kritika 
(C): X
Yes, a Facebook post can lead to a foreign worker getting into serious trouble in Saudi Arabia. Even after deleting the comment and apologizing, a 24-year-old Sri Lankan man was sentenced to death on appeal for making the comment about religion. The case serves as a warning to all foreign workers in Saudi Arabia about the law on free speech in the Kingdom.
Quick Facts
- Whom: a young Sri Lankan migrant worker in Saudi Arabia
- Sentence: 2 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Crime: Blasphemy for a Facebook comment.
- First conviction: 5 years imprisonment and great fine
- Appeal: prosecutors wanted the trial under Sharia law but not cybercrime law, sentence was death.
- Status: No execution date has been made public, diplomatic efforts continue.
What Happened
An internet debate over a viral video escalated into an argument. He condemned it, deleted it and posted an apology. However, screenshots made it to his employer who reported it to the police. He was arrested and seized and his accounts were deleted.
Why It Matters
More than 10 million foreign workers live in Saudi Arabia. Saudi migrant workers are at greater risk in social media due to language barriers and poor legal support, rights groups say. The post is not removed from the internet once it has been deleted after someone has taken a screenshot.
Online Speech Rules at a Glance
| Area | What to Know |
| Cybercrime law | Reads and responds to online posts, comments and messages |
| Religion | The severest punishment may be meted out for insulting Islam. |
| Defamation | When the posts relate to people or institutions, they can result in cases. |
| Employer reports | Photos and videos can be delivered to your business and police. |
What Foreign Workers Should Avoid
Avoid religious discussion, jokes about religion, political criticism/arguments with strangers. If an employer complains about a job or visa, their social media activity can impact.
What Happens Next
Sri Lankan authorities and a team of lawyers from the country are negotiating with local attorneys for clemency. This should be a warning for every Saudi migrant worker, to think twice before posting.
What Every Migrant Worker Should Know
Could Social Posts Risk Saudi Workers?
Check out how online speech can affect migrant workers in Saudi Arabia.
How Are Saudi Shelters Supporting Workers?
Find out how shelters may improve protection for migrant workers.
Can Uganda And Saudi Improve Safety?
Uncover plans to strengthen migrant worker safety and cooperation.
Is Saudi Arabia A Peacemaker?
Dive into Saudi Arabia’s role in Sudan’s ongoing conflict.
What New Travel Rules Affect Workers?
Explore how new rules could impact US workers in Saudi Arabia.
