Ethical issues in Saudi Arabia fall under criminal cases and often involve two rights: public rights, which concern society and lead to the imposition of legal penalties, and private rights, which belong to the victim harmed by the crime or crimes committed.
The Saudi legal system enforces penalties on those who commit such crimes to preserve societal security and individual dignity. These penalties aim to reduce the prevalence of these offenses and deter individuals from engaging in illegal or unethical actions.
Ethical Issues in Saudi Arabia
These cases are among the most serious crimes involving offenses against honor and reputation. They often cause suspicion and doubt, as some individuals may engage in inappropriate behavior requiring correction, yet believe they have committed an ethical crime.
The types of ethical crimes vary depending on the nature of the offense, leading to varying penalties, some severe and long-term. It is strongly advised to consult an experienced attorney when dealing with ethical cases, whether as a victim or perpetrator, to ensure the proper legal classification of the offense and anticipate the resulting penalty.
Ethical crimes are among the hardest to prove due to their covert nature, often occurring in secrecy. Such offenses are particularly damaging as they affect personal honor and reputation and tarnish family status in society.
Types of Ethical Issues in Saudi Arabia
Ethical crimes in Saudi Arabia include any actions violating public morals, breaching societal or religious values, and posing significant threats to the community. Islamic law prohibits these actions, and the Saudi legal system imposes penalties based on the type and circumstances of the crime.
Examples of Ethical Crimes in Saudi Arabia:
- Witchcraft, Sorcery, and Superstition
These acts are forbidden in Islamic law, with sorcery considered a form of polytheism due to its harmful effects on society. Saudi Arabia has specialized authorities to combat these practices.
- Adultery and Homosexuality
Adultery is regarded as a severe sin, and homosexuality is similarly prohibited, with harsh divine and legal penalties, as evidenced by the story of Lot’s people.
- Blasphemy and Insulting Prophets
Disrespecting religions, holy sites, such as the Prophet’s Mosque or the Kaaba, and insulting prophets are considered grave offenses and are punishable under Saudi law.
- Slander and Libel
Accusing individuals of immoral acts without evidence, as well as verbal or physical assaults, are prohibited and punishable offenses in Saudi Arabia.
- Extortion
This involves threatening someone’s reputation or revealing personal secrets, violating ethical standards.
- Prostitution
Engaging in illicit acts for monetary gain or exploiting individuals sexually is strictly prohibited under Islamic law and Saudi regulations.
- Harassment
Harassing women or bothering them in public places violates personal freedoms and is punishable by law.
- Gambling
Gambling is forbidden in Islam as it involves unlawful earnings and is penalized under Saudi law.
- Deliberately Missing Prayers and Publicly Breaking Fast in Ramadan
Both actions contradict Islamic principles and are subject to penalties in Saudi Arabia.
- Unlawful Seclusion
Being in an illicit private setting with a non-relative is against Saudi traditions and societal norms.
- Cybercrimes
Violating privacy, engaging in slander or extortion online, and hacking devices are punishable under Saudi cybercrime laws.
- Fertility and Embryo Crimes
Unethical or illegal practices related to fertility, embryos, and infertility treatments conducted secretly by doctors are subject to legal action.
Penalties for Ethical Crimes in Saudi Arabia
- Witchcraft and Sorcery: According to the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, offenders may face 5-10 years in prison. Those promoting sorcery online may receive 3 months to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to 200,000 SAR.
- Adultery and Homosexuality: Adulterers who are unmarried face 100 lashes, while married offenders are stoned to death. Homosexuals may be sentenced to one year in prison, 1,000 lashes, and a fine of 5,000 SAR.
- Blasphemy and Insulting Prophets: Insulting religion or prophets results in a minimum of 7 years in prison and a fine of 500,000 SAR. Damaging sacred texts or sites can lead to 5 years in prison and a fine of 250,000 SAR.
- Slander and Libel: Under the Cybercrime Law, offenders may face up to 5 years in prison and a fine of 3 million SAR.
- Prostitution: Engaging in human trafficking or prostitution can result in 15 years of imprisonment and a fine of 1 million SAR.
- Gambling: Offenders may face up to 3 months in prison and a fine of 10,000 SAR.
- Unlawful Seclusion: Both parties may be sentenced to 3 years in prison, with harsher penalties for familial violations.
- Cybercrimes: Personal breaches result in up to 1 year in prison and a fine of 500,000 SAR. Social breaches, like hacking or leaking sensitive data, carry penalties of up to 4 years in prison and a fine of 3 million SAR.
- Fertility and Embryo Crimes: Penalties include up to 5 years in prison, a 500,000 SAR fine, and revocation of medical licenses.
