As discrimination against Shia Muslims grow in Saudi Arabia, authorities closed Quran classes. Number of kindergarten and schools were closed on May 17th in Shia populatedarea of eastern province of Qatif. The government of Saudi Arabia has gradually closed, demolished and destroyed Shia Muslim historical sites and educational settings. The authorities raided number of private schools in Qatif and detained school staff and questioned them for hours.
The schools were private Quran classes and authorities have no right to interfere with their mission. SRW believes this act of the authorities is against citizens’ right to education and freedom of thoughts. Detentions of schools staff is also considered arbitrary arrest and is against the International Bill of Human Rights.
SRW urges the Saudi Arabia government to reopen the schools immediately and stop pressuring Shia Muslims. All citizens have the right to education and this act of the government is clear violations to many human rights articles.
