Introduction
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to systematically violate the rights of its Shia citizens amid a complete absence of structural reforms to address entrenched sectarian discrimination. Despite the official promotion of “Vision 2030” as a path toward modernization and openness, Shia communities remain subject to restrictive policies that limit their rights in religion, expression, and economic and political participation.
Five Fronts of Systematic Discrimination
-
Legal and Institutional Discrimination
The legal framework in Saudi Arabia provides no protection for freedom of religion or belief and grants judges absolute discretionary powers, opening the door to arbitrary rulings influenced by sectarian affiliation. Anti-terrorism and cybercrime laws are used to prosecute Shia activists under vague charges that criminalize religious practices. -
Restrictions on Religious Freedom
The state imposes strict restrictions on building Shia places of worship and demolishes mosques and religious centers in predominantly Shia areas. The official religious establishment issues takfiri fatwas that entrench hatred and discrimination. -
Discrimination in Education
The educational curriculum contains content that incites hatred against Shia and portrays their beliefs as “misguided” or “polytheistic.” Shia talents face systematic marginalization in higher education, where they are barred from holding senior academic or teaching positions. -
Economic Exclusion
Shia citizens suffer clear discrimination in employment opportunities and career advancement, especially in sensitive sectors such as security, judiciary, and energy. Shias are often excluded from leadership positions even when qualified. -
Discriminatory Urban Policies
The state uses urban planning tools as a means of forced displacement and pressure on the Shia community, including demolishing homes and places of worship, denying building permits, and neglecting infrastructure in their areas.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Evidence confirms that discriminatory policies against Shias in Saudi Arabia are not isolated incidents but systematic practices that violate the state’s obligations under international human rights law. Amid international complicity that prioritizes economic interests over human rights concerns, these violations continue without accountability.
Read the full report: Erased by Law- Sectarian Repression and the Shia Struggle for Equality in Saudi Arabia.
