Transparency International expresses concern at arrests of activist & academics in Turkey asking for free expression without fear of reprisal in Turkey.
Middle East articles on Democracy Chronicles
View news about the struggle for democracy in the troubled Middle East where vast cultural change and persistent political violence cry out for democracy. Also see our World Democracy section and our articles on the ongoing Arab Spring.
As Bahrain Votes For Parliament, No Opposition is Allowed
Bahrain votes for new parliament, but absent from ballot is country’s Shiite-dominated opposition, whose candidates are serving lengthy prison sentences.
Bahrain Staged Fake Elections For a Poodle Parliament
The Saturday’s round of elections in Bahrain will be bogus, because the regime has jailed opposition leaders or forced them into exile.
13 Turkish Activists And Academics Detained In Renewed Crackdown
Global and Turkish human rights groups fear the detention of thirteen activists and academics could signal a new upsurge in a state crackdown.
Mounting Crackdown on Iranian Teachers and Labor Activists
Iranian authorities have increased targeting of teachers and labor activists in recent weeks for organizing and conducting peaceful protests.
Five Leading Iranian Labor Activists to be Charged for Protests
Five Iranian activists detained in southern Iran for participating in labor protest have been under investigation for alleged national security offenses.
No Free Bahraini Elections Possible in Current Environment
November 24 scheduled parliamentary elections in Bahrain, are occurring in a repressive political environment that is not conducive to free elections.
Iran Harassment Of BBC Reporters Part Of Bigger National Trend
U.N. human rights expert says efforts to highlight Iranian harassment of BBC journalists are unlikely to result in the world body acting against Iran.
Detained Saudi Arabian Women Reportedly Tortured
Informed sources say Saudi interrogators tortured at least three of the Saudi women activists detained beginning in May 2018, Human Rights Watch said today.
Rights Group Says Egypt Routinely Tortures and Disappears Children
An international rights group said Tuesday that Egypt has committed “shocking violations” against children, including torture and enforced disappearances.