Message of Justice Arun Mishra Chairperson, National Human Rights Commission, India on 25 years of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders

Press release

National Human Rights Commission

Message of

Justice Arun Mishra

Chairperson, National Human Rights Commission, India

on

25 years of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders

Dated: 8th December, 2023

“25 years ago, on 9th December, 1998, the United Nations adopted the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders. India has a rich legacy of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) contributing to advocate and uphold the human rights of all human beings without discrimination. Since its inception, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India works closely with such HRDs. I sincerely applaud their commitment and dedication in promoting and protecting the rights of individuals and communities, particularly of vulnerable groups. Their tireless efforts have not only helped in bringing about positive changes but have also been instrumental in shaping the discourse on human rights.

The Commission treats human rights defenders as their eyes and ears, and continuously engages with them on various aspects of human rights issues. It is heartening to note that more and more women are coming forward to take up such worthy cause and interact with the Commission at various forums. During the meetings of the Core Group of Human Rights Defenders and other such groups, meeting with the HRDs during the camp sittings, conferences, seminars, etc they make meaningful contribution.

I thank all the Human Rights Defenders especially women, who have been playing stellar role in highlighting and fighting for human rights of all human beings. Human rights to the sex workers, protection of the rights of the children of the sex workers, rights of women belonging to marginalized sections of society are some important issues, which have been taken up by the women HRDs. The Commission always welcomes them and stands by them. We are committed to encourage women HRDs as they bring sensitivity and responsiveness.

On this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to further promote human rights of all human beings and continue to empower vulnerable groups. Together, we are building a society rooted in our constitutional values i.e. empathy, equality, justice and fraternity.

Thank you human rights defenders for your sustained contributions to the cause of human rights, and I wish you all a great success in the collective noble endeavour.”

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