Saudi Arabia is a lucrative ally for western governments. It has immense wealth, vast hydrocarbon reserves and a purported pro-western agenda. Even so, the nation faces constant criticism for its human-rights abuses – things like torturing prisoners, jailing dissidents and killing civilians with weapons, all thanks to its strong desire to maintain political control. Though the government has taken some steps to improve the situation, its barbaric practices have only become worse.
The most notable violations have involved the treatment of political opponents, women and minorities. Although ostensibly the nation is governed by the rule of law, the authorities have shown a tendency to manipulate it for their own purposes. For instance, the kingdom has used a strict interpretation of Sharia (Islamic law) to carry out cruel punishments, such as flogging and beheading.
In addition, the country is notorious for its use of arbitrary arrest and detention. Political opponents have been arrested and jailed without proper trials. Dissenters have also been targeted, especially those speaking out against the government and its policies. The regime relies heavily on “anti-terror” laws to silence its critics, with some facing lengthy prison sentences without due process.
Women also suffer immensely from the government’s draconian laws. They are not permitted to drive cars, nor can they travel, marry or work without permission from a male guardian. Women who flee from abuse can be viewed as “fugitives from justice” and face punishments of up to one year in jail. However, even in the case of domestic violence, women are often not provided with legal protection.
Minority groups are also at risk of discrimination and ill-treatment. Although the nation has been historically tolerant of foreign religions, members of minority groups have been denied job opportunities, education and even basic rights. Furthermore, some of the country’s restrictive laws effectively discriminate against non-citizens, such as the ban on inter-religious marriage.
Taken as a whole, it’s clear that Saudi Arabia is violating basic human rights on a regular basis. Despite the government’s rhetoric of reform, the situation has not changed significantly for its citizens. In fact, human rights observers allege that some policies have only made the situation worse.
International Condemnation
Since the start of 2020, the situation in Saudi Arabia has attracted increased international attention. Various international organisations have voiced their concerns over the allegations of human rights violations. For instance, the United Nations Human Rights Council criticised the government for its “poor record” on issues such as freedom of expression and the detention of activists.
Furthermore, the European Union and the United States have both warned that extrajudicial detentions may constitute a breach of human-rights norms. Additionally, the United Kingdom, France and Germany have called for a review of Saudi Arabia’s human-rights record. The UK has also announced that it will halt arms sales to the country if it continues to flout international law.
Despite these warnings, the kingdom has stubbornly refused to heed to any calls to modify its policies. Instead, it has continued to vehemently defend its actions in the face of international criticism. Moreover, it has used its tremendous wealth to influence world opinion and deflect blame away from itself.
Political Turmoil
The kingdom has experienced long-standing tensions within its political system. The most prominent example is the dispute between the government and the popular Shia minority. Although the ruling Sunni faction has engaged in various forms of discrimination against the Shia, the group has been encouraged to participate in peaceful dissent. This has led to several clashes between the two communities, resulting in fatalities.
In addition, the country’s authoritarian regime has caused considerable public unrest. In 2011, popular protests called for greater political freedom and accountability. However, the authorities have responded with violence and repression, leading to further clashes and a further erosion of civil liberties.
The recent assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi has further highlighted the kingdom’s disregard for human rights. Although the government has denied any involvement, many feel that the killing was a planned and calculated act, intended to send a message to other dissidents in the country.
Government Responses
Unsurprisingly, the government has refused to take responsibility for the growing human-rights abuses in Saudi Arabia. Despite international pressure, the authorities have argued that the country’s policies are necessary for national security. However, this narrative has been debunked by international observers, who maintain that the government is using its vast resources to oppress and repress its citizens.
The government has also attempted to use various propaganda campaigns to paint a more favourable image of itself. However, these efforts have been largely ineffective. Furthermore, the country’s attempts to silence dissidents and critics through draconian laws has only further isolated the nation, further straining its international relations.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made some minor efforts to improve its human-rights record. The country has increased the number of women in the workforce, for instance. Moreover, it has also provided some legal protection for victims of domestic violence.
However, these measures have not been enough. Human-rights groups continue to accuse the kingdom of serious violations of international law. As long as the government continues to flout human-rights norms, the situation is likely to remain stagnant.
Cultural Impact
The human-rights crisis in Saudi Arabia has left its mark on culture as well. For instance, artistic expression and political satire have been severely curtailed. The government has also imposed heavy restrictions on media outlets in the country, effectively stifling free speech.
Furthermore, the lack of political freedom has led to a sense of disillusionment among many ordinary citizens. Rather than working to change the system, many people have simply accepted its harsh reality. This has strained inter-communal relations and resulted in a culture of apathy.
Domestic Discourse
Despite the government’s attempt to silence its critics, domestic discourse on the nation’s human-rights crisis is gradually gaining momentum. Several organisations and activists are actively calling for the government to respect international law. Moreover, some influential figures in the country are speaking out against the government’s authoritarian policies.
At the same time, some opposition parties are also gaining traction. These groups – such as the Muslim Brotherhood – are seeking to challenge the current political system and bring about meaningful reform. Although these efforts have not been successful so far, they offer a ray of hope for the future.
Legislative Reforms
It is clear that the government must take steps to address Saudi Arabia’s ongoing human-rights crisis. The most effective way to do this would be to introduce meaningful legislative reforms. This could include changing laws which discriminate against minority groups and repealing laws which allow for the arbitrary arrest and detention of dissidents.
The government must also provide adequate legal protection for women and religious minorities. Furthermore, it should implement measures to combat domestic violence and empower victims. Finally, the authorities should end the culture of impunity and ensure that those who violate human rights are held accountable.
Economic Consequences
The human-rights crisis in Saudi Arabia has had negative economic consequences as well. International companies have faced backlash for their links with the kingdom, leading to reputational damage. Moreover, some countries have imposed sanctions on the country in response to its disregard for international norms.
There have also been economic ramifications for ordinary citizens. Activists have faced punishment for their dissent, while international organisations have called for the release of people who are unjustly detained. These factors have only compounded the nation’s dire economic situation.
International Collaboration
Although the situation in Saudi Arabia remains dire, it is not entirely without hope. The international community has a vital role to play in encouraging the government to respect human rights. Increased collaboration between western and Middle Eastern countries could be effective in pushing for meaningful reform.
Indeed, the United Nations has recently called for an “urgent investigation” into the kingdom’s human-rights violations. This could pressure the government to finally take meaningful steps to improve the situation. Of course, it remains to be seen whether the government will actually act on these initiatives.
