Latest posts by Gulf Center for Human Rights
The dreams of Saudi human rights defender Loujain Al-Hathloul in a children’s book
In the story, little Loujain yearns to fly with her wings, but only boys had that right. Despite hardship, her family supports her dream, making her an inspiring heroine.
Where is Qatari human rights defender Noof Al-Maadeed?
Having fled to Britain to protect herself from her father, the 23-year-old returned to Doha after receiving reassurances from Qatari authorities that she'd be protected. Days later, she disappeared.
Qatar urged to release 21 detainees held for protesting ‘discriminatory’ election laws
The laws, ratified by the Qatari ruler to regulate the upcoming vote, bars citizens who are classified as "naturalized" rather than "native" from running in elections, voting, or both.
An Emirati human rights defender's life has ended abruptly, but her legacy remains
Those who knew Alaa are saddened at the loss of a courageous human rights defender who addressed the injustices committed by the UAE against its law-abiding citizens and elsewhere.
Oman detains activists over online posts criticizing projects that could destroy Dhofar Plain
Activists and environmentalists took to social media platforms to criticize Omani government's decision to allow construction of housing units over Dhofar Plain, which threatens camel grazers' livelihoods and centuries-old traditions.
In the Middle East, words escape prison walls to inspire freedom and hope
"Why is our homeland so small and tight, and why am I considered a criminal or an enemy that threatens it!”
A new ‘cyber defence’ system in Oman raises human rights concerns
The Omani Sultanate passed a new decree giving security authorities further control over the internet.
Migrant workers face racism and rampant human rights violations across the Gulf
Migrant workers in the Gulf region are being subjected to a fierce campaign calling for their deportation that is riddled with racist speeches and hatred.
Impact of COVID-19 containment measures on human rights and civil liberties in the Middle East
COVID-19 measures in the MENA region have especially targeted some of the most vulnerable groups such as detained human rights defenders, migrant workers and independent media.
The plight of Kuwait's stateless community: Silenced and deprived of human rights
The security services spare no effort to target and silence the human rights movement of Kuwait's stateless community.
Jailed Emirati activist Ahmed Mansoor's life is at risk, after six weeks on hunger strike
Mansoor was awarded the Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders in 2015. He has been jailed multiple times since 2011.
A lethal combination: How MENA governments use cybercrime laws and spyware to target activists
Gulf governments continue to deploy cybercrime laws as an arbitrary legal cover to target target human rights defenders.
Saudi Arabia, a United Nations Human Rights Council Member, Continues Rights Crackdown
"The General Assembly is supposed to take into account the contribution of candidate States that seek membership to the HRC in the promotion and protection of human rights."
Yemeni Human Rights Blogger Hisham Al-Omeisy Has Been Missing for 150 Days
Before his detention Hisham Al-Omeisy was outspoken about the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Jailed Bahraini Rights Defender Nabeel Rajab Faces Additional Fifteen Years in Prison
Rajab is in prison for his human rights-related activities and for freely expressing his opinions.
United Arab Emirates: Seven Months After Completing His Sentence, Blogger Osama Al-Najjar Remains in Prison
Osama Al-Najjar was arrested in 2014 for tweeting in support of his imprisoned father.
Saudi Women Activists Win Driving Victory in Shadow of Guardianship System and Wave of Arrests
Saudi women may soon be able to drive. However, they continue to face discriminatory barriers under the kingdom's male guardianship system.
A Year After Newspaper Ban, Independent Media Remain Under Siege in Oman
Azamn newspaper was banned over a report on interference with the independence of the judiciary. One of its journalists remains in prison.
Bahraini Rights Activist Ebtisam Al-Saegh Charged Under Terrorism Law
Bahraini authorities have constantly harassed Al-Saegh because of her rights activism.
The Incredible Courage of Women Human Rights Defenders in the Middle East
Women in Iraq, Syria, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Iran have faced prosecution, poor treatment, kidnappings and even death for daring to defend human rights.
These 7 Cases Prove That Online Activism is Under Siege in Saudi Arabia
Learn about Gulf Center for Human Rights efforts to raise awareness about online activists facing harassment and legal challenges in Saudi Arabia.