Seminar at BPP University Discusses Lack of Free Speech in the UAE

On March 2nd, the ICFUAE and BPP International Law and Human Rights Society hosted a panel discussion on freedom of expression in the UAE. The event introduced the international framework of human rights that protect freedom of speech and the mechanisms that organisations and individuals can use to hold the UAE to account for its violations. Speakers included activist Ahmed Mansoor, Abigail Bache from Garden Court Chambers, and Melody Patry from Index on Censorship. 

Ahmed Mansoor spoke via Skype as he currently holds a travel ban from the UAE for his activism on issues of social justice and civil and political rights. He gave an overview of the UAE laws that restrict freedom of expression and criminalise comments that can be interpreted to 'damage' the image of the ruler, his allies, and the government's economic interests. He stressed that there is no separation of powers in the UAE.

Abigail Bache, a barrister at Garden Court Chambers, spoke about the legal framework of international human rights law. Freedom of expression is codified under art. 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as well as art.19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which the UAE has not ratified. Defamation and anti-terrorism laws are used as pretexts to condemn public criticism of the government. 

Melody Patry, head of advocacy at Index on Censorship, discussed common issues around campaigning for freedom of expression in Gulf countries. She highlighted that although it is difficult to operate in Gulf countries, we can and should put pressure on our government to support human rights and free speech abroad. We can do so by writing to our MPs to ensure that trade deals that are currently being negotiated include conditions that make explicit reference to human rights.

Two days before the anniversary of the trial of the UAE94 and one day before the start of the Emirates Festival of Literature, the event highlights the importance of a discussion on the rights to freedom of expression and how this is implemented - or restricted - on the ground.

Watch the event on our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShszAmD9dxQ&feature=youtu.be