By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
All UN Member States have been urged to propose at least one and up to five flagship pledges as part of Human Rights 75, an official has said.
Speaking at media engagement on human rights and launch of monthly thematic spotlight on women’s rights, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr Edward Kallon said in order to trigger one or more flagship pledges, Governments including the Government of Zimbabwe, are encouraged to organise a country dialogue in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to discuss key human rights issues, exchange positive stories and above all discuss what is needed to achieve progress in the area of human rights.
“To facilitate some of these national dialogues and discussions, the Office of the High Commissioner has proposed monthly thematic spotlights which cover the whole range of human rights,” he said.
“For June, the thematic spotlight is on women’s rights with a focus on the critical importance of women’s and girls’ participation in power and decision-making for achieving gender equality, sustainable development and lasting peace.”
The High Commissioner for Human Rights has established a Youth Advisory Group to ensure that thevoices of young people and children are heard.
The Youth Advisory Group is comprised of 12 young people from all regions.
“And I am pleased to announce that one of our very own here in Zimbabwe – Courteney Mukoyi – is one of 3 African youths selected to sit on this Advisory Group,” he said.
The UN globally and in Zimbabwe, working with various stakeholders including Government will conduct activities to advance the Human Rights 75 Initiative that will run throughout the year.
All the activities organised under the auspices of the Human Rights 75 Initiative will culminate in a High-Level Event which will take place from 11 to 12 December 2023 at which a pledging event will be conducted and a vision for the next 25 years crafted as a contribution to the 2024’s Secretary General’s Summit of the Future.
The December event will be designed as a hybrid event, allowing physical and virtual participation for all.
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