Eman Al Nafjan was one of the first bloggers in Saudi Arabia – she has spent the last few months behind bars. She was arrested in May last year along with other women’s rights activists. Three of them – besides Nafjan also Aziza al-Yousef and Rukaja al-Muharib – were allowed to leave the prison temporarily. It was said from family circles of activists. By Sunday, more imprisoned women’s rights activists should be released.
The competent criminal court in Riyadh also reported the release of three defendants. This was done after the examination of applications. However, the case goes on, the court said. The prosecution accuses the women of „having coordinated activities to undermine the security, stability and national unity of the kingdom“.
Among other things, the women’s rights activists called for an end to the women’s driving ban, which was lifted last year, and called for the abolition of the so-called guardianship law, which gives men in Saudi Arabia extensive control over their female relatives.
Devastating human rights situation
About eleven defendants began a process about two weeks ago. Among other things, they are accused of jeopardizing the security and stability of the country. The trial had been postponed on Wednesday after the second session. When he goes on is unclear.
The human rights organization Human Rights Watch complains that the allegations against the defendants stem solely from their commitment to more women’s rights. Four detainees were tortured. Saudi Arabia rejects the allegations.
Under the leadership of the young crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Islamic-conservative country has a hard hand against opponents. The heir to the throne is internationally also because of the brutal murder of the journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the criticism. In a country report this month, the US State Department also painted a devastating picture of the US human rights record.
