Six Years Behind Bars: The Ongoing Detention of Saudi Academic Dr. Anas Al-Mazrou for a Speech on Human Rights

This month marks six years since the arrest and detention of Dr. Anas Al-Mazrou, a law professor at King Saud University, who has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia since March 18, 2019. His arrest followed a public speech he delivered during a cultural seminar held on the sidelines of the Riyadh International Book Fair, in which he addressed the issue of human rights and the plight of prisoners of conscience in the Kingdom.

In his remarks, he posed a bold and critical question:

“Where are the human rights activists—men and women? Where are those who promoted the culture of human rights in our country?”

Instead of engaging in dialogue or addressing the issues raised, Saudi authorities responded with repression. Dr. Al-Mazrou, who had long advocated for the rights of others, became a prisoner of conscience himself.

A few days after the event, security forces raided his home and detained him, transferring him to a police facility on Dammam Road. There, he was reportedly subjected to physical abuse and verbal humiliation. He was later moved to Al-Ha’ir Prison, where he spent an extended period in solitary confinement, denied any contact with his family or the outside world—conditions that constitute a clear violation of international standards for the treatment of detainees.

Dr. Al-Mazrou is a respected academic with a record of peaceful advocacy for reform. He was among the signatories of the National Declaration for Reform, a popular petition circulated in February 2011 in the wake of the Arab Spring. The document called for significant political reforms in Saudi Arabia, including the full election of Shura Council members and the drafting of a national constitution. Dozens of Saudi academics, writers, human rights defenders, and activists supported the petition, including Dr. Al-Mazrou.

Now, six years later, he remains imprisoned solely for exercising his right to free expression. No formal charges have been publicly presented to justify his continued detention, and he has not been granted access to a fair trial or transparent legal process.

Together for Justice reiterates its demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Anas Al-Mazrou and all prisoners of conscience in Saudi Arabia. Authorities must also ensure that detainees are granted their fundamental rights, including access to due process, medical care, and protection from abuse.

Together for Justice further calls on the international community, United Nations special procedures, and human rights institutions to take firmer positions against Saudi Arabia’s systematic repression. The unchecked consolidation of authoritarian power within the Kingdom does not only endanger the rights of its citizens—it has broader regional and international implications.