HRC President Dr. Hala Al-Tuwaijri Reviews Human Rights Advancements In Saudi Arabia During EU Dialogue

Dr. Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Human Rights Commission (HRC), recently evaluated the progress in human rights within Saudi Arabia and the achievements of Saudi Vision 2030. This assessment took place during the fourth round of the Saudi-EU Joint Human Rights Dialogue. Dr. Al-Tuwaijri led the Saudi delegation, while Eamon Gilmore, Special Representative for Human Rights, headed the European Union (EU) delegation.

The discussions between Saudi Arabia and the EU focused on various human rights issues. These included women's, children's, and elderly rights, as well as topics like freedom of expression and economic, social, and cultural rights. The dialogue also explored international cooperation and other shared priorities.

Dr. Al-Tuwaijri highlighted that Saudi Arabia has made significant reforms in human rights legislation under Saudi Vision 2030. She stated: "Saudi Arabia has achieved numerous reforms and advancements in human rights at legislative, judicial, and procedural levels, all within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030." These efforts have led to substantial positive changes in the country.

She further explained that Saudi Vision 2030 has improved the capacity of institutions to host major events related to human rights. A strong legal framework is essential to protect these rights and prevent violations. She added: "We have developed our legislative system in line with national priorities and commitments to human rights conventions."

Dr. Al-Tuwaijri detailed several legislative improvements aligned with national priorities. These include amendments to labor laws, child protection laws, anti-abuse laws, social security laws, personal data protection laws, elderly rights laws, and protection laws for whistleblowers, witnesses, experts, and victims.

The National Transformation Program is a key component of Saudi Vision 2030. It aims to increase women's workforce participation to 30% by 2030. This target was exceeded in 2023 when women's participation reached 34%, rising further to 35.4% by the third quarter of 2024.

Progress in Labor Rights

Regarding labor rights advancements, Dr. Al-Tuwaijri noted that compliance with the Foreign Worker Wage Insurance Protection Program improved significantly from 50% in 2017 to 86.9% in 2023. Additionally, public satisfaction with social services reached a notable level of 77.7% in 2023.

The HRC president emphasized Saudi Arabia's dedication to sustainable development focused on human welfare. The Kingdom aims to protect everyone's rights without discrimination while promoting dialogue with international partners.

International Cooperation

The meeting was attended by several key figures including HRC Assistant President Zuhair bin Mohammad bin Abdullah Al-Zouman and Shura Council Member Dr. Rima bint Saleh Al-Yahya. Representatives from various ministries and government entities were also present.

The EU was represented by Ambassador Christophe Farnaud along with several EU ambassadors and officials at this event held in Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA