Chronicle of the Middle East and North Africa

Human Rights in the Middle East & North Africa

This Human Rights topic file contains a permanently updated selection of analysis, explainers, and other in-depth articles on the developing human rights situation in each country in the MENA region.

Human Rights in MENA
A logo flag pictured at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 77), in New York City, United States of America, Tuesday 20 September 2022. BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK (Photo by NICOLAS MAETERLINCK / BELGA MAG / Belga via AFP)

Introduction

Contrary to popular belief, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has a long and rich history of fighting for human rights.

From movements for women’s equality and voting rights to fights for representation and democracy, these issues have sometimes shaken the foundations of nations. Repression and oppression have often reversed many gains, and the fights for social justice continue to this day. There are many important figures and events surrounding these.

The reference for articles we produce is The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, originally adopted by the United Nations in 1948.

It is essential that human rights should be protected by the rule of law, as declared in the above-stated UN Declaration. Yet these most sacred rights are violated nearly everywhere, including in the Middle East and North Africa.

This section looks at stories of social justice, along with their implementation into laws of human rights. It highlights abuses and violations, as well as the work being done to protect these values.

Latest Publications

Below are the latest articles on the Human Rights MENA topic: