http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=127974&d=2&m=11&y=2009
Monday 2 November 2009 (15 Dhul Qa`dah 1430)
Abdullah endorses project to spread human rights culture
Walaa Hawari I Arab News
RIYADH: Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has given the
go-ahead for a landmark project that aims to raise awareness about human rights
throughout Saudi Arabia.
The king's approval will allow the Human Rights Commission (HRC) to
fulfill one of its constitutional obligations, according to its President
Bandar Al-Iban.
The HRC sets general policy to build public awareness of human rights and
propose ways to implement it through institutes and bodies specializing in
education, training and media.
The commission is also authorized to spread values and a basic
understanding of human rights, which correspond with Islamic law. The HRC,
through its specialized divisions, will organize courses for personnel of all
human rights-related bodies in the Kingdom, and for those who are interested in
the field.
Al-Iban confirmed that the project's mission is to spread the culture of
human rights in an atmosphere of brotherhood, tolerance and forgiveness.
It also aims to enable both government and nongovernmental sectors to
effectively implement relevant policies in line with Islamic values and
international treaties and agreements.
The project aims to introduce regulations, laws and procedures in the
Kingdom that protect human rights.
It will also raise awareness about the dangers of human rights violations.
"Spreading a human rights culture is a clear example that conforms to the
king's policy of caring for the human, protecting his rights and preserving
them," Al-Iban said, adding that this applies to both citizens and expatriates.
He confirmed that establishing the HRC strengthened the Kingdom's commitment to
the values of equality and justice in Saudi society.
Al-Iban clarified that the HRC along with other relevant bodies including
the ministries of information and education and other cultural institutes will
set up a committee to develop a detailed plan to implement the project.
It will organize workshops, activities and campaigns, and publish a
magazine about human rights.
The HRC will also work with the educational sector to introduce human
rights in school curriculums.
