Health Minister Stresses Importance of Respecting State Rights on Human Rights Day

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has highlighted the importance of respecting the rights of the State, akin to the respect and upholding of individual rights, during his address at the official function commemorating Human Rights Day on 10 December.

Human Rights Day marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a landmark document that enshrines the inalienable rights entitled to every human being, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status.

This year’s official function was held in Addu City, with Minister Ibrahim serving as the guest of honour. In his address, he highlighted the Maldives’ achievements in protecting human rights, noting that the development of a modern society hinges on the protection of these rights.

“The protection of human rights necessitates the promotion and development of the State’s governance mechanism,” Minister Ibrahim stated. “Just as we respect the rights of individual humans, we must also respect the rights of the State. We can only achieve this by transforming the mindset of the people.”

During the event, Minister Ibrahim also launched the ‘Right Side of Life’ report, published by the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM). This research document delineates the advancements in human rights protection within the Maldives and evaluates the level of public awareness on the matter.

HRCM President Mariyam Muna, in her address, described the completion and publication of the ‘Right Side of Life’ research as one of the commission’s most significant achievements this year. The human rights body would share the findings with relevant government agencies and work with them to address issues and concerns, she added.

The Human Rights Day celebrations in Addu City also included a family evening. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” calls for the recognition of the importance and relevance of human rights in everyday life.

“Human rights are under assault,” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. “This year’s theme reminds us that human rights are about building the future—right now […] We must stand up for all rights—always.”