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Irresponsible lending Every expat knows the story. On any given workday you may receive upwards of five calls from loan and card agents aggressively trying to sell you credit. Westerners are used to banks being cautious when given loans and cards but this is not the case in the Middle East. The highest risk countries are currently the UAE and Qatar. The UAE has a different approach to lending. If you will accept the loan, then they will give it to you. Minimal questions are asked, and even less checks as to your ability to make the payments are made. They don’t need to lend responsibly because they can literally throw you in jail for an unlimited time for missing payments. Even those not jailed are given a travel ban, meaning they can never leave Dubai until the debt is paid in full. Paradoxically, they are not allowed to work in the UAE, because of the police case for the debt. If they can’t work, then how can they pay their debt? With rent needing to be paid a whole year in advance, expensive school fees and the other high financial outlays that come with life in the UAE, most expats give in to the pressure and accept the credit. (To download .pdf version click here) Plans disrupted In general, expats borrow within their ability to meet the repayments. They know the dire consequences for non payment but life can throw curveballs. People are made redundant, fall ill or their circumstances otherwise change, making payment difficult or impossible. In the West, struggling customers would speak to their banks and work out a plan to restructure the loan. In the UAE they pack up quietly in the night and head for safety, fully intending to renegotiate but from outside of the “danger zone”. They want to pay but without a metaphorical gun to their heads. Fury unleashed The banks at this point often shun all pretence of reasonable behaviour. They can refuse to negotiate, instead demanding immediate, full payment of the outstanding loan. They engage UAE based debt collection agents (DCAs) who can threaten, harass (you, your family, your new employers, and even your clients and customers) and make your life a misery. These DCAs even sometimes engage Interpol to chase unpaid loan or credit card debt. The aim is to have the debt victim arrested overseas or extradited back into the clutches of the UAE and jailed until a family member sells a property to pay the outstanding amount. The banks also employ ruthless UK based debt collection agencies, who are actually able to enforce loans that would sometimes not even have been approved in the UK, and apply laws that would not be permitted in our country; Such as a full 15 year statute of limitations, instead of the 6 allowed in the UK. What next? At this point you are treading a tightrope. Not engaging with, or ignoring the UAE creditors can enrage them and cause them to become more and more aggressive. On the other hand, trying to deal with them and show willingness can encourage them to think they have an easy target in their sights. They can turn up the heat, believing that their tactics are about to yield a payoff. Many UAE debt collectors work without a basic wage, and only get paid a percentage of whatever they can persuade a debtor to pay that month. If they think they “smell blood” they can intensify their efforts. Ignoring UK DCAs can allow them legal avenues to gain judgements by default. However, communicating with them opens you up to the possibility of inadvertently saying or doing something that can jeopardise your position legally. Debtors who have left the the Gulf are at significant risk of being subjected to an Interpol Red Notice which can lead to their detention abroad. This risk can be mitigated and steps can be taken to prevent this occurence. So what DO I do? Don’t talk to them, but don’t ignore them seems like contrary advice. To clarify: engagement is essential, but only if you have a solid understanding of the UAE debt universe and international debt law. Also (this is very important), you need nerves of steel. By this we mean, you need to be able to cope with stress and recognise when you are being emotionally manipulated, versus when the threats are real. Unless you have experience in this field it is infinitely better to get help and advice from people who do. Every case is different, so there is no “one size fits all” strategy that can be thrown at every UAE debt case. What you need to do is get your facts straight, including an approximate timeline of events, the amount of banks involved, the amount of total debt, and the amount of separate cards and loans involved. When you have the above information as accurately as you can muster, then get in touch with an organisation like ourselves at Detained in Dubai. We (or an organisation like us) can then help you determine the best path forward, estimate your best outcome and help you prepare to escape the situation with the minimal possible stress and damage to your finances, mental wellbeing, relationships, career and everything else affected by the situation. Detained in Doha is an NGO formed by expert Radha Stirling to assist people who have become victims of injustice in Qatar. Detained in Dubai was founded in 2008 by UAE expert witness Radha Stirling, the international authority on UAE law. Advisory to government, high profile clientele, leading $1bn litigations, PR expert, reputation management, litigation support, crisis management. Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

Is USA Today article just media bias or has it been used by the CIA to manipulate public opinion? In 2007, when ex-CIA agent and torture whistleblower John Kiriakou revealed that the CIA regularly plants articles in US media outlets to manipulate public opinion, one of the news outlets he mentioned was USA Today. Unfortunately, this publication does not appear to be making any attempt to rehabilitate its image as an unbiased source of information. In their recent piece about another whistleblower against the abuse of power, Tara Reade; USA Today opted not to speak to Reade directly, nor to her media representative, nor to her lawyer, but instead interviewed not one, but two US intelligence officials for comment, while stating “several former U.S. intelligence officials” had apparently contacted the journal with their opinions about Reade. The article indulges in baseless speculation about Tara Reade’s motives behind her allegations against President Biden – rather than reporting her testimony about what happened to her; it claims that Reade “fled to Russia”– rather than accurately reporting that she visited the country to oversee translation of her book; and overall, the article seeks to create the impression that Reade is either a witting or unwitting asset of the Kremlin -- rather than stating the fact that she is a sexual assault victim who has been viciously maligned by the American media. All the facts that USA Today chose not to report have been made available to the press, however they made the peculiar decision to instead publish the disparaging opinions of American intelligence officials and to litter the article with negative insinuations that do not align with the facts. This, again, constitutes deflection on the part of the mainstream media from the core issue in Tara Reade’s story; i.e., that she has been persecuted in the US for going public with her allegations against then-Senator Joe Biden, and this persecution has left her stranded in Russia, unable to return to the United States with any confidence of her safety. It would be within the realm of objective journalism to investigate both Reade’s accusations against Biden, and her claims of persecution; both of which can be substantiated. It is not objective journalism, however, to instead fabricate baseless suspicions about the motives behind Reade’s claims, or about her presence in Russia; particularly when these suspicions directly contradict her own statements and the facts which have been made available to the press. It goes without saying that any criticism Tara Reade may express regarding the Biden administration and American foreign and domestic policy from a political perspective does not constitute disloyalty to the United States, and falls well within the spectrum of public discourse on these issues. It would be quite ominous to suggest that legitimate criticism of the US government is tantamount to sedition. Tara Reade is an American citizen who deeply loves her country, but she has suffered immensely for speaking out about a very traumatic experience because it involves someone with power. Through no fault of her own, and without any plan to do so, she has been forced to stay in Russia. It is a textbook case of blame-shifting, and of victim-blaming, to cast doubt upon Tara Reade, her allegations, or her motives without so much as talking to her or her representatives; and this is precisely the kind of unfairness Reade has faced over the past four years from the American media which has contributed to her current circumstances. Please contact Radha Stirling with any press queries: Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

Statements from Tara Reade's representatives. When Biden sexual assault accuser, Tara Reade, went to Russia to oversee the translation of her book for what was supposed to be a week long visit, she was warned by multiple credible sources, that she would likely be arrested on return to the US and was likely the subject of an Interpol Red Notice. International crime reporting organisation, Interpol, has long been used by member countries for political persecution. The organisation activates Interpol Red Notices which are essentially requests to arrest persons without oversight of evidence. The organisation has long been criticised for misuse by authoritarian regimes as a means to harass, extort or cause the unfair detention abroad of political dissidents, activists and even credit card debtors. “Given the recent warnings that Tara Reade may be subject to an Interpol Red Notice, we have initiated a communication to Interpol for disclosure of any requests against her”, explained crisis manager Radha Stirling, CEO of Due Process International and IPEX (Interpol & Extradition) Reform. “If there is a Notice against her, we hope that the US will take steps to have that Notice voluntarily deleted, now that it has been raised publicly. In the event she is not currently listed, we are lodging preventative documents with Interpol for added protection if the US considers listing her in the future. Tara Reade has legitimate cause for concern and her legal team, including US attorney Dr Jonathan Levy, are investigating sealed grand jury proceedings in California that authorised the disclosure of her private communications and social media interactions. Dr Levy said in a statement: “In the coming days Ms. Reade and her international legal team will be initiating a proffer to Congress outlining her willingness to testify under oath regarding her sexual assault at the hands of President Biden, the ensuing cover up, her motivation for coming forward in the public interest, and the retaliation she has endured. Ms. Reade also seeks unsealing of Senatorial records that she states will affirm that her reports of sexual of abuse were timely reported and before being covered up. “IMs. Reade is currently in Moscow. She will also explain to Congress why she has temporarily relocated and the credible fears of persecution that caused her to make that difficult decision. “IMs. Reade’s legal team will also be initiating Freedom of Information Act requests and taking other measures to document her abuse, the cover up and subsequent retaliation.” Due Process International Foundation An international not for profit organisation focusing on lawful due process and fair trials, human rights and the accountability of law enforcement agencies, governments, corporations and criminals. Home | IPEX Reform Interpol & Extradition Reform, Expert Witness, Interpol Removal, Crisis Management, Legislative & Government Advisory Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

This week, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) removed the name of a British entrepreneur from its Red Notice database, after a successful appeal was launched by IPEX Reform against his wrongful listing. Radha Stirling, founder and CEO of IPEX Reform and Detained in Dubai, said in a statement about the case, “Our client’s removal from Interpol is a great relief for him and his family after the almost decade-long ordeal they suffered because of corruption in Qatar. After starting and operating a successful gym business in Doha, our client was approached by a local investor with promises of support and expansion, only to then have that same investor sabotage the business, force its closure, and fabricate charges against our client to prevent him from pursuing justice. “He was tried and convicted on these false charges in absentia and his name was wrongfully listed with a Red Notice on the Interpol database. His life has been turned upside-down both by the malice of a fraudulent business partner and corruption of the Qatari legal system, but also by the negligence of Interpol itself, which continues to accept Red Notice requests from notorious and habitual abusers of the system, like Qatar and the UAE, without due scrutiny.” Qatar has been widely accused of abusing the Interpol red notice system, particularly in their use of Interpol for civil and financial disputes. “Qatar and other Gulf States, use red notices to target foreign nationals who have fallen out with local officials or businesses,” Stirling explained, “Very often, they have no intention of genuinely pursuing extradition; rather, they just weaponise Interpol as a tactic of harassment and extortion, knowing the massive difficulties a Red Notice causes individuals who are listed. Interpol has allowed itself to be used as an instrument of injustice, with locals in the Gulf invoking it as a threat against foreign nationals to force them into silent capitulation, or to extort money from them. For the overwhelming majority of our clients listed on Interpol by Qatar, their cases involve financial disputes, bounced cheques, or cases in which they themselves were the victims of fraud, embezzlement, or wrongful termination. None of these conform with Interpol’s own rules on data collection, but the Red Notices are issued anyway, without proper vetting.” FAQ | Interpol and Extradition Being listed as an international fugitive with an Interpol Red Notice warrant is one of the most frightening and unexpected occurrences to happen in one's life. You are in no safer hands than Interpol expert Radha Stirling who will help get your life back, your confidence and your reputation. Stirling emphasised that Interpol has a responsibility to ensure that Red Notices are used for legitimate purposes. However, Interpol has been failing to adequately scrutinise Qatari requests, she explained, “Qatar's abuse of the Interpol Red Notice system is a serious concern. It is a violation of the rights of foreign nationals and it undermines the integrity of Interpol. Interpol is quite literally being used to expand the de facto jurisdiction of authoritarian countries that are infamous for their lack of due process, judicial independence, and for their documented human rights abuses. Interpol is accepting Red Notice requests over cases that would not even be considered a crime in most countries, and which – more to the point – violate their own rules.” Gulf Injustice Podcast, (29th May 2023). Stirling lets client know that his Qatar Interpol Red Notice has been deleted Stirling is a leading voice calling for procedural and institutional reforms at Interpol, even establishing an independent organisation dedicated to this purpose, IPEX Reform; which seeks to improve the transparency, effectiveness, and fairness of Interpol and global standards pertaining to extradition. “Of course, we are very gratified that our appeal against this Red Notice was successful,” She said, “But Interpol actually prolonged our client’s ordeal by granting Qatar an extended period of time to present evidence to justify the listing. His name – which never should have been listed in the first place -- should have been deleted from the database months ago, If we had not persistently lobbied Interpol, and were it not for our years of work in this area, Interpol could have extended Qatar’s deadline indefinitely. We are not seeing any substantial improvement in the way they handle these cases; quite the opposite. It seems that Interpol is increasing in its indifference to Qatar’s abuse of the system, and its indifference to the suffering of the innocent people whom they wrongfully list as fugitives.” INTERPOL PREVENTION Stirling suggests that if people who have been the victims of Interpol abuse launch a class action lawsuit against the organisation, perhaps Interpol will begin taking reform more seriously. “Over the course of the past 15 years, we have assisted thousands of individuals who were wrongfully subjected to Red Notices on behalf of countries like Qatar and the UAE; all of whom we got successfully de-listed, essentially confirming that Interpol should have never issued Red Notices against them to begin with. None of these people have ever been compensated for their victimisation, for the hardship, trauma, reputational and financial damage Interpol’s negligence caused them; and Interpol has never been held accountable for these failures. Indeed, Interpol has made little to no progress in ensuring that such failures will not be repeated; on the contrary, we have seen wrongful listings multiply year-on-year. It may well be time to take the international policing organisation to court.” Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

“At this point, UK citizens who lose their money in the Dubai property market could not be blamed for holding British media outlets accountable, ethically if not legally,” says an exasperated Radha Stirling, founder and CEO of Detained in Dubai. She is reacting to the latest article in the UK press touting the UAE as a smart place to invest. “It is truly appalling that these promotional stories never include information about the huge risks involved in Dubai real estate, not to mention the overall dangers foreign nationals face in the UAE. “Dubai's property market has been described as a haven for money laundering, with criminals and terrorists using the market to hide their assets, according to a report by the Center for Advanced Defense Studies,” Stirling explains, “The report identifies some $100 million in suspicious purchases of apartments and villas across Dubai, yet these newspapers shamelessly champion the UAE as a destination for investment. No mention is made of the lax regulatory environment in Dubai, the rampant criminality and fraud, nor are there even stories of British citizens who have lost their life savings because they believed their own media about how smart it is to buy property in the UAE.” Dubai property market a minefield of laundering, scams, and sanctions evasion The Dubai real estate market has long been a popular destination for foreign investors, with its attractive tax and investment incentives, luxurious lifestyle offerings and rapid development. However, Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai and Due Process International...Read More Stirling says the negligence of some UK media in promoting investment in Dubai without properly educating investors is a cause for concern. “The UK media has a responsibility to properly inform investors about the risks involved in investing in Dubai, rather than promoting it as a safe and profitable investment destination” she explains, “One of the efforts we have put a great deal of emphasis on is for the government to increase its travel warnings about the UAE, so British citizens will be aware of the risks they face in a country that has the highest percentage of foreigners entangled in the legal system. When the UK press constantly pushes the narratives crafted by the Dubai Media Office and PR firms hired by the UAE to market the country, it just compounds the problem of misinformation and leads to more and more British citizens making uninformed decisions that could put not only their money, but even their freedom in jeopardy.” Is Dubai the new Chelsea? Nick Candy says so — but not everyone agrees So Nick Candy is no longer sweet on London. The property tycoon — who is best known for building the uber-luxe One Hyde Park development in Knightsbridge with his brother, Christian — has let it be known that he no longer cares for the UK capitalRead More Stirling warns that the Dubai property market has long been exposed as a hub for organised crime, with a data leak exposing how criminals and terrorists have been using the market to hide their assets. Reporters identified numerous owners of Dubai real estate who have been accused or convicted of crimes or are under international sanctions. This has led to a situation where investors are putting their money at risk without fully understanding the risks involved. Dubai’s unreal estate market Most people probably believe that Dubai is home to a vibrant and luxurious property market. However, those more familiar with the UAE city-state know that this apparent real estate oasis in the desert can become investment quicksand the moment you sign the dotted line....Read More Detained in Dubai has also found that rich Russians fleeing sanctions are pumping up Dubai's property market. Dubai brokerage Betterhomes found that Russians moved up two places to become the fifth-top buyers of Dubai. Many Russian buyers also make their purchases in cryptocurrency, as several of Dubai's major property firms have started accepting digital currency payments. Anti-corruption activists and lawmakers accuse Dubai of being a hub for dirty money. Kremlin critic Bill Browder has called for the emirate to be put on a financial blacklist, and a group of members of the European Parliament accused the UAE of facilitating money laundering at a grand scale, including in the real estate sector. Stirling wants the UK media to properly warn British citizens that the Dubai property market is a high-risk investment destination, rife with money laundering, sanctions evasion, scams, corruption, unrealistic property valuations, regulatory problems, obstacles to refunds, and the difficulty recouping investments through property rentals due to over-saturation in the market and rent prices. “The Dubai property market needs stronger regulation and enforcement to prevent the city from being used as a hub for dirty money,” Stirling says, “These changes cannot happen as long as the UAE is able to keep the illusion alive that everything is wonderful in Dubai real estate, which they are able to do with the active promotional support of the British media. This is highly irresponsible and any outlets who continue to present a false image of the UAE are ethically culpable for deliberately concealing information about the serious risks investors face in the Emirates.” Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

The Dubai real estate market has long been a popular destination for foreign investors, with its attractive tax and investment incentives, luxurious lifestyle offerings and rapid development. However, Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai and Due Process International, warns that investors must be aware of the risks associated with the Dubai property market, particularly relating to money-laundering, sanctions evasion, and other dangers. “There have been several high-profile cases in recent years,” Stirling says, “The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an intergovernmental body established to combat money laundering, has identified Dubai as a high-risk jurisdiction for money laundering and terrorist financing. The country's lack of effective anti-money laundering measures and weak regulatory environment make it an attractive destination for organised criminal groups to hide illicit funds. “Criminals use the Dubai property market to transfer funds from one location to another, disguise the origin of the funds and invest the proceeds of their criminal activities in legitimate assets. This has only become easier as the major property development companies in UAE began accepting payment in cryptocurrency. The supply of apartments and homes in Dubai far exceeds demand, and property valuations are disconnected from market realities; meaning the real estate sector in the Emirates is quite unambiguously offering properties as instruments for legitimising illicit money. It is an open secret in Dubai.” The lack of effective anti-money laundering measures in Dubai's real estate market can lead to reputational risks for investors, Stirling warns; “If an investor is unknowingly investing in properties linked to organised criminal groups or individuals, it can damage their reputation and expose them to serious legal and financial risks.” Is Dubai the new Chelsea? Nick Candy says so — but not everyone agrees So Nick Candy is no longer sweet on London. The property tycoon — who is best known for building the uber-luxe One Hyde Park development in Knightsbridge with his brother, Christian — has let it be known that he no longer cares for the UK capital To address these concerns, the Dubai government has introduced several measures to combat money laundering in the real estate sector, including the implementation of a beneficial ownership register, stricter know-your-customer requirements and enhanced due diligence measures for high-risk transactions. However, Stirling says, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, and there are still significant challenges in implementing them. “Dubai frequently responds to the concerns of the international community and risk assessment reports by announcing legislation and regulatory safeguards which usually do not amount to anything beyond the announcements themselves,” she explains, “The UAE sees such concerns as essentially PR problems that have PR solutions; not as substantive dangers that need to be addressed through real legal protections and oversight. While they publicise their efforts to combat money laundering, they are simultaneously facilitating the transfers of untraceable cryptocurrencies into the property market, for example. So, ultimately, investors cannot trust that the Dubai government can be relied upon to protect them from criminal operators, and they need to exercise extreme caution.” Another concern, Stirling says, is that wealthy Russians may be using the Dubai property market to evade sanctions. “Since the invasion of Ukraine, and the imposition of US and the European sanctions against Russia, we have seen Russian investment in Dubai real estate skyrocket,” She explains, “Property prices are at their highest level in a decade, largely due to the influx of Russian cash. While they have always been significant investors in the UAE, it is conspicuous that we have seen such a flood of Russian capital coinciding with the sanctions regime, and it is fairly obvious that oligarchs are securing their money by parking it in Dubai villas and luxury apartments. Of course, we cannot verify that this is what is happening, which is exactly what makes it more likely. A well-intentioned investor could purchase a property that had been bought by a sanctioned Russian businessman, and inadvertently find themselves entangled in an international investigation as an accomplice to sanctions evasion.” Capital flight to UAE undermines human rights by Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, Due Process International and host of the Gulf in Justice Podcast Investors in the Dubai real estate market are also at risk of losing their money due to the lack of transparency in the market, Stirling further cautions. “Dubai's real estate market is largely unregulated, with no comprehensive database that tracks real estate transactions, property values or ownership information,” she says, “This makes it difficult for investors to assess the true value of the properties they are interested in and leaves them vulnerable to fraud and scams. “Typically, people buy properties before they are even built, and their value is purely speculative. They may intend to let the properties out to tenants once they are completed, only to find that they cannot charge sufficient rent to cover their mortgage payments. It is also all too common for homebuyers to lay down hefty sums to secure a property in a development which is later cancelled, or one that only ever existed on paper. Refunds are hard enough to obtain from major developers, but it is impossible to get money back from real estate scamsters.” Dubai’s unreal estate market Most people probably believe that Dubai is home to a vibrant and luxurious property market. However, those more familiar with the UAE city-state know that this apparent real estate oasis in the desert can become investment quicksand the moment you sign the dotted line.... As a legal and human rights organisation, Detained in Dubai urges investors to use caution before considering investing in the Dubai real estate market and to conduct thorough due diligence before making any investment decisions. Stirling says, “Investors should work with reputable real estate agents and seek guidance from expert advisors who can help them navigate the risks associated with investing in the Dubai property market. This is a service we have provided countless clients, helping them to avoid potentially devastating financial and legal nightmares. The investment environment in the UAE can be dangerously attractive, but in many ways it is a minefield; entering it without the support of someone who knows the terrain can leave investors penniless or in prison.” The false promise of Dubai’s property sector “I have made peace with the fact that I got scammed out of all my money; but what am I supposed to do now?” So says one South African flight attendant who purchased an apartment in Dubai back in 2006, expressing what hundreds of property investors in the UAE have experi...Read More UAE provides a risky haven for Russian money As the first private jets from Moscow were landing in the UAE, Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai and Due Process International, warned that the Emirates would quickly become Russian oligarchs’ preferred sanctions-avoidance destination for their targeted riches. Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

In 2019, Ali Issa Ahmad, a British football fan, traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to support his team during the Asian Cup. However, his trip turned into a nightmare when he was arrested and allegedly tortured for wearing a Qatar jersey. Now, Mr. Ahmad has been granted permission by the High Court in London to pursue legal action against Maj. Gen. Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, the former inspector general of the UAE Ministry of Interior and current president of Interpol, among six other officials. “This lawsuit raises important questions about the responsibilities of state officials and the role of international organizations in promoting human rights and the rule of law,” says Radha Stirling, CEO and Founder of Detained in Dubai, the first organisation to draw attention to Ahmad’s ordeal in the UAE when it occurred, “It will be up to the court to answer these questions, which is progress in and of itself. Perhaps a conclusive legal ruling will finally give weight and substance to the concept of accountability, instead of it just being used as a buzzword by governments and institutions that never actually implement it.” The current case against Al-Raisi is not the first time he has faced allegations of human rights abuses. In 2011, the United Nations Committee against Torture received a report on allegations of torture and ill-treatment in UAE detention centres, with specific reference to Al-Raisi's role in overseeing these facilities. The report stated that "the Committee is concerned about the absence of a response by the State party to the allegations against Maj. Gen. Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, former head of the Criminal Investigation Department." UAE General accused of torture now head of Interpol While the position is largely ceremonial, Al-Raisi’s election has raised serious concerns among legal experts and activists globally. More recently, in 2021, the European Parliament adopted a resolution that called for the EU to suspend its cooperation with the UAE's police and intelligence services due to concerns about human rights abuses. The resolution specifically mentioned Al-Raisi's appointment as president of Interpol and called on the organization to review its procedures for appointing officials. Stirling, who is also head of IPEX, an organisation dedicated to Interpol and extradition reform, was a leading critical voice opposing Al-Raisi’s appointment. “This is a man who oversaw policing and detention facilities in the UAE where there is undeniable, exhaustively documented, systemic abuse,” She explains, “Police investigations in the Emirates flout all norms of evidence-gathering, due process, and human and civil rights protections. Forced confessions are routine, beatings, torture, intimidation, arbitrary detention, denial of legal representation; not to mention secret prison facilities where detainees are quite literally disappeared for weeks, months, or even years at a time; all of this occurs in the UAE, and existed under Al-Raisi’s supervision. His appointment as president of Interpol is an outrageous whitewashing of UAE abuse and a devastating blow to Interpol’s credibility” Home | IPEX Reform The UAE has a close relationship with Interpol, some say too close. Over the past 15 years, Stirling says, the UAE has become one of the most frequent abusers of the Interpol system; often using Red Notices as tools of political persecution of critics, and as a weapon to hound and extort foreigners involved in financial disputes in the Emirates. “Our organisation handles more abusive Red Notices issued from the UAE than from any other country,” Stirling says, “They are able to have wrongful Notices issued against innocent foreign nationals without the slightest scrutiny by Interpol; often over trivial business disputes, bounced cheques, or late loan payments. The Emirates uses Interpol as a global debt collection agency and as an instrument for expanding their de facto jurisdiction to impose punishment over private matters that most Interpol member countries do not even classify as crimes.” One conspicuous factor, Stirling explains, is the UAE's funding of Interpol through the Interpol Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides financial support to Interpol's activities. The UAE is one of the largest donors to the foundation, contributing over $50 million in recent years. “Obviously, this funding has raised concerns about the influence that the UAE has on Interpol's activities and priorities, particularly given the documented human rights abuses in the country,” Stirling says, “There needs to be greater transparency and accountability in the foundation's funding and decision-making processes in order to alleviate these concerns.” The fact that the current president of Interpol is facing legal action for alleged complicity in human rights abuses only erodes Interpol’s credibility further. If Al-Raisi is found to be complicit in human rights abuses, it will potentially damage Interpol's reputation beyond repair and destroy the international community’s faith in the organization's commitment to human rights and the rule of law. Stirling suggests that the Ahmad case also has broader implications for the UK's foreign policy and its relationship with the UAE. The UK has been widely criticized in the past for its close ties with the UAE, promoting Dubai as a safe tourist destination without adequately warning British citizens about the risks they face from an abusive legal system; accepting billions of dollars in Emirati investment in vital British infrastructure, and the UK’s support for the UAE’s military intervention in Yemen. “If the UK fails to take appropriate action in response to the allegations of human rights abuses against Ahmad and other British citizens,” Stirling says, “It risks sending a message that it is willing to tolerate such abuses in exchange for economic or political benefits.” The Ahmad case highlights the ongoing human rights abuses in the UAE which Stirling’s organisation has long campaigned against, and draws attention to the need for greater accountability and justice for victims. “The case against Al-Raisi is just one example of the broader pattern of abuses in the country,” She explains, “We have represented thousands of victims of UAE abuse over the past 15 years, and while we have consistently been able to successfully secure their freedom and resolve their issues, when it comes to compensation for their suffering and accountability for those responsible; there has always been a stonewall against this kind of redress. It is essential that state officials are held accountable for human rights violations committed by their subordinates, particularly in cases where the abuses are systematic or widespread; this case can go a long way to ensuring that Emirati officials will be held responsible for the pervasive abuses that are normalised in the institutions they oversee. We have always viewed this as a prerequisite for the overall rehabilitation of the legal system in the UAE, and the broader Gulf region. Impunity is what perpetuates abuse and prevents systemic reform. Hopefully this case will help make the changes in the UAE and in Interpol that we have always worked to achieve, and it will open the door for thousands of other victims to finally receive justice.” Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

Detained in Dubai has secured the removal of another client’s name from the Interpol database after being subjected to an abusive Red Notice at the request of Qatar. Interpol's system of Red Notices allows member countries to request the arrest and extradition of individuals who are wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence. However, the system has been frequently misused and abused by some member countries, particularly Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other Gulf States, to pursue individuals in foreign jurisdictions over financial disputes or debts, using Interpol as a tactic of intimidation, harassment, and extortion. Detained in Dubai explained that the client, a British national who had been working in Qatar, had been charged and convicted in absentia for a bounced cheque. However, the cheque was written as security against a bank loan, which she had been paying off regularly for up to four years. The bulk of the loan had already been repaid when the client was abruptly laid off from her job, but she was informed by Qatar National Bank (QNB) that her final salary and parting bonus would cover the remaining balance. Despite these assurances, the security cheque for the total amount of the loan was wrongfully submitted for payment and inevitably bounced. “The terms of the loan agreement clearly stipulated that our client’s employer was liable for the outstanding balance,” explained Radha Stirling, CEO and Founder of Detained in Dubai, “But QNB attempted to cash the security cheque for the full amount of the loan, without registering a full four years of payments; and they did not sort the issue out with our client’s employer. Instead, they opened a police case against her after she had already departed Qatar, and secured a conviction in absentia, followed swiftly by the issuance of a Red Notice on Interpol. This exact scenario has become so frequent from the Gulf States that many jurisdictions around the world no longer regard Red Notices issued on behalf of those countries as credible. Nevertheless, being listed on Interpol is tremendously disruptive and our client was indeed detained in Mykonos, Greece, when authorities discovered the Red Notice against her. She was forced to undergo a judicial review for possible extradition, but the Greek court ultimately dismissed the request for lack of merit. Even after the Greek authorities fulfilled the purpose of the Red Notice, our client’s name was not deleted from the Interpol system.” Stirling said that this case highlights, yet again, the urgent need for serious reform in the way Interpol manages data collection and Red Notice requests, “Interpol applies no scrutiny to requests for Notices, even from habitual abusers of the system, and they have no process for automatic deletion once Notices become redundant. It can take months for Interpol to review removal requests, during which time the wrongfully listed can expect to be treated like fugitives or terrorists any time they travel. It exposes them to enormous emotional as well as financial trauma, and by all rights they should be compensated,” Stirling continued, “We have successfully removed so many clients from Interpol’s database over inappropriate Red Notices that a clear pattern of Interpol abuse by countries like Qatar had become absolutely undeniable. In each of these cases, innocent people have been put through needless suffering, reputational damage, and legal expense, and the blame belongs both to the countries requesting invalid Red Notices, and to Interpol itself for accepting such requests. We are currently exploring a class action suit on behalf of this ever-growing pool of clients to finally achieve some restitution for the ordeals they have been through.” Over the past 15 years, Detained in Dubai has emerged as the most effective organisation for combatting wrongful Red Notices, boasting a 100% success rate in securing the deletion of inappropriate listings. CEO Radha Stirling has led the call for Interpol reform and founded a sister organisation dedicated to increasing Interpol’s transparency, accountability, ethical standards, and compliance with due process. “We have developed a relationship with Interpol over the years,” She explained, “We are able to offer clients a reliable approach to avoiding a wrongful listing, as well as being able to ensure that any such listing will be appropriately dealt with if or when they do occur. Every time we successfully secure the deletion of an invalid Red Notice, while we are of course happy for our clients, it provides further evidence that Interpol needs to do better, and we remain committed to achieving the necessary reforms that will enable Interpol to fulfil its important function to international policing without victimising the innocent.” Travelling when you have a UAE or Qatar debt Nerve wracking: Will I be arrested at the airport? IPEX. Interpol & Extradition Reform INTERPOL PRESS PACK interpolrednotice.com Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

The goal of a brochure or tourism advertisement, obviously, is to make enticing promises that fuel the hopes of travellers about having the most idyllic holiday possible. Tourists planning a vacation, however, need to look deeper than these glossy presentations to distinguish fact from fiction, and governments need to provide accurate risk assessments to help their citizens choose safe destinations. The growing importance of places like Dubai, however, has made it considerably more difficult for tourists to make informed decisions about travel specifically to the Gulf. Both because nations like the UAE and Qatar strictly control news and information about conditions in their countries, effectively turning most media coverage into positive marketing; and because they enjoy significant economic and political influence in the West; potential travellers are inevitably misinformed about the real dangers hidden beneath the glitz and glamour of the region’s luxurious packaging. Travelling to the Arab Gulf States, particularly the UAE and Qatar, can be highly risky for tourists. Western governments need to issue greater travel warnings to highlight the dangers associated with visiting these countries. The primary concern for travellers is the strict laws and regulations governing drug and alcohol consumption, and the severe penalties for those who break them – not to mention the ease with which false allegations of law-breaking can lead to convictions. The UAE, in particular, has some of the harshest drug laws in the world. It prohibits a range of different substances, from CBD oil to pharmaceuticals, and even over-the-counter medications, such as cold and flu remedies, are subject to strict scrutiny. While many countries have strict drug laws, the primary difference with the UAE is the corruption of police, law enforcement procedures, and the judicial system. A mere allegation is sufficient evidence to arrest and prosecute individuals, and even if someone is innocent, it can take more than a year of detention and hefty legal bills to be exonerated. Visitors have been arrested for possession of drugs “in their bloodstream” even where the drug has been legally consumed abroad. Visitors have also been arrested in the UAE for cannabis residue that can remain in the blood for up to two months. Dubai's police procedures leave foreigners open to legal abuse. Dozens of other British nationals have been caught out by reckless police procedures that cast such a wide net that people can be arrested because an acquaintance was arrested, or because they attended a party where someone allegedly had drugs. Andy Neal, a British national, was arrested because he simply had someone's number in his phone. He spent a year in prison before being exonerated. Simply abstaining from drugs does not protect visitors from wrongful arrest and prosecution. Local authorities are rewarded for drug-related arrests and convictions, and are thus incentivised to exaggerate or even fabricate cases; and those who fall foul will end up in prisons notorious for human rights abuses and torture. This can be a terrifying prospect for tourists who are arrested for what are considered minor offences in their home countries, such as drug possession, or even for things as trivial as swearing or making rude gestures in public. Radha Stirling interviews American detained in Dubai over legal marijuana. “He’s free”. “Nevada resident Peter Clark, from California, was finally freed from Dubai after his 2 month ordeal which cost him $50,000. Peter was deported late Tuesday night on a flight via Doha to New York.”. Detained in Dubai CEO, Radha Stirling, announced Peter Clark’s safe return to the United States. “Nevada resident Peter Clark, from California, was finally freed from Dubai after his 2 month ordeal which cost him $50,000. Visitors have been arrested for tiny amounts of drug residue found in their possessions, bags, and even in their bodies. Some drugs remain detectable for months, and travellers need to be mindful of this when visiting or transiting through the Middle East. It is important to avoid engaging with anyone else who may be taking drugs in the UAE and avoid clubs and parties that may attract drug users. Visitors should also be mindful of consuming alcohol, as a simple complaint that you are "drunk" can land you in jail, even if you've only had one drink. The UAE's legal system is not only strict when it comes to drugs and alcohol but also with other offences. Public displays of affection, wearing immodest clothing, and insulting Islam or its prophets are considered criminal offences. Additionally, the judicial system is heavily biassed against foreigners, and it can be difficult for non-Arabic speakers to understand legal proceedings, making it challenging to defend oneself in court. Tourists should also be aware that the UAE's laws on internet use and social media are equally strict. Posting or sharing anything that could be considered offensive, including criticism of the government or its policies, can result in arrest and imprisonment. In some cases, even liking or sharing a post deemed offensive can result in prosecution. Visitors can even be arrested over private WhatsApp chats, if officials find the content objectionable. Foreign Office told “Dubai travel warnings insufficient” Coroner tells FCDO to increase Dubai travel warnings. The inquest into the death of Lee Bradley Brown heard that the number of new cases of Britons reporting torture or mistreatment in Dubai to the Foreign Office had surged from 3 per cent of the global total to 13 per cent in just four years, but “that is only the tip of the iceberg”, explained Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai who has advocated for victims since 2008. ​ The Coroner produced a prevention of future deaths report. In conclusion, tourists need to exercise caution when travelling to the Arab Gulf States, particularly the UAE and Qatar. The strict laws and regulations governing drug and alcohol consumption, as well as other offences, mean that visitors must be mindful of their behaviour at all times. Western governments should issue greater travel warnings to highlight the risks associated with visiting these countries. Visitors should research local laws and customs before travelling, and if in doubt, they should be able to seek advice from their embassy or consulate – if only they can be reliably and accurately informed about the risks. By being aware of the dangers, tourists can take steps to protect themselves and ensure safety – but unfortunately, even awareness is not always enough. If a tourist encounters a problem with law enforcement, we strongly advise foreign nationals to contact Detained in Dubai immediately, before hiring a local attorney. Lawyers from the region very often have histories and even family connections with judges and prosecutors, and demand exorbitant fees only to expedite convictions for the sake of improving their own relationships with officials. We will assist clients in dealing with their embassies, diplomats, and government representatives back home, as well as with local authorities; and we can ensure that their cases receive the appropriate attention to resolve them successfully. Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

When South Africa ratified an extradition treaty with the UAE in 2018, officials assumed this would fast track requests like the Gupta brothers who are accused of a number of corruption and fraud related crimes. The treaty put South African citizens at risk of extradition to a country that the United Kingdom refuses requests from due to the “real risk of human rights violations and torture” but it seems they are struggling to achieve the mutual cooperation they’d hoped for. UAE dismisses S.African request to extradite Gupta brothers | Reuters A United Arab Emirates court has dismissed South Africa's request to extradite Atul and Rajesh Gupta, brothers who face charges of political corruption, but the Gulf state said on Friday the extradition request could be resubmitted. “The decision to extradite wanted persons from the UAE has largely played out as political rulings in recent years”, says IPEX Reform founder Radha Stirling, an expert witness in Interpol and Extradition matters. The UAE will extradite persons where there is a clear quid pro quo arrangement with the requesting country. We only have to look at the prompt extradition of several high profile parties to India following India’s illegal attack on US flagged yacht Nostromo to recover the escaping Princess Latifa, daughter of the ruler of Dubai. ‘Quid Pro Quo UAE’ using diplomacy to expand powers “It was nothing short of shocking to see the UAE hand over British national Christian Michel immediately upon India’s unlawful attack of a US yacht”, said Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai and Due Process International, who represents Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum... Due Process Newsroom & Media Centre British citizen Sanjay Shah’s extradition to Denmark was recently approved as part of an effort to show cooperation with Western nations following the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF’s) inclusion of the UAE on a “grey list” of financial crime monitoring. ‘Denmark Faces Human Rights Issues over UAE Extradition Treaty’ says Expert ‘Denmark Faces Human Rights Issues over UAE Extradition Treaty’ says Expert Dubai court upholds Danish extradition of British businessman in cum-ex case - Global Investigations Review Dubai’s highest court has rejected Sanjay Shah’s appeal against his extradition to Denmark, where he is accused of stealing over $1 billion through a complex tax fraud scheme. Last year, an Australian citizen was wrongfully reported to Interpol by South Korea and although Interpol cancelled the Red Notice, the UAE agreed to extradite him anyway in the dark of night. On the other hand, high profile and wealthy wanted persons have been protected by the UAE to the point where the country is known to be a safe haven for white collar criminals and while it appears the country is seeking to improve its image in this respect, it should come as no surprise that the Gupta brothers will not be extradited at this time. The UAE denied the extradition, ruling that it had jurisdiction over the charges of money laundering while the other charges related to corruption and fraud were removed from the extradition request. South Africa is expected to lodge an appeal and the success of that appeal will likely come down to diplomacy rather than any legal due process. The UAE’s arbitrary enforcement of extradition laws means the country is not a safe haven for the guilty or the innocent. Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

Interpol plays a critical role in coordinating international efforts to combat crime, terrorism, and other transnational threats. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the potential for private funding of Interpol to unduly bias the organisation's neutrality. Private funding refers to financial contributions made by corporations, foundations, or individuals to support the work of Interpol. While private funding can be a valuable source of support for organisations, it also raises questions about the potential for conflicts of interest and undue influence. Interpol's mission is to promote international police cooperation and to assist in the enforcement of national and international laws. To fulfil this mission effectively, Interpol must be, and be seen as, an impartial and neutral organisation that operates solely in the interests of justice and the rule of law. UAE General accused of torture now head of Interpol While the position is largely ceremonial, Al-Raisi’s election has raised serious concerns among legal experts and activists globally. However, if private entities are allowed to fund Interpol's activities, there is a risk that the organisation's decisions and actions could be influenced by the interests of these funders. For example, a corporation that contributes significant funding to Interpol may expect the organisation to prioritise investigations that align with the corporation's interests or to avoid investigating matters that could harm the corporation's reputation. Another concern with private funding of Interpol is that it could compromise the organisation's transparency and accountability. Private funders may expect a level of influence or control over the organisation's activities in exchange for their financial support. This could result in a lack of transparency regarding Interpol's decision-making processes, as well as a lack of accountability for the organisation's actions. Furthermore, private funding could lead to a situation where Interpol is seen as a tool of powerful interests rather than an impartial law enforcement organisation. This could undermine the trust and cooperation that Interpol relies on to carry out its mission effectively. While Interpol has taken steps to strengthen its policies and procedures around private funding. For example, the establishment of a Code of Ethics that sets out the principles that should guide its relationship with private funders. The code emphasises the importance of transparency, accountability, and impartiality in Interpol's dealings with private entities. Interpol has also established a dedicated unit to oversee its private sector engagement. This unit is responsible for ensuring that private funding is used in accordance with Interpol's Code of Ethics and, theoretically ensuring that the organisation's independence and neutrality are not compromised by its relationships with private entities. Saudi Prince uses Interpol to prevent damaging witness testimony While these measures are a step in the right direction, they do not go far enough to address the potential risks associated with private funding of Interpol. Objectively, the organisation's Code of Ethics is not sufficiently detailed or comprehensive to provide clear guidance on how to manage the risks of private funding effectively. There is, for instance, no independent oversight of private funding or its use, and indeed, no external accountability mechanisms to investigate potentially biassed practices by Interpol that may occur as a result of that funding. To address these concerns, IPEX believes several measures could be implemented to improve the financial and operational transparency of Interpol. These broadly include: 1. Increased Transparency around Private Funding One of the primary concerns regarding Interpol's operations is the potential for private funding to unduly influence the organisation's decisions and actions. To address this concern, Interpol should increase its transparency around private funding by: a. Requiring all private donations to be disclosed publicly: Interpol should require that all private donations, regardless of their size, are disclosed publicly on the organisation's website. This will enable greater scrutiny of Interpol's funding sources and help to identify potential conflicts of interest. b. Implementing clear guidelines for the acceptance of private funding: Interpol should establish clear guidelines for the acceptance of private funding to ensure that the organisation's independence and neutrality are not compromised. These guidelines should cover issues such as the types of activities that can be funded by private entities and the conditions that may be attached to such funding. c. Establishing an independent oversight body to monitor the use of private funding: Interpol should establish an independent oversight body, with representatives from civil society, to monitor the use of private funding and ensure that it is being used in accordance with Interpol's guidelines and the principles of transparency, accountability, and impartiality. 2. Strengthening Oversight of the Issuance of Red Notices Another area of concern regarding Interpol's operations is the lack of oversight surrounding the issuance of Red Notices. Red Notices are a type of international arrest warrant issued by Interpol at the request of a member country. However, there have been instances where Red Notices have been used for political purposes, raising concerns about the potential for abuse. To address this concern, Interpol should strengthen its oversight of the issuance of Red Notices by: a. Implementing more rigorous criteria for the issuance of Red Notices: Interpol should establish more rigorous criteria for the issuance of Red Notices to ensure that they are only used for legitimate law enforcement purposes. This could include requiring member countries to provide detailed evidence supporting their request for a Red Notice and requiring that requests be reviewed by an independent panel of experts. b. Enhancing transparency around the issuance of Red Notices: Interpol should increase its transparency around the issuance of Red Notices by publishing detailed information about the criteria used to assess requests for Red Notices, the number of Red Notices issued, and the reasons for their issuance. c. Establishing an independent oversight body to review requests for Red Notices: Interpol should establish an independent oversight body, with representatives from civil society, to review requests for Red Notices and ensure that they are being issued for legitimate law enforcement purposes and not for political purposes. 3. Enhancing Public Accountability Finally, to enhance public accountability and increase public trust in Interpol, the organisation should take steps to enhance its public accountability by: a. Strengthening its engagement with civil society: Interpol should strengthen its engagement with civil society by establishing regular consultations with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders to discuss issues related to transparency and accountability. b. Increasing its public reporting: Interpol should increase its public reporting on its activities, including its budget and financial statements, to provide greater transparency around its operations. c. Establishing a complaints mechanism: Interpol should establish a complaints mechanism to enable members of the public to report any concerns they have about the organisation's activities, including its use of private funding. d. Compensating victims who have been unfairly listed on Interpol’s database. The international community must remain vigilant to ensure that Interpol remains an impartial and effective organisation that serves the interests of justice and the rule. Interpol, therefore, must welcome input from the broader stakeholders who are impacted by how Interpol operates, if the organisation is to maintain credibility and the cooperation of member nations. Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195

The international community is questioning America's justice system for what is seen as unequal application of the law in New York’s indictment of President Trump. America is being branded as hypocritical for exporting “democracy” to “autocratic” states when a substantial portion of foreigners see America as weaponising its judicial system against political opposition. The American system is politicised to levels unseen in other democratic countries. Judges are appointed on the basis of their political leanings, Attorney General’s are elected on their political promises, and prosecutors go after targets who will enhance their political careers. We might think that’s America’s mess to sort out but the problem is when the US decides its jurisdiction doesn’t end at its own borders. America has legitimised its ability to indict foreigners for crimes committed outside of America by non-American persons simply because other countries allow it. There are numerous examples of America indicting foreigners and that’s fine, they can indict all they want. The issue is when foreign jurisdictions agree to extradite individuals to the US, people who have perhaps never even been to the country, people who have not committed a crime in the jurisdiction where they live and who haven't violated international law. Why should foreigners need to check local American laws before they act? In respect of Julian Assange, a simple test to determine whether extradition is unethical would be to ask what the UK would do if another country attempted the same. If China sought to extradite Julian Assange for exposing their regime’s violations despite him not doing it in China, would we allow extradition? No, and the same can be said for other allied nations. If I exposed Saudi wrongdoing from the US, would I be extradited to Saudi? No. Saudi, the UAE and China have no right to dictate that I abide by their laws. If you live in the UK and abide by British law, that is the only law you should be required to abide by. Sure, if you violate Saudi rules from the UK and voluntarily return to Saudi, you might be punished but the UK should not extradite you. The same can be said in Julian Assange’s case. The US should aim to persuade allied countries to make legislative changes that would support US policies but they should not be able to enforce their own laws onto people who do not live in America and who are not American. Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org / WhatsApp/phone +447309114195