UAHR Highlights Rule Of Law's Vital Role In Achieving Global Justice

The Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR) stressed the significance of upholding the rule of law globally to achieve justice and bolster human rights protection. The UAHR highlighted the Human Rights Council's efforts to safeguard judges' and lawyers' independence and strengthen international justice systems.

Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Kaabi, President of UAHR, delivered a statement at the Human Rights Council's twelfth meeting during an interactive dialogue on "Independence of Judges and Lawyers." This discussion was part of the 56th session held at the UN Human Rights Palais des Nations in Geneva.

Al Kaabi recommended that states ensure judicial systems remain independent and free from threats, intimidation, or defamation. She stressed the need to support the United Nations Special Rapporteur on judicial independence fully and prevent any interference affecting justice-related bodies' work and decisions.

She praised the UAE's achievements in the WJP Rule of Law Index, where it ranked first regionally and 37th globally. However, she expressed concern over a global decline in respect for the rule of law, which has decreased by 78% since 2016.

Al Kaabi also acknowledged the UAE judiciary's efforts, which have helped the country attain advanced positions in justice and rule of law indicators. She emphasised improving partnerships with civil society organisations to enhance these achievements further.

Support for International Justice Systems

The UAHR President expressed deep appreciation for the Special Rapporteur's efforts to enhance international justice systems. She highlighted the importance of ensuring judges' and lawyers' independence to fulfil their duties according to justice and integrity principles.

Al Kaabi called on all countries to learn from the UAE's experience in promoting judicial independence and rule of law. She noted that continuous progress has been made in international indicators related to these areas over recent years.

Enhancing Partnerships

She also mentioned that UAHR is ready to support national, regional, and international initiatives aimed at enhancing judicial independence and rule of law. This includes establishing principles based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, advocating for justice, equality, and judicial independence.

The UAHR statement underscored the importance of adhering to these principles to ensure fair and transparent trials worldwide. Al Kaabi reiterated her commitment to supporting efforts that promote justice systems' integrity globally.

In conclusion, Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted that protecting judges and lawyers is crucial for maintaining a fair judicial system. She urged all nations to adopt practices that ensure judicial independence and uphold human rights standards universally.

With inputs from WAM