NHRI Hosts Panel Discussion On The Promotion And Protection Of Human Rights Amid Emerging Challenges

The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) recently wrapped up its participation in Human Rights Awareness Week. They hosted a panel discussion titled "The Role of NHRIs in the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights." This event was organised with the Geneva Centre for Human Rights and Global Dialogue, coinciding with Human Rights Day 2024 under the theme "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now."

Over 150 participants attended the event, including representatives from government bodies, NGOs, academic institutions, and human rights think tanks from the UAE and beyond. The gathering aimed to address significant human rights issues. Notable attendees included Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaili, Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, and Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al-Nuaimi.

Maqsoud Kruse, Chairperson of the NHRI, emphasised the importance of addressing new human rights challenges in a technologically advanced era. He stated that as technology progresses rapidly, human rights must remain a priority. He highlighted the need for strong data privacy protections to maintain individual autonomy and protect fundamental rights.

Kruse also reaffirmed NHRI’s dedication to launching strategic initiatives and leading discussions on human rights issues. This aligns with their goal to enhance international cooperation and adopt best practices in this field.

Dr. Umesh Palwankar from the Geneva Centre praised NHRI for successfully organising the event. He noted the crucial role national human rights institutions play in advancing and protecting human rights. Palwankar stressed that improved international collaboration is essential for achieving meaningful long-term outcomes in this area.

During Human Rights Awareness Week, NHRI also held a session under its "Knowledge Lab" initiative titled "Introduction to Human Rights and International Human Rights Law." This session was led by Dr. Ahmed Al Mansoori from NHRI’s Board of Trustees.

Future Initiatives

The NHRI plans to introduce several programmes in 2025 to further its mandate. These include ‘Manabir’, educational episodes on YouTube; ‘Rights Journal’, a semiannual digital publication; and ‘Human Rights Oasis’, a forum for civil society engagement. Ongoing initiatives like ‘Legislation Lab’ and ‘Knowledge Lab’ will continue as well.

The NHRI’s strategic priorities focus on four key areas: labour rights, women’s and children’s rights, People of Determination's rights, and health and mental health rights.

With inputs from WAM