Yemen’s immunity law: Breach of international obligations

Index Number: MDE 31/007/2012
Date Published: 30 March 2012
Categories: Yemen

In January 2012, the Yemeni authorities passed a law concerning the Granting of Immunity from Legal and Judicial Prosecution (hereafter “immunity law”). This analysis demonstrates the status of the Yemen’s immunity law under international law. It finds that, in effect, the immunity law constitutes an amnesty provision for former President Saleh and all officials who have worked under him during his official tenure. An amnesty for crimes under international law and grave human rights violations is inconsistent with Yemen’s obligations under international treaties and conventions, as well as customary international law.