• The incident garnered significant attention and criticism from various human rights organisations and activists who viewed the deportation as a suppression of free speech and peaceful expression
• The UAE, which has normalised relations with Israel, has shown a low tolerance for public expressions of support for the Palestinian cause in recent years
In a concerning incident, the United Arab Emirates authorities have deported a student for publicly voicing support for the Palestinian cause during a graduation ceremony in NYU Abu Dhabi. The individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, was allegedly removed from the event and subsequently deported from the country after shouting the slogan “Free Palestine” in front of the audience. Critics argue that this action represents a chilling effect on free speech, with implications for academic freedom and the broader social fabric.
The deportation of an individual for voicing support for the Palestinian cause during a graduation ceremony in the UAE has sparked discussions about the country’s policies on freedom of expression. This action by the UAE government has drawn widespread criticism from human rights organisations and advocates for free speech. Many have condemned the move as a blatant suppression of the individual’s right to express their political views and solidarity with the Palestinian people.
While the UAE proclaims itself to be a Muslim nation, its actions defy its rhetoric. The UAE is particularly sensitive to whatever it deems to be foreign political movements and ideologies that may influence its domestic affairs. As in the case of the student deported for wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh and shouting “Free Palestine,” actions perceived as politically provocative and has only served to highlight the irony in punishing human rights defenders while turning a blind eye to the suffering of the Palestinians in the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
While the actions of the UAE have sowed discord with the Muslim diaspora and various human rights hubs, the UAE has a reputation and long history of stifling free speech and expression in all forms. The government maintains tight control over the media, and any criticism of the ruling family or the government’s policies is met with swift retribution. The UAE also does not have a democratic political system, and political parties are banned. Public demonstrations and protests are also prohibited, further limiting avenues for political expression and dissent. Individuals must navigate a landscape of restrictive laws and potential repercussions for expressing alternative opinions.
The UAE, which has maintained close diplomatic ties with Israel in recent years, has faced scrutiny over its stance on the Israel- Gaza genocide. This latest incident has further highlighted concerns about the country’s commitment to upholding fundamental freedoms and the right to peaceful protest.
The United Arab Emirates has faced criticism for its perceived lack of support for the Palestinian cause. Despite being a member of the Arab League, the UAE has taken a more neutral stance on the Israeli-Palestinian genocide. In an unprincipled approach, the UAE seeks to bolster economic relations with Israel instead. The UAE’s foreign policy prioritises economic and diplomatic ties with Israel, further deepening the rift with Palestine and emphasising their betrayal in the pursuit of worldly gains.
