DOHA: The grave violations by Zionist forces against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank are a glaring example of challenges facing the promotion of human rights in today’s world, said Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Al-Budaiwi.
The remarks came during a celebration Tuesday marking the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the GCC Human Rights Declaration, held in the Qatari capital Doha.
Al-Budaiwi condemned the Zionist entity’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territories as clear violations of fundamental human rights, and he highlighted the escalating regional and international conflicts, as well as the rise of hatred and Islamophobia. Al-Budaiwi reaffirmed the GCC’s commitment to working within a multilateral international system and strengthening global cooperation to tackle common challenges and safeguard human rights.
The event was also attended by Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights, Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, who affirmed the GCC’s unwavering commitment to enhancing human rights.
In her statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Sheikha Jawaher emphasized that the GCC’s dedication to human rights is firmly rooted in national legislations, the teachings of Islam, and the rich traditions and values inherent in the member states. She highlighted that the GCC has become a unique model in advancing human rights and reinforcing human dignity across the region.
She commended the leading role the GCC countries play in empowering women, youth, and individuals with disabilities. She also pointed out their efforts to ensure access to basic rights such as health, education, and development. She noted that these efforts are in line with the principles outlined in the GCC Human Rights Declaration, which encapsulates the core values and fundamental rights of individuals.
Sheikha Jawaher also praised Qatar’s initiative in organizing and hosting this celebration, which serves as a reminder of the substantial efforts the GCC has made in the realm of human rights. The event was an opportunity to reaffirm the key principles outlined in the GCC Human Rights Declaration and to continue working towards achieving these goals.
Furthermore, Sheikha Jawaher stated that Kuwait, in its role as chair of the 45th session of the GCC Supreme Council and as a member of the Human Rights Council for the period 2024-2026, remains committed to fostering collaboration and coordination with GCC member states in various fields, particularly in the area of human rights. She emphasized that Kuwait seeks to utilize the best global practices to further enhance the region’s human rights initiatives. Additionally, she referred to the declaration issued by Kuwait during the 45th GCC summit, which addressed key human rights topics such as the empowerment of women and youth. Sheikha Jawaher concluded by wishing continued success and prosperity for the GCC countries under the wise leadership of their rulers.
On the sidelines of the event, Sheikha Jawaher met with Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam Al-Misnad to discuss mutual cooperation between the two countries in the field of human rights.
