The Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) examines the 43rd Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Statement on the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as outlined in the speech provided by the UK government. The WCHR expresses deep concern regarding the UAE’s failure to meet basic human rights requirements, as detailed in the statement. This comprehensive analysis aims to shed light on the critical issues and proposes recommendations on behalf of the WCHR to address the urgent need for improvements.
Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom:
The WCHR strongly condemns the UAE’s restrictions on freedom of expression and the press. The UPR statement correctly points out the censorship, harassment, and curtailment of online freedoms faced by journalists and media outlets. To rectify this, the WCHR recommends that the UAE:
Create an enabling environment for a free and independent press by revising laws to remove restrictions on media freedoms.
Cease the harassment and intimidation of journalists and activists, allowing them to carry out their vital work without fear of reprisal.
Promote digital rights by guaranteeing internet freedom and protecting individuals’ rights to privacy and online expression.
Human Rights Defenders:
The WCHR is deeply troubled by the UAE’s treatment of human rights defenders. The UPR statement accurately highlights the ongoing harassment, intimidation, and imprisonment of individuals peacefully advocating for human rights. In light of this, the WCHR recommends that the UAE:
- Cease all forms of intimidation and persecution against human rights defenders, ensuring their safety and protection.
- Amend legislation to create an enabling environment for human rights defenders to operate freely and without fear of reprisal.
- Engage in meaningful dialogue with civil society organizations and human rights defenders to ensure their active participation in shaping policies and reforms.
Migrant Workers and Labor Rights:
The WCHR expresses grave concern regarding the treatment of migrant workers in the UAE, including the exploitative kafala system. The UPR statement correctly highlights the need for significant improvements in labor rights. To address these issues, the WCHR recommends that the UAE:
Abolish the kafala system and establish a fair and transparent labor framework that protects the rights and dignity of all workers.
Strengthen labor inspections and enforcement mechanisms to prevent and address cases of exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking.
Ensure access to justice and remedies for workers who have experienced labor rights violations, including the right to seek compensation and redress.
Gender Equality and Women’s Rights:
While the UAE has made some progress, the UPR statement rightfully identifies challenges remaining in gender equality and women’s rights. The WCHR recommends that the UAE:
Revise laws and policies to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and promote gender equality in all spheres of society.
Increase women’s representation in decision-making positions, including in government and public institutions.
Enhance efforts to combat gender-based violence by strengthening legal frameworks, providing support services for survivors, and raising awareness on the issue.
Torture and Inhumane Treatment:
The WCHR strongly condemns reports of torture and inhumane treatment within the UAE’s criminal justice system. The UPR statement emphasizes the need for thorough investigations and accountability. To address this, the WCHR recommends that the UAE:
Undertake prompt, impartial, and independent investigations into all allegations of torture and hold perpetrators accountable.
Ratify and implement international human rights treaties, such as the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT), to establish independent monitoring mechanisms.
Provide training to law enforcement officials and judiciary on human rights standards, particularly relating to the prohibition of torture and fair trial guarantees.
Conclusion:
The Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) reiterates its profound concerns regarding the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) failure to meet basic human rights requirements, as highlighted in the 43rd Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Statement. The issues identified in the statement, including restrictions on freedom of expression, mistreatment of human rights defenders, labor rights abuses, gender inequality, torture, and inhumane treatment, demand immediate attention and reform.
The WCHR emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the UAE government, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders to implement these recommendations effectively. By addressing these human rights deficiencies, the UAE can pave the way for a society founded on justice, equality, and respect for human dignity.
The WCHR stands ready to support and engage with the UAE in its efforts to improve its human rights record and foster a society that upholds the universal principles of human rights for all individuals within its borders. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no person’s fundamental rights are compromised, and we must strive for a future where human rights are respected, protected, and enjoyed by every individual.