The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), in collaboration with its partners, marked this year’s International Human Rights Day with a call to “Stand-up and Fight Against the Impact of Climate Change.”
The 75th Anniversary celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which was held on the 10th December 2023 at the Freetown City Hall on Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown centred on the international theme: “Dignity, Freedom and Justice for All,” but was uniquely localized to address the pressing issue of climate change impact.
The Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), Patricia Narsu Ndanema, addressed a diverse audience at the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Ndanema highlighted the continued global significance of the UDHR, which serves as a blueprint for international human rights law and national constitutions.
In Sierra Leone, specific human rights laws have been developed to ensure inclusivity for women, children, persons with disabilities, and other groups, aligning with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
The HRCSL Chair reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the universal applicability of human rights, emphasizing that they apply to all individuals, irrespective of various distinctions. Government was urged to honor its commitments to the principles of the UDHR and related laws.
In response to global concerns about climate change, she noted that the theme was localized to “Stand Up and Fight against the Impact of Climate Change,” extending discussions on the impact on vulnerable groups, such as persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, women, children and the aged.
Acknowledging the Commission’s recent election as a Co-Convener of the Caucus on Climate within the Global Alliance for National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), the Chairperson highlighted climate change’s threats to various human rights, including the right to life, water, sanitation, food, health, housing, self-determination, culture, and development.
On behalf of the Commission, she applauded President HE Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s support for the African Union’s efforts in addressing climate change. The AU’s strategy, presented in November 2022, aligns with the Government’s development agenda and its commitment to human rights, she pointed out.
Ndanema highlighted the Commission’s reaccreditation as a grade ‘A’ National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) by the United Nations. The accreditation, based on the 1993 United Nations Paris Principles, underscores the Commission’s operational independence, financial support, complaint resolution capabilities, and collaboration with partners.
The Chairperson urged citizens to reflect on their responsibilities as good citizens, as defined in the Constitution of Sierra Leone. She emphasized the importance of positive contributions to the community, abstaining from activities detrimental to others’ welfare, and preserving positive values.
Ndanema called for responsible citizenship, discouraging negative statements and actions that could undermine peace. The importance of maintaining the spirit of tolerance and adhering to legal avenues for addressing grievances was emphasized.
The Chairperson acknowledged the contributions of partners, including the Government of Sierra Leone, the Embassies of Ireland and China, UNDP, and the UN Family, for their support to the Commission’s operations.
Concluding, Ndanema called on the Government to continue supporting the Commission’s work, invest in climate change interventions, and ratify the second optional protocol on the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights regarding the abolition of the death penalty.
The Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Aidan Fitzpatrick, pledged continued support through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). He acknowledged the transformative change brought about by the participation of women in the human rights landscape.
Sharing the statement of the United Nations Secretary-General, the Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Miss Naida Rashid, emphasized the importance of promoting and respecting human rights every day for everyone, everywhere.
Giving the keynote address, the Deputy Minister of Justice, Dr. Charles Senesie, urged for collective efforts to “Stand Up and Fight against the Impact of Climate Change.” The event marked the 75th Anniversary celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and took place at the Freetown City Hall on Wallace Johnson Street.
Senesie emphasized the significance of Human Rights Day as a moment to reflect on the fundamental principles that bind the global community and the nation together. It serves as a reminder of the shared commitment to uphold the inherent dignity and rights of every individual, irrespective of background, beliefs, or circumstances.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the call for renewed dedication to advancing human rights worldwide. As custodians of justice and guardians of the rule of law, Senesie emphasised the duty to ensure that principles enshrined in the constitution and international human rights instruments translate into actionable rights for all.
The event included a poem recitation by Christopher Hinga, a musical interlude by One Family People, the presentation of the IHRD Football Trophy, and the official closure of the 16 Days of Activism by UN Women and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs.