Washington Center For Human Rights
From DC to the World
CategoriesStatementsThe Washington Centre for Human Rights is deeply concerned by the recent actions of Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who starred in an advertisement promoting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a desirable tourism destination. Hemsworth, known for his role in the Thor franchise, appeared alongside his wife, Elsa Pataky, in a slick, glossy promotional video […]
CategoriesStatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights has successfully conducted a Congressional Briefing titled “The Case for Accountability Six Years after the Murder of Khashoggi.” The event was moderated by Sherif Mansour, a civil society, human rights and democracy advocate held on 03 Oct 2024 at the Ford House office building. The panel of speakers included […]
CategoriesStatementsThe ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to widespread suffering, and the involvement of foreign actors has only exacerbated the situation. One of the most concerning international actors in this conflict is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has been providing critical support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a militia responsible for numerous human […]
CategoriesStatementsOn May 31st, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) convened a conference at the House of Representatives to address the human rights situation in Sudan. The discussion also focused on the State Department report regarding the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) involvement in Sudan, including war crimes and arms exports. Saif Al Muthanna, Director of the Washington […]
CategoriesStatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights successfully hosted a noteworthy conference titled “Review of the Human Rights in the Bahrain Human Trafficking.” The event took place on May 28th, from 12 to 14 pm. It provided much time for in-depth investigation and dialogue. The event was held at the Intercultural Center (ICC) Auditorium, Washington, DC […]
CategoriesStatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights successfully hosted a meaningful congressional briefing titled “Review of the Human Rights Condition in Saudi Arabia.” The event took place on March 29th, from 11 to 12 pm, providing much time for in-depth analysis and dialogue. Speakers embarked on a critical analysis of the human rights conditions in Saudi […]
CategoriesStatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights, a renowned think tank and platform for international policy discussions, organized a highly acclaimed congressional briefing titled “Review of the Human Rights Condition in the UAE.” The event took place on February 15th from 3 to 4 p.m., providing much time for in-depth analysis and discussion. Held at the […]
CategoriesStatements Country ProfileIn a concerning development that highlights the severe erosion of freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia, the Washington Center for Human Rights condemns the recent sentencing of 18-year-old Manal al-Gafiri to 18 years in jail and a travel ban. Her alleged crime? Posting tweets in support of political prisoners. This shocking violation of basic human […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIn the ongoing discussions between US and Saudi officials regarding the possibility of a mutual defense pact, the Washington Center for Human Rights emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing human rights and unwavering adherence to international law in shaping this prospective agreement. The potential ramifications of such a pact, envisioned to provide military support in […]
CategoriesStatements Advocacy Country ProfileTwo years ago, a collective of human rights organizations worldwide joined hands to rally behind the unjustly imprisoned members of the Belarusian rights group Viasna. These brave individuals had dedicated their lives to championing human rights in Belarus, and their incarceration was a grave miscarriage of justice. On September 17, 2021, the #FreeViasna campaign was […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction In the aftermath of the Taliban’s swift return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, the world has been confronted with a harrowing erosion of fundamental rights, particularly for women and girls. The Washington Center for Human Rights stands in solidarity with the findings of Human Rights Watch’s recent report, which underscores that the […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIn a disconcerting development, Tunisian Judge Anas Hmedi, President of the Tunisian Judges’ Association (AMT), finds himself entangled in a legal battle that threatens not only his personal freedom but also the very principles of justice and judicial independence. As he prepares to face an investigating judge at the Kef Court of First Instance on […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIn recent times, the world has witnessed a disconcerting erosion of human rights and civil liberties in the Russian Federation. Over the past year, the United Nations has maintained a vigilant eye on the situation, issuing a series of grave statements that highlight the concerning escalation of repression and violations within the country. From July […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIn a chilling and alarming development, Saudi Arabia has once again demonstrated its ruthless commitment to suppressing freedom of expression, this time with a death sentence handed down to a retired Saudi teacher, Muhammad al-Ghamdi. The charges? Solely his online presence on Twitter and YouTube. This egregious violation of human rights serves as a grim […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIn the bustling lead-up to the 28th Conference of Parties on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), slated to be held in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023, a troubling situation has emerged that demands immediate international attention. A coalition of 19 human rights groups has come together to issue […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIn recent years, Chad’s political landscape has been marked by turbulence and uncertainty. Following the sudden death of President Idriss Déby Itno in April 2021, the nation faced a constitutional crisis that ultimately led to the rise of his son, Mahamat Déby, who assumed control of the transitional military council. With elections delayed and a […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction The Washington Center for Human Rights stands in solidarity with Human Rights Watch in its recent call for Bahrain to urgently address the alarming situation of hundreds of prisoners currently engaged in a hunger strike. This pressing issue demands immediate global attention, as it raises critical concerns about the humane treatment of detainees in […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsIntroduction: In a shocking display of oppression, the Taliban have once again revealed their cruelty towards women by banning them from visiting the picturesque Band-e-Amir national park in Afghanistan. This heart-wrenching restriction on women’s access to nature highlights the urgent need for international attention and action. The Washington Center for Human Rights condemns this blatant […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsIntroduction The Washington Center for Human Rights is deeply alarmed by the deteriorating human rights situation in Tunisia, particularly in the aftermath of President Kais Saied’s power grab in July 2021. Over the past two years, Tunisian authorities have taken alarming steps to suppress political opposition, curtail free expression, and discriminate against migrants and refugees. […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction: The Washington Center for Human Rights expresses deep concern over the lack of justice and accountability a decade after the mass sentencing of 69 peaceful activists in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The continued imprisonment of these individuals, who were unjustly convicted for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, is […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction: The Washington Center for Human Rights strongly condemns the ongoing arbitrary detention of Saudi women’s rights activists Salma al-Shehab and Nourah al-Qahtani. These courageous individuals have dedicated their lives to advocating for women’s rights and challenging the oppressive gender norms in Saudi Arabia. The recent call by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsIntroduction: As the war in Sudan approaches its three-month mark, there are no signs of progress in ending the conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The international community must abandon outdated strategies and embrace new, innovative approaches to prevent Sudan’s collapse, as warned by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Recent attempts […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsIntroduction:The Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) expresses grave concern over the continued restriction of religious freedom in Bahrain, as highlighted in the recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The denial of access to Friday prayers for Shia worshippers constitutes a clear violation of fundamental human rights and underscores the urgent need for Bahrain […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction:The Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) is deeply alarmed by the reports of severe abuse and abandonment suffered by migrants at the hands of Tunisian security forces. The mistreatment, including physical assault, confiscation of belongings, and abandonment at the Libyan border, highlights the urgent need for immediate action to protect the rights and safety […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights expresses deep concern over the continued imprisonment of civil society actors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ahead of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28). These individuals, who have been unjustly sentenced in a mass trial, are being deprived of their freedom for advocating for human rights, environmental […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsIn a disturbing development, Saud al-Qahtani, a key suspect in the brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has been seen in public for the first time since the heinous crime took place. Al-Qahtani, a former aide to the crown prince, was spotted in Jeddah city, seemingly unscathed and using a walking stick. This appearance has […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsSubject: Urgent Appeal to Withdraw from the Cup 28 Summit Due to UAE’s Involvement Dear [President’s Name], I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you on behalf of the Washington Center for Human Rights, a leading organization dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Our […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsSubject: Urgent Appeal to Withdraw from the Cup 28 Summit Due to UAE’s Involvement Dear President of the Foreign Affairs Committee We hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you on behalf of the Washington Center for Human Rights, a leading organization dedicated to promoting and protecting […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsIntroduction:The Washington Center for Human Rights strongly condemns the ongoing silencing and reprisals against civil society activists in Saudi Arabia, particularly the targeting of Mohammed al-Qahtani and members of the Association for Civil and Political Rights in Saudi Arabia (ACPRA). These individuals have dedicated their lives to defending human rights and promoting social justice within […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsThe recent unannounced official visit of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to France has raised profound concerns and calls for action among human rights advocates and organizations worldwide. While the visit was touted as an opportunity to strengthen financial partnerships and address climate-related challenges, it is crucial to emphasize the pressing need […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction: In recent years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has embarked on a journey of progressive reforms aimed at improving human rights within its borders. In a significant step forward, the KSA has committed to protecting human rights defenders, prohibiting torture, and upholding freedom of expression. These reforms, while in their early stages, signal […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights stands firm in its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights globally. As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) prepares to host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), we urge the UAE government to prioritize the immediate release of […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsInternational Institutions Concerned with Human Rights and Peacekeeping Subject: Urgent Call to Stop the UAE and KSA from Promoting Violence in Sudan Dear Honorable Representatives, The Washington Center for Human Rights, an organization committed to promoting peace, justice, and the protection of human rights, writes to draw your attention to the concerning situation in Sudan […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsOn behalf of the Washington Center for Human Rights, we write to express our deep concern regarding the current crisis of shortage of bread and other basic foodstuffs in Tunisia. While we acknowledge the seriousness of this situation and the challenges it poses for the population, we urge you to focus on addressing the root […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsDear Secretary-General, subject: Urgent Appeal for UN Action in Promoting Social Justice in Ethiopia On behalf of the Washington Center for Human Rights, we write to bring to your attention the grave situation of social injustice in Ethiopia. We urgently call upon the United Nations to take decisive action and play a vital role in […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) urgently calls for a comprehensive national dialogue in Yemen to reformulate the form of the unity state and its political system. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has had devastating humanitarian consequences, exacerbating the need for a renewed and inclusive dialogue to address the root causes of the crisis. […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) strongly condemns the Iraqi government’s failure to adequately support and address the needs of the victims of ISIS in Sinjar. The recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) titled “Iraqi Government Is Failing Victims of ISIS” sheds light on the dire situation faced by the survivors and displaced […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsWashington, D.C. – [Date] The Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) applauds the recent announcement of a ceasefire agreement in Sudan, marking a significant step towards peace and stability in the region. This positive development comes as a beacon of hope for the Sudanese people, who have endured prolonged conflict and suffering for far too […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsWashington, D.C. – The Washington Center for Human Rights expresses its deepest concern and unequivocally denounces the recent tragic incident of a Lebanese man who lost his life while in the custody of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities. This incident highlights the urgent need for the international community to address the systemic human rights […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) examines the 43rd Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Statement on the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as outlined in the speech provided by the UK government. The WCHR expresses deep concern regarding the UAE’s failure to meet basic human rights requirements, as detailed in the statement. This comprehensive analysis aims […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) is deeply concerned about the continued human rights violations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The recent joint statement by Human Rights Watch and other organizations highlights the severity of the situation, with reports of arbitrary detention, restrictions on the right to freedom of expression and assembly, and […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsThe United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been criticized by human rights organizations for its poor human rights record. The country has a history of arbitrarily detaining individuals, restricting freedom of expression, and using torture and other forms of ill-treatment. Discriminatory laws also target women, migrant workers, and the LGBTQ+ community. The recent joint statement […]
CategoriesStatements AdvocacyRecently, there have been reports of African workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) being arrested and deported en masse. The Washington Center for Human Rights is deeply concerned about these developments, which appear to be part of a broader pattern of discrimination and mistreatment of migrant workers in the UAE. According to media reports, […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsThe use of spyware by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia (KSA) to target human rights defenders, journalists, and political dissidents is a clear violation of international human rights law. Recent revelations about the extent of this surveillance have raised serious concerns about the impact on freedom of expression, privacy, and human rights […]
CategoriesStatements Advocacy Country ProfileWashington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) demands the immediate and unconditional release of Salma al-Shehab and seven other detained Saudi women who have been on a hunger strike since March 23, 2023. These women have been unjustly detained and are protesting against their detention and trial, as well as demanding their release. Salma al-Shehab, a […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsIntroduction The Washington Center for Human Rights has been monitoring the situation of foreign working women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for several years now. Unfortunately, we have found that despite efforts to curb the practice of modern slavery, it continues to be rampant in the UAE. This report is an attempt to shed […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsWashington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) is deeply concerned about the continued imprisonment of Dr. Mohammed Al-Qahtani, a prominent Saudi Arabian human rights activist. Dr. Al-Qahtani has been detained since 2012 without any formal charges or trial, in what can only be described as a blatant violation of his fundamental human rights. Dr. Al-Qahtani is […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsSocial media companies have become a vital part of modern-day communication, providing an avenue for people worldwide to connect, share ideas and communicate with one another. However, as social media companies continue to grow and expand their reach, the power they wield has become a cause for concern, particularly regarding human rights abuses. Governments, particularly […]
CategoriesAdvocacy Country Profile StatementsThe Washington Center for Human Rights is pleased to applaud the recent decision by Burkina Faso to pass a bill that aims to bring more accountability for security force abuses. This landmark decision is a significant step forward in promoting human rights and strengthening the rule of law in Burkina Faso. The new bill will […]
CategoriesAdvocacy StatementsDear Danish and European Human Rights Organizations, We, Washington Center for Human Rights, are writing to you to raise our concerns about the United Arab Emirates (UAE) appointing Dr. Thani Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi as President of COP28, scheduled to take place in 2023. The appointment of Dr. Al-Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of Climate Change and Environment, […]