10-12-2024
Amna Hafeez
Pakistan Researcher,
Global Human Rights Defence.
International Human Rights Day, celebrated on 10 December, marks the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” urges governments to prioritise human rights, highlighting the global commitment to their respect, protection, and fulfilment.
On International Human Rights Day, President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to promoting and safeguarding human rights across all sectors of society. He emphasised the harmony between the UDHR and Islamic values, underlining that the Constitution of Pakistan ensures the fundamental rights of every citizen. The President also stressed the importance of protecting the rights of women, children, seniors, persons with disabilities, and minorities. He highlighted the interdependence of democracy, peace, freedom, and human rights, stressing that the protection of these rights is essential for fostering a stable, prosperous, and just society.
In his statement, President Zardari drew attention to the critical conditions in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, where the people face extreme state-sponsored violence and systematic denial of their rights. He also condemned the Israeli ethnic cleansing and genocide of Palestinians in Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories. President Zardari called on the global community to implement tangible measures to halt these abuses and ensure justice for those enduring these severe human rights violations.
In the same vein, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the significance of Islam in promoting human dignity and ethical values. He pointed out that the Government of Pakistan has enacted several legislative actions to reinforce the protection of human rights domestically. Both leaders stressed the crucial role of protecting human rights in establishing a democratic, peaceful, and just society, reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to this core principle.
Sources and further readings:
Dawn. (December 10, 2024). Human Rights Day. Dawn. <https://www.dawn.com/news/1877838/human-rights-day > Accessed 10 December, 2024.
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