Manama, Bahrain – The Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions (ANNHRI) convened its 25th General Assembly this week in Bahrain, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening human rights across the Arab region. Discussions centered on enhancing the capabilities of member institutions and supporting the establishment of new organizations adhering to the Paris Principles. Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) Chairperson, HE Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, highlighted ANNHRI’s pivotal role in this process during the assembly.
The assembly, which took place this week in Manama, brought together representatives from national human rights bodies throughout the Arab world. Al Attiyah’s participation underscored Qatar’s ongoing support for regional human rights initiatives, particularly through its hosting of ANNHRI’s General Secretariat. The event focused on collaborative strategies to improve the effectiveness of national institutions and promote universal human rights standards.
Strengthening National Human Rights Institutions
A key theme of the assembly was the importance of equal representation and rotating leadership within ANNHRI. According to Al Attiyah, the network’s bylaws ensure that the presidency rotates annually among member states, reflecting the diverse regional representation. This structure aims to foster inclusivity and shared responsibility in advancing human rights objectives.
Qatar’s Role and Regional Cooperation
Qatar’s commitment to ANNHRI is demonstrated by its provision of a permanent headquarters for the network’s General Secretariat. This support facilitates ongoing communication and coordination among member institutions. Additionally, Al Attiyah engaged in bilateral meetings with counterparts from Jordan and Bahrain to explore avenues for increased cooperation.
During meetings with HE Samar Haj Hassan, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the National Center for Human Rights in Jordan, and HE Ali Ahmed Al Derazi, Chairman of the National Institution for Human Rights in Bahrain and current ANNHRI Chairperson, discussions focused on joint training programs and capacity-building initiatives. These efforts aim to equip national institutions with the skills and resources necessary to effectively address human rights challenges. The focus is on professional development in areas such as investigation techniques, legal frameworks, and reporting mechanisms.
However, challenges remain in ensuring consistent implementation of the Paris Principles – a set of international standards for national human rights institutions – across the region. Some institutions face limitations in independence or resources, hindering their ability to fully fulfill their mandates. ANNHRI plays a crucial role in providing technical assistance and advocacy to overcome these obstacles.
The assembly also addressed emerging civil liberties concerns, including freedom of expression and the protection of vulnerable groups. Participants shared best practices in monitoring and reporting on human rights violations, and explored strategies for promoting accountability. The increasing use of technology and its impact on privacy and digital rights were also discussed as areas requiring attention.
Meanwhile, the network acknowledged the growing importance of international collaboration in addressing complex human rights issues. ANNHRI seeks to strengthen partnerships with global organizations, such as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, to leverage expertise and resources. This collaborative approach is seen as essential for achieving sustainable progress in the field of human rights.
In contrast to some regions, the Arab world has seen a gradual increase in the number of national human rights institutions established in recent decades. However, the effectiveness of these institutions varies significantly. ANNHRI’s role is to promote a common standard of excellence and provide a platform for peer learning and support. The network also works to raise awareness about human rights issues among the public and policymakers.
Looking ahead, ANNHRI is expected to develop a strategic plan outlining its priorities for the next five years. This plan will likely focus on strengthening institutional capacity, promoting regional cooperation, and advocating for the protection of civil rights. The plan’s implementation will depend on securing adequate funding and maintaining the commitment of member states. The next General Assembly is scheduled for early 2025, where progress on the strategic plan will be reviewed.
The ongoing political and social dynamics in the Arab region present both opportunities and challenges for the advancement of human rights. Monitoring the impact of these developments on the work of ANNHRI and its member institutions will be crucial in the coming months.
Paris Principles
Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions
Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee
