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Stories about West Asia & North Africa from January, 2018
Spanish Activist Helena Maleno's Trial in Morocco Is ‘a Way to Intimidate’ Human Rights Defenders, Her Supporters Say
Helena Maleno is accused of participating in a human trafficking network for her work assisting migrants who run into trouble during the dangerous Mediterranean Sea crossing to Europe.
The ‘Girls of Revolution Street’ Protest Iran's Compulsory Hijab Laws
"With religion and hijab there should be no force."
Iranian Calligraphy Meets Comic Books and Western Pop Culture in Jason Noushin's Art
"Obviously, the influence of pop culture and traditional Persian calligraphy are at odds with each, but their combined visual impact is harmonious."
Iran Suspends Thousands of Drug-Related Death Sentences After Years of Human Rights Advocacy
"Ninety percent of the prisoners on death row for drug crimes were just unfortunate mules carrying drugs to pay for their daughter’s dowry or an operation for their mother."
Protests Underscore the Potential Power of Iran's Access to Information Law
This is an opportune time to fully enforce efforts towards transparency after Iran's December-January protests. The first step must be a full implementation of Iran’s Access to Information law.
To Achieve Freedom for Iran and the Arab Nations, the Region Must Unite
"United, we can rebuild the region and save all our peoples before the Iranian regime drags us all over the precipice into a chasm of sectarian bloodletting and chaos."
Netizen Report: Five Months After Houthis Arrested Him, Human Rights Blogger Hisham Al-Omeisy Walks Free
The Advox Netizen Report offers an international snapshot of challenges, victories, and emerging trends in Internet rights around the world.
Two Leading Figures of the Arts in Iran. Two Very Different Reactions to the Protests.
A notable writer, known for fighting against censorship, condemns the burning of the flag during protests. A notable filmmaker, however, shows support.
While Iran's Former Head of Judiciary Receives Medical Treatment in Germany, Activists Urge his Prosecution for Crimes Against Humanity
Solidarity and support from the Iranian Diaspora and international community send a message that those who appear invincible today can end up a defendant in a courtroom tomorrow.
Yemeni Human Rights Blogger Hisham Al-Omeisy Has Been Missing for 150 Days
Before his detention Hisham Al-Omeisy was outspoken about the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Despite Threats of Censorship, Documentary Filmmakers Show Human Rights Violations in Western Sahara
The film gives audiences a close look at Western Sahara under Moroccan occupation.
The Draft Budget That Inflamed Protests in Iran
"You’ve turned as all into beggars. Please tell Mr. Khamenei, tell the president, tell everyone, tell them we are desperate. We don’t need this revolution. We hate the clerics."
Corruption and Poverty Lead to Rage and Despair in Iran
"The members of parliament need to know that they are accountable to the people, that they represent the people, and that the eyes of the people are upon them."
Netizen Report: Iranian Authorities Are Blocking International Web Traffic and Messaging Platforms
Global Voices Advocacy's Netizen Report offers an international snapshot of challenges, victories, and emerging trends in Internet rights around the world.
Iranian Technicians Have Been Ordered to Disrupt International Web Traffic Amid Protests
“We have been ordered to interrupt international traffic,” a source at an Iranian internet exchange point said.
Amman's Yellow Taxis Compete for Passengers After the Arrival of Uber and Careem
For Yellow taxi drivers, the struggle for passengers is a real. Once Jordan's only private transportation option, they are totally overwhelmed by new competition.
Caught in Conflict, Internet Users in Yemen Face Blocking, Shutdowns and Slow Speed
Authorities in Yemen have a long history of imposing restrictions on freedom of expression and the right to access information.
The People of Iran Are Raising Their Voices: Scenes from the Protests
Defiance, civil disobedience, chanting and non-violence: scenes from the past few days in Iran, where citizens have taken to the streets to protest against the government.
Cancer Center in Syria's Besieged East Ghouta Struggles to Survive
“It’s the biggest disaster we face. Sixty of those who are being treated must be evacuated now,” Dr. Muhammed said. “We can save others if medications are allowed inside.”
Israeli Activist Chooses Jail Over Military Service to Protest the Occupation
"We live in a fascist and racist state, full of incitement. Although we are a little group, we are strong."
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