By Mustapha Jallow
Officials of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and relevant stakeholders including those from security services on Tuesday, 12 December discussed the recommendations on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the United Nations (UN).
MoJ’s daylong consultation was supported by the UN Human Rights Council Voluntary Fund for Financial and Technical Assistance in the Implementation of the Universal Periodic Review and the UN Partnership on The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) Fund and implemented by the UN in The Gambia led by the Resident Coordinator’s Office.
The discussion brought together members of Civil Society Organisations, Jammeh’s victims, representatives from UN-the Gambia, staff of the ministry, officials of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), members of the security services, representatives from persons’ with disabilities and other government staff.
Hussein Thomasi, Socicitor General and Legal Secretary said the Universal Periodic Review is a vital mechanism of the United Nations Human Rights Council that evaluates the human rights situations in all member states.
Since The Gambia is a signatory to many international conventions, according to him, the forum was aimed at creating a holistic framework that can guide The Gambia in avoiding and reducing human rights violations.
“We recognize the importance of addressing specific human rights concerns that have been raised during the UPR process. To this end, the program will prioritise combating gender-based violence, protecting the rights of marginalised groups, and promoting freedom of expression and association among other things,’’ said Thomasi.
He added: “We firmly believe that a multi-stakeholder approach is crucial for the success of this program. We will actively engage government agencies, civil society organisations, and international partners to ensure a collaborative effort in promoting and protecting human rights. By harnessing the expertise and resources of all stakeholders, we can create a sustainable and impactful program.’’
By prioritizing the implementation of this program, Thomasi said the Gambia Government has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and building a just and inclusive society.
“We recognize that this journey requires dedication, perseverance, and continuous improvement. However, we are confident that our efforts will contribute to the fulfilment of our international obligations and enhance our standing as a responsible member of the global community,’’ he said.
Yvonne Masarakufa, Senior Human Rights Advisor from the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office said her office support to the Gambia in this phase of the reporting process is crucial. Yvonne said reporting on the achievements is key and is an indication of the tangible improvement on the protection and promotion of human rights in The Gambia.
She pointed out that the government has developed its green focused National Development Plan (NDP), which she added also seeks to protect the rights of citizens and also specifically focuses on the protection of key populations such as women, children, persons with disabilities and older persons.
Furthermore, she talked on how the Gambia has embarked on the implementation of the TRRC recommendations aimed at providing redress, reparations and justice. She said many of the UPR recommendations mirror the TRRC recommendations. She stated that the NDP responds to many of the recommendations in the UPR.
Masarakufa added that UN assures the Government, the NHRC and CSOs its continued support towards the protection and promotion of human rights in the Gambia, as well as relevant reporting to the UPR.
