February 17, 2011
Freedom House strongly condemns today’s attack on protesters in Bahrain and calls on the government to refrain from violence against peaceful demonstrators and to take every measure to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Riot police advanced on the Lulu Roundabout in Manama just after 3:00 this morning, using clubs, rubber bullets, and tear gas to clear the protesters from the area. The Roundabout has been the center of protests over the past three days, as Bahrainis have gathered in increasing numbers to demand their freedom and to call on the ruling Sunni monarchy to respect the rights of the Shi’ite majority. Four deaths have been reported and as many as 60 people are missing after this morning’s crackdown.
February 17, 2011
Freedom House strongly condemns today’s attack on protesters in Bahrain and calls on the government to refrain from violence against peaceful demonstrators and to take every measure to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Riot police advanced on the Lulu Roundabout in Manama just after 3:00 this morning, using clubs, rubber bullets, and tear gas to clear the protesters from the area. The Roundabout has been the center of protests over the past three days, as Bahrainis have gathered in increasing numbers to demand their freedom and to call on the ruling Sunni monarchy to respect the rights of the Shi’ite majority. Four deaths have been reported and as many as 60 people are missing after this morning’s crackdown.
“This morning’s brutal attack on sleeping protesters, including women and children, was shocking. These acts of aggression against citizens will only contribute to an escalation of violence,” said David J. Kramer, executive director of Freedom House. “Rather than attempting to suppress dissenting voices, authorities should engage in constructive dialogue with the people of Bahrain to ensure their rights are respected.”
The military has taken control of key areas of the capital following this morning’s events. Freedom House urges all sides to refrain from violence ahead of Friday’s scheduled demonstrations.
Bahrain is ranked Not Free in Freedom in the World 2011, Freedom House’s survey of political rights and civil liberties, and Not Free in Freedom of the Press 2010.
For more information on Bahrain, visit:
Freedom in the World 2011: Bahrain
Freedom of the Press 2010: Bahrain
Freedom House is an independent watchdog organization that supports democratic change, monitors the status of freedom around the world, and advocates for democracy and human rights.