UN Experts Condemn Bahraini Retaliation Against Released Human Rights Defender Naji Fateel, Including Police Questionings and Denial of Essential Post-Release Support

On 24 April 2025, three United Nations Special Rapporteurs published an allegation letter on their websites, sent to the Government of Bahrain on 17 February 2025, regarding the case of Bahraini human rights defender and blogger Naji Fateel. The letter raised serious concerns about retaliatory actions following Fateel’s release under royal pardon on 8 April[…]

The Rise of AI Surveillance in the UAE: Implications for Human Rights

Introduction The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI), integrating advanced technologies across various sectors to drive economic growth and enhance governance. Central to this strategy is the deployment of AI-driven surveillance systems aimed at increasing national security and public safety. However, the extensive use of such[…]

Sentenced as Children: Saudi Arabia’s Use of the Death Penalty Against Minors

In 2024, Saudi Arabia executed 345 people, the highest number recorded in the country in 30 years and more than double the 2023 total . This alarming figure highlights the broader pattern of judicial abuse and repression in the kingdom. Despite frequent claims of reform, Saudi Arabia’s justice system remains harsh and opaque, targeting even[…]

Profile in Persecution: Aqeel Muslem AbdulHusain Juma

Aqeel Muslem AbdulHusain Juma, a 16-year-old minor and school student, was arrested by Bahraini authorities on 14 January 2025 after appearing for a summons before the High Criminal Court. He is the younger brother of 17-year-old detained minor Abbas Muslem AbdulHusain Juma, who was arrested on 26 August 2024 and convicted on similar charges in[…]

Saudi Arabia’s Sportswashing and the Italian Super Cup

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a central player in the global sports arena—not for athletic achievement,  but for its calculated use of high-profile events to rebrand its international image. This practice,  known as sportswashing, refers to the strategic deployment of sporting partnerships and events to  divert attention from ongoing human rights violations and bolster a[…]