Yemen Guide

The human rights situation in Yemen is poor. The government and its security forces, often considered to suffer from rampant corruption, have been responsible for torture, inhumane treatment and even extrajudicial executions. There are arbitrary arrests of citizens, especially in the south, as well as arbitrary searches of homes. Prolonged pretrial detention is a serious problem, and judicial corruption, inefficiency, and executive interference undermine due process. Freedom of speech, the press and religion are all restricted.^[22]

Human Rights Watch reported on discrimination and violence against women as well as on the abolition of the minimum marriage age of fifteen for women. The onset of puberty (interpreted by some to be as low as the age of nine) was set as a requirement for marriage instead.^[23] Reports of other forms of hostile prejudice directed towards disabled people, and ethnic and religious minorities were also reported. Censorship is actively practiced and in 2005 legislation was passed requiring journalists to reveal their sources under certain circumstances, and the government has raised the start-up costs for newspapers and websites significantly. In violation of the Yemeni constitution, the security forces often monitor telephone, postal, and Internet communications. Journalists who tend to be critical of the government are often harassed and threatened by the police

When you go depends on where you’re going. If you’re going to the Tihama, Aden or Hadhramawt, don’t go in July – the heat will be unbearable. If you’re heading for the highlands, December nights can be very cold. From October to February, most of the country is dry and dusty, and in March, April and August the temperature is pleasant but you may get wet in parts of Yemen. April to May and September to October are probably the best bets wherever you’re heading.

The observation of significant days is an important part of Yemen’s culture. In addition to the main Islamic holidays, people recognise Revolution Day (26 September), National Day (14 October) and Independence Day (30 November).