Awareness
Raise awareness about human rights issues worldwide especially Lebanon by providing informative and engaging content.
Legal Assistance
The Center provides legal assistance to victims of torture and enforced disappearance, migrants and refugees.
Rehabilitation Victims of Torture
The center provides medical consultations, psychological and physical treatment to victims of torture in Lebanon.
Case Study
AbdulHamid Khateeb and the Missing Migrants: A New Case in the Irregular Migration Chapter
11/01/2025
Introduction
On 6 September 2024, at 8:30 PM, AbdulHamid Khateeb, a Syrian residing in Lebanon, departed from Beirut Airport, intending to travel irregularly to Italy via Libya. His journey began with a flight to Cairo Airport, where he had a 12-hour transit, and he then arrived at Mitiga Airport in Libya on 7 September 2024.
After arriving in Benghazi, he stayed in a hotel for one night. The following evening, he took a taxi to Tripoli, reaching the city on 8 September 2024. Abu Khaled (Mohamed Khamis Al-Khidr) later transported him, along with 45 others, to a farm and a residence.
Arrest and Risk of Forced Extradition of Poet Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi
04/01/2025
Introduction:
On 28 December 2024, poet Mr. ABDURRAHMAN KARADAVI known as “Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi” was arrested in Lebanon upon his return from Syria based on a warrant issued by the Arab Interior Ministers Council. He was accused of politically motivated charges in Egypt, such as incitement to destabilize the state and spreading false news, following requests for his arrest from Egyptian and UAE authorities. These accusations relate to his opposition to the Egyptian regime, his support for opposition movements, and his publication of a video filmed at the Umayyad Mosque in Syria.
Harassment against Attorney Mohammad Sablouh
21/08/2024
Background
Mohammad Sablouh is a Lebanese attorney and human rights defender. He currently heads the Legal Support Program at Cedar Centre for Legal Studies (CCLS), consisting of six attorneys. Mr. Sablouh has been actively involved in documenting cases and legally assisting victims of torture, arbitrary detention, and Syrian refugees facing deportation. His work focuses on defending human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Lebanon. Since 2021, Mohammad Sablouh has faced escalating harassment and legal challenges due to his human rights work.
Advocacy
Urgent Appeal for the Immediate Release of Abdulrahman Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
10 April 2025
To:
- Right Honourable David Lammy, UK Foreign Secretary
- Her Excellency Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy for the European Union
Dear Esteemed Officials,
We, the undersigned organizations, write to express our deep concern and call for your urgent intervention regarding the ongoing detention of renowned poet and democratic advocate Abdulrahman Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, who was forcibly extradited and has been in enforced disappearance in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since January 8, 2025.
In Solidarity with Daraj and Megaphone Amid A Coordinated Campaign
26 March 2025
In light of the coordinated campaign targeting Lebanese independent media outlets Daraj and Megaphone, we, the undersigned group of civil society and media organizations from Lebanon and around the world, come together to stand in solidarity against attempts to silence these leading voices. We call on the relevant Lebanese authorities to take clear steps in the face of these defamatory and alarming actions.
Earlier this month, Daraj and Megaphone learned via an article published by Lebanese television channel MTV that a new legal complaint was allegedly being brought against them before the Public Prosecutor’s Office, a complaint that both Daraj and Megaphone have yet to be officially notified of or served with.
Urgent Call for Judicial Independence and Accountability in the Beirut Port Explosion Investigation
On March 21, 2025, a group of local and international organizations, individuals, survivors, and families of the victims, and families of the following firefighters addressed the Lebanese Prime Minister and the Minister of Justice the following letter:
H.E. Nawaf Salam,
Prime Minister
Grand Serail
Beirut, Lebanon
Adel Nassar
Minister of Justice
Beirut, Lebanon
Publication & Activities
Trial Monitoring Report of Bachar Abed Saoud Case
04/04/2025
Executive Summary:
This report presents a comprehensive overview of the trial monitoring conducted in the case of Bashar Abed Saoud, a Syrian refugee who died under torture while in detention at the State Security Detention Center in Tebnine, southern Lebanon, on August 31, 2022. The trial, which marks the first case of its kind to reach the Military Court under Law No. 65/2017, the Anti-Torture law, has been fraught with significant procedural issues and challenges.
Bashar Abed Saoud’s case underscores the urgent need to address human rights violations, particularly concerning torture and the protection of detainees’ rights. Lebanon’s legal framework, including Law No. 65/2017 and Article 47 of the Criminal Procedure Law, provides the foundation for ensuring justice, accountability, and protection for victims of torture.
Cedar Centre for Legal Studies Opens a Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture in Tripoli, North Lebanon
07/03/2025
Executive Summary
Cedar Centre for Legal Studies (CCLS) is opening its Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture in Tripoli, North Lebanon. Officially launching in December 2024, this center marks a significant step in CCLS’s commitment to providing essential support and services to individuals who have endured torture and ill-treatment.
Guided by a firm dedication to human rights and social justice, the center offers comprehensive, multidisciplinary care to help survivors rebuild their lives.
February 6, 2025: Without Justice, There Can Be No Peace.
07/02/2025
Executive Summary
On the occasion of February 6, the International Day of Commemoration for the Dead and Missing at Borders and at Sea, Cedar Centre for Legal Studies organized a solidarity meeting at the Bahsas Roundabout, the southern entrance of Tripoli, northern Lebanon.
This event was attended by several prominent figures, including the president of Tripoli municipality, Dr. Riad Yamak, representatives of the city’s deputies, unions, local and international associations, civil society organizations, media, and the families of the victims of the April, Cyprus, and Tartus boats. These individuals lost their lives attempting to cross borders or the sea in search of a better and more dignified life.
Who we are ?
Our goal is to promote a legal culture and civic engagement in Lebanon
Cedar Center for Legal Studies is a civil, non-profit company, established in Lebanon in 2013 and registered with No. 609. It is an independent, non-sectarian center and is not affiliated with any political parties. It is concerned with spreading the culture of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
250
Legal consultation
150
Legal assistance
40
Reported to UN bodies
Our Activity
Unveiling Human Rights Realities
Embark on a journey of exploration and understanding as we delve into comprehensive studies and research initiatives dedicated to unraveling the complexities surrounding human rights. Our commitment lies in dissecting critical topics, examining policies, and engaging with communities to unearth insights that pave the way for informed advocacy, policy reform, and lasting societal impact. Join us at the forefront of knowledge creation, where every study becomes a catalyst for positive change in the realm of human rights.
Human Rights Impact Assessment
Conduct comprehensive studies to assess the impact of policies, legislation, or societal changes on human rights.
- Design and implement surveys to gather data on the ground, considering diverse perspectives.
- Analyze the collected data to identify potential human rights violations or positive impacts.
- Publish reports with actionable recommendations to guide policymakers, organizations, and advocacy efforts.
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Legal Empowerment Research Project
Analyze the collected data to identify potential human rights violations or positive impacts.
- Publish reports with actionable recommendations to guide policymakers, organizations, and advocacy efforts.
- Investigate and promote legal empowerment strategies that enhance individuals' understanding and exercise of their human rights.
- Examine existing legal frameworks and identify gaps or barriers to access justice.
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Technology and Human Rights Innovation Lab
Explore the intersection of technology and human rights, researching innovative solutions to address emerging challenges.
- investigate the impact of emerging technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence, blockchain) on human rights.
- Collaborate with tech experts, human rights activists, and policymakers to brainstorm and develop ethical tech solutions.
- Publish findings, guidelines, and best practices to ensure responsible and rights-respecting technology development and deployment.
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FAQs !
Have A Questions?
How can individuals or organizations contribute to or participate in your research initiatives?
- A: We encourage collaboration! Individuals and organizations can contribute by sharing their experiences, participating in surveys, or joining focus group discussions. Additionally, partnerships with like-minded entities amplify the impact of our collective efforts in advancing human rights research.
How do you address ethical considerations in your research processes?
- A: Ethical considerations are paramount in our research. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines, ensuring informed consent, privacy protection, and respectful engagement. Our commitment to ethical standards guarantees the integrity and reliability of our research outcomes.
Why is research crucial for advancing human rights causes?
- A: Research serves as the backbone of evidence-based advocacy, offering insights into the real-world impact of policies and practices on human rights. It empowers advocates, policymakers, and communities with the knowledge needed to drive positive change.
How does your organization ensure inclusivity and diverse perspectives in human rights studies?
- A: We prioritize inclusivity by actively engaging with diverse communities, conducting surveys and interviews that capture a broad range of perspectives. Our commitment to representing marginalized voices ensures a comprehensive understanding of human rights challenges.
- b: Ethical considerations are paramount in our research. We adhere to strict research outcomes.
