“They Told Me to Keep Quiet”
Obstacles to Justice and Remedy for Sexual Assault Survivors in Mauritania

Repressive laws on criminal defamation, spreading “false information,” cybercrime, and blasphemy have been used by authorities to prosecute and jail human rights defenders, activists, journalists, and bloggers. Parliament has adopted an overly broad law that stipulates fines and harsh prison sentences for the publication of “false news.” Security forces sometimes use excessive force to disperse peaceful protests. Parliament has yet to pass a draft law on violence against women and girls introduced in 2016. Slavery in certain forms has not been eliminated despite multiple laws banning it and specialized courts to prosecute those who enslave others.
Obstacles to Justice and Remedy for Sexual Assault Survivors in Mauritania
Daunting Civil Registration Process Depresses Enrollment
A Call for Action on HIV/AIDS-Related Human Rights Abuses Against Women and Girls in Africa
69th Pre-Session
RE: Challenges to Implementation of GCM Objectives #4, 10, 13, 15, 17, 21 in Cameroon, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, and Tanzania, December 2018 – June 2021
Human Rights Watch Introduces Country Index Based on Laws, Policies
Detained for 8 Months, Facing Possible Death Sentences
Celebrate Year in Office with Pledge to End Repressive Laws, Protect Women’s Rights