We strive to ensure that everyone can work free from oppression and fear
The Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) is an independent, non-profit NGO that provides support and protection to human rights defenders (HRDs) in order to promote human rights, including but not limited to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.
By donating to GCHR, you are helping us protect and support Human Rights Defenders across the MENA Region.
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Protection
To provide protection for human rights defenders, including journalists and Internet activists, and enhance their effectiveness online and offline.
Awareness
To raise awareness locally, regionally and internationally about issues pertaining to HRDs at risk.
Advocacy
To enable a safer environment for human rights defenders at risk, through advocacy at regional fora and via international mechanisms.
Networking
To facilitate networking and exchanges between human rights defenders, partner organisations and social movements.
Facilitators of vibrant civic spaces in the Gulf region
Founded in 2011 by human rights defenders in the MENA Region, GCHR is based in Lebanon and documents the environment for human rights defenders in the Gulf region and neighbouring countries.
LEARN MORE ABOUT USProviding tools & resources to those who need them most
Get the tools and resources to manage threats and much needed support for your cyber, physical, and psychological well-being
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Recent Actions
Join the call to free journalist Zied El-Heni
Well-known journalist Zied El-Heni, who is currently serving a one-year prison sentence, awaits an appeals hearing on 12 June 2026. The Gulf Centre for Human Rights
10/06/2026 Learn More
Human rights lawyer Abdulmajeed Sabra must be released
Prominent human rights lawyer Abdulmajeed Sabra remains arbitrarily detained nearly eight months after his arrest in the capital, Sana'a, by the de facto government,
14/05/2026 Take Action
NGOs call for immediate release of Saudi Wikipedian Osama Khalid, whose 14-year sentence was upheld
We, the undersigned organisations, express deep concern over the continued arbitrary detention of the Saudi Wikipedian Osama Khalid, whose 14-year prison sentence was
13/04/2026 Take Action
Call for freedom for environmental activist and artist Mohammed Jawad Hameed
On 07 April 2026, the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science summoned prominent environmental activist and artist Mohammed Jawad Hameed.
9/04/2026 Take ActionRecent News & Publications
Authorities continue to violate civil & human rights of former detainee Abdullah Al-Shamsi
Former detainee Abdullah Al-Shamsi faces widespread violations of his civil and human rights, which the authorities in Oman have insisted on committing since 2021, the
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Citizens denied right to elect Representatives to Municipal Council
On 24 May 2026, the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, issued an Emiri decree containing Law No. (57) of 2026, amending the Kuwait Municipality Law No. 33
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