In an address at the 23rd General Assembly of the Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions in Amman, Jordan, President of GANHRI H E Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah highlighted the need for human rights organizations to continue their work in protecting human rights in the face of Israeli aggression in Palestine and Lebanon. Emphasizing the importance of supporting human rights principles despite challenges, Al Attiyah called for justice and accountability for war criminals to ensure international peace and security. The event, held under the theme of “Reviewing and unifying regional and international efforts to support national human rights institutions in the Arab world”, aimed to address violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in the Arab region as a result of the Israeli occupation’s brutal war.
The Assembly, which gathered representatives from 50 international and regional organizations, national institutions, government officials, civil society organizations, experts, and human rights activists, saw the presidency of the Arab Network being transferred from Egypt to Jordan. H E Samar Al Hajj, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the National Center for Human Rights in Jordan, assumed the role, signaling a continued commitment to upholding human rights in the region. Al Attiyah reiterated the importance of standing firm in the face of declining human values and principles, expressing confidence in the ultimate triumph of humanity.
Al Attiyah’s address underscored the imperative of mobilizing efforts to hold violators of human rights accountable, particularly in conflict zones. She stressed the need for continued support for member institutions in areas of conflict, strife, and war. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to review and discuss the repercussions and violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in the Arab region arising from the ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Lebanon. By addressing these critical issues, the conference aimed to unify efforts to strengthen national human rights institutions in the region and uphold the fundamental principles of human rights.
The President of GANHRI’s call for justice and accountability resonated with attendees, who recognized the urgent need to address violations and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Al Attiyah’s remarks reflected a commitment to upholding human rights in the face of adversity and reiterated the importance of global cooperation in protecting human rights. The event served as a timely opportunity for stakeholders to come together to address the challenges facing human rights in the Arab region and to reaffirm their commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of nationality or background.
As the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to continue their work in support of human rights. The event served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy, laying the groundwork for future initiatives aimed at strengthening national human rights institutions in the Arab world. By coming together to address the challenges and violations facing the region, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the principles of human rights and ensuring justice and accountability for all. In the face of ongoing conflicts and challenges, the conference highlighted the importance of solidarity, collaboration, and collective action in promoting and protecting human rights in the Arab region and beyond.