Financial Crime in Bahrain: A Growing Concern
Bahrain, a small island nation in the Persian Gulf, has traditionally been known for its low crime rate. However, incidents of financial crime are on the rise, posing a significant threat to the country’s economic stability.
The Rise of Financial Crime
According to recent reports, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching have become more common, particularly in the old market areas (souks). Moreover, the underground drug trade is growing, with an estimated 65% of violent crime and theft committed by foreign citizens residing in Bahrain.
The Role of Islamic Heritage
The country’s Islamic heritage plays a significant role in preventing financial crime. The Quran emphasizes the importance of law-abiding behavior and teaches that wrongdoings will result in the downfall of societies. This internalization of Islamic values has contributed to a culture of respect for the law among Bahraini citizens, where violating the law is considered a breach of God’s principles.
Human Trafficking Concerns
Human trafficking remains a significant concern in Bahrain. The country is a destination for men and women trafficked for involuntary servitude and commercial sexual exploitation. Many migrants from Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia face conditions of forced labor, including:
- Passport confiscation
- Restrictions on movement
- Non-payment of wages
- Physical or sexual abuse
Terrorist Threats
The threat of terrorist attacks in Bahrain is also a matter of concern. While the risk is considered low, potential targets include:
- Shopping areas
- Supermarkets
- Embassies
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Clubs
- Cinemas
- Theaters
- Schools
- Places of worship
- Outdoor recreation events
- Tourist areas
Corruption Concerns
In terms of corruption, Bahrain ranked 46th out of 179 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index 2007. While this indicates a relatively low level of corruption, the country still has work to do to improve transparency and accountability.
Conclusion
As the global economy continues to evolve, it is essential for Bahrain to strengthen its financial regulations and enforcement mechanisms to prevent and detect financial crime. This will not only protect the country’s economic stability but also promote a culture of integrity and transparency among its citizens and businesses.