Brunei’s civic space is rated as repressed, with limited freedoms of expression, assembly, and association. The Sultan, holding absolute power since 1984, governs under a state of emergency, restricting rights such as free speech and press freedom through laws like the Sedition Act and the Undesirable Publications Act. The country also criminalizes defamation and restricts media outlets via the Broadcasting Act and Local Newspapers Order. At the UN’s Universal Periodic Review in 2024, several nations urged Brunei to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, amend repressive laws, and end its state of emergency. These reforms aim to protect basic rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, particularly for religious and cultural activities.
Pray for improved civic freedom in Brunei. Pray for the annulment of the laws that suppress the voices of civilians. Pray for justice and peace to prevail in the country (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 31:8-9).
Pray for the Bruneian authorities to have a thirst for righteousness and justice. Pray for the government to uphold the rights and freedom of every citizen in the country (The Holy Bible, Micah 6:8).
News Source: Civicus Monitor
Image Source:
