Outcry Over Saudi Arabia's ‘Care Homes’ for Women Amid Reports of Abuse
Activists and former inmates have exposed severe abuses at Saudi Arabia's “Dar al-Reaya” or “care homes,” which are officially labeled as rehabilitation centers for vulnerable women. According to a recent report by The Guardian, these facilities, established in the 1960s, have been described as places of torment, featuring weekly floggings, forced religious indoctrination, and complete isolation from the outside world. Maryam Aldossari, a London-based Saudi activist, noted that young women are held until they comply with strict rules.
Reports indicate multiple instances of suicide or attempted suicide due to the harsh conditions, as women are often confined for years without the ability to leave unless granted permission by a male guardian. Sarah Al-Yahia, an advocate against these institutions, highlighted ghastly conditions including strip searches and virginity tests.
In response to the allegations, a Saudi government spokesperson defended the homes as specialized facilities, denying any mistreatment claims and stating that women can leave at any time without needing a guardian's approval.
Saudi Arabia