Key Human Rights Issues
In 2024, the human rights landscape in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was characterized by significant challenges across various domains, reflecting both longstanding and emerging concerns. The country’s legal and political frameworks continued to impose severe restrictions on civil and political rights, while specific groups, including women, children, LGBTQ+ individuals, and minorities, faced systemic discrimination and unequal access to justice and resources. Despite some advancements in economic, social, and cultural rights, deep-seated inequalities persisted, particularly affecting migrant workers and other vulnerable populations. This section explores the key human rights issues in the UAE, offering a comprehensive overview of the current situation and the ongoing struggles for reform and equity.
1- Civil and Political Rights in UAE 2024
Freedom of Expression and Assembly
In 2024, the UAE continued to impose stringent restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. The government relied on laws such as the Cybercrime Law and Penal Code to criminalize dissent, with offenses including “insulting the ruler” and “endangering state security” being broadly defined[1]. These laws are used to suppress public criticism and maintain strict control over public discourse. Surveillance technologies, including advanced monitoring of both physical spaces and online activities, further eroded privacy and freedom of expression[4]. Public protests and assemblies were heavily restricted, and security forces responded to any signs of dissent with force[3].
Arbitrary Arrests and Detentions
Arbitrary arrests and detentions remained widespread, particularly targeting activists, academics, and political dissidents. Notably, the UAE conducted a mass trial involving at least 84 defendants, with sentences ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment. This trial faced criticism for serious due process violations, including restricted access to legal counsel and allegations of coerced confessions[3]. Many individuals from the “UAE94” case continued to face detention beyond their original sentences under counterterrorism pretexts[4]. Prominent detainees, such as Ahmed Mansoor, remained imprisoned under harsh conditions, including solitary confinement, due to their human rights advocacy[5].
Torture and Ill-Treatment
Reports of torture and ill-treatment in UAE detention centers persisted throughout 2024. Detainees often endured severe conditions, including prolonged solitary confinement and denial of basic rights like access to legal representation[5]. Allegations of torture were prevalent, particularly in the context of mass trials where confessions were reportedly extracted under duress[3]. Despite international calls for reform, the UAE has yet to ratify the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture, and independent monitoring mechanisms remain absent[1].
Overall, the civil and political rights situation in the UAE in 2024 was marked by severe restrictions on freedoms, widespread arbitrary detentions, and ongoing reports of torture. These issues have drawn significant international criticism and calls for reform, yet substantial changes remain limited.