National Human Rights Institution Participates In GANHRI Annual Meeting In Geneva

The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) of the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of Chairperson Maqsoud Kruse, recently marked its presence at the annual meeting of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) held in Geneva from May 6 to 8, 2024. This event saw participation from over 80 national human rights institutions alongside representatives from various United Nations agencies and civil society organizations. The NHRI's role as an "observer" for the second year in a row underscores its dedication to advancing human rights, equality, and justice on a global scale, in line with the Paris Principles.

One of the highlights of this gathering was the conference on "Business and Human Rights: The Role and Experiences of National Human Rights Institutions," co-hosted by GANHRI and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The conference delved into corporate responsibilities regarding human rights, with a focus on environmental issues, climate change, and the implications of digital technology on human rights practices. The GANHRI's closing statement emphasized the collective resolve of national human rights institutions to foster stronger partnerships and share insights on business-related human rights matters.

On the sidelines of this significant meeting, the NHRI delegation engaged in discussions with several key figures in the human rights field. Notable interactions included meetings with Vladlen Stefanov from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights; Katharina Rose of the GANHRI Head Office; Kieren Fitzpatrick of the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions; and leaders of national human rights institutions from Egypt, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, the Philippines, Jordan, Pakistan, and Sierra Leone. These discussions centered on enhancing cooperation and sharing best practices in human rights advocacy.

Ambassador Jamal Al Musharakh, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the United Nations in Geneva, also met with the NHRI delegation at the mission's headquarters, highlighting the UAE's active engagement in international human rights dialogues.

The NHRI was established in 2021 through Federal Law No. (12), granting it financial and administrative independence. Its mission is to protect and promote human rights within the UAE while adhering to the UAE Constitution, mandates, and relevant international treaties. The institution's work is guided by the Paris Principles, setting standards for national human rights institutions recognized by the United Nations.

The delegation included prominent members from the NHRI's Board of Trustees and General Secretariat such as Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Deputy Chairperson; Dr. Ahmed Al Mansoori; Mohamed Al Hammadi; Ameirah Al Seraidi; Dr. Zayed Al Shamsi; Fatma Al Bedwawi; Dr. Saeed Al Ghfeli; Dr. Ismail Al Balushi; Fajer Al Haidan; Abdulaziz Al Obathani; and Fatima Rashid Al Hosani. Their participation reflects the UAE's commitment to enhancing human rights standards both domestically and internationally.

This engagement at the GANHRI annual meeting not only highlights NHRI's ongoing efforts to champion human rights but also positions it as a key player in international human rights discussions. Through such platforms, NHRI aims to further its objectives of promoting equality and justice without discrimination, contributing significantly to global human rights initiatives.

With inputs from WAM