The sentencing of photojournalist Sayed Baqer Al-Kamel to 10 years of aggravated imprisonment, along with the confiscation of his equipment, represents a serious escalation in the targeting of freedom of expression and media work in Bahrain.
Punishing a journalist for his activity or opinions constitutes a blatant violation of international human rights standards and reflects the continued use of laws to restrict the digital and media space.
We call for his immediate release, an end to the persecution of journalists, and the guarantee of a safe environment for media work free from intimidation or punishment.