In Saudi Arabia, freedom of expression is tightly controlled and often punished by the authorities. The government uses broad laws against terrorism and cybercrime to arrest, detain, and prosecute people for peaceful speech online or in public, including activists, writers, and social media users. Some people have been imprisoned for posting views on women’s rights or other social issues without fair trials or legal protections, and foreign nationals have also been held for years‑old online activity. At a United Nations internet forum hosted in Riyadh, officials censored criticism of Saudi human rights abuses and threatened rights advocates, showing how dissent is restricted even at international events. Human rights groups continue to raise alarm about these crackdowns, saying that Saudi laws and practices leave little room for open discussion, criticism of the state, or independent journalism without fear of retaliation.

Pray for more freedom of expression and freedom of speech in Saudi Arabia. Pray for the Holy Spirit of GOD to turn the hearts and minds of the authorities towards Truth, justice, and righteousness (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 21:1).

Pray for the Saudi Arabian regime to lift the restrictions on innocent civilians in their homeland. Pray for the government to uphold the rights and freedom of its citizens (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 20:28).

Pray for the immediate and unconditional release of the unjustly imprisoned victims in Saudi Arabia. Pray for divine protection upon them and their families who are facing surveillance and retaliation (The Holy Bible, Psalm 40:17).

News Source: Human Rights Watch

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