They were arrested under Decree No. 54/2011, the Syrian law which bans peaceful demonstrations in complete contravention with international law. Under the decree, only "properly licenced" political parties and popular organisations can hold demonstrations, thus depriving a large segment of citizens who are not affiliated with any party of the right to demonstrate, which is contrary to article 25 of the Constitution.

The decree also imposes many procedural restrictions for obtaining an approval to organise peaceful demonstrations. For instance, those who wish to organise a demonstration must apply to the Ministry of Interior at least five days before the scheduled date, inform of the ministry of its objectives, causes and even the slogans that will used by the demonstrators. The Ministry of Interior can stop the demonstration "if it is inconsistent with the interests of the State or endangers citizens and their property". The organisers must also provide a notarized commitment stating that they are responsible for all damages that may affect both private and public properties as a result of the protest.

The right to freedom of expression and to participate in peaceful demonstration is therefore impeded by this Decree, which serves as a means to justify repressive measures against demonstrators, including violence, arrests, even imprisonment.