Civil rights & civil liberties

The citizens of Qatar enjoy equal civil rights and responsibilities without discrimination on grounds of race, origin or religion. Laws cannot be applied retroactively and no sentence may be passed except under the force of an existing law. A suspect is innocent until proven guilty and is entitled to a fair trial.

The civil liberties guaranteed by the State include the right of residence, freedom of the press and publication and private ownership. These rights cannot be circumscribed except where these rights contravene the law or the public interest.

The Constitution requires all those living in the country to observe public order and respect public customs and morals. For its part, the State is responsible for providing public services for all residents.