Women’s rights activists in Saudi Arabia appeared in a closed-door court hearing Wednesday on unknown charges after being detained in a crackdown last year.
Political Dissidents articles on Democracy Chronicles
In this political dissidents section, DC highlights people who actively challenge established dictatorships, putting their lives on the line for democracy. Also see our entire section on the Political Dissidents who fight dictators around the world or our main section on World Democracy.
Saudi Arabian Women Human Rights Defender Al-Hathloul on Trial
Al-Hathloul was initially held in incommunicado and has been denied access to all legal support. She has also reportedly been subjected to severe torture.
Tribunal Sentences Journalist for Criticizing Lebanese Security Agency
The sentencing of Lebanese TV correspondent Adam Chamseddine to three months in jail for “insulting” a security agency in a Facebook post .
A 38 Years Prison Sentence for Iranian Human Rights Lawyer
On 15 August 2018, human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh in separate trial was sentenced to 38 years in prison and 148 lashes in absentia.
Top Chechen Official Claims Blood Feud Against Blogger
Top Chenchen official has declared blood feud against popular exiled blogger in what appears to be another example of intimidation of critics in Chechnya.
Sudanese Court Sends 9 Women Arrested in Protests to Prison
Sudan sentenced nine women to a month’s imprisonment for taking part in anti-government protests, that called on autocratic president to step down.
Nicaragua Vows to Free Protesters and Begin Reforms
Nicaragua’s government said Saturday that it would release prisoners rounded up in months of protests and implement electoral reforms.
Indonesian Rights Activist Arrest is Reminder of Authoritarian Past
Arrest of Indonesian rights activist, member of Amnesty International Indonesia, and Jakarta State University lecturer, is reminder of authoritarian past.
Cameroon Cracking Down on Opponents Inside Francophone Region
These arrests highlight the tightening political space in Cameroon as well as the impunity with which police can disregard the law.
Iran Lawyer Sotoudeh Convicted After Defending Women Protesters
Prominent Iran human rights lawyer, Nasrin Sotoudeh who defended protesters against Islamic Republic’s mandatory headscarves for women has been convicted.