Friday 26 February 2016

STATEMENT

Egypt: Author sentenced to two years in prison is a violation of freedom of expression

Egyptian author Ahmed Naji has been sentenced to two years in prison for ‘violating public modesty’ with the content of his book. Tarek al-Taher, the editor of the weekly literary newspaper in which the novel was published, was ordered to pay a fine of 10,000 Egyptian Pounds (900 GBP).
Read more > | عربي

ADVOCACY LETTER

UN HRC: Address restrictions on assembly and civil society in Ethiopia

As the UN Human Rights Council prepares to release its recommendations for the proper management of assemblies, ARTICLE 19 has joined eight civil society organisations in writing to express our concerns about the Ethiopian Government’s restrictions on fundamental human rights, exemplified by the recent crackdown on peaceful protests in the Oromia region. Read more >

STATEMENT

Kazakhstan: Detention of head of National Press Club raises concerns about press freedom

ARTICLE 19 is concerned that the detention and harassment of Seytkazy Matayev, chairman of the Union of Journalists and head of the National Press Club, is an attempt to stifle press freedom ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections. We call upon the authorities to immediately release him, and ensure that he is able to fully defend himself against all charges brought against him. Read more >

ADVOCACY LETTER

Myanmar: Special Rapporteur for Myanmar's mandate must be extended

ARTICLE 19 has joined over 100 organisations in calling on the UN Human Rights Council to renew the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur for Myanmar, currently held by Professor Yanghee Lee. The Special Rapporteur's role in post-election Myanmar is crucial in ensuring that the international community remains engaged in the political transition, which is far from complete. Read more >