Riyadh - Saudi Human Rights Commission (HRC) President Dr. Hala Al-Tuwaijri launched the "Expert in Human Rights" program here Monday evening in a ceremony attended by several local and international officials in the human rights field.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Al-Tuwaijri thanked Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their interest and unremitting support for all endeavors to protect and promote human rights in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to her, the "Expert in Human Rights" program aims to prepare and qualify national cadres in various fields concerned with human rights, providing them with the theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and necessary personal skills.
She added that the program also aims to benefit from the experience of local and international human rights experts, and that it reflects the Kingdom's commitment to achieving the sustainable development goals in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies (KFCRIS) Board of Directors Chairman Prince Turki bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, who attended the ceremony, stressed that the Kingdom, under the wise leadership, has not only committed to protecting human rights but has also launched the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which has opened broader horizons for citizens, residents, and visitors to its lands, especially in the field of human rights. He said the program is an important step taken by the commission toward attaining the Kingdom's goal of promoting human rights.
UN Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Nikhil Seth emphasized the crucial role of international human rights law in building just and equitable societies. He highlighted the UN's significant achievement in developing this legal framework and stressed the importance of strengthening national capacities to promote and protect human rights.
Seth acknowledged Saudi Arabia's leadership role in human rights and its commitment to translating theory into practice through international cooperation. He also expressed UNITAR's dedication to the success of the program, emphasizing that human rights training empowers individuals, fosters awareness, and strengthens the foundations of justice, equality, and peace.
Director of UNITAR's Division for People and Social Inclusion Alex Mejia highlighted the "Expert in Human Rights" program as a model for the international community. He emphasized its potential to evolve into a Master's program, providing a sustainable educational journey.
Mejia explained that human rights underpin all aspects of human development, governance, community well-being, and social justice, ensuring inclusivity. He further noted that a deeper understanding of human rights dynamics at national, regional, and international levels empowers individuals and fosters awareness, ultimately contributing to the creation of better societies for all.