Scottish Government must raise human rights concerns on UAE trade visit

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has today said that Economy Secretary Neil Gray should prioritize addressing human rights concerns during his trade visit to the United Arab Emirates this week.  

On 16th September 2021 European Union legislators condemned human rights violations in the UAE, urging the government to release prominent human rights activists and peaceful dissidents detained in the country.

Human Rights Watch reports that the UAE detains individuals critical of authorities, including hundreds of activists and academics. It has also warned that Emirati laws discriminate against women, migrants, and LGBT individuals.  

A number of British citizens are currently detained in the UAE, including former football coach Billy Hood and businessman Ryan Cornelius. Hood alleges coercion by local law enforcement, while the UN has ruled Cornelius has faced arbitrary detention and rights violations.

Furthermore, a UK court has ruled that Sheikha Shamsa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum were forcibly detained by their father, Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Mr. Cole-Hamilton said:  

"Scotland should be a positive force globally—a trading nation that stands against human rights abuses.  

“When promoting Scottish businesses abroad, the Scottish Government must be discerning about our partnerships and take every opportunity to raise human rights concerns.  

“The public want to see their government take a principled stand on human rights, rather than cosying up to affluent investors.  

“Representatives from Scotland engaging in trade talks should fearlessly advocate for human rights. I hope Neil Gray will use this trip to address these concerns."