On 17 July 2025, Alkarama submitted its contribution to the fourth cycle of Oman’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR), scheduled to take place from 3 to 14 November 2025 in Geneva. This report, based on several years of rigorous documentation, outlines the systematic violations of fundamental rights in the country and puts forward concrete recommendations to end impunity and initiate structural reforms.
Context
Since Sultan Haitham bin Tariq came to power, he has undertaken administrative and economic reforms. However, these initiatives have not been accompanied by genuine democratic openness. Freedom of expression, assembly, and association remain severely restricted, while authorities continue to arbitrarily arrest journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens for peacefully expressing their views, particularly on social media.
Restrictive Legal Framework and Increased Judicial Control
Vaguely worded laws, especially regarding cybercrime, defamation, and counterterrorism, are used to suppress dissent. In 2024, a new media law further strengthened censorship, while a 2025 reform of the nationality law allows for citizenship to be revoked on grounds of expression or association deemed contrary to state interests.
The judiciary remains tightly controlled by the executive, depriving citizens of fair trial guarantees. Arbitrary arrests, often followed by incommunicado detention, open the door to acts of torture. For instance, in May 2024, seven young Yemenis were tortured by security forces, with no investigation launched to date.
Crackdown on Civil Liberties and a Shrinking Civic Space
Peaceful assemblies are routinely dispersed, as demonstrated by the one-year prison sentence handed down to activist Talal Al-Salmani for participating in a sit-in. Associations must obtain prior authorization, and any political or religious activity is prohibited.
Lack of Cooperation Despite Commitments and Weakness of the National Institution
Despite having accepted many recommendations during previous review cycles, Oman has yet to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Furthermore, no visits by UN Special Procedures have been allowed since 2014.
The National Human Rights Commission also remains under the control of the executive. In 2024, GANHRI maintained its “B” status due to the institution’s lack of structural independence.
Alkarama’s Recommendations
In its submission, Alkarama called on Oman to ratify the ICCPR, ensure judicial independence, reform repressive laws, end torture and arbitrary detention, and protect human rights defenders.
Alkarama also stressed the need to repeal provisions allowing for arbitrary revocation of nationality, urging participating States in the UPR to pressure the authorities to adopt concrete reforms.