On World Press Freedom Day, 40 local and international human rights organisations issued a joint statement condemning what they termed the “systematic repression” endured by journalists, particularly female journalists, in Yemen, both in areas controlled by the Houthis and those under the internationally recognised Yemeni government. The organisations expressed grave concern over the ongoing violations against media workers amidst an increasingly perilous environment for public freedoms.

The statement underscored the wide array of violations faced by journalists in Yemen, including arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and unfair trials. It also highlighted that Yemen remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists globally.

The statement drew attention to the use of the judiciary as a tool of repression, documenting numerous instances where journalists were summoned and prosecuted before courts with no legal jurisdiction.

It also reported the sentencing of several journalists to prison and even death penalties, with particular mention of journalist Taha Al-Ma’amari, who was sentenced to death in Sana’a. The statement further noted the ongoing disappearance of journalist Waheed Al-Sufi since 2015, along with the arrest of journalists such as Mohammed Al-Miyahi and Nasih Shakir. Furthermore, it revealed that over 2,600 violations against journalists had been documented over the past decade, the majority of which were perpetrated by the Houthis.

The signatory organisations emphasised the urgent need for the immediate release of all journalists arbitrarily detained, and for their trials to be conducted before competent courts specialised in media and publishing matters, in accordance with international human rights standards. They also called for impartial and independent investigations into cases of assassination and other serious violations, and for the safeguarding of journalists’ safety and protection.

The statement concluded by urging all parties to cease using the judiciary to silence independent voices, to implement legal reforms that guarantee freedom of expression and judicial independence, and to end the impunity that fuels ongoing violence against media professionals.

Agencies.