UAE Needs to Reform Its Limits on Free Expression

On 14 May, Human Rights Watch (HRW) called for Emirati authorities to release Nasser bin Ghaith and drop all charges against him. Emirati authorities accused Bin Ghaith of insulting Egypt and violating UAE’s cybercrime and counterterrorism laws.  HRW states that after his arrest in August 2015, Emirati forces subjected Bin Ghaith to torture during his[…]

New Saudi Documentary Uncovers Life Behind the Facade

Sabria S. Jawhar, a writer for Arab News, has heavily criticized a new documentary called “Saudi Arabia Uncovered.” The documentary details the current state of Saudi Arabia, highlighting various ways in which its citizens lack basic human rights and authorities suppress free political expression. The documentary calls attention to the failing economy, conflict in the[…]

Bahrain’s Ongoing Detention of Political Activists

On February 25, 2016, the Index on Censorship called for the immediate release of imprisoned political activist Ebrahim Sharif, after a Bahraini court convicted Sharif of inciting hatred. The court acquitted the former Secretary-General of National Democratic Action Society on charges of promoting the toppling of the government. The court sentenced Sharif, to one year[…]

In His Own Words: Sheikh Nimr’s Sermons

ADHRB has compiled a number of Sheikh Nimr’s speeches and sermons that highlight his efforts to peacefully call for political reform and respect for human rights in Saudi Arabia. In the videos below, Sheikh Nimr discusses government oppression and describes how Saudis must peacefully demand change that will promote equality and end abuses.   In this video, Sheikh Nimr explains why peaceful[…]

UAE Convicts Omani National for Alleged Social Media Insults

An Emirati court has sentenced Saleh al-Owaissi, a 29-year-old Omani man, to three years in prison and a fine of Dh50,000, for allegedly “disseminating information with a view to ridicule and damage the reputation of the state symbols” on WhatsApp. The authorities also claim that al-Owaissi “ridiculed Emirati martyrs in Yemen” by referring to them[…]