Six Bahraini opposition political parties today issued the “Declaration of Principles of Nonviolence.”
Reports say the opposition societies in Bahrain which have declared commitment to nn-violence include the(AlWefaq National Islamic Society, National Democratic Action Society, Unity Democratic Gathering Society, National Brotherhood Society and Democratic Progressive Tribune
In Washington DC today, the US State Department welcomes the “Declaration of Principles of Nonviolence” issued by the prominent opposition political societies in Bahrain.
The US says publicly committing to nonviolence is an important confidence-building measure.
The US government applauds the societies for committing to a non-violent path in order to pursue their goals.
“We urge the government and these six political societies to engage seriously and practically about ways to allow for the resumption of peaceful demonstrations as soon as possible.” -US State Department
The US renews call on the Government of Bahrain and all elements of Bahraini society to take concrete steps to create a climate conducive for meaningful national dialogue that is responsive to the aspirations of all Bahrainis.
In addition, the US urges all parties to contribute to fostering a climate of reconciliation.
The US government adds it remains deeply concerned about continuing clashes between police and demonstrators in Bahrain as well as an increase in violent and increasingly indiscriminate attacks on Bahraini civilians and security forces.
In September this year, as a Bahrain court upheld jail sentences against 20 opposition activists, the United States of America had expressed deep concern over the decision.
Reports say opposition activists were convicted of plotting to oust the government. Eight of the prominent activists are facing life in prison.
The United States continues to call on all parties, including the government, to contribute constructively to reconciliation, meaningful dialogue and reform that brings about change that is responsive to the aspirations of all Bahrainis.
The US has undelrined that Bahrain needs dialogue and negotiation to build a strong national consensus about its political future, strengthen its economic standing, and make it a more prosperous country and a more stable ally of the United States.
In February 2011, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stressed that the United States supports Bahrain’s move to greater reform. Secretary Clinton also emphasized that the Americans wanted to see that the human rights of the people, including right to assemble, right to express themselves be respected in Bahrain.
One year after the Pearl Uprising in Bahrain in February last year, unrest continues amid the ongoing government crackdown against protests. A report said there has been systemic and widespread use of violence in the crackdowns as well as torture of political prisoners.
Despite pledges to reform, the government of Bahrain has made little progress, and continues to deny access to the country to the international media and human rights organizations, including Freedom House.
Bahrain is ranked Not Free in Freedom House’s Freedom in the World 2012 and Freedom of the Press 2012 surveys