Seven Years Too Long: Demand Freedom for Essam Al-Zamel

Together for Justice urgently calls for the immediate release of Saudi political prisoner Essam Al-Zamel, who has been unjustly detained since September 2017. His continued imprisonment highlights the broader issue of political repression and human rights violations in Saudi Arabia.
Background
Essam Al-Zamel, a respected Saudi economist, was arrested in September 2017 as part of a wider crackdown on intellectuals, activists, and reform advocates in Saudi Arabia. In 2020, after three years of pre-trial detention, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison on charges including “undermining the social fabric” and “endangering national unity.” These charges stem from his critical analysis of the Saudi government’s economic policies and Vision 2030 reform plans.
Al-Zamel is recognized for his insightful economic analyses and his advocacy for transparency and reforms within Saudi Arabia. His arrest and subsequent sentencing have drawn widespread condemnation from international human rights organizations, which have highlighted the lack of due process and transparency in his trial.
Human Rights Violations
Al-Zamel’s case exemplifies the severe restrictions on freedom of expression and the harsh penalties faced by those who criticize the Saudi government. His detention has been marked by arbitrary charges and a lack of fair trial guarantees. Furthermore, reports indicate that he has been subjected to poor detention conditions, including inadequate medical care and periods of solitary confinement, raising serious concerns about his health and well-being.
Call to Action
Together for Justice demands the immediate and unconditional release of Essam Al-Zamel and all other political prisoners in Saudi Arabia. We call upon the international community, including governments, human rights organizations, and civil society groups, to:
Pressure Saudi Authorities: Urge the Saudi government to release Essam Al-Zamel and other political prisoners, and to respect fundamental rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.
Raise Awareness: Highlight the case of Essam Al-Zamel through media coverage, social media campaigns, and public statements to draw global attention to his plight and the ongoing political repression in Saudi Arabia.
Support Human Rights Defenders: Provide support and protection for human rights defenders and activists in Saudi Arabia who face significant risks for their peaceful advocacy.
Conclusion
The continued imprisonment of Essam Al-Zamel underscores the urgent need for judicial and political reforms in Saudi Arabia. Together for Justice stands in solidarity with all individuals unjustly imprisoned for their peaceful activism and calls for an immediate end to the repression of free speech and political dissent.