This advocacy brief, produced by the Justice4Yemen Pact coalition in partnership with the Media Freedom Observatory Yemen, highlights the ongoing threat to four Yemeni journalists who, despite being released from detention by the Houthis in accordance with a UN-sponsored deal in April 2023, remain subject to active death sentences. The statement underscores the serious miscarriage of justice inherent in this situation, arguing that the Houthis’ decision to maintain these death sentences directly undermines the UN-sponsored deal and further jeopardizes the lives of these journalists. The statement details the ongoing threats faced by these individuals, emphasizing the dangerous environment they operate in due to their work and the lack of adequate international protection. It underscores the Houthis’ history of targeting journalists and their repressive actions against freedom of expression, painting a broader picture of the hostile climate these individuals navigate. The statement argues that the Houthis’ actions actively undermine the efforts of the UN and other international actors seeking to promote peace and reconciliation in Yemen. It poignantly details the constant fear these journalists live with, fearing the imminent execution of the death sentences issued against them. The statement concludes with a strong call to action, urging immediate international intervention. It recommends that the UN Special Envoy to Yemen exert pressure on the Houthis to cancel the death sentences, establish a monitoring mechanism to ensure the safety of released detainees, and provide legal and humanitarian support to the journalists. The statement underscores the urgent need to hold the Houthis accountable for their actions and to ensure that the principles of justice and human rights are upheld in Yemen.
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