Imprisoned for Distributing Aid: Demand Justice for Yara Faris
Syrian woman Yara Faris is being held in 'Adra Prison for allegedly assisting in the distribution of food and aid to displaced people.
On 8 December 2013, Yara Faris was detained by Syrian State Security officers. Her case was referred to the Anti-Terrorism Court and she is currently detained in ‘Adra prison. She is accused of "financing acts of terrorism", apparently because she had been helping to provide food and assistance to internally displaced people who had fled the conflict elsewhere in Syria. If she is prosecuted solely for providing humanitarian assistance to displaced civilians, Amnesty International would consider her a prisoner of conscience.
Her husband, Maher Tahan, was subjected to enforced disappearance on 20 September 2012 when he returned with a delegation of the National Coalition for Democratic Change from an official visit to China.
Yara should not be imprisoned for providing humanitarian aid. Stand with Amnesty and call on the Syrian authorities to drop these charges.
To Whom it May Concern:
I stand with Amnesty International in calling for justice for Yara Faris, who was arrested on 8 December 2013.
I call on the Syrian authorities to drop the charges against Yara Faris that stem solely from her alleged involvement in providing humanitarian assistance.
[Your comments here]
Furthermore, I urge you to release her or charge her promptly with a recognisable criminal offence not related to her humanitarian activities and tried in an ordinary court in proceedings that comply with international standards.
I also urge you to ensure that she is protected from torture and other ill-treatment and is granted any medical attention she may require and sufficient food.
Yours Sincerely,
[Your name here]
