Americans for Democracy and Human Rights in Bahrain along with the European Center for Democracy and Human Rights, is launching the “Unmuting Saudi Voices: A Call for Civic Freedom” campaign to expose the ongoing repression of civic space in Saudi Arabia and hold the Saudi state accountable for silencing its citizens and violating their rights.[…]
Saudi Arabia has embraced technology and digital advancements, promoting itself as a hub for innovation, yet this progress often stands in stark contrast to its strict control over online discourse and dissent. Authorities often employ extensive surveillance, censorship, and punitive measures against those who express criticism or share information deemed unacceptable. This situation harms digital[…]
Saudi Arabia has put in practice repressive measures that have allowed for the imprisonment of dissidents, arbitrary detentions, and abuses of prisoners. Among the inhumane practices, the death penalty is still a matter of concern, with 198 executions this year, the highest number since 1990 according to Amnesty International. Despite repeated promises to limit the[…]
The Saudi Arabian brothers Muhammad and Asaad al-Ghamdi have been unlawfully convicted for their peaceful online expression. Muhammad, a 55-year-old retired teacher, was arrested outside his house on 11 July 2022 and was consequently sentenced to death by the Specialized Criminal Court (SCC) a year later. His younger brother Asaad, a 48-year-old teacher, was arrested[…]
1.1. The legislative framework In Saudi Arabia, online expression is heavily restricted by a combination of laws, regulations, and enforcement practices that aim to control the flow of information and suppress dissent. The government employs various mechanisms to monitor and censor online content, targeting individuals and platforms that challenge its authority or promote views deemed[…]