Syria: Prominent Human Rights Lawyer Jailed

Leading Syrian human rights lawyer and activist Mohannad al-Hassani has reportedly been convicted for “weakening national sentiment” and “conveying within Syria false news that could debilitate the morale of the nation” and sentenced to three years in prison. Al-Hassani, who has defended democratic activists in Syria and was honored this year with the prestigious Martin Ennals Award for his work on behalf of political prisoners and the rule of law, was arrested last July after he drew public attention to unfair trials of political prisoners before the Supreme State Security Court (SSSC).

Local and international human rights organizations have voiced serious concern over the sentencing, with the Syrian Human Rights League (SHRL) arguing that “none of the minimum conditions and criteria for a fair trail” were met, while Amenesty International’s director for the Middle East and North Africa, Malcolm Smart, condemned the decision, stating that al-Hassani “is a prisoner of conscience who has done no more than stand up for the human rights of those who fall foul of the Syrian authorities and expose unfair trials and other abuses.” Smart called on President Bashar al-Assad to intervene directly to release al-Hassani and clear him of all charges.

Al-Hassani’s lawyers are currently considering an appeal.