Human Rights Commission Commemorates the Anniversary of the Adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Commission on Human Rights, Humanitarian Work, and Relations with Civil Society commemorated today, Wednesday in Nouakchott, the 77th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, under the slogan: ‘Human Rights… Our Daily Necessities.’

The celebration of this anniversary, which falls on December 10 each year, comes as a reaffirmation of Mauritania’s commitment to the principles and contents of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as it is the reference document and common standard for peoples and nations in the field of human rights.

The field of human rights in Mauritania witnessed significant developments and tangible achievements during the current year, including the development of the legal and institutional framework, the establishment of the Higher Institute of the Judiciary and the National Authority for Combating Corruption, and the strengthening of judicial independence, in addition to considerable efforts in combating human trafficking and implementing major social programs aimed at supporting underprivileged families, which contributed to improving Mauritania’s ranking in human rights indicators.

The Assistant Commissioner for Human Rights and Humanitarian Work, Mr. Al-Rasoul Ould Al-Khal, stated that the achievements in the field of human rights are in line with the directions of His Excellency the President of the Republic, Mr. Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani, as outlined in his program ‘My Ambition for the Nation,’ and his tireless efforts to preserve human dignity by combating all forms of injustice, discrimination, and negative stereotypes, ensuring that everyone enjoys their full rights without discrimination.

He explained that the celebration has deep significance that requires further reflection and an assessment of the human rights trajectory, in accordance with the international commitments ratified by Mauritania.

He added that the Commission was able to implement the National Strategy for the Promotion of Human Rights 2024-2028, as it is the reference document that includes a comprehensive national vision to promote human rights and social justice, by entrenching the concept of citizenship and promoting economic and social rights to build a cohesive society free from exclusion and marginalization.

For his part, the President of the Forum of Non-Governmental Actors, Mr. Mohamedou Ould Sidi, congratulated the Mauritanian government on the achievements made in the field of human rights, calling for further joint efforts to promote the sector through the involvement and consultation of non-governmental actors.

In turn, the representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Mauritania, Mr. Jibo Mamadou, emphasized the close cooperation between the Office and the Mauritanian government, especially with the Human Rights and Humanitarian Commission.

He added that this year’s celebrations primarily focus on enhancing access to essential services, such as education and healthcare, protection from discrimination and violence, and freedom of expression and fairness.

He pointed out that the High Commissioner keeps in mind a noble goal, which is to reach a world free of turmoil, conflicts, and disparities, characterized by a spirit of solidarity.