On 18 November 2019, four United Nations (UN) Special Procedures offices published an Allegation Letter to the Government of Bahrain concerning the denial of adequate medical care for detainees in Jau Prison, including individuals with chronic health conditions, persons with disabilities, human rights defenders, and prisoners of conscience. Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) served as the source of the information provided to Special Procedures, through our UN Complaint Program. ADHRB welcomes the comments from the Special Procedures offices, and echoes their calls for Bahrain to uphold its international obligations and respect the human rights of all prisoners.

Read the full statement here.

New and Notable

ADHRB writes to US Ambassador to Bahrain Siberell over ongoing concerns

Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Questioned about Steps Being Taken to Secure Release of Political Prisoners in Bahrain

Profiles in Persecution: Ali Hasan Ali

On 11 September 2019, the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers published an Allegation Letter to the Government of Kuwait, citing concern for the unfair trial of Ms. Maria Lazareva. 

According to the Allegation Letter, Ms. Lazareva is a business executive who worked as the Vice Chair and CEO of KGL Investment Company (KGLI) in Kuwait City. In 2012, Ms. Lazareva was arrested and detained in connection to criminal cases based on allegations of misappropriation of public funds, money laundering, and embezzlement related to her work for KGLI. The Special Rapporteur identified two relevant cases: Case 1942/2015 and the associated appeal Case 1596/2018, as well as Case 1496/2012.  

Read the full statement here.