Statement by United Nations Watch, delivered by intern Ariana Blumstein, before the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, 1 July 2026. Agenda Item 6, Universal Periodic Review of Oman.
Full Speech:
Thank you, Madame Vice President.
We are very concerned regarding the fundamental freedoms and the treatment of vulnerable migrant workers in Oman.
Despite recent reforms, freedom of expression in Oman remains heavily restricted. Journalists, activists, and online critics continue to face intimidation and legal consequences for peacefully expressing their views. Laws criminalizing criticism of state institutions and public officials create a climate of fear that discourages legitimate public debate and weakens civil society.
In its 2025 evaluation, Freedom House classifies Oman as “Not Free,” noting that its government “restricts virtually all political rights and civil liberties, imposing criminal penalties for criticism and dissent.”
We are also deeply alarmed by the continued exploitation of migrant workers under the kafala system. Human rights organizations have documented cases of domestic workers facing excessive working hours, physical abuse, passport confiscation, restrictions on freedom of movement, and months of unpaid wages.
Reports from East African domestic workers describe being trapped in abusive households with little ability to seek assistance or leave their employers. These conditions can amount to forced labor.
We urge Oman to repeal laws restricting peaceful expression, protect journalists and activists from arbitrary detention, abolish the kafala system, and extend full labor protections to all domestic workers.
Finally, we are concerned by Oman’s role in enabling illegal actions by the Islamic Republic of Iran, including in regard to restrictions on navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
As reported in The Guardian on June 15th, a senior U.S. administration official has described Omani officials as “almost like employees of the Iranians in the way that they maneuvered.”
We urge Oman not to enable those responsible for the January massacre of more than 30,000 peaceful protestors, and who continue to imprison journalists, beat women, torture dissidents, and systematically violate fundamental human rights.
Thank you.
