Communities continue to suffer on third anniversary of blockade

Marking the third anniversary of the blockade of Qatar, the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) has reported the number of complaints received from citizens and residents of Qatar, as well as people from other Gulf Cooperation Council countries, has reached 4,275.

In a statement, the NHRC said the lack of responsiveness by the blockading countries to mediation efforts aimed at resolving the crisis continues to "perpetuate violations and inflict harm" on individuals and communities.

"In this regard, the National Human Rights Committee expresses its deep concern at the failure of all attempts to discourage these countries from their violations or even urge them to find solutions to end violations and fulfil the aspirations of the people," the statement said.

"The National Committee also strongly deplores the failure of the Gulf system to address the adverse impacts of the humanitarian crisis of the unjust blockade."

The NHRC reiterated its call for the immediate cessation of grave violations and to ensure redress for victims prior to political solutions being initiated, in accordance with international human rights agreements.

"The National Human Rights Committee also notes that disregarding the issue to lift injustice and compensate the victims will inevitably lead to widening the gap, tearing the Gulf fabric and losing confidence in the Gulf system," the statement said.

"Accordingly, the National Human Rights Committee calls upon the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council to assume its responsibilities and expeditiously address the humanitarian implications of the crisis prior to initiating any political solutions."

The NHRC commended the position taken by international human rights organisations to document human rights violations and condemn the blockade, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the European Parliament.

The NHRC added that it will continue to lobby on behalf of those affected by the crisis.

Date: 2 June 2020

Source: National Human Rights Committee of Qatar