International Religious Freedom Report: Bahrain The Constitution
states that Islam is the official religion and also provides for
freedom of religion; however, there were some limits on this
right. There was no change in the status of respect for
religious freedom during the period covered by this report. In
the past, the Government did not tolerate political dissent,
including from religious groups or leaders; however, in 2001 the
King pardoned and released all remaining political prisoners and
religious leaders. In 2002, the King issued a new Constitution
and held municipal council and National Assembly elections. The
Government continues to subject both Sunni and Shi'a Muslims to
some governmental control and monitoring, and there continues to
be government discrimination against Shi'a Muslims. Members of
other religions who practice their faith privately do so without
interference from the Government. The generally amicable
relationship among religions in society contributed to religious
freedom; however,