CDHR Promotes:
Political Reform: Transforming the Saudi political structure from its current autocratic one-family-rule to a participatory political structure where all citizens’ and expatriates’ rights are protected under the rule of codified civil law.
Religious Freedom: Freedom of religious practice and thought regardless of faith or orientation. Saudi Arabia is the only country in the world where worshiping is compulsory. In addition, non-Muslims are prohibited from practicing their faiths publicly. If caught doing so in private, they are arrested, detained and deported.
Women’s Rights: Empowerment of Saudi women to full citizenship. Women in Saudi Arabia are excluded from all decision making processes. They are not allowed to vote, drive, or travel without a male escort. They cannot buy or own property or even receive medical care without male permission. They are prevented from studying certain subjects in schools. Less than 7% of women are employed, and those that are can only work in segregated environments.
Minority Rights: Full rights for religious and ethnic minorities in Saudi Arabia. Ethnic and religious minorities face harsh discrimination and punishment because of their beliefs and the color of their skin. Giving minorities equal protection under the law and a political voice will lead to a stable, tolerant and forward looking society.
Economic Reform: Privatization of all government industries, public utilities and equitable distribution of wealth. Government management of all educational and religious institutions must be removed. Creation of an independent, transparent and accountable public treasury where all national revenues and disbursement will be accounted for and open to public scrutiny.
US Legislation: Learn about current U.S. legislation affecting human rights and democracy in Saudi Arabia, and encourage your Congressional Representatives to support these important initiatives.