Oman: Briefing paper on the situation of human rights defenders
Oman must open safe spaces for human rights defence and release activists currently under arbitrary detention. ISHR makes the case for human rights defender related recommendations at Oman's upcoming Universal Periodic Review.
(Geneva) – Oman is scheduled to be reviewed at the 23rd session of the Universal Periodic Review in November 2015.
Oman has not responded to many of the recommendations made in the last UPR in 2011. While repressive official restrictions on freedom of speech and association remain in force, reprisals have increased and a culture of silence and fear persists. Those who do speak out run the risk of censorship, unfair dismissals, arbitrary detention and torture.
Especially vulnerable are human rights defenders who criticise the government, LGBT defenders and woman activists.
Key recommendations that should be made to Oman at the UPR in 2015 include that the Government should release human rights defenders currently under arbitrary detention, enact specific laws to protect human rights defenders and commit to an independent investigation into allegations of torture.
This Briefing Paper on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders in Oman is intended to assist States and other stakeholders to formulate questions and recommendations regarding the protection of human rights defenders during the UPR.
For further information about the Briefing Paper or for any assistance or advice in the formulation of recommendations, please contact ISHR's Ben Leather, on [email protected].