Amnesty International Celebrates Release of Saudi Women’s Rights Activist Salma al-Shehab, Calls for Freedom of Others Still Detained

By TKB MEDIA In a significant victory for human rights, Amnesty International has welcomed the release of Salma al-Shehab, a Saudi women’s rights activist who was unjustly imprisoned for her peaceful advocacy on social media. Al-Shehab’s release comes after a global campaign by Amnesty International and other human rights organizations, which highlighted the abuses she endured during her detention, including solitary confinement and an excessive prison sentence. Al-Shehab, a mother of two and a PhD student at Leeds University in the United Kingdom, was arrested in January 2021 while visiting Saudi Arabia. She was sentenced to 34 years in prison followed by a 34-year travel ban—a shocking and disproportionate punishment for her tweets in support of women’s rights and reforms in Saudi Arabia. Her case drew international condemnation and became a symbol of the Saudi government’s crackdown on freedom of expression. Abuses Faced During Detention Amnesty International detailed the harsh conditions al-Shehab faced during her imprisonment. She was held in solitary confinement for extended periods, denied access to legal representation, and subjected to an unfair trial. Her sentencing in August 2022 was one of the longest prison terms ever handed down to a peaceful activist in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the kingdom’s relentless suppression of dissent. “Salma al-Shehab’s release is a moment of relief and celebration, but it does not erase the injustice she endured,” said Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International. “Her imprisonment was a blatant violation of her right to freedom of expression, and her treatment in detention was cruel and inhumane. While we rejoice in her freedom, we must not forget the many others who remain behind bars for simply expressing their opinions.” A Call to Free Others Still Detained While celebrating al-Shehab’s release, Amnesty International has renewed its call for the immediate and unconditional release of other individuals unjustly detained in Saudi Arabia for exercising their right to free expression. Among them are: Manahel al-Otaibi, a fitness instructor and women’s rights activist sentenced to 11 years in prison for her social media posts advocating for gender equality and against the country’s restrictive male guardianship system. Mohammed al-Ghamdi, a retired teacher sentenced to death in July 2023 for his critical tweets about the Saudi government. Abdulrahman al-Sadhan, a humanitarian worker sentenced to 20 years in prison for running a satirical Twitter account. Amnesty International has emphasized that these cases are part of a broader pattern of repression in Saudi Arabia, where authorities continue to target activists, journalists, and online critics with harsh sentences and abusive detention conditions. Gratitude to Supporters Amnesty International expressed its gratitude to the countless supporters, activists, and organizations worldwide who participated in campaigns advocating for al-Shehab’s release. “This victory belongs to everyone who raised their voice, signed petitions, and demanded justice for Salma,” said Callamard. “It is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for human rights.” Ongoing Work and Opportunities for Engagement As Amnesty International celebrates this milestone, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to secure the release of all individuals imprisoned for peacefully expressing their views. The organization continues to monitor human rights abuses in Saudi Arabia and around the world, advocating for systemic change and accountability. Amnesty International encourages the public to stay engaged by participating in its campaigns, signing petitions, and supporting its work. “Salma’s release is a reminder that change is possible, but the fight is far from over,” said Callamard. “We must continue to push for a world where no one is punished for speaking their mind.” A Victory Amid Ongoing Repression Salma al-Shehab’s release marks a rare moment of hope in Saudi Arabia’s otherwise bleak human rights landscape. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform. Amnesty International has called on Saudi authorities to end their crackdown on free expression, release all unjustly detained individuals, and ensure that no one is imprisoned for peacefully advocating for their rights. As al-Shehab reunites with her family and begins to rebuild her life, her story stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of human rights defenders and the importance of international solidarity in the fight for justice. For more information or to get involved in Amnesty International’s campaigns, visit [Amnesty International’s website].