UAE EU Human Rights Dialogue Holds 13th Meeting In Abu Dhabi

The UAE and the European Union have held the 13th UAE-EU Dialogue on Human Rights at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi. Officials reviewed recent developments, assessed ongoing cooperation, and examined how both sides share information, expertise, and practical experience on human rights issues.

The meeting brought together senior officials and technical experts from several UAE ministries and agencies, alongside representatives from European Union institutions. Discussions focused on how the dialogue supports policy development, aligns with international standards, and reinforces coordination within multilateral human rights forums.

Delegations examined a wide range of subjects of mutual interest, including labour rights, women’s rights, freedom of expression, and the rule of law. Participants also addressed efforts to combat human trafficking, the intersection between digital technology and human rights, and cooperation within United Nations human rights mechanisms and committees.

The UAE delegation was headed by Saeed Al Hebsi, Director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The team included representatives from the Ministry’s Strategic Communications Department, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority.

The European Union delegation was led by Anna-Maria Panagiotakopoulou, Head of the Arabian Peninsula and Iraq Division at the European External Action Service. Both sides used the session to exchange views on practical cooperation and to review how existing initiatives are being implemented in their respective jurisdictions.

During the discussions, Al Hebsi stressed that the UAE values this form of constructive dialogue with partners, which allows the UAE to present its human rights efforts and progress. Al Hebsi also stated that the UAE continues to build links through dialogue and cooperation with strategic partners by implementing training programmes and exchanging expertise and best practices in the promotion and protection of human rights.

European representatives noted what they described as continuous progress in the UAE’s human rights work, highlighting women’s empowerment and the contribution of women to peace and security. The European side also welcomed the official start of negotiations between the UAE and the European Union on a Strategic Partnership Agreement, viewing this as part of broader cooperation.

With inputs from WAM