IGAD Launches National Human Rights Institutions Network

Mombasa, Monday, June 26 2023,

KNA by Fatuma Said

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has launched the National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) Network in Kenya, a platform that is set to foster cooperation and democracy among the related and relevant institutions.

NHRIs are state-mandated bodies, independent of government, with a broad constitutional or legal mandate to protect and promote human rights at the national level and address the full range of human rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

The IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, said that the launch of the National Human Rights Institutions Network (NHRIs) has marked a notable milestone in the endeavor to foster democracy, good governance, and human rights protection in the Region.

“To deny people their rights is to challenge their very humanity,” Gebeyehu said.

“NHRIs serve as the guardians of human rights within their respective jurisdictions, ensuring the rights of every individual are protected and respected,” he added.

He said that the human rights violation in the IGAD region is a major and entrenched problem revealing that series of conflicts characterised by devastating repercussions in the region.

Gebeyehu further extended deepest sympathy to all Sudanese for the pain and suffering inflicted upon them during the current war that is ravaging the country.

He added that Sudan was a generous host of immigrants for it acted as a home for those running away from home.

 “The establishment of the IGAD NHRIs Network is a testament to our collective resolve to foster regional peace and justice in our region and this platform will serve as a vital stage for sharing experiences, knowledge and collectively advocating for the Advancement of human rights,” Gebeyehu said.

Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Commissioner Marion Mutugi said that the IGAD region faces similarities in challenges about human rights issues hence a common platform would provide the synergy required to effectively promote and protect human rights.

“We, therefore, believe that such a network will enhance the promotion and protection of human rights across the sub-region of IGAD,” said Mutugi.

She said that members of the network resolved to strengthen information sharing and develop intervention strategies that effectively address cross-border pertinent human rights violations in the IGAD region.

Mutugi stated that the network commits to strengthening the early warning and prevention mechanisms and timely addressing of human rights violations in the IGAD region, adding that members further commit to facilitating experience sharing, peer learning, and best practices on monitoring, promotion, and protection of human and people’s rights.

She reiterated that the Network will be a platform for joint communication on human rights issues within the region, noting that the network particularly records and condemns the human rights violation and violations of international law being perpetuated with the vulnerable groups.

She asked respective heads of state and Government in the IGAD region to support this network of IGAD NHRIs, prioritise human rights issues in each member state, and mainstream a human rights-based approach to peace and development.

Courtesy ; K. N. A