14/10/2015 JAL 14/10/2015 AL Case No Country Mandate(s) SAU 7/2015 Saudi Arabia Cultural Rights; Freedom of religion; USA 19/2015 Human rights United States of defenders; America Summary of the allegation transmitted Reply Alleged destruction of various Mosques and sites of religious, historical and cultural importance in Saudi Arabia. According to the information received, Government authorities have destroyed many sites linked with important religious and historical figures all over the country, which are considered by many Muslim believers, especially Shias and Sufis, as significant sites for their cultural and religious identity. It is alleged that the destructions have been continuous over years in an effort to prohibit religious practices that are not recognized by the country’s dominant interpretation of Islam, in violation of international human rights standards relating to the right to freedom of religion and belief and the right to take part in cultural life, including the right to have access to and enjoy cultural heritage. 23/10/2015 Allegations concerning criminal charges filed against a privacy rights activist. According to the information received, on 14 June 2013, a criminal complaint was filed against Mr. Edward Snowden, as a result of which an arrest warrant was issued in the United States of America and his passport was revoked. Between 25 June and 1 July 2015, Government authorities allegedly interfered with Mr. Snowden’s application for political asylum in at least three countries. In August 2013, Mr. Snowden was granted a temporary residence permit to stay in the Russian Federation until August 2017. 02/12/2015 A/HRC/31/79 120 Date Type