Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called upon allies of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to publicly address concerns regarding the mass trial of 84 political dissidents and activists. The appeal, issued on Wednesday, presses nations with diplomatic ties to the UAE to break their silence on the matter.
The charges, brought against the defendants in December 2023 under the UAE’s counterterrorism law, have significant implications. According to the HRW statement, the trial has been marred by allegations of ill-treatment, public secrecy, and violations of judicial fairness. The UAE’s Attorney General had referred the accused to the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal, implicating them in attempts to establish a violent and terrorist organization within UAE territory, as also documented by the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Joey Shea, a researcher at HRW, emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting that some of the defendants were previously convicted in a 2013 mass trial, thereby raising concerns about double jeopardy. These observations are supported by international legal standards, notably Article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the right to a fair trial. However, it is noteworthy that the UAE is not a signatory to this treaty.
The trial has also drawn criticism for the lack of international oversight. According to HRW, no diplomatic observers have attended the hearings. As the proceedings continue, HRW’s call extends to the US, UK, EU, and other allies of the UAE, urging them to take a stand in support of the accused individuals who face potentially severe punishments for their political activities and human rights advocacy.
Further developments on the trial and its outcomes are highly anticipated.