In a statement,  SANAD Human Rights Organization Condemns Saudi Arabia’s Candidacy for the Human Rights Council and Urges States Not to Vote in Its Favor

In a statement, SANAD Human Rights Organization expressed its strong condemnation of Saudi Arabia’s candidacy for membership in the United Nations Human Rights Council, amid the ongoing grave human rights violations committed by Saudi authorities. The organization pointed out that Saudi Arabia’s record in this field is notoriously poor, as it systematically represses dissidents and issues death sentences against them. Furthermore, its prisons are filled with prisoners of conscience who have been detained solely for peacefully expressing their opinions.

SANAD emphasized that Saudi Arabia is classified as one of the worst countries in terms of protecting human rights and adhering to its fundamental principles. The organization described Saudi Arabia’s bid for a seat on the Human Rights Council as a troubling irony. It highlighted that recent years have witnessed an increase in the execution of death sentences, including against those exercising their legitimate right to freedom of expression. Moreover, arbitrary arrests, torture, enforced disappearances, and unfair trials continue, all in violation of international human rights standards.

The organization explained that allowing Saudi Arabia to secure a seat on the Human Rights Council is a misguided step that undermines global efforts to promote and protect human rights. SANAD argued that Saudi Arabia’s participation in this council would present a clear contradiction with the council’s core values and pose a threat to its integrity and credibility.

SANAD called on all member states of the United Nations General Assembly to vote against Saudi Arabia’s candidacy in the upcoming Human Rights Council elections scheduled for October 9. The organization also urged the international community to exert pressure on Saudi authorities to stop human rights violations and immediately and unconditionally release all prisoners of conscience.