The Misconception of Human Rights in MENA Region
The human rights situation in the MENA region requires a firm position in light of the political and social changes that reflect the deep legal and moral crises.
For example, human rights defenders have become a bugbear in their countries despite the fact that they have the total right to freely express their political views.
However, human rights defenders have been systematically targeted with the aim of distorting their noble role within their societies, pushing them into exile.
Today, we need a new generation of human rights defenders in the MENA region that only seek to raise awareness about human rights away from political-motivated goals and attempts to impose new strange values and beliefs on their societies.
The international human rights declaration, adopted after the Second World War, did not state that any international organization is obligated to a specific form of political or legislative reference systems. Rather, it clearly called for the respect of human rights and freedoms in order to achieve the human dignity.
It further states that every state and society have the right to adopt the best legal and political system that achieves justice, stability, development and equal rights among the people. It also included that states are primarily responsible for protecting and promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
To confront the violations and repression, a set of mechanisms were adopted to monitor the implementation of these international human rights treaties and conventions. This includes regular visits and field investigations and special rapporteurs, such as the Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
We call to reconsider the six pillars adopted by the High Commission for Human Rights in the 2018-2021 management plan, including:
1- Increasing implantation of the outcomes of the international human rights mechanisms.
2- Enhancing equality and countering discrimination, preventing violations and strengthening protection of human rights, including in situation of conflict and insecurity.
3- Strengthening the rule of law and accountability for human rights violations.
4- Strengthening protection of human rights.
5- Advancing sustainable development through human rights.
