The Emancipated Citizen

Episode 16: Unraveling the Web of Repression - The Assault on Saudi Voices and International Whitewashing

In this episode, we embark on a comprehensive journey into the complex web of repression in Saudi Arabia, with a spotlight on the suppression of social media activists. Our discussion navigates through the multifaceted layers of this issue, covering topics that range from the role of international figures like Trump, to the intricate involvement of the NSO Group, and Saudi Arabia's sophisticated whitewashing campaign.
 
We explore the outward moves towards liberalization, such as the new entertainment and tourism industries and sportswashing, which aims to present a more open image to the world. As we dissect the historical backdrop of repression in the region, we also investigate the impact of international PR campaigns, tourism, and newfound sports endeavors.
 
This episode is a deep dive into the dynamic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the international community, shedding light on the broader implications of these actions, including the risks to online anonymity, questions of espionage, and the consequences for international security and stability.
 
Feel free to contact us through Email:
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
On X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis
 
Stay tuned for our upcoming episode, where we delve into the pressing and ever-evolving conflict in Palestine and Israel. The complexities of this situation demand our attention, and we'll provide insights and perspectives that matter. Don't miss this essential discussion in our ongoing exploration of critical global issues.

Episode 15: Kirkuk, A Frontier Of Kurdish Identity

Join us for an enlightening podcast episode with hosts Zac and Ben, and special guest Hama Zangana. Explore the rich history and contemporary challenges of Kurdish identity, from past genocides to the complex issues of autonomy and contested territories.
 
This engaging conversation covers the role of America, the impact of ISIS, Iran's influence, and modern Iraq-Iran politics. Gain insights into the current situation in Kirkuk, proposed solutions, sanctions, and the role of NGOs and humanitarian relief efforts.
 
The episode concludes with reflections on the aspiration of a free Kurdistan and the intricacies of geopolitics in the ever-changing Middle East. Don't miss this captivating exploration; subscribe and stay engaged in this dynamic dialogue!
 
Check out Hama on Twitter and YouTube:
 
https://x.com/hamazangana97?t=IQr_rBys5_g8YzvvSBBI8g&s=09
 
https://youtube.com/@hamazangana7336?si=-xpDUjZh1nlDFmne
 
Check us out on Facebook:
 
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
And in our next episode, join us for a captivating look into the latest developments in Saudi Arabia, the Jared Kushner investigation, and the enigmatic MBS. Stay engaged for an enlightening conversation that spans history, politics, and the pursuit of identity in a complex world.
 
Thanks for tuning in, and stay excited for our upcoming episode!

Episode 14: Justice For Eden (Part 2)

In our last episode of the season, the conversation continues, on Eden's tragic death and the far too common phenomena associated with it. We hear from our dear friend and colleague Wajeeh Lion, and go on to talk about the future of human rights in Saudi Arabia. We will miss you all for the time being, but we'll definitely be back.
Listen to part 1 here:
 
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-ytz4m-13d20a0?utm_campaign=w_share_ep&utm_medium=dlink&utm_source=w_share
 
Contact me & Ben through our Facebook page:
 
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
For more urgent matters mail us on our ASN emails:
 
asn.advice@atheistalliance.org
asn.advocacy@atheistalliance.org
 

Episode 13: From Bangladesh to Atheist Alliance International, Worldwide Solidarity Counts

We're honored to present to you our conversation with a dear friend and colleague at AAI, Tonoy Emroz. A free-thinker from Bangladesh, he has been overseeing the Atheist Support Network, serving on the AAI board of directors, writing, and helping many around the world through his work; we can attest to that personally. We talked about human rights in Bangladesh and beyond. We hope you find it enjoyable and informative.
Don't forget to chexk out Tonoy's blog :
https://www.atheistalliance.org/author/tonoy-emroz/
And click here if you want to know more about joining AAI : https://www.atheistalliance.org/membership/

Episode 12: Justice For Eden (Part 1)

The tragic death of Eden Knight left us shocked and outraged. A 23 year old trans woman who was lured to Saudi Arabia, back from the United States, abused and denied medical treatment, she found herself in an impossible situation and was left with the choice of ending it all. So systematic yet still so heavy. So incredibly needless. So close to home. Listen to our conversation with Dawn about the campaign demanding justice for her. Don't forget to subscribe and stay tuned for part two, where we'll hear from other Saudi activists and discuss the situation in the kingdom.
 
Follow Dawn on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/Dawnwiththesic?t=7qnWoaL6BEMZkK16NE5BUw&s=09

Episode 11: The Struggles of the Rohingya

Jon is a journalist, activist and Rohingya refugee who was able to find a new home in Canada and today he told us about his struggles and the plight of the Rohingya people both in and out of Myanmar.  
 
See his writing at https://www.humansinflight.org/home

Episode 10: Northern Lights Canada, helping ordinary citizens give refugees new lives in Canada.

In a slight change from our usual format, we interviewed Stephen Watt, a founder of Northern Lights Canada who helps people sponsor refugees for resettlement in Canada.  Are you interested in helping victims of human rights abuses directly?  Well, if you are from Canada and have four friends who want to help to, you can.

Episode 9: Religious Liberty In Malaysia

In our latest episode we spoke to a Malasian asylum seeker in Sweden who has lost hope in living in freedom and dignity in his own home country after a long and frustrating court case where he tried to change his religious status, not be subject to Sharia Law, and thereby gain more civil liberties.
Can you add Encik Murtad FB https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072720973272
YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@GerakanMurtadMalaysia
Twitter : https://twitter.com/FairuzMurtad

Episode 8: Time To End Witch Perscecutions In Africa

In this episode of The Emancipated Citizen we talk to Dr. Leo Igwe who is an advocate for accused witches, a Doctor of Philosophy and co-founder of Advocacy for Accused Witches in Nigeria. Check out AfAW: https://advocacyforallegedwitches.law.blog/about-afaw/?fbclid=IwAR1RRJ0RKU2RLBk-0WGma_LqZfj2TTffUhUr6oRdsvAqNgRaAGyCqjJjkNk
 
This episode was informative and fun to record. If you enjoyed listening please subscribe and leave us a rating. Thanks!

Christmas Special 2022: Human Rights in Westeros

On this holiday special we have a more light-hearted discussion about The World of Ice and Fire and the state of human rights in it. Do be warned though if you're not up to date there will be plenty of spoilers.