Syria: Arbitrary Detention of Leading Human Rights Activist

Defend International (DI) has been informed by reliable sources of the case of Mr. Abdul-Hafiz Abdul Al-Rahman, a leading human rights activist in Syria.

DI believes that he is a prisoner of conscience, detained solely for his peaceful human right activities.

Name: Abdul-Hafiz Abdul Al.Rahman

Sex: Male

Age: 44

Authorities: Syrian

Category: Fear of torture or ill-treatment / incommunicado detention / prisoners of conscience

The case:

According to information received from Syria and United Kingdom, Mr. Abdul-Hafiz Abdul Al-Rahman, leading human rights activist in Syria, was arrested on March 2, 2010 at his home in the city of Aleppo. He was detained by Syrian Military Intelligence in the presence of his family and a colleague. Read more

Syria: DI member Mr. Mustafa Ismail Arrested

The arbitrary detention of Defend International member Mr. Mustafa Ismail in Syria has caused great concern among our members worldwide.
DI is promoting a joint action against the authorities’ oppression on human rights supporters and calls on the authorities for Mr. Ismail’s immediate and unconditional release.

Name: Mustafa Ismail
Sex: Male
Authorities: Syrian
Category: Fear of torture or ill-treatment / incommunicado detention / prisoners of conscience

The case:
According to information received on 14 December 2009, Mr. Mustafa Ismail was arrested on December 12, 2009. Mr. Ismail is a poet, a prominent blogger, and has contributed articles to numerous Arabic-speaking websites.

It is believed that his arrest was due to his writing. He is also believed to be detained incommunicado which puts him at risk of torture and/or other forms of ill-treatment.

DI Views & Demands:
Defend International (DI) condemns Syrian authorities’ wave of arrests and intimidation against members of civil society, including journalists and bloggers.

DI calls on the Syrian authorities for the immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Mustafa Ismail. DI highlights that Mr. Ismail is a prisoner of conscience, arrested solely for the peaceful expression of his opinions in line with his fundamental human rights to freedom of expression. Read more

Syria: Prisoners on Hunger Strike in Adra Prison – DI public statement

Defend International (DI) is alarmed by reports that several Kurdish political prisoners have started a hunger strike to protest prison conditions, unfair trial practices and racial discrimination.

DI has contacted the International Committee of the Red Cross, High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Secretary-General of the Council of the European Union and the Secretary-General of the United Nations, seeking their urgent intervention in this matter. Read more