I am an editor and researcher covering human rights in the Arab region, with a focus on free speech and privacy rights. I hold a media studies MA from the University of Amsterdam, where I wrote my thesis on the implications of social media platforms’ content removal policies in compliance with local laws.
Latest posts by Afef Abrougui
30 March 2018
Tunisian MPs Propose Legislation Criminalising ‘Cyber Defamation’
"This bill is the result of a repressive mindset restrictive of freedoms, reflecting a nostalgia for the dictatorship era".
21 February 2018
Tunisian Security Forces Target Journalists Covering Anti-Austerity Protests
The press in Tunisia is "too free," Tunisian president Essebsi said at a joint press conference with French president Macron on 31 January.
3 January 2018
Caught in Conflict, Internet Users in Yemen Face Blocking, Shutdowns and Slow Speed
Authorities in Yemen have a long history of imposing restrictions on freedom of expression and the right to access information.
17 November 2017
Jordanian Cartoonist Goes to Trial For Drawing Jesus
The cartoon commented on the Orthodox Church in Jerusalem, which sold church property to Israeli settler groups to pay off church debt.
2 November 2017
Moroccan Journalists Keep Fighting to Cover the Hirak Movement, Despite State Intimidation
Journalists reporting on the Hirak protests are facing a myriad of restrictions.
12 October 2017
In Algeria, Two Imprisoned Bloggers Go on Hunger Strike
Freedom of expression and press freedom are under attack in Algeria.
5 October 2017
A Yemeni Political Analyst Has Been Held By Houthi Rebels Since August, With No Explanation
Hisham Al-Omeisy is a crucial voice on the ongoing war in Yemen, and its humanitarian cost.
22 September 2017
Saudi Arabia Eases Restrictions on Messaging Apps, But WhatsApp and Viber Are Still Blocked
Since 2013, the Saudi government has partially or fully blocked chat and call applications including WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook Messenger and FaceTime.
20 September 2017
Sentenced to One Year in Prison for ‘Inciting Protest,’ a Moroccan Journalist Goes on Hunger Strike
Several journalists have been arrested by Moroccan authorities over their coverage of the unrest in the Rif region.
13 September 2017
Keeping His Story Alive: The Creative Legacy of Bassel Khartabil
One month after his execution was confirmed, friends honour Bassel Khartabil through art, song and new opportunities for open technology innovators.
17 August 2017
In Tunisia's ‘State of Emergency’, a New Police Protection Law Could Allow More Abuse — With Impunity
Supported by the interior ministry and police unions, the bill is being criticized by human rights groups.
9 August 2017
Rights Group Website and Columnist's Blog Become Latest Targets of Egypt's Censorship Campaign
From May 24 to August 6, Egyptian authorities blocked 133 websites, according to the Association for Freedom of Thought and Expression.
11 July 2017
Protesting Mistreatment in Prison, Emirati Activist Survives Six Weeks of Hunger Strike
Imran al-Radwan is serving a seven-year jail sentence for calling for reform in the UAE.
28 June 2017
Caught Between Saudi Coalition and Houthi Rebels, Yemeni Journalists Face Challenges on All Sides
Press freedom in Yemen is facing "eradication".
5 June 2017
Artists and Writers Celebrate the Work of Missing Syrian Developer Bassel Safadi
"I’ve lived all my life dreaming of Freedom, and Bassel taught me to embrace it. I feel overwhelmed when I mention his name."
25 May 2017
Iraqi Parliament Slammed for Bill Restricting Free Speech, Right to Protest
Instead of working to ensure stronger protections for freedoms, the Iraqi parliament is rather seeking to pass a repressive law.
8 May 2017
Tunisian Media Activist Interrogated Over Sources of Leaked Documents
Sami Ben Gharbia is a significant figure in independent media and digital human rights activism in Tunisia and the Arab region.
5 May 2017
Draft Law Would Require Egyptian Social Media Users to Register With Government
Users who do not register could face up to six months in jail and a fine.
Omani Authorities Block Access to Online Magazine Mowatin
The independent magazine was blocked by Oman authorities on World Press Freedom Day, hours after resuming publication.
27 April 2017
Jailed Emirati Academic Endures Hunger Strike to Protest Ten-Year Jail Sentence
"I have no choice but to go on hunger strike to restore my stolen freedom".
