On International Human Rights Day 2024, Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty reflects on his journey over the past nine months, highlighting the 25th anniversary of the Human Rights Commissioner role. He pays homage to his predecessors for their dedicated work, balancing quiet achievements with prominent milestones in the advocacy for human rights across Europe and beyond.
Central to O’Flaherty’s reflections are pressing global issues, namely Russia’s ongoing aggression towards Ukraine, which severely infringes on the rights of its citizens, including the displacement of children. He emphasizes the imperative for secure borders that align with international law, urging nations to uphold their duties without compromising fundamental human rights.
O’Flaherty expresses particular concern for the 12 million Roma living across European states, who face systemic challenges. He has engaged closely with Roma communities to understand their struggles and to forge stronger alliances in the fight for their rights. This commitment will continue as he prepares to address these issues into 2025.
Collaboration is key to realizing the aspirations outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, O’Flaherty asserts. He pledges to work side by side with national human rights institutions, civil society, and related international organizations. He also notes the increasing pressures faced by civil society in various regions, vowing to stand united for their support.
With a resolute spirit, Commissioner O’Flaherty concludes, “hope is not an option, it is a duty.” His message resonates as a clarion call for collective action, imbued with hope, resolve, and an unwavering commitment to advancing human rights for all.
On Human Rights Day 2024, Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty reflects on nine months of advocacy, focusing on ongoing challenges like the war in Ukraine and the plight of the Roma community. He emphasizes the necessity of collaboration among various stakeholders to uphold international human rights standards and insists on maintaining hope in these efforts, as he prepares to tackle these issues into the next year.
Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty’s message on Human Rights Day emphasizes the importance of collaboration and commitment to uphold human rights standards. He calls for action against violations and highlights the struggles of marginalized communities. As he steps into the future, his duty is clear: to inspire hope and foster unity in the ongoing quest for human dignity and justice across Europe.
International Human Rights Day is observed annually to promote and protect human rights globally. The Human Rights Commissioner position was established to oversee these efforts in Europe, advocating for vulnerable groups and ensuring compliance with international standards. The 2024 message by Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty underscores the enduring struggles against violations, especially in light of conflicts like the situation in Ukraine and the marginalization of communities such as the Roma.
Original Source: www.coe.int
