Summary

The Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights, Alena Douhan, undertook an official visit to Qatar from 1 to 12 November 2020 to assess the impact of unilateral sanctions imposed on Qatar by Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on the human rights of people living in Qatar, in the four States imposing sanctions and on other affected people.

During her visit, the Special Rapporteur met with a wide range of Government officials, permanent representatives and representatives of academia, business associations, United Nations agencies and civil society, as well as with victims of human rights violations.

In her report, the Special Rapporteur takes note of recent developments and welcomes the easing of restrictive measures, in January 2021, and the resumption of diplomatic relations between Qatar and the four States imposing unilateral sanctions: Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.