NGOs alert UN Human Rights Council to violations in Tindouf camps

During the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, several non-governmental organizations raised alarms regarding human rights conditions in the Tindouf camps. The organizations called for strengthened protection mechanisms and independent assessments of the situation.

Representatives from Maat for Peace, Development and Human Rights reported concerns involving the Polisario Front, specifically citing arbitrary detentions, torture, and restrictions on peaceful protests. They also noted that UN human rights experts have been unable to access the camps to conduct independent evaluations.

The African Network for Development, Governance and Human Rights highlighted a deteriorating situation, noting severe restrictions on freedom of movement. According to the network, residents have been subject to a curfew since 2013 and require individual permits to leave the camps on specific days. Additionally, the group reported campaigns of arrest targeting dissidents, accompanied by allegations of torture, enforced disappearances, and the withholding of food aid.