Human Rights groups urge U.S. to press Saudi Arabia on press freedom

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 18 November 2025 |  JP Global Monitoring Desk

Human rights organizations have urged U.S. officials to address media restrictions in Saudi Arabia during the Crown Prince's upcoming visit. The focus is on securing commitments for journalist protection and reforming media policies.

Summary

WASHINGTON — Ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Washington visit on November 18, Human Rights Watch and Reporters Without Borders joined several other human rights and press freedom organizations in publicly urging U.S. officials to address ongoing media restrictions in Saudi Arabia. The advocacy focused on the release of jailed journalists and called for reforms to safeguard press freedoms, framing the visit as a strategic opportunity to secure tangible commitments from Riyadh on media transparency and journalist protection.

Diplomatic Leverage for Press Freedom

The public appeals underscore how high-profile diplomatic engagements can become leverage points for human rights campaigns. Experts note that international pressure, especially from influential partners like the United States, can shape domestic media policies and influence the treatment of critical journalists in the Gulf region.

Calls for Reform and Journalist Protection

The advocacy groups emphasized the need for Saudi Arabia to release journalists detained for critical reporting and to implement broader reforms that protect press freedoms. They argued that without concrete actions, international criticism may remain symbolic rather than effective.

Global Advocacy Highlights

This episode highlights the growing role of global advocacy in pushing governments to respect media rights. Campaigns timed around diplomatic visits can amplify pressure and increase the visibility of journalists’ plight in restrictive environments.

PHOTO: AFP

KEY POINTS:

• Human rights organizations called on the U.S. to press Saudi Arabia on media reform
• Focus on the release of jailed journalists and the protection of press freedoms
• The Washington visit is seen as an opportunity to demand concrete commitments
• Public advocacy highlights how diplomacy can influence domestic media policy
• Experts stress international leverage affects Gulf journalists' safety and rights