On Human Rights Day, UN Calls Upon Somalis to Embrace Equality and Non-Discrimnation in All Aspects of Life

Mogadishu – In marking this year’s Human Rights Day, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia calls on Somalis to unite in upholding the principles of equality and non-discrimination are embedded in all aspects of life. 

Highlighting ‘equality’, which is this year’s theme, Special Representative James Swan, said: “Equality is at the core of article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. Equality is also enshrined in the Provisional Constitution of Somalia and the many international treaties Somalia is a party.”

“Ensuring that the principles of equality and non-discrimination are at the forefront, will help eliminate exclusion faced by minorities and marginalized communities in Somalia, such as persons with disabilities and internally displaced persons, and allow people to fully participate in decision-making that affects their lives and their future,” said the UN Special Representative. 

Observed on 10 December, Human Rights Day commemorates the day in 1948 on which the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 

The United Nations in Somalia remains committed to supporting the promotion and protection of human rights for the benefit of the Somali people.