International Human Rights Day highlights collective action, Rwanda’s progress in protecting vulnerable groups

The Legal Aid Forum (LAF), in collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Swiss Development Cooperation Agency (SDC), organised a celebration of International Human Rights Day on December 9.

Although the official day is on December 10, the event in Kigali focused on further entrenching a culture of human rights within Rwanda by mainstreaming recommendations from international human rights mechanisms, particularly the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process.

During the event, themed “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now”, the urgent need for collective action, positioning human rights as a tool to prevent, protect, and transform societies was highlighted.

The event featured an exhibition showcasing the efforts of human rights organisations in promoting the rights of vulnerable and marginalised groups in Rwanda. It brought together key stakeholders from government, civil society, and communities.

Me Andrews Kananga, Executive Director of LAF delivers remarks during the ceremony

In his opening remarks, Andrew Kananga, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Forum, highlighted Rwanda’s significant progress in promoting human rights, emphasising that human rights are not just abstract concepts but tangible tools for transformation.

“Human rights are not abstract ideas but tangible tools for transformation, capable of addressing social challenges and fostering inclusive growth, and the importance of placing human rights at the forefront of global and local efforts to address pressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change,” he said.

Kananga also urged immediate action and collaboration to ensure that dignity, equality, and justice are not just ideals but realities—while acknowledging the invaluable contributions of partner organisations and stakeholders in advancing the human rights agenda in Rwanda.

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Ozonnia Ojielo, the One UN Resident Coordinator addresses delegates during the celebration of International Human Rights Day on December 9. Courtesy

Ozonnia Ojielo, UN Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, emphasised the role of human rights in addressing global challenges and achieving sustainable development goals, adding that collaboration among various stakeholders, such as civil society organisations, state institutions, and the United Nations system, is needed to achieve these goals.

“Human rights are the foundation of the SDGs and are critical for addressing issues like poverty and inequality while ensuring a fair and just society for all, and Rwanda’s journey of progress reflects the interdependence of human rights and development, and we must continue working together to ensure that every individual’s rights are respected,” he noted.

Ojielo also commended Rwanda’s achievement in human rights and the ongoing effort to strengthen these systems, noting that continued action is needed to realise the rights and aspirations of all citizens.

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Delegates follow a panel discussion at the ceremony

In his address, Theophile Mbonera, the Permanent Secretary and Solicitor General of the Ministry of Justice in Rwanda, underlined the importance of human rights in shaping a just and inclusive society, noting the progress made in embedding these rights into the country’s identity and governance.

“Our journey has been transformative, from enshrining fundamental rights in our constitution to engaging with international human rights mechanisms, ensuring that no one is left behind, and we are committed to maintaining an open and collaborative approach to human rights,” he stated.

Mbonera also added that the government is determined to create a society where the protection and promotion of human rights are not just institutional responsibilities but a shared ethos embraced by all.

“Through our collective efforts, we can ensure the dignity, freedom, and justice of every individual, building a sustainable future for generations to come, and we are committed to advancing human rights across our nation and ensuring that they are celebrated as the foundation of our collective progress,” he added.

Officials join a traditional ballet during the celebration of the International Human Rights Day on December 9. Courtesy

Officials interact at the event, that was themed “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now”, the

A traditional ballet entertaining the audience at the event

The event featured an exhibition showcasing the efforts of human rights organisations in promoting the rights of vulnerable and marginalised groups in Rwanda. .

Source: Newtimes