Das Deutsche Institut für Demokratie und Entwicklung (DIDE): UAE’s Crackdown on Civil Society Ahead of COP28
Das Deutsche Institut für Demokratie und Entwicklung (DIDE) expresses deep concern over the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) relentless crackdown on civil society ahead of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28). The unjust imprisonment of civil society actors, who have been denied their freedom for advocating human rights, environmental protection, and social justice, is a grave violation of democratic principles and fundamental freedoms. As the world prepares to address crucial environmental issues at COP28, it is imperative to shed light on the UAE’s human rights abuses and demand the immediate release of these unlawfully detained activists.
The UAE’s systematic repression of civil society is characterized by a heavy-handed approach that stifles dissent and undermines democratic values. Through the arbitrary detention and sentencing of human rights defenders, environmental activists, and advocates for social justice, the UAE authorities seek to silence voices that challenge their policies and practices. This culture of fear and oppression restricts freedom of expression, curtails the right to peaceful assembly, and erodes the foundation of a democratic society.
The mass trials conducted in the UAE have been marred by a lack of transparency, due process, and fair trial guarantees. Activists have faced trumped-up charges such as “threatening national security,” “spreading false information,” and “inciting public unrest.” However, it is evident that these charges are fabricated to quash dissent and stifle critical voices. By imprisoning these individuals, the UAE aims to instill fear within civil society and discourage any form of opposition or activism.
One prominent example of an unjustly imprisoned activist is Ahmed Al Mansoor, a courageous human rights defender who has tirelessly exposed human rights abuses in the UAE. Al Mansoor’s detention is a blatant violation of his basic human rights and serves as a chilling reminder of the UAE’s crackdown on those who dare to speak truth to power.
The imprisonment of environmental activists further highlights the UAE’s disregard for environmental concerns and the urgent need for global action to combat climate change. As the host of COP28, the UAE should be held accountable for its failure to uphold human rights standards and create an enabling environment for civil society engagement.
The targeting and imprisonment of civil society actors not only infringe upon their individual rights but also undermine the principles of democracy, human rights, and civic participation. These activists play a vital role in promoting accountability, social justice, and environmental sustainability. By silencing their voices, the UAE obstructs progress, impedes positive change, and jeopardizes the principles necessary for a thriving and inclusive society.
As the international community prepares for COP28, it is crucial to shine a spotlight on the UAE’s abysmal human rights record. While the UAE may project an image of commitment to environmental sustainability during the conference, it cannot be divorced from its suppression of civil society and stifling of dissent. The issues of climate change and sustainable development are intertwined with human rights, and any meaningful discussions must include an honest evaluation of the broader human rights landscape.
Das Deutsche Institut für Demokratie und Entwicklung (DIDE) calls on the UAE authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all civil society actors who have been unjustly imprisoned. Their continued detention not only undermines the UAE’s credibility as the host of COP28 but also demonstrates a disregard for human rights and the rule of law. The international community, including governments, organizations, and individuals, must exert pressure on the UAE to uphold its obligations under international human rights law, release the imprisoned activists, and create an environment conducive to open dialogue, respect for human rights, and meaningful civic engagement.
In conclusion, Das Deutsche Institut für Demokratie und Entwicklung (DIDE) stands in solidarity with the unlawfully
imprisoned civil society actors in the UAE. As COP28 approaches, it is imperative to prioritize human rights and demand accountability from the UAE authorities. The imprisonment of these activists is an affront to the principles of democracy, freedom of expression, and human dignity. Together, let us raise our voices, demand justice, and work towards a future that upholds the rights and freedoms of all individuals.
