The sentencing of Bahraini opposition figure Ebrahim Sharif has once again drawn attention to the tightening restrictions on political expression across the Gulf. Sharif had been arrested in November 2025 by local Bahraini authorities as he returned from the Arab National Conference in Beirut. He was charged with “spreading false news” on social media and[…]
28
Jan
Jan
Kuwait has always advertised itself as a more liberal Gulf state. However, current events provided a much more alarming picture of how state power is tightening its control over political speech and religious life, leaving little space for individuality, dissent, or fundamental liberties. Kuwait’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs released a statement that prohibits[…]
05
Jan
Jan
On the 19th of November 2025, a political prisoner by the name Ali Abdullah Fath Ali al-Khaja died in the al-Razeen prison in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Ali al-Khaja died at 58 years of age, after having spent more than a decade arbitrarily detained. During his time in prison, he endured torture, denial of[…]
26
Dec
Dec
The Gulf region is notoriously known for its constantly hot, sunny weather and luxurious, modern infrastructure, providing travellers with ideal conditions for year-round beach holidays and outdoor activities. Yet few recognise that delivering such services relies heavily on human labour, with many workers compelled to perform physically demanding tasks in extreme heat for much of[…]
28
Nov
Nov
Although freedom of expression is recognized by law in Kuwait, it is heavily restricted in practice. Kuwait has been struggling with restrictions on free expression for many years; however, since late 2023 and through 2024 serious escalation began under Emir Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Kuwait has been a State Party to the International Covenant on Civil[…]
