THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN’S NATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT 2025

49 regulatory framework, as well as the Ministerial Resolution (120) for 2021, which mandates the follow-up of implementation to the Joint Counter-Terrorism Center (JCTC). 231. A horizontal risk scan has been completed, confirming the absence of DPRK nationals residing in the country, and the nonexistence of diplomatic presence nor trade, financial, or communication links with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). Additionally, no matches to UN-listed individuals or entities nor any PF-related frozen assets have been identified. This aligns with Bahrain’s inherent low risk profile, which stems from its non-involvement in the import, export, or transshipment of WMDs and robust dual-use goods or technologies controls. 232. Competent authorities display high levels of threat awareness and technical capability, underpinned by frequent coordination through the National Committee on Prohibition of Weapons of Mass Destruction (NCPWMD) and strong political commitment. Authorities and obliged entities benefit from the use of advanced screening tools and automated name-checking systems, allowing real-time identification of sanctioned entities and assets. 233. Bahrain ensures timely and transparent access to basic and beneficial ownership information on legal persons is transparent and timely through the multi-pronged approach, as highlighted in the “legal persons and arrangements risk assessment section” of this document. Financial Institutions (FIs), Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASPs) and Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) are well aware of their TFS obligations, with compliance routinely monitored and enforced by supervisory authorities. Subscription to UN sanction list updates is widespread, and violations trigger significant administrative or criminal penalties. This high level of compliance is supported by ongoing outreach and guidance materials and regular training sessions organized in coordination between the JCTC and regulatory authorities, ensuring that the private sector and the obliged entities understands and implements its TFS obligations effectively. 234. Overall, Bahrain’s residual PF risk remains low , reflecting the robustness of its national controls, low threat exposure, and proactive institutional engagement in sustaining compliance with relevant UNSCRs and FATF Recommendation 7. Overall Conclusion: 235. Bahrain is firmly committed to strengthening its AML/CFT/CPF framework, ensuring alignment with international standards and best practices. This commitment is demonstrated through continuous enhancements to the legal, regulatory, and institutional framework, coupled with strong awareness and compliance initiatives across both the public and private sectors. Bahrain also prioritizes inter-agency cooperation, public-private partnerships, and the integration of advanced technologies to strengthen monitoring and detection systems. Collectively, these measures foster a culture of compliance that extends beyond regulatory requirements, embedding resilience and effectiveness into the national framework.