Mauritania, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, is located in Northwest Africa on the Atlantic coast. The country boasts a unique culture with traditional Moorish architecture, intricate geometric designs and courtyards, and a rich culinary heritage where dishes like "thieboudienne" (a fish and rice dish) reflect the nation's diverse flavours.

The Sahara Desert dominates much of the country's landscape. It plays a pivotal role in the daily lives of its inhabitants, the Moors - famous for their nomadic traditions, hospitality, and iconic attire of flowing robes and turbans.

Islam is the predominant faith in Mauritania, with most of the population adhering to the Maliki school of Sunni Islam. Various indigenous African beliefs are practised alongside Islam, contributing to the country's unique cultural identity.

The legal system in Mauritania is Islamic law (Sharia) combined with Customary Law and procedures from French Civil Law. Like many nations, Mauritania inherited colonial-era laws from France. Although France has long decriminalized suicide, it has remained in the corpus of other laws around the world.

The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for the decriminalisation of suicide and suicide attempts. Finding out more and removing such laws removes stigma and allows avenues for providing appropriate mental health support to individuals in crisis.

Criminalising suicide punishes distress. Decriminalising suicide saves lives.