MLSD Minister Inspects the Child Protection Center to Check on its Professional Competence
27-02-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the National Commission for Childhood, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, paid an inspection visit to the Child Protection Centre in Manama. The visit formed part of ongoing follow‑up on the Centre’s work in handling cases of abuse, violence or neglect involving children, ensuring service quality and adherence to procedures that protect them, support treatment and reintegration, and secure a safe family environment—a fundamental right guaranteed by Bahraini legislation. Humaidan reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to continually enhancing the professional competence of the Child Protection Centre in line with Law No. 4 of 2021 , Promulgating the Restorative Justice Law for Children and their Protection from Maltreatment, which His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the great King of the country, may God protect and preserve him recently approved. He highlighted the Centre’s role in safeguarding children from family and societal abuse and in raising awareness—through cooperation with concerned bodies—of protective measures and children’s rights. During the visit, Humaidan reviewed mechanisms for assessing and following up with children who have experienced abuse. The Centre receives reports directly, processes cases referred by relevant authorities, and handles notifications via the free child rescue and support hotline (998) while providing guidance and advice to callers. The Minister affirmed Bahrain’s dedication to implementing legal, health, psychological and social measures that protect children, stressing the Kingdom’s vigilance in updating these efforts to advance child development. He commended Centre staff for their steadfast humanitarian commitment, which enhances the institution’s overall efficiency. Established in 2007, the Child Protection Centre is governed by a board formed under Ministerial Resolution in accordance with Article 51 of Law No. 37 of 2012 regarding the child. The board comprises representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf; the Ministry of Interior; the Ministry of Health; the Ministry of Education; the Ministry of Labour and Social Development; the Ministry of Information Affairs; the Supreme Council for Women; and civil society institutions concerned with childhood.