UN: Saudi anti-terror laws threaten rights
UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism Ben Emmerson on May 5 said that Saudi Arabia's anti-terrorism laws are too broad and pose a threat to individual rights. He noted that Saudi Arabia's definition of terrorism, which includes "endangering 'national unity' or undermining 'the reputation or position of the State,'" is over-inclusive and should conform to international law, which maintains that terrorism must include "acts or threats of violence." Emmerson also expressed concern about the reported prosecution of writers and activists for non-violent actions. He urged Saudi Arabia's government to establish an "independent national security and due process review mechanism" to re-examine those prosecuted for political expression.
Emmerson also voiced concern about Saudi Arabia failing to adequately investigate its counter-terrorism actions in Yemen, which the UN believes has accounted for 60% of Yemeni civilian casualties.
From Jurist, May 4. Used with permission.
Recent Updates
14 hours 12 min ago
16 hours 17 min ago
19 hours 14 min ago
19 hours 31 min ago
19 hours 36 min ago
19 hours 44 min ago
19 hours 50 min ago
19 hours 55 min ago
20 hours 2 min ago
20 hours 20 min ago