National Society For Human Rights » Statements issued by the Society

Statements issued by the Society

The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of International Women’s Day

The Chairman of the Society: The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 has contributed to reinforcing the status of women and supporting their rights by achieving gender equality.

According to the decision adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1977, the international community celebrates the International Women’s Day every year on the 8th of March as an official occasion.

On this occasion, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Mr. Khaled bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has stated that this day is an important occasion to review reforms aimed at enhancing women’s participation in economic, social and other sectors through several initiatives and programs that have contributed to empowering women leaders in decision-making positions. For instance, there are many initiatives concerning strengthening women’s leadership and achieving balance between gender in work systems, unifying the retirement age for both sexes, and preventing discrimination between sexes in terms of wages, type of job, its field and working hours, in addition to enabling women to engage in business without obtaining prior approval and other means aimed at supporting and promoting women’s rights.

Besides, the Chairman of the Society has emphasized that the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 has contributed to enhancing the status of women and supporting their rights through achieving gender equality and empowering them at the national and international levels, the thing that allowed women to play an important role in development.

The Chairman has also pointed out that the regulations in force in the Kingdom, such as the system of protection from abuse, the personal status system, the work system, the harassment system, and the other systems, have contributed to providing more guarantees for women on the ground.

Finally, the Chairman of the Society has concluded his statement asserting on the necessity of intensifying awareness-raising programs on women’s rights, as stipulated in the regulations, in a way that contributes to enabling them to know their rights guaranteed by the provisions of Islamic law and the regulations in force in the Kingdom, in addition to the importance of raising society’s awareness of these rights in order to respect them.

The National Society for Human Rights

The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of the International Human Rights Day

The international community celebrates the International Human Rights Day aiming at preserving the dignity of every person and his right to live a decent life in which he enjoys his rights in a comprehensive way. This comes in commemoration of the day on which the General Assembly of the United Nations has adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which includes many rights. For instance, the tenth of December 1948 was an important day in the contemporary history of human rights when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted the document which the international community has agreed on.

On the occasion of the International Human Rights Day, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Mr.Khaled bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has said the following , “Whoever follows the human rights situation in the Kingdom with an objective view will find that it has witnessed a great progress in the field of promoting and protecting human rights through its legislation, judicial, and administrative systems. In addition, the Kingdom has taken successive executive measures that reflect the effectiveness of those laws and express a persevering political will towards everything that contributes to human well-being protection as well as to the promotion of his rights and respect for his dignity, in accordance with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. To illustrate, the vision has included many plans and programs that contribute to make the Kingdom a leading model in the world at all levels including many areas of human rights. He adds saying that: “We in the Society are proud of this progress which we consider a catalyst to achieve more developments, and a help to overcome obstacles and challenges as well as a motivation for all agencies and institutions to make more efforts so as to promote and protect human rights. He has also indicated that the Kingdom is embarking on its relentless pursuit towards the promotion and protection of human rights, and achieving sustainable development, from the inherent values of its society, and the wisdom and will of its leadership.

Besides, the Chairman of the Society has added saying that: “It is unfortunate that what we are witnessing in the world today a double standards in the field of protecting and defending human rights internationally. This matter has become an open phenomenon, as the main goal isn’t necessarily the protection of rights; rather, it depends on what they achieve from political and economic interests for those countries. Therefore, we find that some countries that claim to defend human rights in the world do not move but turn a blind eye to those flagrant violations that are committed against civilians in countries in which they have no interests. For more illustration, cities are destroyed, children and women are killed and displaced and they don’t take any action. On the other hand, we find these countries raising some cases against this or that country, leaving those major cases that represent flagrant and unprecedented violations of human rights in our contemporary world. The situation has reached the point of claiming rights that contradict common sense and divine religions and what is stipulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and relevant international agreements. For illustration, demanding the rights of the so-called homosexuals and making them part of their agendas and exerting pressure on countries and societies for them and promoting them despite the explicit position rejecting them in all parts of the world and from different societies and cultures.

The Chairman of the Society has stressed that on this global occasion, we recall the importance of adhering to human and ethical standards, and not to involve human rights in political agendas as well as the need to respect the religious and cultural specificities of societies and the right of peoples to decide what suits their identity and beliefs, and to refrain from imposing trends and judging others from a biased, unilateral perspective.

Finally, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Mr.Khaled bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has concluded his speech saying that: We always seek to contribute to preserving and empowering human rights, renouncing violence, ensuring the achievement of justice and equality, and strengthening national cohesion through continuous work in which the efforts of the state, interests, institutions and relevant authorities work together with the individual, the family and the community to ensure the achievement of these goals, and raise awareness of the importance of respecting them and realizing the sanctity of attacking or violating them or preventing them from obtaining them.

National Society for Human Rights

The statement of His Excellency the Chairman of the Society concerning organizing the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development of the work environment in the security guards sector

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khalid Al-Fakhri, has confirmed that organizing the regulations of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development of the work environment in the security guards sector by issuing requirements to work in this sector will oblige the relevant authorities to work according to them and will contribute to provide many guarantees for workers in these professions. To illustrate, the regulations determine an upper limit for continuous working hours and organize the rest times and the general environment for work, especially that workers in the security guards sector make a double effort in order to perform their tasks and thus provide a safe and healthy work environment for them.

In addition, Al-Fakhri has explained that the requirements have included many human rights dimensions that would contribute in preserving the rights of workers in the security guards sector. For more illustration, they have stipulated setting working hours so that they do not exceed five consecutive hours without a period for rest, prayer and food. Moreover, they have obligated the employer to provide the appropriate uniforms for his security guards workers with the necessity of adhering to the provision of what guarantees the protection of the security guard from the effects of exposure to sunlight and heat stress. There are many other requirements that must be adhered to by the employer towards his security guard, whether the internal or external environment in which the security man works and which contributes to more guarantees for workers in this vital and important sector.

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights has concluded his statement asserting on the importance of working in educating the target groups of these requirements of their rights guaranteed by the laws and instructions of the Kingdom, with the need for these requirements to be accompanied by clear mechanisms for monitoring the facilities and bodies that security guards work for in a manner that ensures compliance with the application of these requirements to achieve the objective of their approval.

The Chairman of the Society congratulates His Highness the Crown Prince for being the Chair of the Council of Ministers according to a Royal decree

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khaled bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, on his behalf and on behalf of the members and employees of the Society, has congratulated His Royal Highness Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, Prime Minister, for being the Chair of the Council of Ministers according to a Royal decree ordered by His Majesty King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz.

The Chairman of the Society has stressed that Prince Mohammed bin Salman has a clear experience and skills, as we see their impact on the ground, and have laid future foundations for development that included all sectors in a way that contributes to support the comprehensive development process of the Kingdom.

Finally, he has ended his speech by praying to the Almighty to preserve the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, to reconcile His Highness the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister for the good of the country and citizen, and to maintain security and safety in the Kingdom.

The Chairman of the Society’s Press release on the occasion of the 92nd National Day

The development that the Kingdom is witnessing in the human rights file has achieved important transformations in a number of fields

Counselor Khaled Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, has extended his sincere congratulations and blessings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz , to His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, may God protect them, and to the honorable Saudi people on the occasion of the 92nd National Day of our dear country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we pray to God Almighty to perpetuate its security and stability.

Moreover, Al-Fakhri has explained that the Kingdom has achieved important transformations in a number of areas that have had an impact on improving human rights. For more illustration, the Kingdom has issued new regulations and introduced qualitative amendments to a number of regulations related to the protection and promotion of human rights. There is no doubt that the development witnessed by the Kingdom concerning the human rights file has accomplished after pioneering reform steps in the era of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and with the follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense – may God protect them . Besides, no one can deny the remarkable improvement in the Kingdom’s classification in a number of global indicators related to human rights and that reflects and asserts the Kingdom’s keenness and interest in promoting the rights of everyone who lives in the Kingdom; whether a citizen or resident without discrimination. It also reflects its keenness to create a safe environment that achieves a decent life in accordance with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which programs included many areas of human rights: such as the right to life, the right to security, the right to health, the right to education, the right to work, family protection and empowerment women, safeguarding the rights of the elderly and other areas of human rights.

Furthermore, Counselor Al-Fakhri has confirmed that these developments contributed to decrease the number of cases received by the National Society for Human Rights compared to previous years. This in fact confirms the positive impact of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 on improving human rights conditions in general, as the vision’s goals are not devoid of direct or indirect links to human rights as translated in a number of programs, initiatives and organizational procedures.

Finally, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights has ended his speech saying that the celebration of the 92nd National Day is an important occasion to strengthen national cohesion, reject division and difference, enhance the protection and promotion of human rights in our country, spread awareness of its culture among citizens and officials, and achieve cooperation and joint coordination for the good and progress of our country and society in light of cohesion and solidarity among the people and leadership.

The Society’s Statement regarding the incident occurred inside the Social Education House in the Khamis Mushait Governorate, Asir region

Concerning the videos circulated on social media, showing an incident inside the Social Education House in the Khamis Mushait Governorate, Asir region, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khaled bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has directed the Society’s branch in the Asir region to quickly follow up and find out the facts of the incident and the perpetrators and coordinate in with the relevant authorities in the region to ensure that the rights of the abused are preserved and the perpetrators are held accountable as stipulated by the regulations in the Kingdom.

Besides, the Society’s branch in the Asir region is following up the results of the investigations of the committee, which was directed by His Royal Highness, the Emir of the Asir region, to ensure the preservation of the rights of all.

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights appreciates the directives of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince to take into account the citizens needs

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khalid Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has appreciated the issuance of the generous guidance from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, based on what was submitted by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, , the Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense – may God protect them – that based on approving the allocation of 20 billion riyals to face the repercussions of rising global prices, including 10 billion riyals for the beneficiaries of the Social Security and Citizen Account Program, in addition to allocating 408 million riyals to support the beneficiaries of the small livestock breeders program.

Besides, his Excellency the Chairman of the Society has stressed that we accustomed to see from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Highness the Crown Prince their constant keenness to touch the needs of citizens and provide them with a decent life. He has also highlighted that the constant follow-up of His Highness the Crown Prince had a great impact in ensuring the citizens’ rights, and this keenness of His Highness, may God protect him, is embodied in the human rights developments that the Kingdom is witnessing them within the framework of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

In addition, the Chairman of the Society has considered that the generous guidance of the ministries and government agencies regarding monitoring the international developments, including those related to supply chains, following up on markets, abundance of products and price levels, protecting and encouraging fair competition, and combating and preventing monopolistic practices, that guidance will contribute, God willing, to the stability of prices of goods and services and their provision at appropriate prices for all citizens in the local market, and pushes the relevant government agencies to intensify their supervisory role, and gives more guarantees to protect the rights of individuals and their enjoyment of a decent life.

The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

In accordance with the resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2006, the international community celebrates the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15 of each year.

For more illustration, we celebrate this day because it provides an opportunity to shed more light on the rights of the elderly and support their psychological and social needs by treating them well and not offending them.

On this occasion, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khaled bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has said that we must pore over the dire societal consequences of ill-treatment of the elderly, including but not limited to their physical, psychological or emotional abuse, neglect, abandonment, and financial exploitation.

He has also indicated that the legislation in the Kingdom was keen to protect the rights of the elderly people and provide the necessary guarantees to protect them from all forms of abuse, including establishing a home to care for them and issuing a system for them that includes their rights and what the private and working parties must do to provide an appropriate environment for them. In addition, he has asserted on the importance of the establishment of a national committee for the elderly in charge of setting preventive plans and projects and awareness programs aimed at meeting the requirements of the elderly and drawing up the general policy for the care of the elderly in the Kingdom and proposing regulations for the elderly that guarantee them a decent social life and enhance their status. Besides, the Basic Law of the Kingdom has also emphasized that the state guarantees the right of the citizen and his family, in case of emergency, illness, disability, and old age, which confirms the state’s interest in providing them with a decent life that contributes to their quality of life and preservation of their dignity.

His Excellency the Chairman of the Society has also stressed the need to raise the community awareness and highlight the issue of elder abuse, and demand a multi-faceted global response focused on protecting the rights of older people, and develop ways and methods for defining, detecting and addressing elder abuse in a cultural context and looking at culturally specific risk factors.

Finally, the Chairman of the Society has concluded his speech that the Kingdom places the rights of the elderly at the top of its priorities, and that in appreciation of what they have spent of their lives in the service of their religion, country and society, preserving their rights guaranteed to them by the system and confirmed by the provisions of Islamic Sharia.

The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of the International Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

The international community celebrates the International Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21 each year in accordance with the resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002 after UNESCO adopted the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in 2001.

We celebrate this day because it provides an opportunity to enhance the potential represented by culture as a mean to achieve prosperity, sustainable development and peaceful coexistence at the global level.

On this occasion, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khalid bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, said that the Kingdom offers a role model for the diversity of cultures and respect for others. For more illustration, the Kingdom is one of the most prominent countries around the world that embrace different cultures. This is highlighted in the country’s understanding of many different nationalities living together on its territory in security and harmony. Moreover, the Kingdom has always been keen to promote a culture of peaceful coexistence to become a model of political stability and moderation. Respect for cultural diversity is a civilized principle that weaves the bonds of understanding between nations and peoples.

He has also referred to the Kingdom’s continuous efforts to promote intercultural dialogue through the establishment of the King Abdullah International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue, as well as hosting forums on human values shared between different cultures.

In addition, His Excellency the Chairman of the Society has stressed the need to accept, recognize and promote cultural diversity through human rights authorities in general and the media in particular, which contributes to creating dialogues between civilizations and cultures. He has also pointed out that the Kingdom maintains cultural relations with a large number of countries around the world and is an active member of an organization that supports all its efforts to respect and promote cultural diversity.

Finally, The Chairman of the Society has concluded that cultural diversity is a driving force for development not only in terms of economic growth, but also as a mean of shared human living and a fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable development.

The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of the International Day of Families

On the fifteenth of May of every year, the world celebrates the International Day of Families as it was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993 so as to shed light on the importance the international community attaches to families. The International Day provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and to increase knowledge of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting families and their impacts in building societies.

On this occasion, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Counselor Khaled bin Abdul-Fakhri, has stated that the family is the factory of generations and the solid foundation for the formation of human capital in the society, and that “the strong family” is the basic requirement for a strong and successful society.

In addition, His Excellency has highlighted that the Basic Law of Governance in the Kingdom has mentioned in its ninth article that “the family is the nucleus of the Saudi society.” The tenth article of the same system has also come to confirm that “The State shall aspire to promote family bonds and Arab-Islamic values. It shall take care of all individuals and provide the right conditions for the growth of their talents and skills.”

Hence and from this point of view, the Chairman of the Society has stressed that the society in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, during the last few years, has witnessed large and rapid transformations in the various structures of society, and the “family” was one of the entities that was most affected by these positive transformations. He has also referred to the establishment of the Family Affairs Council and its efforts to advance the family and enhance its position and role in construction and development and its work to provide the ways of “Decent Life” since being the good image that represents women, children and the elderly in the international organizations. It also contributes to the stability of the family socially and economically to be in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which has made the human being the focus of development, , and that confirms the leadership’s keenness to preserve it in strengthening the role of this Council to achieve its goals in Saudi family service.

The National Society for Human Rights (NSHR) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns the Israeli violations of the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque

The National Society for Human Rights has condemned the continuous violations by the Israeli occupation forces of the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, closing its gates, and attacking defenseless worshipers inside the mosque and its outer courtyards, which left a number of injured that considered a flagrant violation of human rights.

The Society has considered this systematic escalation a strong and blatant attack on the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, which is the third holiest site, and has a great place in the conscience of the entire Islamic nation. It has also considered the practices carried out by the Israeli occupation forces towards defenseless civilian worshipers are a violation of international laws and norms and contribute to fueling violence and fueling religious hatred, extremism and instability in the region.

Moreover, the Society has called on the international community to assume its legal responsibilities to address these crimes, which represent a flagrant violation of international law and all resolutions of international legitimacy, threaten international peace and security and undermine efforts to achieve a just and comprehensive peace in the region.

Finally, the NSHR has called on the international community to take immediate, decisive steps to compel the Israeli occupier to comply with United Nations resolutions and stop its permanent rebellion against the international legitimacy, in order to enable the Palestinian people to realize their rights guaranteed by legal and international covenants, and contribute to reviving the peace process in the Middle East during the coming period.

The National Society for Human Rights welcomes the International Day to Combat “Islamophobia”

The National Society for Human Rights in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has welcomed the adoption of the decision by the United Nations General Assembly of considering the fifteenth of March of every single year as the international day to combat “Islamophobia”. The National Society for Human Rights has considered it an important step to reject hate speech, racism, intolerance, and extremism.

The Chairman of the Society Counselor Khalid Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri has also asserted that this decision will contribute to spreading the culture of tolerance and moderation in the world to enjoy greater security and prosperity, as well as addressing the danger of incitement to hatred, discrimination and violence. It also confirms the pivotal role played by the Kingdom in enhancing the dialogue between religions and civilizations, as well as promoting a culture of tolerance, coexistence and moderation, and preserving human rights from any abuses.

The Statement of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights regarding the Execution of Judgment concerning the 81 convicts

he Chairman of the Society, His Excellency Counselor Khaled Al-Fakhri, has highlighted the Society’s attitude towards the execution of judgment of 81 convicts. He has explained that the Society always calls for referring those accused in terrorism cases to judgment so as to to issue sentences against them in return for the crimes they committed and for a fair trial.

In addition, the Chairman has asserted that the statement of the Ministry of Interior confirms the efficiency and integrity of the security and judicial authorities. For more illustration, those trials were conducted in accordance with the regular rules and fair procedures that ensure that each accused obtains a fair trial in order to achieve justice. The state is keen to play its role in preserving justice and protecting the security of the community. Through following the procedures that were taken towards those who were accused, the Society has followed –up the human rights guarantees they enjoyed including:

1- Subjecting the convicts to the three degrees of litigation.

2- Examining each convict carefully.

3- Giving each convict the right to appoint a lawyer for him.

4- The trials were public.

5- Showing the severity of the crime committed by each convict.

6 – Directing the judgments to the act committed by each convict. These judgments did not consider the sectarian or ethnic affiliation of the accused.

7- The victims of terrorist acts committed by the convicts deserve justice for the assault of the perpetrators who killed and terrorized.

8- All the crimes attributed to the convicts are serious, and the maximum penalties have been extended.

He finally added that protecting human rights from terrorist acts requires that the state should carry out its duties in maintaining the security of society, preserving public and private property, and deterring those who commit such acts by inflicting appropriate penalties against them after referring them to the judiciary.

The Society welcomes the Council of Ministers’ approval of the Personal Status Law

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the Council of Ministers’ approval of the personal status Law, and has considered this as an important step for controlling and regulating personal status issues, which comes as an extension of the ongoing reforms in the field of protection and promotion of human rights in the Kingdom.

For more illustration, the Chairman of the Society, Counselor Khalid bin Abdul Rahman Al-Fakhri, has stressed that this system constitutes a qualitative leap in the state’s efforts to protect human rights and promote rights in the family-related legislation system, and that will contribute to control the discretionary power of the judge, reduce the disparity in judicial rulings and eliminate the problems faced by women and the child.

Besides, the Chairman of the Society has explained that the personal status system takes into account the latest developments in social reality and its variables, as it came comprehensively in addressing the problems that the family was suffering from according to clear legal frameworks derived from the provisions of Islamic Sharia and its purposes, including regulating the age of marriage, guardianship, and inheritance issues and other important issues in matters of personal status, which contributes to maintaining the family entity and its stability as the nucleus of Saudi society and ensures the improvement of the situation of women and children to live in a safe family environment.

The National Society for Human Rights condemns the Houthi terrorist attacks against civilian facilities in the Kingdom

The National Society for Human Rights in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia strongly condemns the terrorist attacks launched by the Houthi militia against civil, economic and vital facilities in the Kingdom, and stresses that targeting the oil refineries, water desalination plants, electricity and gas stations reveals the criminal nature of the terrorist Houthi militias that practice all kinds of oppression and abuse against the brotherly Yemeni people since it seized power in 2014 and threatens the security of the Kingdom and the stability of the region.

In addition, these attacks constitute war crimes in accordance with international humanitarian law, as Article (52) of the First Protocol to the Geneva Conventions (1977) prohibits targeting civilian objects, and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court in Article (8) criminalizes intentionally directing attacks against civilian sites, as it will be considered a war crime.

The Society has also stressed that the terrorist attacks carried out by the Houthi terrorist militia endanger the lives of civilians in the Kingdom, and threaten the sources of global energy supplies.

Moreover, the Society refers to the recent Security Council Resolution No. 2624, which considered the Houthi militias a terrorist organization, and it condemned their terrorist attacks targeting civilians and infrastructure, and condemned the Houthi militia’s violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

Furthermore, it welcomes the widespread international condemnation of the attacks, and the international community’s solidarity with the Kingdom in the measures it is taking to defend its security, restore legitimacy in Yemen, and maintain stability in the region and the global economy.

It has also called on the Security Council and the international community to act urgently to firmly stop the terrorist acts carried out by these Iranian-backed Houthi militias, which are a violation of all international laws and norms, and to hold them accountable for the crimes they commit that threaten the security of the Kingdom and international peace and security.

National Society for Human Rights

The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of the International Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

Day of Families The Speech of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights on the occasion of the International Day of Families

The National Society for Human Rights welcomes the International Day to Combat “Islamophobia”

The Society welcomes the Council of Ministers’ approval of the Personal Status Law

The Statement of the National Society for Human Rights on the Houthi attacks on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates

The National Society for Human Rights has condemned the indiscriminate and repeated attacks launched by the terrorist Houthi militia on civilian objects and vital installations in the south of the Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Al-Qahtani, has said that these indiscriminate attacks, the latest of which were targeting the city of Dhahran Al-Janub, the industrial area in Jazan and some areas in the UAE, represent a violation of international humanitarian law, as its targeting the civilian population and civilian objects.

He has also affirmed the Socirty’s condemnation of these aggressive terrorist attacks of these militias backed by the Iranian regime, and has called on the international community and international human rights organizations to condemn such acts and stand against them because they constitute a clear violation of the rules of international humanitarian law.

The Society condemns the attempts of the Houthi militia to target civilians in the Kingdom

The National Society for Human Rights has expressed its strong condemnation and denunciation of the Houthi militia’s continued attempts to target civilian objects and civilians in the Kingdom, by targeting Abha International Airport with two drones.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Al-Qahtani has stressed that such aggressive acts and practices constitute a flagrant violation of the rules of international humanitarian law and require action by the international community and human rights organizations to condemn these actions and work to hold the perpetrators accountable, stressing that international laws guarantee the Kingdom to take everything that would protect its citizens and lands from the futility of these terrorist militias.

The Society’s press release regarding the grave violations of human rights that the Palestinian people are facing in Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank

The National Society for Human Rights in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia denounces and strongly condemns the gross violations of human rights that the Palestinian people are subjected to in Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including killing of civilians, children and women, the destruction of infrastructure, and the ‘blatant’ attacks of the sanctity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, security and safety of worshipers.

In addition, the Society affirms that the continued Israeli aggression on Gaza Strip causing the death of the innocents, the displacement of the civilian population, the destruction of infrastructure and demolition of media outlets, poses a blatant violation of the international humanitarian law and human rights principles as well as being a blatant challenge to the whole world that witnesses the aggression without taking an action to deter it. It also reaffirms the state’s systematic terrorism approach practiced by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The National Society for Human Rights calls on the international community to take urgent action to stop such attacks and this brutal bombardment that violates the principle of distinction and proportionality in the international humanitarian law, and which poses a flagrant violation of the rules of this law, that its provisions must be adhered to in the event of conflicts and wars.

In addition, the Society calls on all the concerned international organizations to extend a helping hand to the afflicted and displaced in the Gaza Strip and to pressure the Israeli government to stop its genocide project.

The Society praises the stances of many countries, foremost of which is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which stands by the rights of the Palestinian people, and works to defend Islamic sanctities in Jerusalem and the rights of worshipers in Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Finally the Society calls for support for all efforts aimed at ending the occupation and reaching a just and comprehensive solution that enables the Palestinian people to fully realize their legitimate rights, which were guaranteed to them by international covenants and Security Council resolutions.

Press release concerning the CIA report

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Dr. Mufleh Rabian Al-Qahtani, has condemned the Intel CIA report and the statement of some of the American officials regarding the death of the Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The report is trying to blame the Kingdom and its leadership because of a mistake committed by a group of people who violated the laws and the requirements of their jobs, and they were tried by the Saudi authorities in a fair trial and in the presence of international representatives, jurists, and the family of the victim. Those who were condemned by the death of the Saudi citizen were punished with the maximum penalties, some of which amounted to the death penalty. Besides, the Chairman has said that the Saudi Authorities have previously taken all the legal procedures that should be taken towards them.

In addition, he has emphasized that the trial of the defendants was carried out in accordance with the applicable criminal laws and regulations, and the National Society for Human Rights was keen to attend those trials and to ensure that the procedures of these trials were conducted with transparency and integrity in light of the independence and sovereignty of the Saudi judiciary, which issued final judicial rulings against all those involved in that case.

The Chairman has also added that what the US intelligence report concluded was based on personal conclusions and press reports but it was not based on objective facts, which makes it dependent on suspicion and speculation, not on certainty, which proves that nothing was hidden about this incident as the Saudi authorities went to.

Moreover, the Chairman has affirmed that everyone supports the protection and promotion of human rights, but on the condition that this noble goal is not politicized and not exploited by some people to fulfill electoral promises or to achieve political goals. It is clear that the issued report, its timing, and the statements of some American officials that followed it, have nothing to do with the protection of human rights; rather, this was addressed to achieve political goals. For more illustration, the report is not based on any objective evidence and did not include any new facts, but rather aims to raise controversy in a previously completed case that was issued and it contains a final court ruling that everyone must respect.

The Society welcomes the issuance of the decision of the General Assembly of the Supreme Court based on the Royal Order to stop issuing flogging sentences in disciplinary penalties

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the issuance of the decision of the General Assembly of the Supreme Court based on the Royal Order to refrain from issuing flogging sentences as punishment. The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Muflih Al-Qahtani, has said that this step comes within the framework of promoting applying human rights in the Kingdom. For more illustration, this order will contribute to restrict the judge’s authority to impose flogging as a punishment, as it was noticed that some of its judges have exaggerated in such punishment in the past years despite the legal and juristic texts that don’t support such matter.

In addition, it is worth to be mentioned that the disciplinary punishment differs from the marginal punishment, which is not based on the judge’s judgment and will not be covered by this decision since it’s stipulated in the Islamic law.

Besides, the judge will find many alternative penalties other than flogging, which will contribute to the reform of the perpetrator and benefit the community.

The Chairman of the Society has added that this decision will represent a qualitative shift in the philosophy of punishment in the Saudi judiciary, and we hope that this will be accompanied by the approval of many other alternative penalties in addition to the imprisonment and fine.

Moreover, this decision will also contribute to improve the Kingdom’s image internationally, as some people criticize the Kingdom for applying such punishment.

The Society praises the royal order to suspend the implementation of judicial rulings related to the imprisonment of the debtor in cases of special rights and to suspend the implementation of judgments issued in cases of vision and visit

The National Society for Human Rights has praised the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, may God protect him, and the judge to suspend the implementation of judicial rulings related to the debtor’s imprisonment in cases of private rights and to suspend the implementation of judgments issued in vision and visitation cases.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Muflih Bin Rabian Al-Qahtani, has asserted that this supreme human initiative comes within the framework of the state’s unremitting efforts to combat and prevent the outbreak of the Cronavirus. Besides, it will have other positive effects, foremost among which are the accession of these prisoners to their families during this exceptional period and the support it represents for the humanitarian aspects of their family members as well as the ability it provides of some of these prisoners to arrange their families and communicate with their creditors to help find solutions to some of their cases.

Finally, the Chairman of the Society has stressed the importance of coordination between the competent authorities to ensure that this noble and generous order is put into practice.

The Society praises the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to provide free treatment from Corona virus for all citizens, residents, and violators of residency regulation

The National Society for Human Rights has praised the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, may God protect him, to provide free treatment from Coronavirus for all citizens, residents, and violators of residency regulation. Dr. Muflih Rabian Al-Qahtani has said that the initiative of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques embodies that the concept of public health for all and the right to receive treatment from this virus have the highest priority in the eyes of the Saudi leadership regardless of nationality or regular residency in the Kingdom.

In addition, Dr. Al-Qahtani has added that this initiative comes at a time when we see some countries, including developed ones, facing difficulties in fulfilling the basic rights for their citizens and providing them treatment. Hence, that makes the Kingdom at the top of the countries of the world in fighting this epidemic not only at the national level, but also seeking to support the international efforts to combat this such as the invitation of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the G20 summit meeting and the decisions that resulted from this summit that support the economic rights of peoples as well as the Kingdom’s material support to the World Health Organization to help it limit the spread of this epidemic.

Dr. Al-Qahtani has also indicated that this royal initiative will encourage those who are infected or carrying this virus from violators of residency and were hesitant or afraid to apply for treatment because of their fear of legal navigation will encourage them to seek treatment and go to health centers and hospitals, and that will contribute to their care and reduce the risk of transferring infection to others.

The National Society for Human Rights welcomes the statutory amendments to a set of regulations that support women’s rights and emphasizes the importance of supporting the family as being the nucleus of society

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the amendments made to a set of regulations including the travel documents system, the civil status system, the labor system and the social insurance system, which are in complementary to what was mentioned in the recent royal order. To illustrate, the royal order asserts on the assurance of the concerned authorities to review the procedures in force with them and with the related bodies and then mention the regulations and instructions that limit the empowerment of women’s rights in this regard.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Rabian Al-Qahtani, has illustrated that these amendments, especially with regard to travel documents and civil status, will solve many of the problems faced by some women, who were imposed by the conditions of self-reliance or to carry out the tasks of their families or subjected to violence or abuse by their parents.

Moreover, the Chairman of the Society has pointed out that there is an urgent need at the moment to support the family as being the nucleus of Saudi society according to the text of Article IX of the Basic Law of Governance, and to assert the importance of the work of the relevant bodies such as the Council of Family Affairs and other educational, social and human rights to activate the content of the text of Article 10 of the Basic Law of Government, which affirms that the State is keen to strengthen the bonds of the family, preserve its Arab and Islamic values, give care for all its members, and provide the appropriate conditions for the development of their talents and abilities as this enhances the status of the family. Besides, this will enhance the family’s role in the society and maintain cohesion in the current social changes, and there is also a need to support the emergence of some heads of households to help them carry out educational, financial and social duties .

It should be noted that these amendments included a set of texts that support the full eligibility of women as men to obtain a passport and allow them to report births, and enable them to work and protection from dismissal during pregnancy.

The National Society for Human Rights’ statement regarding the report issued by the UN Special Rapporteur on the killing of Jamal Khashoggi

The National Society for Human Rights has criticized the report of the UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Executions regarding the death of Jamal Khashoggi, describing it as a biased and incredible report.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Rabian al-Qahtani, has said that the report loses its credibility and that its political motives are clear. For more illustration, the Saudi authorities are arresting those who are accused and bringing them to justice and sending them to trial after completing the investigation procedures in the presence of foreign rights and diplomats.

Besides, he has said that this report will not help in achieving the human rights , but it is an attempt to reduce the efforts, exerted by the Saudi authorities, which have resulted in arresting the persons involved in this case and bringing them to justice as well as restructuring the administrative body responsible for them. He has also asserted that the indictments filed by the Public Prosecution demand to impose the most severe penalties against those who committed this heinous crime.

The Chairman of the Society has also confirmed that the trials of the accused in this case are ongoing and that they will be punished, and that everyone, including the United Nations Special Rapporteurs, is expected to respect the independence and sovereignty of the judiciary. He has also aseerted that the Society was keen to attend such trials and that there are diplomatic representatives from the embassies of some countries also attend them.. Finally, there is keenness from the Saudi authorities to take justice into account and to hold accountable all those who participated in this crime.

The National Society for Human Rights welcomes the statement of the Public Prosecutor’s Office on the case of Jamal Khashoggi and affirms that it is an important step towards achieving justice for the perpetrators of this heinous crime

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the statement issued by the Public Prosecution regarding the case of the citizen Jamal al-Khashqaji, may God have mercy on him. The Chairman of the Society, Dr.Mufleh Al-Qahtani, has said that the Public Prosecution’s statement is an important step in a series of steps that will end with punishing those who participated in committing this heinous crime that is considered a violation of the values and principles that underpin the Saudi state since its inception.

Besides, he has stressed that the Society has full confidence in implementing the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques on this issue, that stressed on the firm accountability of those who are responsible.

In addition, he has also said that it is important to complete the investigations in order to serve justice and answer all the questions, and close the door in the face of all those who try to exploit this issue to harm the reputation of the Kingdom and its leadership.

He has also called the Turkish authorities to hand over their evidence or information to the Saudi authorities because it is not logic to demand the statement of truth and refrain from handing over what contributes to uncovering it.

Finally, he adds saying that there are attempts by some countries and organizations to exploit this issue politically so as to harm the Kingdom’s reputation and not limiting it in its criminal and humanitarian part.

The Chairman of the Society affirms that some countries and international organizations have political motivation and not humanitarian, as they refrain from receiving refugees who are exposed to death while inciting teenagers against their families and pushing them to the unknown.

The National Society for Human Rights was surprised by the incitement of some countries to some of the Saudi female delinquents to rebel against the values of their families and push them out of the country and seek to receive them under the pretext of granting them asylum.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr.Mufleh Al-Qahtani,has added that such methods followed by some countries and some international organizations have political aims and not humanitarian as these countries are reluctant to receive real refugees, and may even leave them to die at sea. In addition, these countries are, deliberately and on the lips of some of its officials, keen to incite some Saudi delinquents and adolescents to go out on the values and traditions of their families, which guarantee them a decent life and lasting care, and ultimately push them to loss and perhaps to fall into the arms of human trafficking brokers.
He also pointed out that there are laws in the Kingdom that prevent abuse and penalize those who are involved, including parents and the rest of the family. Besides, if what these girls said were true, they can lodge a complaint to the protection authorities in the Kingdom as well as the human rights organizations, which are available.

He has added that the Society deplores such behavior, which was issued by some officials of these countries, and considers it inciting and deceiving to those girls who are adolescence and unable to make the right decision. This behavior also includes an attack on the rights of the families of these girls and has also called on the officials of these countries to desist from such acts that have political motives and not humanitarian.

Statement by the Society on the terrorist attack on two mosques in New Zealand

The National Society for Human Rights strongly condemns the criminal terrorist attack on mosques in New Zealand, and extends its condolences to the victims’ families and calls for the speedy recovery of the injured.

The Society has also stressed that such terrorist incidents on places of worship are fueled by racist orientations and by some extremist media which seek to incite hatred and anti-Muslimism, which requires the enactment of laws in these countries so as to criminalize it.

The National Society for Human Rights (NCHR) has strongly condemned the systematic campaign targeting Absher application

The National Society for Human Rights (NCHR) has strongly condemned the systematic campaign supported by some entities and individuals for the purpose of targeting the application of the portal of the Ministry of Interior (Absher) which is a service application that has effectively contributed to the provision of multiple and varied services to all segments of citizens and residents in the Kingdom at any time and from anywhere in the world.

Besides, Dr. Mufleh Robiean Al-Qahtani has explained that this application is a service tool and not a monitoring one and that the beneficiaries are citizens and residents. He has also added that the malicious and disguised campaign under the pretext of protection of women’s rights is aimed at harming Saudi families, attacking their privacy, interfering in their affairs, and hindering benefit from the facilities provided by the application. For more illustration, this application has contributed to the elimination of the waiting lines for citizens and residents in front of the headquarters of various government agencies to complete their transactions.

Dr. Al-Qahtani has said that the Society, as a human rights body with a direct connection to the society, is aware of the importance of this application to members of society of all sectors, especially women, the elderly and the disabled, and that taking politically motivated positions to disrupt the use of electronic services is unacceptable.

The National Society for Human Rights (NCHR) has welcomed launching the Convention against Harassment in the Workplace

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the issuance of the Convention of Combating Harassment in the Workplace by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development. The Vice President and Spokesperson of the Society, Dr. Saleh Al-Khathlan, has said that this charter is part of a general trend to strengthen the legislative system of a safe, respectful work environment. In addition, Dr. Al-Khathlan has said that this legislative system comes in response to the expansion of women’s employment and the required arrangements to ensure a safe working environment free from harassment and exploitation. He has also pointed out that Article 5 of the system allows the private and governmental authorities to prevent harassment. Therefore, the formulation of a policy in the form of a charter or code to prevent harassment is the first step in such regulation. Moreover, the vice president of the Society has called on the Ministry of Labor and Social Development to circulate to the institutions and companies that are subject to the labor system to put similar charters. He has also called on all ministries, academic institutions and civil society to accelerate the enactment of anti-harassment conventions and to disseminate them to its employees to ensure a safe working environment.

The National Society for Human Rights explains the truth about what was reported by Amnesty International concerning abuses against women in Saudi Arabia

In response to Amnesty International’s report on the existence of violations against some detainees in the Kingdom, the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Dr. Mufleh Al-Qahtani, has said that the Society did not observe any of such violations and no one has filed a complaint regarding that. He has also called the Amnesty International to provide them with any available information to search of its validity but launching such charges without evidence is not consistent with the mechanisms of human rights work. In addition, he has said that there is coordination with the competent bodies in the Kingdom that allows the Society’s members and employees to follow the situations of the cases that they have received complaints regarding them.

The National Society for Human Rights welcomes the statement of the Public Prosecutor’s Office on the case of Jamal Khashoggi and affirms that it is an important step towards achieving justice for the perpetrators of this heinous crime

The National Society for Human Rights commends the Saudi announcement of the preliminary results in the Khashoggi case and stresses the importance of bringing those responsible to justice.

The National Society for Human Rights has praised the Saudi announcement of the preliminary results of the investigation regarding the case of Jamal Khashoggi as well as the results of the investigation concluded in the suspension and termination of the services of a group of people involved in that case.

The Society has also stressed on the importance of bringing those responsible for the crime to justice for their punishment.

Besides, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani has said that those investigations and results confirm that the Kingdom does not tolerate those who are outlaws or those who are believed to be responsible for what has happened or are being manipulated.

He added saying that after the emergence of these results, the campaign organized targeting the Saudi state entity and aiming at undermining its reputation on the political, economic and human rights level should be stopped.

A statement of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights concerning the case of Khashoggi

The National Society for Human Rights has deeply followed the disappearance of the Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and it has stressed on the importance of accelerating the disclosure of the circumstances of this case through a joint effort between the Saudi and Turkish governments in order to achieve justice and reveal the whole truth.

It has also noticed the efforts of some international, regional and legal authorities to employ this issue politically, in order to serve some agendas and attitudes against the policy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia without taking into consideration any of the justice requirements or the feelings of Mr. Khashoggi’s family and relatives.

Besides, the Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani, has said that the case should be left to the Saudi-Turkish joint investigation team, and wait for what they will reach.

He added saying that the attempt of some of the media to undermine the reputation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia politically and economically because of this case, contrasted with the commitment of the media to transfer the facts and not to affect the path of investigation and the legal actions of the concerned parties.

In addition, he has stressed that the attitude of the Kingdom regarding this issue was clear from the beginning when it demanded the need to reveal the truth.

The National Society for Human Rights confirms that what was issued from the Canadian side exceeded all the international norms and undermined national sovereignty

The National Society for Human Rights has denied what has been issued by the Canadian side concerning a Saudi internal jurisdiction and stressed that there should be difference between respecting the principles of human rights, which is supported by all, and between the interference in the internal affairs of the states that are governed by their special constitution and internal laws.
Besides, the Chairman of the NSHR has asserted that what has been issued from the Canadian side exceeded all the international norms and undermined national sovereignty.
Expressing opinion on a particular case in the context of the relationship between two countries has its diplomatic mechanisms, which the Canadian side did not abide by in this case. Hence, there was a firm response from the Saudi side regarding that, and has stressed on the importance of non-using the human rights files for political purposes by some Western countries, including Canada, which we observe that they raise, from time to time, some cases depending on false information, or for reasons encapsulated by human rights aspects for political goals.

The Statement of the National Society for Human Rights regarding the girl battered by her father (Darren)

After the follow-up of the Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani and the Supervisor of the Society’s branch in Mecca Prof. Suleiman al-Zaidi, the Society branch in Makah has found the infant, battered by her father, in her grandfather’s house to her father, in Al- Khaldiya district and was moved to the maternity hospital and was accompanied by a social worker Mina Al-Ahmadi who has taken her from her grandfather.

The infant Darren has been detected in the hospital and they confirmed that she is well and there is no need to stay in the hospital according to the medical report issued by the hospital.

Baby Darren was handed over to the WAC charity Association in the care of infants as the age of the baby is three months.

The Society has figured that the baby’s mother was divorced and lives with her family in Al-Medina city and that her accused father has escaped.

Besides, the National Society for Human Rights has made an official announcement to the Mansour police station where the infant’s family lives and requested the arrest of the culprit Father.

The National Society for Human Rights’ team includes the branch’s legal scholar Mr. Abdullah Fadel and Mr. Shakir Al-Sharif who were there and filed a complaint to the Department of Mansour police station in Mecca and the case has remained under the supervision of the supervisor of the Society’s branch in Mecca who follows up the case of the baby in the hospital till it was received by WAC Charity Association.

At the end, the NSHR thanks and appreciate the Unity of Social Protection for its cooperation with the Society’s team and its commitment to the infant and sending her to a safer place and providing her protection.

The Society denounces the approval of the US Congress on passing a legislation known as: “Justice Law against Sponsors of Terrorism”!

The National Society for Human Rights in the Kingdom expresses its surprise and deep concern over the approval of the US Congress to pass a legislation known as: “Justice Law against Sponsors of Terrorism”, as it contains therein clear violations of fixed principles of the international law and the Charter of the United Nations. For instance, it violates the principle of sovereign immunity enjoyed by the states, which is recognized and confirmed by international laws and norms in force.

Besides, the Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani, has said in a statement, in his name and on behalf of the members of the National Society for Human Rights, that such law does not serve justice as it exceeds the sovereignty of states and is considered a dangerous precedent in the international relations as it violates the principle of state immunity from the jurisdiction of another State.

In addition, he has expressed his skepticism about the ulterior motives regarding the approval of issuing such legislation, that lacks any aims of achieving justice but it seems that political extortion is the engine for issuing such law.

The Chairman of the Society has also expressed his hope that the US President will veto the issuance of this law in order to protect the principles of international law, maintain the rules of international justice and to ensure the continuation of the international cooperation in combating terrorism at the international level. For more illustration, such law will contribute to support terrorists to commit their acts, in vexation of their government and to violate its domestic law. Moreover, if they find that there is a state will blame the government of their country on the consequences of their terrorist acts, then such act will achieve their goals and affect the international efforts in fighting terrorism.

A statement condemning and denouncing the terrorist attacks that occurred in the Kingdom

The National Society for Human Rights strongly condemns the terrorist operations and criminal bombings in the Kingdom, including the terrorist bombing in A;-Medina near the mosque of the Prophet, causing the death of some security men and injured others, expressing its deep sorrow over the death of innocent people, and wished a speedy recovery to the wounded and forgiveness and mercy to the martyrs, patience and solace to their families.

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani , has said that this incident affirms that those who carried out and those who stand behind it have nothing to do with Islam, as they are not deterred neither by the sanctity of the place nor by the sanctity of time for committing their shameful actions. He has also added that these acts of terrorism faced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from time to time, confirm that there are ongoing attempts to target the right of security in this blessed country because the security and stability that are enjoyed by the Kingdom disturb much those who carry out these terrorist attacks and those conspirators and instigators who stand behind them.

Besides, the Chairman of the Society adds that these bombings confirm that terrorism scheme aims to stir up sedition and fragmentation of the country, and does not distinguish between the sacred and holy places, or between Muslims and non-Muslims, on the contrary it tampers with the values of our religion and the human values of civilization which requires concerted efforts of everyone in order to combat it and to show the corruption of his followers thought and we are confident of the efficiency and capacity of the Saudi security services to track these criminals and those who stand behind them and bring them to justice.

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights praises the declaration of the national vision 2030 and the transformation plan

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Qahtani, praises the declaration of the national vision 2030 and the transformation plan and congratulates the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Crown Prince, Deputy Crown Prince and the people on launching the national vision that will reinforce and pave the way for a human rights and humanitarian welfare for all segments of society and establish a sustainable development that will help in achieving all the aspirations and the legal and humanitarian requirements. In addition, it will enhance the social welfare and its development and pay attention to the family and the right to education, health, as well as laying an enabled social, economic system that supports the fulfillment of the social, economic and fundamental rights and for citizens from health, housing and work. Besides, it will give interest to the status of women and youth and it aims to raise the life standard, support the social system and the sophistication of man and his rights.

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights

Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani

A press release from the National Society for Human Rights regarding the encroachment that have been removed in ( Moknea) village

An official source at the National Society for Human Rights has said that the Society has followed what was published in the local newspapers, and what has been circulated in some social networking sites regarding all the encroachment that have been removed in Moknea village on the outskirts of the city of Mecca. The Society has commissioned a team to visit the village and meet some the people affected, and preview what has been done. Moreover, the Society has taken note of the statement of the Emirate of Mecca, which was published in the local press and consists of five-explanatory terms. The statement has explained that the land of Moknea village was owned by the state and was dedicated by the Ministry of municipal and rural Affairs as industrial area and some of these sites were dedicated for public investment.

Besides, the Society has made sure that most of the residents of the referred area are ordinary citizens and removing their buildings, by the way that has been done, has two effects on them. For illustration, the first harm is losing their money which they have spent in building the houses for their families. The second harm is the effects of implementing the regulations and the decisions taken in this regard. In this case, the best solution should be providing alternative homes for those who have been affected and transferring them or leaving them in their homes till the state provide alternative housing for them. In addition, as stated in the fourth item of the statement of the Emirate of Makah, the competent authorities has the right to account those who tricked the citizens and sold them what they do not have.

Furthermore, needless to say that the citizen’s continuation in constructing these houses was the result of turning a blind eye about them by the executors of the government regulations and instructions during the past years which have witnessed the construction of these houses as an extension of a population in the region. This extension has included the establishment of multi-storey homes, in addition to the establishment of a mosque, garden and playground for children on a planned land that contains double spacious paved streets. Hence, citizens expect that the region has a certified systematic planning from the relevant entities, and that it is not a random area and makes them believe that the construction procedures are in accordance with the applicable regulations.

Besides, the Society has clarified that, before removing these buildings, the government should have given the citizens the sufficient time till providing them the appropriate alternative housing after examining the documents they have, and this grace at the same time does not cancel the right of the government in implementing the applicable regulations in this regard from both tricked or exceeded.

The Society also reaffirms on the necessity of respecting the regulations, instructions and government decisions. In addition, the competent authorities, as a sponsor for the interests of citizens, that based on delivering services to them and following up all matters relating to their special interests within the framework of following up the public interest, they should prevail the minimal damage and take into account the simple social level of this segment of the citizens, who have set up their homes, which have been removed, in order to accommodate their families, under the pressure of the need and the lack of alternative housing. Moreover, based on the State’s keenness for the citizens’ convenience, the state should not leave those families, whose houses have been removed, without shelter.

Clearly, we must distinguish between the cases in which citizens established homes for shelter, from the cases in which other intentionally fence the land for trading and exploiting citizens. Hence, the cases of ordinary citizens in need of housing require careful and merciful look to them, but the cases of land speculation, trade and exploitation require accurate removal and accounting for those who did so.

Finally, the Society stresses on the importance of considering the social dimension in this regard, and reviewing all the procedures taken on the nature, by the way that can deal with all the negatives that have happened, bring a smile to the faces saddened by what has been happened of removals, and achieve justice for all. The Society is confident that the relevant authorities will carry out its duties in this regard, towards these families.

The Society’s statement concerning the fire in Jazan General Hospital and the need to meet the requirements of the right to health care

The National Society for Human Rights has followed the fire Jazan General Hospital and offered its sincere condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Crown Prince and the Deputy Crown Prince as well as to the families of the victims and wishing the injured speedy recovery. In addition, after a fact-finding visit to the site and investigating the cause of the fire, the Society wishes to make the following clear: –

The services provided to citizens, by the health sector, do not reflect neither the interest of the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman Abdul-Aziz, may God protect him, nor the State’s huge budget allocation for this sector. To illustrate, the Society has noted that the main causes of this fire were negligence, shortcomings in the monitoring, lack of coordination between those related to security and safety, the closure of the emergency exits, and some of the administrative and bureaucratic procedures in decision-making and in providing the necessary funds to meet the security and safety requirements on time. Moreover, the absence of the main and subcontractors’ oversight and follow-up for the implementation of these actions have a great impact on the non-fulfillment of the basic requirements for such utilities. Emphasizing the Society on the importance of accountability for negligence, it indicates that there are several shortcomings and deficiencies in the health services, which have been monitored over the past periods, and it hopes that the officials in the Ministry of Health will work to avoid them so as to ensure citizens get their right to treatment such as:

1- Lax security and safety requirements in health facilities, lack of monitoring and follow-up, difficulties in maintenance and insufficient attention regarding the training of personnel in these facilities on how to deal with emergency situations, especially in case of fire.

2- Many hospitals and health facilities, especially in remote provinces, suffer from the lack of specialized medical staff and weakness in the possibilities.

3- Poor coordination between different health sectors either belonging to the Ministry of Health or the military sectors or universities, which would contribute to increased performance or taking advantage of the possibilities as appropriate.

4- Weakening efficiency of the administrative and medical cadre in many health facilities.

5- Lack of beds which prevent providing necessary healthcare to those who need it and it causes deterioration of the health condition of patients and the request of patient’s relatives to coordinate and search for vacant beds to move their relative to.

6- Delayed access of patients to medical care in the appropriate time and place as well as the delayed clinics and operations for periods of up to one year.

7- Continuity of some hospitals in refusing emergent medical cases demanding from the ambulatory authorities or the patient’s relatives to take them away and in the meantime the health condition of the patient may deteriorate and s/he may pass away before it arrives to another place, although there are instructions that the patient should be referred to the health institutions in the private sector when the bed is not available in the State hospitals.

8- Increased mortality and the spread of certain diseases in recent years in some areas without clarifying the precise reasons for this alarming increase.

9- Continuity of health centers in rented premises, which are mostly old and damaged and unfit to provide health care as well as the low level of employees, whether the doctors, technicians or administrators.

10- Weakening rehabilitation of the administrative support cadre for medical staff in many hospitals.

11- Complaints from some hospitals of lacing medical equipment. The existing ones are old and poorly maintained, despite the allocation of huge budgets.

12- High rate of medical errors in hospitals in the provinces and the absence of a mechanism regarding that depending on the patient or its relatives’ complaints.

13- The lack of clear strategy in the health sector where the plans change with the rotation of officials in the ministry.

14- The need of providing the hospitals or health centers in some remote areas and villages that are not running, with the necessary medical staff, which deprived the population of those areas of its benefits.

15- Shortage of medicine in hospitals’ pharmacies and the necessity for some citizens to buy them themselves.

16- Inexistence of specialized research centers in some regions where some epidemics abound.

17- Inadequate emergency centers in hospitals.

Though the Society appreciates that His Excellency the Minister of Health has taken the responsibility for the fire of Jazan General Hospital, it calls for urgent and comprehensive treatment to the obstacles and difficulties that hamper the citizen’s right to health care, accounting the negligent and reviewing the security and safety controls and the mechanics of its maintenance in health facilities.

The National Society for Human Rights

The National Society for Human Rights’ word on the implementation of the sentences on 47 convicts

The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani, has explained the attitude of the National Society for Human Rights to the implementation of the sentences against 47 convicts saying that the Society always demands the reference of the convicts on terrorism issues to justice, and to pronounce sentences on them according to their crimes as well as having a fair trial. Regarding those convicts, the day has come to carry out the sentences that were issued against them and which enjoys the following:

1- The sentenced have undergone three levels of litigation.

2- Examining the sentences of each convict carefully.

3- Giving the convict his right to hire a lawyer.

4- The trials are public.

5- The sentences have shown the gravity of the crimes committed by each convict.

6- The sentences did not consider the sectarian or ethnic affiliation of the accused but the crimes committed by them.

7- The victims of the terrorist acts, that were committed by those convicts, deserve justice from the perpetrators who killed and terrorized.

8- All the crimes attributed to the convicts are serious, which force carrying the maximum penalties.

Moreover, he adds saying that the protection of human rights of terrorist acts requires the establishment of the state duties in maintaining the security of the society and the preservation of public and private property and these are through deterring those who commit these acts by imposing the maximum penalties on them after bringing them to judiciary and undergo a fair trial.

The Society has issued a statement condemning the terrorist attack of the Emergency Special Force’s Mosque in Asir

The National Society for Human Rights has strongly condemned the terrorist and criminal act, that has taken place on Thursday 21/10/1436 AH, which has targeted the Emergency Special Force’s Mosque in Asir and has resulted in the martyrdom of a number of security men and wounding several others. The Chairman of the Society, HE Dr. Mufleh Rubaian Al Qahtani, has stressed that such an act shows that those who carried out and stood behind these acts have violated the law of Allah Almighty, the right to life, and the establishment of the religious rituals. Besides, it has targeted the persons who are responsible for the preservation of the right to security which is one of the most important human rights. Hence, this requires that all the citizens and residents should stand together with the State to combat and eradicate the roots of such thoughts which have become a threat to everyone, without exception, through making the legitimate nation’s constants targets for their shameful work which does not relate to Islam. Moreover, the Society is confident that the competent security authorities are able, God willing, to bring those who stand behind these acts to justice to be punished and asks Allah to protect our country from all harm and to accept the deceased martyrs. It also expresses its deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and wishes the injured speedy recovery.

The Society emphasizes the importance of the Kingdom’s speech before the United Nations International Meeting on Question of Palestine

The National Society for Human Rights emphasizes the importance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s speech before the United Nations International Meeting on the Question of Palestinian and appeals the countries and human rights organizations to interact in order to enable the Palestinian people of their rights. It is worth mentioning that the Kingdom has asserted in her speech that the establishment of Israeli settlements is the main obstacle to the peace process in the region and that the continuation of the Israeli provocative acts against the Palestinians and the implementation of unilateral measures create a new reality on the ground through arming and funding the settlers and increases the destruction processes and the random demolition and confiscation of homes and property, farms and unjustly establishing settlements on those lands.

In addition, it appeals the international community to assume its responsibilities and take the necessary measures to protect the Palestinian people from the Israeli aggressive actions which are considered a provocation of the Arabs and Muslims feelings and a flagrant violation to the most basic human rights, and threaten achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

Besides, it has recalled the Security Council resolutions 465 (1980) and 497 (1981), which affirmed the illegality of settlements as well as the necessity to dismantle them, remove the separation wall and stop all “Judaization” measures in Jerusalem. It has also stressed that the Palestinian people face the risk of losing the rest of its occupied territory through the continuation of constructing Israeli settlements that threaten their existence as well as constructing the separation wall and the operations of the Judaization of Jerusalem. In addition, their attempts to divide Al-Aqsa Mosque, mass arrests and attempts to move some offices to the occupied city of Jerusalem, the so-called the Jerusalem plan 2020, which are procedures and violations of the rights of the Palestinian people, which are illegal under international law.

The National Society for Human Rights Condemns the Criminal Attack that Targeted the Innocents in Mosques

The National Society for Human Rights strongly condemns and strongly denounces the repeated terrorist and criminal attempts which targeted the innocents in mosques in the Eastern Region and that aim to create chaos and sow divisions among the people of the same society as well as undermining the right to security enjoyed by the Kingdom’s citizens and those residents. Besides, the best response on such criminal acts is the coherence and cohesion of the Saudi society that emerged after the Qudayh accident since the awareness of the community, family and the society will combat such deviant thought which is stripped of faith and humanity, and will not allow those who want to destabilize the Kingdom’s security and stability as well as the safety of its citizens to succeed.

The National Society for Human Rights highly appreciates the initiative of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for allocating the amount of $ 274 million so as to support the humanitarian situation in Yemen

The National Society for Human Rights highly appreciates the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’, King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, initiative to allocate the amount of $ 274 million for supporting the humanitarian situation in Yemen Arab Republic, which resulted from the Houthi militias and followers who seized the capabilities of the Yemeni state and coup against the legitimacy.

There is no doubt that this initiative of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz sheds light on the Kingdom’s humanitarian side to the Yemeni people under these difficult circumstances that they are facing and the harsh humanitarian situation that resulted from these militias which violate the rights and outflow the law and legitimacy. Hence, the decision of the “Decisive Storm” has been taken, led by the Kingdom, in order to establish the concept of respecting legitimacy and the compliance with laws, international and regional conventions and to contribute to the protection of the Yemeni ‘s human rights in the various provinces of the country. Moreover, the UN Security Council has confirmed that decision by its Resolution No. 2216 to 2015 AD that has been recently issued and which emphasizes on the international support for the countries that participate in the Decisive Storm, led by the Kingdom, regarding the Yemeni case, and it also urges to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Yemen. In addition, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ order to allocate this amount for the humanitarian relief in Yemen has been decided through the United Nations to confirm the Kingdom’s permanent and constant humanitarian situation regarding the humanitarian action in general and the needs of the Yemeni people in particular.

On the other hand, the National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia calls the international and regional relief organizations to provide the support and the necessary humanitarian assistance to the Yemeni people through coordination with the Decisive Storm’s countries.

The National Society for Human Rights

The National Society for Human Rights condemns the heinous terrorist attack of Qatif and the violation of the right to life

The National Society for Human Rights strongly condemns the heinous terrorist bombing which targeted worshipers at Friday prayers, 4/8/1436 AH, at a mosque in the town of Qudayh in the Governorate of Qatif, describing the one who stand behind such act as a criminal who violated the right to life and the sanctity of infallible blood.

Though the Society denounces such heinous act that aims to dismantle the national unity, destabilize its historical social balance and push it into a set of sustainable chaos, it has confidence that the competent authorities will bring those who stand behind this heinous crime to justice.

The Chairman of the National Society for Human Rights, Dr. Mufleh Rubaian Al-Qahtani, has said, commenting on this vicious attack, that we express our deep sympathy and offer our condolences to the families of the victims and we wish the injured speedy recovery. Besides, we denounce the criminal act which aims to violate the right to security enjoyed by the people of the Kingdom and its residents. He adds saying that those who are behind such act will not succeed in affecting the Saudi people’s unity and the coherence and cohesion of their social spirit as the awareness of the community will combat those terrorists who are stripped of their faith and their humanity, and trying to destabilize the Kingdom’s security, stability and safety of its citizens.

The National Society for Human Rights

Statement on the Royal Decree that has been issued regarding the Saudi youth belonging to some extremist organizations abroad

The National Society for Human Rights has appealed the Saudi youth joining any extremist organizations or parties outside the Kingdom to take advantage of the Royal Decree No. 16820, on 05/05/1435 AH, which grants, all those who have participated in hostilities outside the Kingdom, an additional period of 15 days from the date of issuance of this command to rethink and return sooner to their homeland.

Besides, Dr Mufleh bin Rabiean Qahtani, the Chairman of the Society, has said that “ the Society appreciates such Royal Decree which achieves the public interest and gives the opportunity for the people of this beloved country to return to their homeland and undo their decision to continue to stay in the places of temptation especially that some of them have seen the reality and knew the truth as they have realized that the safest and most desirable to them, their families and their homeland , as well as their religion is to return to their country.” He has also pointed out that this decree is considered a chance for those who wish to return and take advantage of the grace period given through communicating with the nearest Saudi embassy or representation so as to facilitate their return to the country. Moreover, he has stressed that those who did not take the initiative to return in time limit will be exposed to the penalties referred to in the orders issued in this regard .

United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace The Chairman of the Society, Dr. Mufleh al-Qahtani, stresses that : the Saudi women are able to achieve success in many fields

Each year, on the eighth of March, the world celebrates the social, political and economic achievement of women. Undoubtedly, there is a common humanitarian sense at the level of values , principles and rights shared by everyone for just being a human being. However, such a day allows us to think about some of the issues that are facing us. For more illustration, ignoring the woman’s problems because of the customs and traditions, or the infrequent interpretations stand as a stumbling block in forming the Islamic model by which we negotiate others , especially when the woman’s rights are supported by the wise leadership in the Kingdom which has provided her a strong voice in the public life through appointing 30 woman members in the Shura Council , which represents about 20 % of the total members. This actually confirms the State’s keenness regarding the woman’s vital role as being an essential factor for the development in accordance with the provisions of Islamic teachings. To illustrate, women in Islam have rights and duties that is why we should empower them with their rights and help them to fulfill their duties. Besides, women have received many of their rights in the Kingdom whether those who are employed in the public sector or the private one as they are allowed to participate in municipal elections as elector or elected , and to work as a lawyer and appear before the judiciary so as to facilitate her arrival to the Judiciary. Recently, the protection against abuse system has been released to protect women from violence. In addition, it is known , that the international action for the advancement of women has taken four main axes which are: strengthening the legal measures in this field, mobilizing the public opinion and the international action for achieving this goal , training and researching to contribute in the consolidation of the progress in this regard , and giving the direct assistance to the disadvantaged groups . Nowadays, working in this field is based on a main organizing principle which shows that it is difficult to find a lasting solution for most of the social , economic and political problems relating to women without their participation and without allowing them to express their opinion and participate in the work at the national and international level. Moreover, the international regimes that ensure women’s rights exist in the Kingdom , but maybe there are imbalance in their application or a wrong interpretation.

Today, we find that there is an urgent need to adopt an International Islamic model for the advancement of women and that actually requires correcting any social imbalance in this regard.

The Society has welcomed the Kingdom’s ratification on the International Labour Convention on child labor and the Council of Ministers’ approval on the amendment of Article (4) of the prison and detention system

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the ratification on the International Labour Convention on child labor and has considered it an important step to determine the minimum age of the children enrolled in work in the various fields. It has also stressed the need to activate and put it into effect.

Besides, the Society has welcomed the Council of Ministers’ approval on the amendment of Article (4) of the prison and detention system. For more illustration, in the crimes affecting the national security, the minister will be allowed to order the issuance of a permit regarding the name of the prisoner or detainee in any of these crimes and their data and information.

The Society has welcomed the Kingdom’s ratification on the International Labour Convention on child labor and the Council of Ministers’ approval on the amendment of Article (4) of the prison and detention system

The Society’s statement on the veil ban (face covering) in France

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia condemns the voting on the veil ban in France and considers that this decision contradicts the individual freedom of clothing recognized by international law. To illustrate, every person has the right to freedom of expression and freedom to manifest his/her religion or belief according to the international conventions and human rights laws and these freedom include the way in which people choose their own way to dress and such ban is an interference in the right of women concerned with this. The Society has mentioned that protecting individuals, against any discrimination or violation or religious, cultural or social persecution, is from the state’s obligations and added that if the freedom of the people in this area may be subject to some restrictions prescribed by law, in order to protect the security, public order or the rights of others, such a ban cannot be justified. Moreover, the Society condemns the escalating discriminatory practices against Muslims in some European countries. For instance, the prohibition of veil (hijab) and face covering (niqab) in schools and public institutions in many countries, restricting Muslims from constructing mosques and banning minarets. The Society has concluded its statement saying that everyone has the right to express his/her beliefs or personal convictions or identity through choosing what to wear as long as not in that infringe upon the rights of others or out of public order.

The Society’s statement on the unfair conditions imposed by the Western embassies on the Saudi citizen who wants to get a visa to travel

The National Society for Human Rights deplores the unfair conditions that are imposed by the Western embassies on the Saudi citizen who wants to get a visa to travel either for tourism or treatment or study such as the requirement to bring an account statement for the last six months before travel. The Society sees that this is a violation to the personal information privacy that is protected in all the local and international regulations and instructions. The Society has also expressed its concern over the fate of that information and how it can be used and it calls on the competent authorities in the Kingdom to ensure the preservation of the confidentiality of personal information for citizens and not allow its penetration under any justification. In addition, It is communicating with the European Commission and the governments of those embassies to reconsider those exaggerated conditions and procedures that are applied only on the citizens of some countries, including Saudi Arabia.

The Society’s statement on the death of Saudi detainees in Guantanamo

The National Society for Human Rights has received the news of the death of three of the Saudi detainees in Guantanamo Bay, may Allah have mercy upon them, with deep regret and resentment, and is expressing its sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to their families.and its full solidarity with them. The Society demands to open an urgent investigation on the causes of death involving neutral international authorities and calls on the U.S. authorities to quickly hand over the bodies of the detainees to their families so that they can pray for them and bury them.

This tragic event reaffirms the legality of the repeated calls from the international human rights organizations regarding the importance of releasing all detainees who have been held for years without legal basis and they have also demanded an immediate closure of the detention center, because its continuation and the exercise of physical and psychological torture are considered a stain on the forehead of humanity as a whole. In addition, the Western governments have recently realized this fact and called for the closure of this camp and the release of detainees. The NSHR confirms that it will continue in the contribution of the exerted efforts concerning the release of the rest of the Saudi detainees and their return to their homeland.

The National Society for Human Rights’ Statement on the Qana massacre

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia strongly condemns the continued brutal barbaric Israeli aggression on Lebanon which resulted in killing innocent people, the displacement of the civilian population, the destruction of infrastructure and a mass damage of the villages and neighborhoods. For more illustration, the recent massacre in the village of Qana which affected the innocent children and women and caused a humanitarian catastrophe defying the whole world who watches the aggression without taking any action to deter it despite the killing and destruction perpetrated by Israel ignoring the humanitarian law and principles of the United Nations and human rights and in particular the Geneva Convention on the Protection of Civilian Persons in time of War, The National Society for Human Rights demands from all the international and regional institutions, particularly the United Nations, the European Union and the Arab League to take urgent action to stop this aggression and injustice suffered by the innocent and to take an urgent action so as to stop the genocide project perpetrated by Israel against both the Lebanese and Palestinian peoples.

The Society’s statement on the barbaric Israeli aggression on Lebanon

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia strongly condemns the continued brutal barbaric Israeli aggression on Lebanon which resulted in killing innocent people, the displacement of the civilian population, the destruction of infrastructure and a mass damage of the villages and neighborhoods. The Israeli attacks, which affected innocent people and caused a humanitarian catastrophe since the Israeli aircraft is bombing the aid convoys to those affected defying the whole world who watches the aggression without taking any action to deter it, reaffirms the organized terrorist state policy practiced by Israel in the Palestinian territories by continuing the murder and destruction in the Gaza Strip ignoring the humanitarian law and principles of the United Nations and human rights and peoples, The National Society for Human Rights demands from all the international and regional institutions, particularly the United Nations, the European Union and the Arab League to take urgent action to stop this aggression and injustice suffered by the innocent, and also invites all the civil, Arab and international institutions to lend a helping hand and to provide care and assistance to the affected and displaced people in Lebanon and Palestine and to take an urgent action so as to put pressure on governments to stop the genocide project practiced by Israel.

The Society issued a statement on the brutal assault of an Israeli soldier on one of the Palestinian detainees

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia deplores and strongly condemns the barbaric and brutal action done by an Israeli soldier through shooting one of the Palestinian detainees with eye cuffed and handcuffed defying the international humanitarian law and human rights principle. This act reaffirms the organized terrorist state approach practiced by the Israeli occupation authorities in the occupied Palestinian territories. Besides, the NSHR is demanding from all the international institutions and human rights organizations to take urgent action to stop these acts against the Palestinian people and ensure the prosecution and punishment of the perpetrator of this act which contradicts with the most basic human rights norms.

Statement on the brutal Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia deplores and strongly condemns the continued brutal barbaric Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip which resulted in killing innocent people, depriving the wounded of treatment and the destruction of infrastructure. It also believes that the Israeli attacks, which affected innocent women and children and caused a real humanitarian disaster, is a violation of international humanitarian law and human rights principles and is a blatant defiance to the whole world who watches the aggression without deterring it and reaffirms the organized terrorist state approach practiced by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The NSHR is demanding from all the international and regional institutions, and in the forefront the United Nations, the European Union and the Organization of the Islamic Conference and the League of Arab States to take an urgent action to stop this aggression and injustice suffered by the Palestinian people. It also calls on all the international institutions to lend a helping hand and provide care and assistance to those affected, particularly the medical care and calls on all the human rights organizations around the world to do its role in stopping the humanitarian war crimes committed in the Gaza Strip and demand prosecution of the perpetrators.

The Society’s statement on applying birching on a group of young people who raised havoc on the Corniche of Al- Khobar city and destroyed some public and private property

Commenting on what is said by the media concerning the attitude of the National Society for Human Rights on applying birching on a group of young people who have raised havoc on the Corniche of Al-Khobar and destroyed some public and private property, the Society would like to clarify the following:

First: The Society deplores what was done by these young people from the encroachment on public and private property during the celebration of the National Day.
Second: The Society supports the application of the appropriate punishment against those who are found guilty from these young people, regarding trespassing on public or private property, as required by legal rules and regulations in force and after referral to the judiciary.

Third: Applying birching without a final judicial ruling is inconsistent with the text of Article thirty-eight of the Governing Statute which stipulates that the punishment is personal except upon a legitimate text or text systems and which do not permit the imposition of any penalty on anyone except on an order prohibited and punishable by religious or system, and after being found guilty by a final judgment after a legitimate trial. It is also stipulated in Article VII of the zone system which obliges ensuring the rights and freedoms of individuals and not to take any action that affects those rights and freedoms except in the limits prescribed by the law and system.

Fourth: The Society appreciates the keen of the executive authorities to deter those who encroach on public or private property, but it hopes that it will be done as required by applicable regulations and perhaps finding a mechanism to expedite the referral of the accused to justice and then execute the provisions that will achieve justice and deter those who want harm to public or private property.

Fifth: The Society calls for a specialized social and psychological studies so as to look at the causes of the wrong behaviors and practices from some youth during the celebration of national events and finding the right treatment for them.

The Society’s statement on the measures imposed by the U.S. authorities on passengers arriving from Saudi Arabia

The National Society for Human Rights strongly deplores the procedures imposed by the U.S. authorities on passengers arriving from Saudi Arabia and considers them arbitrary actions and affect the dignity and human freedom. They also violate the terms of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which state the inadmissibility of discrimination between people because of sex or nationality and this is what the U.S. authorities has infringed by taking action against travelers from 14 countries, including Saudi Arabia. Besides, the U.S. authorities’ will to maintain the security of their country cannot justify taking action affecting the freedom of a particular nationality because of what may come from the people of this nationality or from the outlaws.

The Society calls on the U.S. authorities to reconsider those actions in order to ensure that there are no infringement on the dignity of Saudi citizens and their freedom or abridgement of the establishment of their religious rituals.

The Society’s statement on the King decisions regarding the rain precipitation disaster in Jeddah

The National Society for Human Rights appreciates the decisions included in the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz , regarding mandating procedural steps and mechanisms to eliminate any manipulation or exploitation of the savings of the nation and holding all shorted or negligent in this aspect accountable as well as bringing all the accused in the tragedy of Jeddah to the Control and Investigation Agency and the Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution for interrogation and the completion of the statutory procedures against them. He has also confirmed, may God protect him, to expedite this matter.

The Royal Order highlights the keen of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to establish justice and ensure the establishment of standards of right without accepting any excuses or prevarication in order to preserve the dignity of the martyrs, eradicate corruption in all its forms, and hold the negligent accountable. These assure the confirmation of the principle of transparency and credibility pursued by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in holding all negligent accountable in this tragedy firmly.

Moreover, the NSHR emphasizes the need to implement the contents of this Royal Order regarding transmitting all those, who the investigation proved their contribution or participation in this catastrophe, to the trial, without exception, and ensure that they get a fair and impartial trial.

The Society calls for urgency establishment of the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Agency and enable it to play its role to its fullest. It also emphasizes the need to enable the regulators such as the General Auditing Bureau and Control and Investigation Board to carry out their tasks in fighting against corruption and maintaining the public money through supporting them with necessary financial and human resources. In addition, to work on the urgent issuance of the necessary adjustments to their systems to give these regulatory devices the necessary powers to achieve their objectives.

The Society also see the importance of the existence of a supreme body, associated with the Prime Minister, to supervise and follow up the implementation of the state projects in various regions of the Kingdom and to ensure their distribution.

The Statement issued by the National Society for Human Rights on the Israeli attack on the Freedom Flotilla

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned the Zionist terrorist attack on the liberty ship that tried to break the Israeli imposed blockade since more than a thousand days on the Gaza Strip which resulted in the killing and injury.

The Society has considered this attack a war crime, piracy, state terrorism , and a violation of all international and humanitarian laws, norms, treaties and conventions. Besides, it emphasizes the mental terror of the Zionist entity and the absence of the international justice which treats Israel as a state above the law despite the non-compliance of the Israeli authorities with the international resolutions regarding ending the blockade on Gaza; flouting all the principles of the Fourth Geneva Convention of Human Rights and the international maritime law, which ensures that all vessels have the right of transit, especially if these ships coming in an humanitarian mission carrying relief aid to the civilian population trapped.

The Society is calling on the international community, the international and regional organizations and all organizations and human rights associations to work for condemning and offering all the Israeli officials who ordered and carried out this criminal act to trial, and to work towards lifting the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.

In addition, the failure to take any action in this regard will be a stain on the forehead of humanity and encourage the aggressor to continue his assault and violation of international conventions.

Press release, on 6 /6/ 2006 AD, about the Society’s visit to the Saudi detainees returning from Guantanamo

On Tuesday 10/05/1427 AH – 6/6/ 2006 AD, a delegation from the Society, continuing the work of the Society and its efforts in following- up the permanent conditions of Saudi detainees in Guantanamo and stand on their condition, has visited the prisoners returning from Guantanamo after their return to the Kingdom in order to congratulate them and be sure that they have enjoyed all their rights guaranteed by the legitimate rules and regulations in the Kingdom. The General Director of the detectives prisons and some officials in the prison have received the visiting delegation and then the delegation met with the prisoners and listened to a detailed explanation of the conditions of detention at Guantanamo. They have also reassured on the health of the prisoners and make sure that they are receiving health care and good treatment and meeting their families after their arrival to the land of the Kingdom.

The Society and its members appreciate the efforts exerted by the officials in the Ministry of Interior to these detainees either returned home or waiting for their return. In addition, the Society will follow-up, in coordination with the concerned authorities, the issue of these detainees so as to ensure their release or their access to fair trials. The delegation of the Society included: Dr. Bandar bin Mohammed Hajjar, the Chairman of the Society, and Dr. Mufleh bin Rabiean Al Qahtani, the Vice President and members of the Society : Dr. Saleh Khathlan and Dr. Abdul Rahman and Dr. Ibrahim Qaeed, and Dr. Saleh Shraideh, Dr Abdul Jalil Al Seif and Mr. Khaled Fakhri

The Society’s statement on the Israeli invasion of the Palestinian territory Issued on 4 /7 / 2006 AD

On Tuesday 8/6/1427 AH – 4/7/2006 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights (NSHR) denounces the invasion of the Palestinian territories by the Israeli occupation forces and their barbaric practices such as killing and kidnapping the officials and deputies in the Legislative Council as well as sabotaging the buildings and demolishing the bridges. These practices are clear violations of human rights and reassure the aggressive approach of the Zionist entity against the Palestinian people and their full negligence of the International legitimacy and their rejection of all peace initiatives.

Besides, the NSHR asks the international society and all its parties to be responsible for stopping this aggression and protecting the rights of defenseless civilians.

In addition, it assures the responsibility of the Islamic and Arab governments to stand next to the Palestinian people and support the Palestinian authority and its legitimate institutions elected through a free democratic way.

The Society has issued a press release, on 17/08/2006 AD , about the Pope’s lecture and showed its regret and called him to apologize

On Sunday, 24/8/1427 AH – 17/8/2006 AD, the Society has issued a press release condemning what came in the lecture of the Pope Benedict XVI at the University of Regensburg in the German state of Bavaria on Tuesday, 19/08/1427 AH -12/10/2006 in which he has attacked Islam and the master of creation Muhammad, Peace be upon him. The Society has expressed, in a statement, its deep regret for the issuance of such statements from the biggest Christian religious authority, stressing that such infectious statements do not serve the coexistence and peace. But it is also fueling the conflict between religions and expanding the gap caused by the infectious attitudes against Islam by some Western politicians which is a clear violation of human rights. In addition, the Society’s statement considered this work as a deliberate distortion of the Islamic religion which appreciates the science and scholars.

The Society has demanded, in its statement, an apology from the Pope, and has also called the non-Muslims to respect this religion and its people.

The Society has issued a press release, on 14/2/2006 AD, about the return of a new batch of Saudi detainees in Guantanamo

On Thursday 23/11/1427 AH – 14/12/2006 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia welcomes the decision concerning returning a new batch of Saudi detainees in Guantanamo Bay those who have spent years in the prison without charge or being referred to a fair trial, and it commends and appreciates in this regard the unremitting efforts that was done by the Government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in order to restore these detainees to their country.

Besides, the National Society for Human Rights has renewed its request to the U.S. authorities to speed up the release of the rest of the detainees, and to close this camp which constitutes a flagrant violation of all international conventions and treaties regarding human rights.

The Society has issued a press release, on 4/2/2007 AD, about arresting number of citizens

On Sunday 16/1/1428 AH – 4/2/2007 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights has monitored the arrest of a number of citizens in Jeddah and has consequently received so many internal and external inquiries about arresting them by the security authorities.

The Society is following-up the case with the concerned authorities to make sure of the reasons for the arrest and their charges and also to make sure that the procedures of the arrest is not contradicting with the Law of Criminal Procedure and it is also working to communicate with the families of the detainees.

The Society’s statement, on 31/05/2007 AD, about the death of one of the Saudi detainees in Guantanamo

On Thursday 14/5/1428 AH – 31/5/2007 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights has received the news of the death of one of the Saudi detainees in Guantanamo Bay, may Allah have mercy upon him, that appeared in the media, with deep regret and resentment, and is expressing its sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to his family. Regardless the validity of the U.S. authorities’ claim about the detainee’s suicide, the conditions in which the detainees are put in and the practices and torture which they are exposed to as well as holding them for more than five years without trial or release are a flagrant violation of human rights principles and hence the U.S. authorities bear its full responsibility. Besides, the responsibility of the U.S. administration has increased after the death of the Saudi detainee because of the similar mortality incidences that happened in the same prison and consequently the detention camp’s administration should have taken the necessary precautions to prevent such situations.

In addition, the Society is demanding an independent and impartial investigation about the circumstances of the detainee’s death especially in the presence of the evidences which indicate that this cannot be happened without the knowledge of the administration. It also demands delivering the body of the deceased to his family as soon as possible after verifying the cause of his death. The Society reiterates its former calls, that are shared by the international human rights organizations, concerning releasing all the detainees who have been held for years without legal basis, and demands the immediate closure of this camp, because its continuation and the exercise of physical and psychological torture are considered a stain on the forehead of humanity as a whole.

The Society has issued a statement, on 2/4/2008 AD, about the smear campaign against the Islamic religion

On Wednesday 25/3/1429 AH – 2/4/2008 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia deplores and strongly condemns the smear campaign carried out by the Dutch filmmaker on the Islamic religion through his film entitled “Sedition” in which the Islam is shown as a religion of terror and extremism. Since the international agreements, conventions and covenants emphasize the respect for religions and beliefs as well as the religious symbols of all peoples, such action is a violation of Article II, paragraph twenty of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which states that “any advocacy of national or racial hatred or religious, that constitutes an incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, is prohibited by law. ”

The National Society for Human Rights calls on all the human rights and humanitarian organizations in the world to prevent such practices which calls for hatred and lack of respect for cultural and religious diversity.

The Society has issued a statement, on 2/4/2008 AD, about the initiative of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to hold an Interfaith Dialogue Seminar

On Wednesday 25/3/1429 AH – 2/4/2008 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights is commending the generous initiative called by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, on promoting the values of “the Interreligious Dialogue”. This initiative is considered one of the initiatives that will mainly contribute in correcting the misconceptions about the Islamic religion; the NSHR also affirms that this initiative will consolidate the principles of tolerance and dialogue and renounce violence, extremism and intolerance as well as it will call for coexistence with the difference and open channels of constructive dialogue with the followers of all religions to contribute in achieving respect for human rights.

The National Society for Human Rights has issued a statement, on 26/4/2008 AD, about the visit of its delegation to the Ministry of Health

On Saturday 20/4/1429 AH – 26/4/2008 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

Concerning what was published in the local press on Thursday about the explanatory statement issued by the Ministry of Health on the Society delegation’s visit to the Minister of Health, the Society would like to clarify the points included in the statement:

The National Society for Human Rights play its role in protecting and preserving the human rights as stipulated by its statute in Article III the third paragraph which stated that the Society has to receive complaints, follow-up with the competent authorities and verify the claims of violations and abuses of human rights. There is no doubt that the right to health care is the most important of these rights and it is among what the leadership of our country is willing to achieve for all citizens and residents. The Society has also spotted and received numerous complaints and grievances, that affect the rights of citizens, which are within the tasks and functions of the Ministry of Health such as the following:

1- The unbalanced distribution of the services on the regions of the Kingdom.

2 – The suffering of the patients and their families from traveling to major cities for treatment.

3 – The Obligation to take effective actions in order to reduce medical errors.

4 – The lack of medicines in hospitals and pharmacies and some citizens are forced to secure these medications on their own.

5 – The lack of the specialized research centers in some areas where some of the epidemic diseases are abundant.

6 – Demanding from the relatives of the patients to coordinate and search for vacant beds in order to ensure their patients’ need.

7 – The weakness of nursing staff in hospitals and its impact on the patient service.
8 – The lack of the available possibilities in the health centers in the neighborhoods and villages.

9 – Setting distant appointments to the patients to review clinics.

10 – The weakness of the emergency departments in the hospitals.

11 – The weakness of the human resources in most medical clinics and hospitals, particularly in remote areas.

12 – Lack of health services provided to prisoners, especially AIDS and psychiatric patients.

The Chairman of the Society and some members have met ,His Excellency, the Minister of Health and senior officials in the ministry to discuss these issues and to identify the ministry’s point of view on them. The officials at the ministry have explained their point of view about these issues and promised to formally reply later. During the meeting, the Chairman of the Society and its members were given a brief on the ministry’s efforts, but it is noted that the statement, that is issued by the Ministry of Health, indicates that no one has the right to speak on behalf of the Ministry or on its behalf. The statement has also pointed out that the Ministry of Finance is supporting the efforts of the Ministry and that the Ministry of Health had hoped that the Society would be careful before issuing its statement and wait until it receives the perspective of the Ministry about the issues. Moreover, the Society would like to emphasize that it does not speak on behalf of one but it is doing its role in accordance with what is stipulated in its statutes in Article III the first paragraph, which states that the Society has to ensure the implementation of what is mentioned in the governing statue and the internal systems of the Kingdom that are related to human rights “and has to ensure that the competent authorities are doing their role in providing the services to citizens as required by the regulations and Royal directives. Regarding the support of the Ministry of Finance to the ministry’s efforts, it is noted that there are a number of hospitals and health centers suffering from a shortage of equipment, services and personnel and medicines. etc. ..Besides, If there is a support from the Ministry of Finance in this regard and the Ministry of Health is doing its role, then why the citizens are complaining from the deteriorating health services!!! The NSHR is also surprised from the Ministry’s resentment from making its role in delivering what has been observed or received from grievances and complaints to the competent authorities and clarifying the opinion of the officials to the community concerning the important matters to them. In addition, large proportion of the community members are complaining about the deteriorating health services and this is unjustified for two reasons: firstly, the repeated directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques on the need to provide services to the citizens and secondly, the provision of the financial liquidity. Regardless of the relationship between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Health, positively or negatively, the important thing is that the average citizen should get his right to health care which is confirmed by the governing Statute in the Article Thirty-first, which stipulates that “the State shall care about the public health and provide health care for every citizen. ”

In addition, the Society should display the complaints or grievances, that are monitored or received, to the officials in the ministries and related government departments, then announce what it has received from the positives and clarifications to the community according to the principle of transparency, clarity and credibility and what is being observed in various media. For instance, what has been recently published on the tongue of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the general supervisor of the clinic property Dr. Fahad AlJabbar on the reality of the health sector in the Kingdom, understanding the need to redouble efforts by the concerned officials to overcome things like this to ensure that all citizens take their right to health care.

May God help us all to what he loves and is pleased under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.

The Society has issued a statement, on 2/9/2008 AD, appreciating the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques regarding exchanging more than one billion riyals to help families covered by the social security

On Tuesday 2/9/1429 AH – 2/9/2008 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights is appreciating the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques regarding exchanging the amount of one billion and one hundred and fifty million riyals for all families covered by the social security system in the Kingdom in order to help these needy families to meet their emergency supplies during the holy month of Ramadan. This order reflects the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ keenness on supporting the rights of this category of citizens and fumble their needs as it will contribute in achieving social stability and ensure the right of the citizen and his family to live in dignity. The Society also calls the executive authorities to put this order into practice in order to allow the concerned families to benefit from it in the timely manner.

The Society has issued a statement, on 19/10/2008 AD, to welcome the start of referring the defendants in security issues for trial

On Sunday19/10/1429 AH – 19/10/2008 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The NSHR welcomes starting the referral of the defendants in the security issues to the trial and the Society is looking forward to be the trial in accordance with the regulations in force so as to ensure the punishment of those involved in these events and the launch speed for those who have not been proven guilty.

The Society has issued a statement, on 29/12/2008 AD, condemning the Israeli barbaric aggression on the Gaza Strip

On Monday 30/12/1429 AH – 29/12/2008 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:
The National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia deplores and strongly condemns the Israeli continued barbaric aggression against the Gaza Strip which resulted in the killing of innocents and the displacement of the civilian population as well as the destruction of the infrastructure. The NSHR believes that the Israeli attacks, which affected innocent women and children and caused a humanitarian catastrophe, is a real violation of the international humanitarian law and the principles of human rights and a blatant defiance to the whole world who watches the aggression without deterring it and reaffirms the organized state terrorism approach practiced by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Besides, the NSHR is calling on all the international and regional institutions; and in the forefront the United Nations ,the European Union, the Organization of the Islamic Conference and the Arab League, calling them for urgent action to stop the aggression and injustice suffered by the Palestinian people. It also calls on all the international institutions to lend a helping hand and provide care and assistance to the affected and displaced people in the Gaza Strip and to take urgent action so as to put pressure on the Israeli government to stop the genocide project practiced.

The Society’s Statement, on 18/6/2009 AD, on the occasion of the Fourth Anniversary of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for taking over the reins of power

The Society commends the reforms of the King of humanity that are done in the field of human rights. On Friday 26/6/1430 AH – 18/6/2009 AD, four years will be passed over, that day which represents the anniversary of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, for taking over the reins of power in the country. While we stopped in front of this great occasion in the history of our country, we will see that many accelerated achievements have been fulfilled in various fields and that would not be achieved, after reconciling God only, except by the constructive efforts and fruitful endeavors exerted and being exerted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Highness the Crown Prince in order to achieve the aspirations of its people at all levels and which are embodied by the personality and behavior of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques which has laid down the humanitarian treatment and hence calling him (the King of humanity) which stem from a deep understanding of the principles and the doctrine of the nation based on the correct understanding of the provisions of the Islamic Shariah and from which the modern human rights instruments has derived its equity and values.

In addition, the National Society for Human Rights and all its members and employees laud and appreciate the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ role in supporting the Society as he enables it to carry out its work and emphasizes on its independence in work and drawing its own policy. They also appreciate his role ,may God protect him, in establishing the concepts and mechanisms of the national dialogue in the Kingdom and his calling for achieving a dialogue between religions and cultures and bringing them together on the international level in order to replace peace instead of war, love and tolerance instead of hatred and discrimination. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ concern regarding human rights is clear since taking over the reins of the government as he emphasized that he would work for the truth and establish justice and work without discrimination and he has said his famous saying (your right is to strike by justice the inequity and injustice).

In confirmation of this trend, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has given a special attention to the judiciary sector through the allocation of nearly seven billion Riyals for the development of this sector and its restructuring and modernization in order to achieve greater justice for litigants and help to settle disputes quickly and achieve the principles of fair trial. In addition, determine the competence of the Ministry of Justice, the Supreme Judicial Council and the Office of the Ombudsman as well as the establishment of the Supreme Court and the Supreme Administrative Court which strongly indicate the direction of the leadership to ensure the promotion of judicial independence. The reforms, which are ordered by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in other fields such as health, education and social affairs and the fight against corruption, enhance the ability of citizens’ access to their rights in these fields and indicate the keenness of the leadership on the rights of citizens and residents. This is highlighted through the re-election of the Kingdom in the Human Rights Council which shows the remarkable progress in the field of human rights in our country and we are confident that these reforms will be continued under the wise leadership of the King of humanity: Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz and His Highness Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz, and his deputy, the second Prince Nayef bin Abdul Aziz.

The Society has issued a press release, on 26/8/2009 AD, about the amnesty granted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to pardon the prisoners remaining from Najran events

On Wednesday 5/9/1430 AH – 26/8/2009 AD, the Society has issued the following press release:

The National Society for Human Rights appreciates the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques regarding his amnesty to pardon the remaining prisoners of the events of Najran with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan based on what was submitted by His Highness, Prince Nayef bin Abdul Aziz, the second Deputy and the Interior Minister, and based on the petition submitted by His Royal Highness, Mishaal bin Abdullah, the Governor of Najran.

The Society stresses that this generous initiative reinforces the principles of tolerance and indicates that the leadership feels the citizens’ concerns and shows its desire to close the file of these unfortunate events and end the suffering of the families of these prisoners. The Society is also willing to integrate these prisoners in the community through establishing the role of the competent entity in this regard so as to ensure them and their family members a decent living.

The National Society for Human Rights appreciates the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques order to investigate the causes of the tragic events that resulted from the rain precipitation in Jeddah 1/12/2009 AD

On Tuesday 14/12/1430 AH -1/12/2009 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release:

The NSHR commends and appreciates the order of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, to set up an investigation and fact-finding committee for identifying the main causes of the tragic events that resulted from the rain precipitation in Jeddah. In addition, to determine the responsibility of each party or any person having a relationship with that and to make a survey for the martyrs of drowning , the injuries, loss of property and compensating them and to disburse a million riyals for each martyr.

The Royal Order was characterized by transparency and courage, clarity and firm desire to hold all the negligent accountable. It also included a fair humanitarian gesture to the victims’ families through compensating them and analyzing the situation then drawing a chart to solve it. In addition, it has stressed to hold the negligent and perpetrators accountable without accepting any excuses or prevarication as well as comforting those who have suffered from this disaster and eased the pain of those whose family or property are affected.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has confirmed the importance of addressing the causes of this disaster and determining the responsibility and those who are responsible for it, whether entities or persons. In addition, to firmly hold all the deficient or negligent accountable as it is required from the committee in charge, and which is investigating this tragedy, to investigate the reasons behind it in order to ensure the accountability of each carless deficient or negligent . It is also required from everyone to cooperate with this committee in order to enable it to carry out its duties. The Society stresses the importance of disbursing the compensation to the affected people promptly and treating the conditions of those who suffered from this disaster.

May God save our country from all evil and protect the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince and the Second Deputy Premier for victory right.

A Statement issued by the National Society for Human Rights, on 5/12/2009 AD , about the prohibition of establishing the minarets of mosques in Switzerland

On Saturday 12/18/1430 AH – 5/12/2009 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued a press release condemning the result of the referendum, which was recently done in Switzerland, as it led to the prohibition of establishing the minarets of mosques, included the following: the National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia expresses its regret and deep concern for making such a referendum which is a violation of the freedom of religion. It also contradicts with what is stated in the Article eighteen of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which gave everyone the right to manifest his/her religion or belief and to practice their own religious rituals. Moreover, the Society confirms that such a referendum is fueling the conflict between religions and widens the gap caused by the hostile attitudes against Islam by some Western politicians and is a clear violation of human rights. It also does not serve the coexistence between peoples and hinders the inter-religious dialogue. The Society calls on all the human rights and humanitarian organizations in the world to reject such practices which calls for hatred and lack of respect for cultural and religious diversity.

The statement issued by the National Society for Human Rights, on 22/2/2011, on the occasion of the return of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud returned home safe and sound

There is no doubt that everyone is awaiting the safe return of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz ,to his home and the National Society for Human Rights, in its name and on behalf of all its members and staff, welcomes this return and praises God for the King’s healing and his return from his therapeutic trip that was thankfully successful. In addition, his people and society are waiting for his return and are looking forward for further building and reform that has characterized his reign, may God protect him.

King Abdullah is idolized not only in his country but also abroad and this is due to his personality which love justice and tend to it and work for dialogue and supported it, Those who are monitoring the human rights situation in our country must have observed the great care of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, since taking office, on promoting the human rights and protecting their liberty and this includes the citizens and residents alike. In addition, his interest, may God protect him, concerning human rights is highlighted through his ongoing directives to the governmental agencies to take into account the rights of individuals and enable them of their rights and his warn of overtaking and pledge to hold any official accountable no matter how high his position.

Moreover, his support, may God protect him, for the human rights institutions in the country is highlighted through his emphasis on the independence of the National Society for Human Rights and allowing it to draw its own strategy. He also demands from all the governmental agencies to facilitate its work so that it can carry out its duties stipulated in its statue and this is not surprising on the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques whose humanitarian mantra appeared in his speech when he took power in the country saying:” (I will smite with the sword of justice the injustice)”. .

He has also confirmed, may God protect him, this initial commitment through several initiatives in the field of human rights, the fight against corruption, support dialogue, the dissemination of education and the development of the judiciary. Moreover, support women’s rights, and find many of the laws and regulations required for the development of the country, concern for the poor and beneficiaries of social security services, and work for the economic development of the country through the economic cities and his support for the knowledge economy and other fields that aimed at enabling the citizens to enjoy their right to a decent living.

The Statement issued, on 15/3/2011 AD, by the Executive Council of the National Society for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia

According to the role of the Executive Council of the NSHR in achieving the objectives of the Society regarding the human rights protection, in accordance with the ordainments of the Islamic Muslim law, the Governing Statue in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, coming from Quran and Sunnah, and the International conventions and covenants regarding human rights and according to what the Society has monitored and recently followed in the local public aspect, the Executive Council highly appreciates the steps recently announced by the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. For more illustration, these steps are concerned with maintaining the security of the Kingdom and its stability and supporting the standard of living of the citizens as well as improving the economic and social conditions for some groups to achieve better levels of development in the Kingdom.

The Executive Council has also watched the citizens insight to the regional situation around them and their understanding regarding the fundamentals of religion and nation (its gain and leadership) which frustrated the attempts of provoking the ideas and attitudes that might affect the Kingdom’s security and safety. This is without denying the right of expression by the valid legitimate and systematic means which protect the homeland’s security and the sustainability of its stability and without ignoring the legitimate demands of some citizens which will find all the care and concern from the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in providing a decent life for all citizens ,men and women, taking into account the human rights without any discrimination.

The Executive Council takes this opportunity to express his confidence in this cohesion between the government and citizens, and calls the people of this country for more work, cooperation and cohesion so as to achieve stability and preserve the gains that have been achieved so far. The Council has also mentioned that there are still an urgent need to activate and develop the practices and programs belonging to the internal public affairs and which referred to in the reports issued by the Society on the status of human rights in the Kingdom, such as:

1- Continue in the project of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for political reform which will ensure the expansion of the popular participation through the expansion in electing the members of the municipal council and consider electing some members of the district councils and the Shoura Council and give them greater powers to monitor the budgets and the accountability of executives which support economic, social and security stability as well as saving the public money from encroachment.

2- Spread the spirit of good citizenship and activate this feeling among all the classes of society in various regions of the Kingdom without discrimination in order to save this great entity and support its regional and global leadership, and devotes its status for stability and security as well as the protection of human rights.

3- Implement the national strategy for protecting the integrity and anti-corruption, approved by the Council of Ministers in the Kingdom, and hasten the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission and the issuance of the necessary rules, regulations and procedures that will accelerate the tackling of the financial and administrative corruption, and promote the principle of accountability in all governmental agencies with preventing the misuse of power and influence .

4- Strengthen the independence of the Judiciary and protect the judges from interference and from being influenced, hold negligent of them, and activate the application of judicial systems and judicial inspection in order to ensure Human Rights in the Kingdom.

5- Activate the role of the Civil Society Organizations in participating in the decisions of the national dialogue and respecting the freedom of opinion and expression and the defense of rights.

6- Find urgent, effective and fast solutions regarding the issues of people who do not have identification papers or identities and work to correct their situation so as to ensure their access to their rights and prevent the negative effects of their current situation.

7- Develop an urgent and effective implementation for the Criminal Procedures System and accountable those who are careless towards its application from the competent authorities. This is to ensure the release of the prisoners who have exhausted their sentence and deal with the security detainees in a way that will allow them to communicate with their families and their defense. In addition, activating their economic and social contribution in their homeland and enabling a speed directly of the Commission for Investigation and Prosecution to their cases as well as activating the prisons’ surveillance including the detective’s prisons.

8- Empowerment of women, children and the elderly of their legitimate and systemic rights and speed issuing for the Code of Personal Status regarding the idiosyncratic opinion that is likely honorable to the changing circumstances and times. In addition, directing the judiciary to speed action on women’s issues with the social dimension so as to protect the family and children and to solve the domestic violence issues.

9- Ensure the right to work, housing, education and health for all citizens through implementing the decisions and Royal orders issued in this regard, expanding its implementation, activating the relevant programs and monitoring the implementation of the approved projects in order to achieve its social and development goals. Besides, supporting the principle of decentralization in the management of these vital sectors and speed the cancellation of the procedures that hinder achieving the goals without sacrificing the control and accountability.

10- The Society stresses the importance of the dialogue adopted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques as a way to start claiming any demands; and it hopes that the mechanisms and means will be put to achieve that and to ensure the continuation of cohesion and solidarity between the community and good leadership.

The National Society for Human Rights welcomes the statement of the Council of Ministries

The NSHR has welcomed the statement of the Council of Ministries, issued on Monday 20/7/2011 AD – 10/8/1432 AH, that called on the Arab governments to adopt serious reforms that guarantee the rights and dignity of the Arab citizen.

The Society has said that this call comes in line with the project of King Abdullah for reform and with his ongoing directives concerning respecting people’s rights and freedom and warning against abuse treatment with all individuals, whether citizens or residents. The Society added that the human rights and dignity have become today the mainstay of development and progress in the world. Moreover, the Society has also called all the officials in the governmental agencies to strict to these Royal directives and make them an essential criterion to evaluate the performance of their agencies.

The National Society for Human Rights’ Statement, on 25/7/2011 AD, about the Penal System for the Crimes of Terrorism and its Financing

The NSHR has followed-up the reactions of some international human rights organizations on the draft penal system, which is recently approved by the Shoura Council, for the crimes of terrorism and their financing. The Society has not seen the issued order because of the mechanism of issuing regulations followed by the Council and that prevent informing the citizens about the draft system except after being approved. There are raised reviews about this system since it has not take enough time to be studied and discussed in the Council.

Despite the Society’s appreciation to the eagerness and great effort made by the governmental authorities, particularly the Ministry of Interior, to maintain the security of the homeland and its citizens and address all hazards that may threaten the security of the society and its stability as well as the importance of the accountability and punishment for those who are found involved in any terrorist act, the Society recalls the importance of preserving the noble values and traditions that control the relationship between the leadership and citizens in the Kingdom, derived from the Shariah and the values of Arabian horses, and protecting them against any regular texts that are derived from the experiences of other countries which are now in a painful positions. The Society also asserts that the terrorist incidents, suffered by the Kingdom and overtaken by the praise of God, should not be the basis and motivation to legislate regulations that may negatively affect the special relationship between the leadership in the Kingdom and its citizens through giving absolute powers to some governmental agencies that may result in the violations of human rights and freedom which are incompatible with the system of justice in the Kingdom. For instance, the Criminal Procedure Code and System Procedures legitimacy derived from the Islamic law and international Conventions ratified by the Kingdom and the Governing Statute which emphasizes the values of justice and the special relationship between the leadership and the citizens.

Consequently, the Society considers the need for prudence in the issuance of this system, which is till before the competent authorities, and reviewing its articles accurately and formulating them in a way that will prevent any misinterpretation or application especially those that affect the human rights and freedom or affect the role of the Judiciary and its independence.

May God save our leadership and our country from all harm.

The Society’s Statement, on 25/9/2011 AD, about the Royal Approval to the involvement of women in the membership of the Shoura Council and municipal councils

The National Society for Human Rights has welcomed the decisions of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah Bin Abd El Aziz, regarding the empowerment of woman of its rights in the membership of Shoura Council as to the next session as well as its right to stand and vote in the municipal councils. These decisions are considered a continuation of the orientation of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to enhance the participation of Saudi woman in social life in accordance with the regulations approved by the Islamic Shariah. This step comes compatible with the claims of the Society, during the last period, to involve women in the affairs of their community and highlights the continued constructivism approach of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and supports the women’s participation in the community. Besides, the NSHR hopes that the Saudi women will carry out their responsibilities in serving their community which reflects this Royal trust.

The National Society for Human Rights has issued the following press release, on 15/9/2012 AD, about the condemnation of the film offending Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon him

The NSHR in Saudi Arabia deplores the production of a film insulting Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon him, and the Islamic religion by a irresponsible group in the United States and strongly condemns those who produced, displayed and supported the film. It also calls all the countries and the humanity and human rights organizations in the world to prevent such practices and abuses and stop them and prevent their recurrence as well as criminalize who did it. In addition, they should work on reducing the spread of such practices and prevent finding legal excuses for those who did that under the protection of the freedom of expression which should respect the human rights and not offend his beliefs, sanctities, and his religious symbols. All the international conventions, treaties and covenants emphasize on the respect of religions, beliefs and religious symbols of all people. Moreover, such action is considered a violation of Article II, paragraph twenty of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which states the following: ” the law prohibits any advocacy of national, racial, or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence”.

Besides, being against any action that led to hate and lack of respect for cultural and religious diversity which is consistent with the decisions of the General Assembly of the United Nations and Human Right Council which are issued to combat the defamation of religions and assert their respect. All the states should also provide, within their legal and constitutional systems, adequate protection against the acts of hatred and discrimination resulting from the defamation of religions and incitement to religious hatred in general. They should also take all possible measures to promote tolerance and respect for all religions and should exert the maximum effort, in accordance with their national legislation and in conformity with the international law of human rights, to ensure the full respect and protection of the religious symbols. In addition, the Society is calling the international community to activate these resolutions calling for the respect of all holy sites and criminalize insulting the prophets and apostles, Peace be upon them, as well as transmit these resolutions to the competent authorities to issue characters that will be part of the International Bill of human rights. All the Arab and Islamic countries have to exert also all efforts so as to ensure punishing who commit such abuse.

The Society confirms its strong condemnation of insulting the Great Prophet and the tolerant message of Islam and it considers that the rejection and condemnation should be by legal and peaceful means away from violence, murder and innocent infringement and targeting diplomatic headquarters.

The Society’s statement, on 17/4/2012 AD, about the kidnapping of the Saudi Deputy Consul in Yemen

On Wednesday 26/5/1433 AH – 17/4/2012 AD, the National Society for Human Rights has issued a press release about the kidnapping of the Saudi Deputy Consul in Yemen ,Abdullah El Khalidi, saying: “The National Society for Human Rights deplores and condemns the kidnapping incident that the Saudi Deputy Consul, Abdullah El Khalidi, was exposed to and stresses that this action is incompatible with the provisions of the Islamic Shariah and is considered a flagrant violation to the right of this citizen and his family and relatives. Moreover, the Society is calling those who are involved in this action to release him and it also confirms that what is said by who affiliated himself with the terrorist organization of Al-Qaeda in Yemen regarding harming the kidnapped citizen is considered a corruption on earth and it highlights the real objectives of this organization which is not related to the principles of Islam.

The Society’s Statement, on 29/12/2012 AD, about the release of the General Prison’s prisoners

The National Society for Human Rights appreciates the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ order regarding his amnesty of the prisoners of the Public Right whom the competent authorities have assured the safety of their status as well as appreciating his direction, May God protect him, for releasing the prisoners who have proven their inability to repay their debts and challenges; and those who were not imprisoned because of major crimes or because of procrastination and manipulating people’s money. In addition, Dr. Mufleh Al Qahtani, the Chairman of the NSHR, has stressed that this directive from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, May God protect him, is not a surprising action as he is pardoning those who did not commit major crimes. He also stresses that this generous initiative has established the principle of tolerance and indicated that the leaders feel the citizen’s concerns and their desire to end the suffering of the families of those prisoners. The Chairman added that this amnesty is considered a humanitarian gesture from the leader of this blessed country toward a class of citizens and residents who have misbehaved and deviated from the righteous path.

There is no doubt that this initiative will enter the pleasure on many of the families, whether citizens or residents, and will contribute in the mitigation of the overstock prisoners in the prisons. Moreover, The Chairman of the Society has expressed, at the end of his statement, in his name and the name of the Society’s members, his deep gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown prince on this initiative. He also assured that the Society is willing to integrate those prisoners in the society through the role of the competent authorities that should be done in this regard in order to ensure them and their families a decent living. The Society is willing for a quick implementation for this order so as to enable the prisoners to benefit from its provision as soon as possible, asking God Almighty to make this great humanitarian action in the advantages’ balance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and perpetuates him the grace of health and wellness.