Saudi Arabia Condemns Attack on UNIFIL Site in South Lebanon

Saudi Arabia has established a comprehensive program aimed at protecting whistleblowers, witnesses, experts, and victims, ensuring their security and safety. This initiative, established under Article 4 of the Law on the Protection of Whistleblowers, Witnesses, Experts and Victims, is linked to the Public Prosecutor's office. The program's administration comprises a president, deputy, two members of the Public Prosecution, and representatives from the Interior Ministry, the Presidency of State Security, and the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority. Published in the official Umm al-Qura newspaper, the regulations permit courts to hear witness testimony and question experts away from the defendant and their lawyer in specific circumstances. These include cases where a defendant has a history of harming witnesses or experts, poses a danger, or where the testimony is linked to organized crime. In such instances, courts are also required to conceal witness names in judicial rulings. The regulations, which took effect on Friday, outline a process where the administration receives protection requests and refers them to competent authorities. It will also submit recommendations to the Public Prosecutor on incomplete requests if there is a belief of imminent danger. The administration studies these recommendations, determines the appropriate type of protection based on risks and circumstances, and decides on approval, continuation, or amendment of protection measures. Furthermore, the administration will assist courts in implementing necessary measures, coordinate with authorities for the protected person's affairs, and ensure their health, safety, and social adjustment while preserving their rights and freedoms. Confidentiality of data is paramount, and a risk classification will be prepared for protected individuals.

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The forms of protection include monitoring their means of communication through the security department, after obtaining their written consent.