NCIAVHR Concludes Investigation into 258 Violations Against Journalists & Calls for Strengthening Press Freedom Protections

Aden | May 3, 2025

On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day and the fundamental right to access information, the National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations of Human Rights (NCIAVHR) reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to documenting violations committed against journalists in Yemen. The Commission called for greater efforts to ensure the protection of press freedom and the safety of journalists across the country.

In its statement, the Commission revealed that during the first quarter of 2025, it held six public hearings with journalists—both men and women—who had been subjected to serious violations. These included arbitrary detention, in absentia death sentences, the confiscation and occupation of media institutions, and harassment and threats related to their reporting and freedom of movement.

During these sessions, victims shared harrowing testimonies about the inhumane conditions they endured while detained, including physical and psychological torture, and denial of contact with their families—leaving many of their loved ones, especially children, displaced and destitute.

The journalists emphasized their sincere demands for justice and accountability for those responsible for these abuses. They stated that no political settlement or peace agreement in Yemen can be genuine or sustainable without holding perpetrators accountable and providing fair compensation to victims. They also firmly rejected any “fragile settlements” that overlook their rights, warning that such compromises could fuel future conflict at the expense of the Yemeni people.

As part of its ongoing work, the Commission confirmed that it has concluded investigations into 258 cases to date. It underscored its use of professional investigative methodologies, including direct interviews with victims, witness testimonies, examination of medical reports documenting torture, and documentation of looted or confiscated media property. The Commission also conducted individual and group hearings with released journalists and their families to ensure accurate documentation and a deeper understanding of their suffering.

The Commission expressed regret over the continued detention of several Yemeni journalists, despite the Republic of Yemen’s commitments under international conventions guaranteeing freedom of opinion and expression. Marking this international occasion, it renewed its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained journalists, and for an end to all forms of violations against them, including arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, unfair death sentences, and the seizure of media institutions and platforms.

Finally, the Commission urged civil society and human rights organizations to intensify their advocacy and support for journalists, defending their rights to freedom of expression and access to information—rights that are essential to building a democratic and sustainable society.