The Bahrain Court of Cassation, the country’s court of last resort, on December 31, 2018 upheld a five-year sentence for Rajab, a human rights defender.
Saudi Arabia articles on Democracy Chronicles
News about the struggle for democracy in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is not a functioning democracy. According to Freedom House, "political parties are forbidden, and organized political opposition exists only outside the country". Also see our articles on the Middle East and religion - a touchy subject for the Saudi royals.
Court Upholds 10-Year Jail Sentence for Emirati Activist
A high court in the UAE upheld a 10-year prison sentence of Emirati rights activist Ahmed Mansoor for criticizing the government in social media posts.
Saudi Women Step on Face Veils in Social Media Protest
Saudi women step-on face veils some are made to wear in conservative kingdom and posting their stories on social media with the hashtag #NiqabUnderMyFoot.
Saudi King Orders Cabinet Shakeup After Khashoggi’s Killing
King Salman issued a wide-ranging overhaul of top government posts, including naming a new foreign minister, following the killing of Jamal Khashoggi.
Saudi Reforms Include Car Races and Concerts, But No Criticism
Young Saudis and international visitors partied into the night at concerts by Enrique Iglesias, The Black Eyed Peas and DJ David Guetta in Saudi Arabia.
Rival Parties Agree to Hand UN Control of Yemen Port City
Yemen’s two opposing sides outside Swedish capital, Stockholm, both agreed to hand control of key Red Sea port of Hodeida to the United Nations.
Turkey’s Stance on Khashoggi Killing Contrasts With Own Media Rights
Turkey appears to be increasing pressure on Saudi Arabia over the death of Saudi dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Riyadh’s Istanbul consulate.
Saudi Arabia Must Allow Access to Detained Women Activists
Sources said the torture of Saudi women activists may be ongoing. Saudi Arabia needs to immediately and credibly investigate the allegations.
Sean Penn Working on Documentary on Saudi Writer’s Death
A Turkish official says Sean Penn is in Turkey working on a documentary about the slaying of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.
Saudi Friend of Khashoggi Sues Israeli Surveillance Firm
Saudi friend sues Israeli surveillance firm, claiming its sophisticated spyware targeted and helped lead to the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.