Message of the EU Ambassador on Human Rights Day

Message of the EU Ambassador on Human Rights Day

Today, as we mark Human Rights Day, we join the global community in reaffirming our dedication to upholding and advancing the fundamental freedoms and rights that belong to every individual. This day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, a milestone document that paved the way for progress worldwide, ensuring that human dignity is respected and protected.

The European Union remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. These principles are at the core of our values and actions, not only in our 27 EU Member States but also in our engagements worldwide, including here in Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea, with its rich cultural diversity, stands at a crucial juncture where the protection and promotion of human rights can further enrich its national accomplishments. Although institutional capacity for the implementation of human rights remains fragile, the EU commends PNG and all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, for their ongoing efforts to improve human rights conditions for all.

Our partnership with PNG reflects an enduring commitment to supporting initiatives that safeguard human rights in the country. Through the EU-PNG Partnership for Good Governance programme, the EU focuses on strengthening the rule of law by enhancing the governance capacity of key government agencies like the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG), Police, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), and the revitalization of the village court system. The EU continues to support DJAG's Human Rights Secretariat in its efforts to establish a Human Rights Commission in PNG.

Today also marks the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism, which commenced on November 25 with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, alongside the National 20 Days of Human Rights Activism that began on November 20.

Women and girls often face disproportionate barriers to their rights at different levels of society. The EU continues to support the PNG government, along with other partners throughout PNG, in their work to end violence against women and girls. The EU's Gender-Based Violence Referral Pathways Programme, known as Soim Wokabaut, focuses on prevention, protection for gender-based survivors, and strengthened access to justice.

The European Union remains a committed partner, ready to support Papua New Guinea in its journey to uphold the rights of all its citizens, fostering peace, prosperity, and human dignity. Together, let us work towards a future where human rights are not merely words on paper, but a reality for everyone.

Erika Hasznos, Ambassador