Equality gives emphasis to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: VP Hussain

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has stated that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights emphasize on equality and the inherent dignity of all individuals, leaving no room for partiality.

VP Hussain made these remarks at the opening ceremony panel discussion on human rights at the Human Rights 75 high-level event in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday.

Addressing the topic of steps in putting human rights at the forefront of finding solutions for both the challenges of today and tomorrow, the Maldivian Vice President stated that the concept of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's development route is to priorities the "human" in the pursuit of development.

The Vice President noted that it was crucial to shed light on the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Palestine, while we commemorate 75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and reiterated the Maldives’ call for an immediate and urgent end to the war in Gaza. He stated that the current situation in Gaza and other areas of geopolitical conflict serves as a poignant example of the urgent need for global solidarity in upholding human rights.

The Vice President further emphasized five points: first, human rights are "non-negotiable" and should be held as minimum standards to uphold each person's dignity; second, human rights promotion should be a comprehensive strategy involving governments, businesses, civil society organizations, international bodies, and individuals; third, human rights education should be promoted at all levels; fourth, it is critical to acknowledge and value the role of multilateralism and the rules-based international order in promoting and safeguarding our communities to promote peace, security, and development; and finally, young people's growing involvement in the discourse around climate change and human rights should be encouraged, as it offers hope for inclusive policies and actions.

The Human Rights 75 High-Level Event, convened by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and co-hosted by the Government of Switzerland, commemorates the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Maldives is a member of the UN Human Rights Council, and currently also holds Vice-Presidency for Asia-Pacific Region.