Abu Dhabi: The Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR) has commended the UAE for its significant strides in protecting and promoting human rights, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key achievements include advances in healthcare, education, social protection, cultural and religious rights, combating discrimination, and fostering justice and equality.
On the occasion of Human Rights Day, observed annually on December 10, UAHR praised the UAE’s dedication to enacting progressive laws and policies.
These measures aim to support women’s empowerment, children’s welfare, labor rights, and the elderly, underscoring the nation’s commitment to the rule of law and social justice.
The Association emphasized the significance of this year’s UN Human Rights Day theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” which highlights the urgency of fostering a better future through unwavering commitment to fundamental human rights.
The theme underscores the essential role these principles play in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring their timely achievement.
Legislative Achievements
Over the past five years, the UAE has introduced 55 transformative laws. Key legislations include:
Protection from Domestic Violence Law: Safeguarding vulnerable individuals against abuse.
Anti-Discrimination and Extremism Law: Promoting inclusivity and tolerance.
Safeguarding Witnesses Law: Ensuring the protection of individuals in legal processes.
Juvenile Delinquents and Children’s Protection Law: Providing robust support for at-risk youth.
Regulation of Non-Muslim Worship: Allowing diverse religious practices in the UAE.
Personal Data Protection Law: Ensuring data privacy and security for individuals.
Today we see an unprecedented pushback against human rights. Make no mistake: Human rights belong to all of us. Don’t let anyone take #OurRightsOurFuture away. No exception, no compromise.
10 December is #HumanRightsDay. Learn more: https://t.co/p3rIIowJAN pic.twitter.com/TYFSiLYFjx
— UN Human Rights (@UNHumanRights) December 7, 2024
National Strategies
The UAE has also launched nearly 40 initiatives to bolster human rights, including:
- The National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women 2023-2031, aimed at increasing women’s participation in leadership.
- The Women, Peace, and Security Plan, advancing gender equality in conflict prevention and resolution.
- The UAE Gender Balance Council Strategy, promoting equity in all sectors.
- The National Food Security Strategy, ensuring sustainable food systems.
- The UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, aligning technological advancements with ethical standards.
Global Recognition
The UAE has received widespread international recognition for its human rights initiatives:
- Seventh globally and first regionally in the 2024 Gender Inequality Index by the UN Development Program.
- First globally in the Lack of Labor Disputes Index by the Institute for Management Development World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024.
Additionally, the UAE has ratified major international treaties, including the Convention Against Torture in 2012, and has joined nine core International Labor Organization conventions, such as the Equal Remuneration Convention.
UAHR noted that these milestones reflect the UAE’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable society, advancing not only the SDGs but also its global reputation as a leader in human rights advocacy.