UAE Presents Second National Report On Progress In Human Rights Under Arab Charter

The United Arab Emirates recently reviewed its second national report on the Arab Charter on Human Rights. This took place during the 27th session of the Arab Charter on Human Rights Committee at the Arab League's headquarters in Cairo. The UAE delegation included representatives from federal and local government bodies, along with civil society organisations focused on human rights.

Abdul Rahman Murad Al Balushi, Assistant Under-Secretary for International Cooperation and Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Justice, presented the UAE’s statement. He highlighted that since October 2019, when the first periodic report was submitted, the UAE has enacted various national legislations to bolster human rights protections. The country continues to improve its institutional framework in this regard.

Over the past four years, the UAE has implemented a comprehensive system of national policies and strategies aimed at enhancing human rights and fundamental freedoms. These initiatives include several key policies such as the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security; the National Policy for Senior Citizens; and the UAE Gender Balance Council Strategy 2026.

In healthcare, Al Balushi noted that the UAE has established a robust healthcare system adhering to global best practices. The nation ranks among the top 10 globally in competitiveness reports and leads worldwide in 11 health indicators. According to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, it ranked second globally in satisfaction with healthcare for 2023 and 2024.

Education is another priority for the UAE government. Initiatives like the Emirati School Forum, "Generations Schools," and the National Center For Educational Quality Enhancement have been introduced. Additionally, there is a focus on higher education through the National Strategy for Higher Education 2030.

Family Protection Policies

Al Balushi stressed family protection as central to UAE policies, stating that families are vital to a cohesive society. To reinforce this, 2025 is designated as the "Year of Community" to enhance social cohesion. Furthermore, Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 addresses family violence protection, and a Ministry of Family was established in December 2024.

Women's empowerment remains a significant focus in the UAE. Al Balushi mentioned that Emirati women hold key roles in politics and governance. The country ranked seventh globally and first regionally in the 2024 Gender Equality Index by the United Nations Development Programme.

Judicial Advancements

The UAE is committed to advancing its judicial system and legal framework. Al Balushi pointed out recent decrees on criminal procedures and ministerial decisions regarding technology use in litigation. Digital transaction systems are also being applied in personal status matters.

Tolerance is a core principle for the UAE, demonstrated by its leadership role in adopting UN Security Council Resolution 2686 during its presidency in June 2023. This resolution linked hate speech with extremism and international security while promoting tolerance.

Al Balushi concluded by reaffirming support for the Arab Charter on Human Rights Committee's vital role within the Arab League framework. He praised its contributions to enriching Arab efforts and reviewing strategies related to human rights across Arab nations.

With inputs from WAM