The UAE uses strict laws to stop protests and criticism, aiming to protect its relationships with other countries and keep peace. Even though some reforms were introduced, migrant workers still face unfair treatment under the restrictive Kafala system, with little change seen in practice.
The former minister and advisor of the United Arab Emirates, Anwar Gargash, said that this arrest was compulsory in order to protect the country from outsider involvement and big problems brought by others. He claimed that arrests were done by keeping in mind all laws to maintain the social order. But the question is what about the human rights violation that was involved in this arrest?
This arrest clearly sends the message that no one has the right to protest peacefully and raise their voice. This case also connects to a recent trial where 53 Emiratis were convicted for speaking out for their rights.
These trials were secretive, and many believe the defendants were not given a fair chance to defend themselves.
Back to December 2023, when the COP28 was held in this nation. During this event, 84 activists who had already served their sentences were retried. The UAE government claimed that they were involved with terror groups whose aim was to harm the nation. These actions were justified by the 2014 Anti-Terrorism Law. This rule can lead to life imprisonment or even death, which raises more concern about human rights violations in the UAE.
On July 10, 2024, the Abu Dhabi Federal Appeals Court condemned 6 companies and 53 people for crimes related to terrorism. They were involved with a group that made plans to perform terror activities in the UAE. All people who managed this group were sentenced to prison. Furthermore, 5 others were sentenced to prison for promoting another terror group named “”Reform Call.”
Lastly, five were given 10-year sentences and fined AED 10 million each for money laundering to fund terrorism. The UAE continues to take strong legal action against such threats to its security.
Companies that were involved in money laundering and supporting terrorism were given strong punishment after the court decision. Each company had to pay a handsome amount of fine; also, all their assets were taken away. The UAE is the nation that fights these crimes, but at the same time it also has a history of silencing people who speak against politics. Without any solid reason, the government arrests the individuals, tortures them, and ignores their rights to speak without any hesitation.
Critics believe the UAE should free all detainees, including workers, and stop these harsh practices. They urge the government to respect human rights and follow both local and international laws.