The Union Association for Human Rights commended the law regulating rehabilitation and correctional centers in Abu Dhabi, issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, in his capacity as the Ruler of Abu Dhabi. This law complements transferring the management of the emirate’s punitive and correctional establishments, as well as juvenile institutions, from the Abu Dhabi Police to the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, which has been effective since January.

The Association emphasized the importance of this law, issued in March 2024, as part of the development of the UAE’s human rights system and its commitment to fulfilling its international obligations that enhance its human rights journey in accordance with the principles outlined in international human rights treaties and agreements.

The Association highlighted the importance of the law in completing the legislative and organizational framework related to human rights in the country, ensuring alignment of its policies and practices with international human rights standards, and reaffirming the values and principles upon which the Emirates Union has been built.

It also noted that the law emphasizes the commitment to the protection of inmates’ rights in line with the ‘United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners,’ known as the “the Nelson Mandela Rules,” and the international legal standards for the protection of persons deprived of their liberty.

The Association expressed its appreciation for the key provisions outlined in the law, particularly the establishment of the general policy for correctional and rehabilitation centers, the assignment of responsibilities stipulated in the law to the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, and the specification of inmate rights, including the right to life, health, personal safety, communication with family and lawyers, access to healthcare and education, and the freedom to practice religious rituals.

The Union Association for Human Rights highly valued the provision in the law changing the name of “punitive and correctional establishments” in Abu Dhabi to “rehabilitation and correctional centers.” The Association also praised the focus on training the staff of these centers according to the highest international standards, ensuring the development of qualified institutional personnel to carry out their professional duties. This approach aligns with global best practices in upholding and respecting the human rights of inmates in Abu Dhabi.

Union Association for Human Rights
Abu Dhabi – 25 March 2024