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[…]
02
Dec
Dec
At the end of October, Saudi Arabia appointed Sheik Saleh bin Abdullah bin Fawzan al-Fawzan as the Kingdom’s Grand Mufti. The Grand Mufti is the highest religious official in Saudi Arabia and also the chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, which is the country’s highest religious body. This gives the grand Mufti great influence[…]
11
Sep
Sep
On September 10, 2025, Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) delivered an intervention during the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. During the General Debate under Item 2, ADHRB highlighted the dangerous escalation of violations of religious freedoms, reflecting entrenched policies of sectarian discrimination against Shia citizens in Bahrain.[…]
16
Jul
Jul
Introduction In a worrying escalation this year, Bahraini security forces — as in previous years — have resorted to the harshest forms of repression against Ashura rituals, carrying out a widespread campaign of summonses, arrests, fabricated charges, and the removal of religious symbols across various regions. Meanwhile, the government’s official narrative presents an idealized image[…]
03
Jun
Jun
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,[…]
