Bahrain legal reform advanced this week as the Shura Council approved changes to evidence rules. The amendment allows witness testimony for transactions under 1,000 dinars. This step reflects Bahrain’s effort to modernize its judicial framework and align laws with economic realities.
The Shura Council held its eighteenth session during the fourth meeting of the sixth legislative term. Council members reviewed several legislative and oversight matters. First, they approved the minutes from the previous session. Afterwards, the council addressed parliamentary questions related to education development.
The council discussed a question sent to the education ministry. The inquiry focused on higher education expansion and labor market alignment. Officials reviewed diversification plans for academic programs. They also discussed attracting specialized institutions to Bahrain.
Afterward, lawmakers turned to legal reforms. The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee presented a report on amending evidence laws. The amendment updates the Law of Evidence in Civil and Commercial Matters. Lawmakers originally issued this legislation in 1996.
Under the approved change, courts can accept witness testimony for transactions under 1,000 dinars. Previously, the threshold stood at 500 dinars. Lawmakers explained that economic conditions now require an updated limit. Therefore, the amendment supports easier access to justice.
Committee members stressed that Bahrain legal reform aims to simplify litigation procedures. Many daily transactions now exceed 500 dinars. However, people often complete them without written contracts. As a result, disputes become harder to resolve.
Lawmakers argued that witness testimony offers a practical solution. It allows individuals to prove rights without complex documentation. Moreover, it reduces procedural burdens on courts. This approach supports faster dispute resolution.
The council also linked the amendment to constitutional rights. Members emphasized the right to litigation. They explained that outdated thresholds weaken judicial efficiency. Therefore, the new limit restores balance between law and economic reality.
Later, the council voted to approve the draft law urgently. Members agreed to forward it to the next legislative authority. This step ensures quick implementation of the updated rules.
In addition, lawmakers reviewed changes to environmental legislation. The proposal focused on appeal deadlines for administrative decisions. The committee examined whether extending appeal periods improved legal protections.
Committee members concluded that current timelines already provide sufficient protection. The process allows up to ninety days for appeals. Therefore, they saw no legal gap under existing law.
Overall, Bahrain legal reform reflects a broader modernization strategy. Authorities continue updating legislation to match economic growth. These reforms aim to strengthen legal clarity, efficiency, and public confidence.
Through updated evidence rules and legislative reviews, Bahrain legal reform continues shaping a more responsive judicial system. The changes support fairness, efficiency, and access to justice.
