Foreign Secretary Attends Human Rights Day Event

On Monday, Foreign Secretary, Ahmed Latheef attended the Human Rights Day Event co-hosted by the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives. The event took place at Maldives National University (MNU) and commemorated the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This year’s theme for the day is ‘Dignity, Freedom and Justice for All”.

The Foreign Secretary delivered his opening remarks at the event. In his remarks, he reiterated the commitment of the Maldives to uphold the values of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. In this regard, he recollected the advancements made by the country in the field of human rights in the past few years, emphasizing its progress both domestically and internationally. Additionally, the Foreign Secretary also underscored the efforts taken by the Government to improve the political and legislative framework to further advocate for the rights of vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

During his speech, he shed light on the noteworthy acquirement of membership by the Maldives at the United Nations Human Rights Council for a third time. Reflecting on this, Ahmed Latheef expressed hope that assuming a seat at the Council will allow Maldives to pursue its advocacy in priority areas including the intersection between human rights and environment and democratic consolidation. Before concluding his remarks, he also stated the commendable engagements of the Maldives in the Council on previous occasions and assured the audience that the nation will remain steadfast in securing a future with equality at its core for the people.

The event was graced by notable dignitaries such as the President of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives, Mariyam Muna, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Catherine Haswell. Other attendees in participation include the diplomatic corps, government officials, and representatives of civil society and academia. As part of the event, panel discussions and video screenings were also hosted focusing on three major themes. This included gender discrimination at the workplace, the rights of migrant workers, and the rights of persons with disabilities.

Human Rights Day is marked every year on 10th December, the same date the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.