United Arab Emirates
(asked on 27th November 2014) - View Source
Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what representations they have made to the UAE authorities regarding their conviction of Osama al-Najjar.
This question was answered on 9th December 2014
We are aware of the sentencing of Osama al-Najjar, following alleged comments on twitter and other activities. While we have not made representations on this case, our views about the importance of freedom of expression as a universal human right are well known. We believe that people everywhere must be allowed to freely discuss and debate issues, challenge their governments and make informed decisions in accordance with international human rights law. Our broad strategic engagement with the United Arab Emirates provides an opportunity to openly discuss these issues.
We are aware of the sentencing of Osama al-Najjar, following alleged comments on twitter and other activities. While we have not made representations on this case, our views about the importance of freedom of expression as a universal human right are well known. We believe that people everywhere must be allowed to freely discuss and debate issues, challenge their governments and make informed decisions in accordance with international human rights law. Our broad strategic engagement with the United Arab Emirates provides an opportunity to openly discuss these issues.