Dr. Muhammad Fahd Al-Qahtani
detainee
About The Detainee
An economist and human rights activist, he worked as a professor of economics at the Institute of Diplomatic Affairs affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He appeared in numerous television episodes discussing economic issues related to human rights. He became well-known for his focus and activism concerning human rights in Saudi Arabia. He was among the leading defenders of prisoners of conscience in Saudi Arabia, to the extent that he was arrested due to his human rights activities. He was one of the signatories and founders of the HASM Association, which is concerned with human rights and freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia. While detained in 2018, he received the Right Livelihood Award along with activists Abdullah Al-Hamid, may God have mercy on him, and Walid Abu al-Khair, in recognition of their continuous efforts in human rights.
Arrest And Human Rights Violations
Time Line For Arrest
He was banned from travelling
The first court hearing was convened
He was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment and banned from travelling for a further 10 years
he received the Right Livelihood Award along with activists Abdullah Al-Hamid, may God have mercy on him, and Walid Abu al-Khair, in recognition of his efforts to reform the Saudi system.
He declared a hunger strike along with several members of the HASM Association.
He declared a hunger strike due to the authorities' crackdown on him inside the prison.
He declared a hunger strike due to the poor treatment he was experiencing, including being denied communication with his family. The strike lasted for four days.
He was physically assaulted by another prisoner.
He was forcibly disappeared.
His sentence ended, yet despite this, the authorities continued to forcibly disappear him.
The detainee was summoned so that his human right activities could be investigated