CIVICUS calls on Moroccan authorities and the international community to provide safety and justice for Sahrawi human rights defender (HRD) Naama Asfari. While welcoming reports that he ended a 47-day hunger strike on 24 July 2026, we remain deeply concerned about his health and well-being. He has been unjustly detained in Kenitra Central Prison in Morocco. Asfari’s case continues to demand close international attention.
Naama Asfari has spent more than 15 years in detention following his arrest in connection with the 2010 Gdeim Izik events. His case has been the subject of extensive scrutiny by international human rights mechanisms. The United Nations (UN) Committee against Torture found that he had been subjected to torture and ill-treatment and called for effective remedies. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention determined that his detention is arbitrary and called for action consistent with international law.
The prolonged hunger strike, coupled with reports that his family was unable to communicate with him for an extended period, underscores the urgent need to safeguard his health, physical integrity, and fundamental rights. Moroccan authorities have an obligation to protect the life and well-being of all persons deprived of their liberty, ensure they receive appropriate medical care, and guarantee regular communication with their families and legal representatives.
CIVICUS calls on the Moroccan authorities to:
- Provide Naama Asfari with appropriate, independent medical care following his prolonged hunger strike.
- Guarantee his physical safety, mental wellbieng, and regular communication with his family and legal representatives.
- Respect his rights and the rights of other HRDs in detention in accordance with Morocco's international human rights obligations.
- Implement the recommendations of UN human rights mechanisms. Respect his human rights and fundamental freedoms.
- End his arbitrary detention. Immediately withdraw illegitimate charges and ensure his release.
We also urge the international community and relevant UN human rights mechanisms to continue closely monitoring Naama Asfari's situation and press for the implementation of international human rights recommendations.
CIVICUS stands in solidarity with Naama Asfari, his family, and all HRDs who face reprisals for their peaceful work defending human rights and fundamental freedoms. Through our Stand As My Witness campaign, we remain committed to amplifying the voices of imprisoned human rights defenders and mobilising international action to secure their protection and freedom.
