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This year marks the 70th anniversary of International Human Rights Day, when in 1948; the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As the UAE celebrates this momentous occasion on December 10, here’s a look at some of the nation’s achievements in the human rights arena.
Throughout its young history, the UAE has followed the principles of justice and equality, respect for human rights, humanitarian aid and relief action in line with the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Since its inception, the nation has ensured the founding of a tolerant and multi-cultural community in which individuals from across the world live in harmony, guaranteeing via its Constitution, their civil liberties.
The UAE has accorded the values of respect for human rights a high priority and is committed to continuous improvements in its laws and practices, deriving from its cultural heritage and religious values, which enshrines the principles of justice, equality and tolerance.
The UAE’s efforts in the human rights sector are reflected in the nation’s global recognition and position in international arenas. In 2012, it was elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for a three-year term from 2013 to 2015 and was re-elected by the UNGA for a second time from 2016 to 2018, in which the UAE actively participated in the council’s work to advance human rights globally.
As a member of the UN-Women Executive Board – made up of representatives from 41 Member States elected to three-year terms by the UN Economic and Social Council – the UAE works in close partnership with member nations to help accelerate progress towards achieving and sustaining gender equality and the empowerment of women. The UAE has, since 2012, supported the UN Women Fund with over $12 million.
Along with its role in the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, the UAE also plays a pivotal role in the Saudi-led Arab Coalition to combat terrorism practised by Houthi militias against the Yemeni people. Between April 2015 and March 2017, the UAE has provided aid relief to Yemen totalling AED7.3 billion, distributed across medical, food, education, and infrastructure development sectors.