NGOs Call for Release of Detained Individuals in Saudi Arabia
A coalition of 40 NGOs and human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, has urged Saudi Arabia to release all arbitrarily detained individuals prior to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh.
Will Saudi Arabia Prioritize Human Rights Ahead of IGF?
- IGF is set to take place from 15-19 December 2024
- Concerns arise about hosting IGF amidst crackdown on free speech
Fear Amongst Activists and Defenders
- Activists hesitant to attend IGF in fear of reprisals
- Lack of assurances from Saudi authorities
Amnesty International calls for public assurances to protect attendees’ rights at IGF.
Saudi Arabia’s Repression of Online Expression
- Cases of individuals persecuted for online expression highlighted
- Call for reforms in laws criminalizing expression
Secretary General of Amnesty International, Agnès Callamard, emphasizes the need for Saudi authorities to respect freedom of expression to be seen as global leaders in digital policy.
Source: www.amnesty.org