UAE’s Crackdown on Civil Society: Implications for COP28

Marking a Decade: UAE‘s Mass Trial and the Call for Prisoner Release

Introduction

As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) prepares to host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Heba Morayef, raises important concerns regarding the country’s human rights record. Morayef rightly points out that while the UAE seeks to position itself in the international spotlight as a leader in addressing climate change, it has failed to address its own shortcomings when it comes to safeguarding civil liberties. Specifically, Morayef highlights the unjust imprisonment of 60 Emirati civil society members, who were sentenced in a mass trial in 2013. Despite 51 of the detainees completing their sentences, they continue to languish in prison, casting a dark shadow on the UAE‘s commitment to human rights.

Background

It is crucial to understand the context surrounding the mass trial that took place in 2013. In March 2012, the UAE authorities initiated a wave of arrests and prosecutions targeted at Emirati nationals with alleged links to al-Islah, a group associated with the Muslim Brotherhood. The indictment accused the defendants of seeking to change the country’s “system of governance,” branding them as threats to the state.

The trial concluded on July 2, 2013, with 69 individuals convicted. Shockingly, a decade later, 60 of them remain behind bars despite completing their sentences. The UAE government justifies their continued detention under the pretext of “counter-extremism counseling,” a policy that Amnesty International and numerous other organizations find deeply problematic and lacking transparency.

Global Implications

The call for the immediate release of the arbitrarily detained prisoners carries global significance, particularly in light of the upcoming COP28 conference. As the UAE assumes the role of host country, it becomes imperative for governments worldwide to exert pressure on the Emirati government to address these human rights concerns. Morayef aptly argues that COP28 cannot effectively combat climate breakdown if it takes place within an environment marked by restricted freedom of expression and a legacy of suppressing civil society.

The connection between human rights and environmental issues is undeniable. Climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, exacerbating existing social inequalities. Environmental activists play a crucial role in advocating for climate justice and holding governments accountable. It is crucial to recognize that human rights and climate action are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. Any attempt to address climate change must be grounded in principles of equality, inclusivity, and respect for human rights.

The Call for Action

Governments around the world must seize this critical moment to exercise their influence and call for the immediate release of the imprisoned civil society members. COP28 presents an opportunity to highlight the importance of safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring an inclusive and open platform for meaningful climate discussions. By exerting diplomatic pressure on the UAE, global leaders can send a strong message that respect for human rights is non-negotiable in the fight against climate change.

Conclusion

As the UAE gears up to host COP28, it is essential to address the stain on the country’s human rights record stemming from the mass trial of 2013. The continued imprisonment of 60 Emirati civil society members, despite completing their sentences, raises serious concerns about the government’s commitment to freedom of expression and civil liberties. Governments participating in COP28 have a responsibility to lead by example and ensure that the conference takes place in an environment that respects human rights. By pressuring the UAE government to release the prisoners and demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and justice, COP28 can be a catalyst for urgent and effective climate action that leaves no one behind.