahrain in Yemen, Gulf Centre for Human Rights mark the 6th International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, on Journalists, against Crimes for Impunity End to Day International 6th the mark United the of Assembly General the by approved was which 2019, November 02 the at actions immediate for called NGOs 18 2013, in session 68th its at Nations @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 50 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association

... | Bahraini Press Association – November 23, 2019 | Bahraini Press #London

a genuine and comprehensive national reconciliation initiative a genuine and comprehensive On the eighth anniversary of the issuance of the “Bassiouni report” On the eighth anniversary of the the government of Bahrain to launch Bahraini organizations call on journalists and professionals working in various media outlets in war and conflict and war in outlets media various in working professionals and journalists their work during zones as well as those carrying out times of peace. Bahrain, Syria, Iraq, they as Yemen, journalists Lebanon, by faced and risks serious Saudi the Arabia. to attention draw to aimed events The do their peaceful work in these nine countries and other countries in the Middle East Africa, and in North addition to raising voices to demand the strengthening includes This requirement. essential an journalists, for security and protection of mechanisms mechanisms of supporting civil society organisations as well as journalists. A photo exhibition was also organised to mark in Impunity, order the to shed light on International journalists in Arab the region who Day have been to End killed or disappeared in the past years, including in Palestine, Libya, Egypt, who left Baghdad for the Kurdistan region of Iraq as well as Beirut, Istanbul and Amman. He added that the international community falls short on Iraqi supporting journalists and enhancing their protection and reconsidershould typical The committee, composed of eminent international human rights experts, composed of committee, The its concluded and 2011 during Bahrain in violations various verified and analyzed incidents such prevent to how on government the to recommendations with work and address their consequences and repercussions. The committee delivered a final report on November 2011, 23, to King Hamad bin Isa Al The Khalifa. recall here the statements of the Chairman ofSharif Bassiouni, on the Committee,May 10, 2016, that the Mr. Mahmoud government has implemented only such 10 out of 26 recommendations, and didn’t deal well with reforms of priority, as those related to accountability and prisoners of conscience; this is a reality that has not changed since the year 2016 till today. Although many local and international parties, with all their different political and report UN / government this on counting were interests, and aspects rights-based reconciliation, national achieving in role active an play to recommendations its and overcoming the political and security crisis and reducing human rights violations in the country, the authority is still evading the implementationrecommendations of eight report’s the years after the issuance of the Bassiouni report. We Today, November Today, 23, marks the eighth anniversary of the release of the BICI report, known as the Bassiouni Report. @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 51 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association • Allowing the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture to enter Bahrain and prepare a prepare and Bahrain enter to Torture on Rapporteur Special UN the Allowing • • Adhering to the 26 recommendations of the report and working on their • Working hard to open the prospects of dialogue and make way for a genuine 3. To undertake appropriate measures including legislative measures to prevent to measures legislative including measures appropriate undertake To 3. 1. To consider relaxing censorship and allowing the opposition greater access To 1. 2. To establish professional standards for media the and other forms of and comprehensive national reconciliation in a way that results in the satisfaction the in results that way a in reconciliation national comprehensive and society. all parties and segments of of the following: institutions society civil international and local allowing including implementation, to monitor their progress. incitement to violence, hatred, sectarianism and other forms of incitement which incitement of forms other and sectarianism hatred, violence, to incitement lead to the violation of internationally protected human whether rights, the source is public irrespective or private. of In light of the importance of the Bassiouni report and its recommendations, and in order to reach a solution to the crisis in Bahrain Press Bahrain, Association, we and at Bahrain Bahrain Center for Interfaith, Human Rights emphasize publications that contain an ethical code and an enforcement mechanism, publications an contain that incitement avoid to order in standards professional and ethical uphold to designed protected internationally to prejudice without intolerance, and violence hatred, to rights of freedom of expression. to television broadcasts, radio broadcasts and print media. The continuing failure continuing The media. print and broadcasts radio broadcasts, television to to provide opposition groups with an adequate voice in the national media risks further polarizing the political and ethnic divide. and to take the necessary measures against both the Authorityand onto thetake onethe hand necessary measures against both the and the victims on the other. the regarding actions government’s serious for need the emphasize we Moreover, made the followingmedia incitement issues, as the Committee recommendations 1724): (recommendation inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and to use independent forensic experts. Such procedures should guarantee the safety of those raising such claims. Furthermore, the legislation should provide for remedies for any person claiming retribution for having raised a claim of torture or other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment Bahrain or punishment”- visit we to again call on Torture, the Bahraini on Rapporteur Special UN Melzer, Nils invite to authorities grievances of groups which are, or perceive equal political, social themselves and economic rights to and benefits across be, all segments of deprived of Bahrain‘s population.” Referring to recommendation 1719 – “to adopt legislative measures requiring the Attorney-General to investigate claims of torture and other forms of cruel, Furthermore, Furthermore, we at Bahrain Interfaith, the Bahrain Press Association and the Bahrain Center for Human Rights, urge the Government of Bahrain the option of dialogue in order to achieve to comprehensive national reconciliation adopt and fix the current crisis, and to commit to the recommendations adopted in the report; in particular Recommendation No. 1725-b, which states the importance of “ the development of a national reconciliation program that addresses the report identified 26 recommendations to the Bahraini Government, which aimed at meaningful reforms to end continued systematic violations. @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 52 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association • Releasing all political detainees, especially the elderly, women and children. the elderly, • Releasing all political detainees, especially • Terminating • Terminating all legal legislation contrary to the two International Covenants • Allowing independent media, visual, print and audio, to be present and work in work and present be to audio, and print visual, media, independent Allowing • • Reunifying Bahrain and allowing return to their homeland in all its citizens to and Bahrain’s human rights obligations issued after February 2011, particularly human rights obligations 2011, issued after February and Bahrain’s of dropping the Law, Isolation Political so-called the of abolition the to regard with nationality, Bahraini of abolition the community, broad a to rights civil and political and laws restricting freedom of opinion, expression, and the press. Bahrain, and monitoring all media outlets and preventing the use of hate speech hate of use the preventing and outlets media all monitoring and Bahrain, violence. to incitement and including returning citizenship the to Bahrainis, or danger, without any threat whose nationalities have been revoked. detailed report on cases of torture and to compensate the This victims. includes justice. transitional on project national a of launching the @BahrainPA · May 03, 2020 53 رابطة الصحافة البحرينية BPA Bahrain in 2019: A Cybercrime Syndrome The tenth annual report of the Bahrain Press Association Cybercrime 3 5 20 20 Invite the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection End the state’s monopoly of the television, radio and print media and enable Secure the freedom of media and the press and to shut down the Office of Immediately, Immediately, and unconditionally, release of all photographers, reporters, “insulting of charges on trials judicial and arrests and prosecutions arbitrary Stop Recommendations of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression to schedule an urgent visit to Bahrain. Internet Surveillance in the Ministry ofTransportation Telecommunication, and and to abolish Law No. (47) that regulates the press, publishing, and printing in the country; the voice of opposition in the media, including reauthorizing the publication of Al-Wasat; and to the king,” “spreading false statements” made against Internet activists and media and activists Internet against made statements” false “spreading king,” the of hatred “inciting photographers, for “protesting” as such Charges professionals. the regime” for politicians, and all charges pertaining to freedom of expression revoked; be must urgent pressure on the Bahraini government to: journalists, and activists detained for conducting their work in covering protests or exercising their right of expression; common practice. Such constraintsinternational in terms of press freedom. reputation have considerably affectedThe Association Bahrain’s calls upon the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Nations and all international organizations and bodiesconcerned with the exert opinion media freedom to and expression, press and freedom of defense of Bahrain Press Association condemns the and targeting photographers, which the Association believes, of has become a journalists, systematic, bloggers,