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Description
Like several Arab states, Bahrain has a limited form of democracy. It also has the veneer of a western life-style, with McDonalds and Starbucks (and alcohol). Just a few years ago Bahrain was known... for its brutal repression, but under a new ruler, King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa, the state has freed political prisoners and held elections (2002). Women were allowed to vote and run for office. The Bush administration points to Bahrain as a country moving in the right direction. However, many in the majority Shiite population claim these changes have only been artificial. And although women were given the vote, most still wear the shroud-like black abayas. Meanwhile, nearly half the cabinet are members of the King's family.
Like several Arab states, Bahrain has a limited form of democracy. It also has the veneer of a western life-style, with McDonalds and Starbucks (and alcohol). Just a few years ago Bahrain was known... for its brutal repression, but under a new ruler, King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa, the state has freed political prisoners and held elections (2002). Women were allowed to vote and run for office. The Bush administration points to Bahrain as a country moving in the right direction. However, many in the majority Shiite population claim these changes have only been artificial. And although women were given the vote, most still wear the shroud-like black abayas. Meanwhile, nearly half the cabinet are members of the King's family.
| Series: | Looking for democracy |
|---|---|
| First transmission date: | 2005-09-21 |
| Published: | 2005 |
| Rights Statement: | Rights owned or controlled by The Open University |
| Restrictions on use: | This material can be used in accordance with The Open University conditions of use. A link to the conditions can be found at the bottom of all OU Digital Archive web pages. |
| Duration: | 00:22:33 |
| + Show more... | |
| Publisher: | BBC Open University |
| Subject terms: | Democracy--Bahrain |
| Production number: | AUDA051B |
| Available to public: | no |
