Migrant workers disproportionately impacted by the strikes in the Gulf

According to the International Labour Organization there are 24 million migrant workers residing in the Gulf Cooperation Council states. The Gulf region is the world’s hub for overseas workers. Migrant workers make up a significant percentage of the total 62 million people living in GCC countries, yet they suffer systemic discrimination. Migrant workers in the[…]

Saud al-Faraj Asked for Democracy and Saudi Arabia Killed Him for It

As the world’s attention remains fixed on the latest developments in the war in Iran, Saudi Arabia has quietly proceeded with the execution of a prominent businessman, Saud al-Faraj, for his involvement in the 2011 anti-government demonstrations in Qatif, where protesters had called for greater democracy and reform. Al-Faraj was arrested in 2019 following a[…]

How Bahrain Is Using the War on Iran to Suppress Its Own People

The war in the Middle East carries a tragedy represented in the censorship imposed by Gulf states to protect themselves from unwanted media coverage. Bahrain has become the latest country under scrutiny, following the death of Bahraini citizen Mohamed al-Mosawi and documented evidence of his torture during his detention in connection with the war on[…]

Selective Neutrality in the Gulf: How Strategic Partnerships Endanger Civilians Amid Regional Escalation

For decades, Gulf governments have promoted the narrative that their states are islands of stability in an otherwise turbulent region. Through economic diversification and careful geopolitical balancing, countries such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have positioned themselves as pragmatic actors committed to stability and economic prosperity. Amid the current[…]

Filming Conflict and the Boundaries of Expression: Human Rights Implications of UAE Wartime Restrictions

Since the escalation of the 2026 conflict involving Iran, the United Arab Emirates has introduced and reinforced restrictions on filming and sharing footage of missile strikes and their aftermath. Authorities have warned residents and visitors not to record or circulate images of missile debris, attack sites or sensitive locations, citing concerns related to public safety[…]