• Tuesday, December 10,2024

"Our Rights, Our Future”: Celebrating International Human Rights Day and the 76th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Under the slogan Our Rights, Our Future, the Ministry of Interior marked International Human Rights Day and the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in collaboration with the Permanent Committee for Human Rights in the UAE and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

As part of the celebration, the Ministry officially launched the Electronic Human Rights Plan Program, developed in cooperation with the General Department of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Security. This initiative provides a unified digital platform for preparing a national action plan to promote and protect human rights across the Ministry and Police General HQs. Additionally, the Ministry participated in the launch of a pioneering program aimed at qualifying national cadres in the field of human rights, supporting societal protection, enhancing workforce capabilities, improving performance, and raising awareness about the significance of human rights and their practical applications.

Major General Salem Ali Al Shamsi, Assistant Undersecretary for Resources and Support Services, highlighted the importance of this annual observance, emphasizing that human rights are the cornerstone of building advanced societies. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to safeguarding and promoting these rights in all areas of life.

This day is a reminder of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, a pivotal moment in humanity’s journey towards dignity and freedom, Al Shamsi said. He stressed that human rights are not merely theoretical ideals but essential pillars for a just and prosperous future.

He called for collective efforts to implement and sustain these rights, emphasizing awareness, education, and the protection of fundamental freedoms. Al Shamsi concluded by urging everyone to work together to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and equal opportunity for all, ensuring a brighter future for humanity.

UAE’s Pioneering Vision: Emphasizing Leadership in Promoting Human Rights and Global Coexistence.


Commenting on this topic, His Excellency Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi said: Human rights are an integral part of the thinking of our wise leadership, a major component of the country’s constitution, and an important building block in its foreign policy. Today, we join the international community in celebrating International Human Rights Day, and we recall the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a pivotal and reference document in international efforts to support and consolidate the principles of dignity, equality, non-discrimination, justice, and tolerance. We also value our distinguished partnership with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, one of the fruits of which is the technical support program entitled Qualifying a National Cadre in the Field of Human Rights, which reflects the UAE’s commitment to building a group of human rights experts capable of fulfilling our obligations effectively.

For her part, Hind Al Owais said: Today’s event reaffirms our firm commitment to the values of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as international human rights frameworks. As we celebrate Human Rights Day, we recognize the need to maintain our commitment to the global frameworks that form the foundation of the unity of the international community, especially in times of crisis, while emphasizing the importance of integrating human rights into various aspects of government work. Al Owais added: The launch of the training program in cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights represents an important step in these efforts, and we look forward to building the next generation of human rights experts in the UAE. Together, we will continue to support and protect human rights and adhere to these principles in all sectors.


The ceremony featured speeches by prominent figures, including Her Excellency Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women’s Union; His Excellency Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development and International Organizations; Her Excellency Hind Al Owais, Director of the Permanent Committee for Human Rights; His Excellency Mazen Shaqoura, Regional Representative of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for the Middle East and North Africa; Fatima Jassim, Advisor on the Affairs of People of Determination; and Jassim Al Nuaimi, a member of the national cadre in the field of human rights.

The speakers highlighted the UAE’s commitment to advancing international cooperation in safeguarding public freedoms, individual rights, and community security. They emphasized the nation’s leadership in upholding human rights principles, promoting equality, and fostering justice, rooted in a legislative framework aligned with international best practices.

They noted that the UAE is a global model for tolerance and coexistence, fostering harmony among diverse cultural and religious groups while ensuring security and stability. Human rights in the UAE are intrinsic values deeply embedded in societal traditions, further strengthened by the constitution and legislation that guarantee justice, equality, and security for all.

The speeches also underscored the UAE’s achievements as a young, progressive state where respect and harmony prevail, and individual rights are safeguarded in accordance with human values. The UAE’s approach reflects its authentic cultural heritage and aligns with the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Since its founding, the UAE has been built on tolerance and unity, earning a global reputation for its initiatives, forward-thinking efforts, and exemplary practices in promoting the rule of law, empowering women, protecting children, advocating workers’ rights, and supporting various societal groups. The nation continues to champion human rights as a cornerstone of its development and stability.

Innovative Initiatives Enhance UAE’s Efforts to Promote Human Rights and Empower National Cadres

The Ministry of Interior also launched the Electronic Program for the Human Rights Plan, a groundbreaking initiative leveraging modern technologies to strengthen efforts in promoting and protecting human rights. This digital platform supports comprehensive data management, report preparation, and compliance with international, regional, and national human rights agreements across Ministry sectors and General Police HQs.

Brigadier Mohammed Ali Al Shehhi, Director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Interior, emphasized the UAE’s commitment to international agreements, humanitarian principles, and treaties under the vision of its wise leadership. He highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing advancements in electronic services and institutional performance, exemplified by the development of the human rights action plan now integrated into this digital program.

As part of these initiatives, the Ministry also launched the Empowering National Cadres in Human Rights and International Mechanisms: 2024–2025 Qualification Program." This initiative, rooted in technical support and collaboration with the Permanent Committee for Human Rights, the Regional Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and other entities, is designed to build national capacities capable of safeguarding and advancing human rights.

The program aims to equip national cadres with the knowledge and practical skills needed to address human rights issues effectively. It seeks to establish a network of specialists who will contribute to developing and implementing policies that align with international standards.

The nine-month program combines theoretical and practical components, including simulation sessions, report reviews, working group exercises, and real-world case studies. This comprehensive approach ensures participants are well-prepared to handle human rights challenges, empowering them to play a pivotal role in shaping the UAE’s human rights landscape.