Date: August 23, 2022.
Human rights are universal, inalienable, indivisible, and interdependent rights that all human beings are entitled to from birth. As Senegalese President Léopold Sédar Senghor famously said, “Human rights begin with breakfast.” Yet, these fundamental rights are often violated around the world.
The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a unique mechanism of the United Nations Human Rights Council that serves as a global safeguard for human rights. Its main objective is to improve the human rights situation at the national level by holding UN member states accountable for their human rights records.
The Importance of UPR for Bangladesh:
Bangladesh, as a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights treaties, has a responsibility to uphold and protect the human rights of all its citizens. The UPR provides a valuable opportunity for Bangladesh to review its human rights progress, identify challenges, and commit to concrete actions to improve the situation.
Role of Youth in Human Rights Protection:
Young people are the future of Bangladesh, and they will play a critical role in protecting and promoting human rights in the years to come. The UPR provides a platform for youth to engage in meaningful dialogue with government officials, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders on human rights issues.
Workshop on UPR and Bangladesh:
In light of the importance of UPR for Bangladesh and the role of youth in human rights protection, the Department of Law, Rajshahi University, and the Centre for Law and Mediation (ASCK) jointly organized a workshop on “UPR and Bangladesh: Dialogue with Youth” on August 23, 2022, at the Dean’s Complex, Rajshahi University.
Objectives of the Workshop:
The workshop aimed to:
- Raise awareness among young people about the UPR and its significance for Bangladesh
- Provide an understanding of the human rights situation in Bangladesh
- Encourage youth participation in UPR processes
- Develop strategies for promoting human rights in Bangladesh
Workshop Participants:
The workshop was attended by a diverse group of young people, including students, activists, and community leaders.
Workshop Activities:
The workshop featured a variety of activities, including:
- Presentations by experts on UPR and human rights in Bangladesh
- Panel discussions on key human rights issues
- Group exercises to develop strategies for promoting human rights
- Networking opportunities
Workshop Outcomes:
The workshop was a valuable learning experience for all participants. Participants gained a deeper understanding of UPR and its role in promoting human rights in Bangladesh. They also developed skills and strategies for engaging in human rights advocacy.
Conclusion:
The UPR is an important tool for protecting and promoting human rights in Bangladesh. Young people have a critical role to play in ensuring that the UPR is effective and that Bangladesh upholds its human rights obligations. The workshop on “UPR and Bangladesh: Dialogue with Youth” was a positive step towards empowering young people to take action for human rights.
