Houthi Authorities in Al Bayda Mandate Data Collection on Expatriates

Houthi authorities in Yemen's Al Bayda province have issued directives to local officials to collect comprehensive data on expatriates, including their assets and income sources.

Sources within the province, under the control of the Houthi militia, report that local authorities, led by the acting governor Abdullah Idris, have instructed neighborhood leaders to gather detailed information on expatriates residing in Houthi-controlled areas.

The directives reportedly require the collection of specifics such as housing status (rented or owned), family size, number of spouses and relatives, income sources, living standards, frequency and duration of visits to Yemen, and details of vehicles, commercial properties, and other revenue streams.

These measures have raised concerns that they may be a precursor to imposing additional financial levies on expatriates and their families, or could be used to harass them and target their livelihoods. Observers have warned of the potential negative repercussions on the living conditions of families who depend on remittances from relatives working abroad.

Analysts highlighted that remittances from expatriates are a primary source of financial support for their families and contribute to assisting relatives and local communities during challenging times, including health and emergency situations. They cautioned that any disruption to these remittances could exacerbate the suffering of citizens amidst the difficult economic conditions.

Activists have called for a review of these procedures, urging authorities to avoid any steps that would impose further financial burdens on expatriates and their families. They also encouraged expatriates to continue supporting their families and not to be deterred by fears that might lead them to halt their financial transfers.