On Monday, Human Rights Watch (HRW) appealed for the release of activists imprisoned in Saudi Arabia for peacefully asserting their rights. They highlighted that while 44 prisoners were released between December 2024 and February 2025, these actions did not indicate any serious change in policy. Notably detained individuals include psychiatrist Sabri Shalabi and human rights defenders Waleed Abu al-Khair and Manahel al-Otaibi.
Released prisoners are currently burdened with “arbitrary travel bans” and face strict monitoring through ankle devices. Meanwhile, those still imprisoned experience violations of their rights, as family members and lawyers report due process and fair trial breaches. Many detainees are charged with crimes that do not conform to recognised international laws, revealing the absence of a comprehensive penal code in Saudi Arabia. HRW pressed for the country’s future penal code to align with global legal standards.
As a member of INTERPOL, Saudi Arabia has access to an extensive global police communication network. However, INTERPOL’s constitution bans involvement with politically motivated cases, raising concerns about the state’s treatments of activists. Furthermore, in March, various human rights groups urged Bulgaria to stop the deportation of Abdulrahman Al-Khalidi, a dissident who fled Saudi Arabia in 2013, while Amnesty International cautioned Turkey regarding potential human rights violations if Mohamad Alkayali were deported to Saudi Arabia.
Human Rights Watch calls for the release of Saudi activists held for peaceful expression. Despite recent releases, there are ongoing concerns about the treatment of detainees, including arbitrary travel bans and violations of fair trial rights. Many charges are not recognised under international law, highlighting the absence of a proper penal code. INTERPOL prohibits engagement in politically motivated cases, adding to the scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s stance on human rights.
In summary, Human Rights Watch is advocating for the release of Saudi activists wrongfully detained for their peaceful pursuits. The challenges faced by both released and current prisoners highlight significant legal and human rights issues. The appeal for reform of Saudi Arabia’s penal code underlines the need for compliance with international laws, as the treatment of activists continues to raise global concern.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
