European Union (EU) legislators have passed a strongly worded resolution concerning the poor human rights record in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The resolution condemned alleged rights violations in the wealthy Gulf stat. It further demanded the “immediate” and unconditional release of Ahmed Mansoor, Mohammed al-Roken and Nasser bin Ghaith.
The EU Parliament also called on the European External Action Service (EEAS) to propose the adoption of EU targeted measures against those responsible for grave human rights violations in the UAE.
The European Parliament further urged the UAE to free several prominent human rights activists and other imprisoned “peaceful dissidents”.
National Human Rights Institution Establishment?
The UAE President has earlier issued a federal law last month to establish a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI).
The institution aims to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms based on the provisions of the UAE Constitution, laws and legislation in force in the country, as well as relevant international conventions.
The announcement came as more than 200 political prisoners remain in UAE jails for their peaceful human rights advocacy. In numerous instances, the UAE government has tortured human rights defenders and activists in custody. It also has denied their citizens the right to a speedy trial and access to counsel during official investigations.
The government harshly restricts freedom of speech to avoid criticism of the government, government officials or royal families. Freedom of association and freedom of religion are also curtailed.
