The National Human Rights Commission has called on Gambians to strive to promote a culture of human rights for all, as The Gambia today joined the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s human rights day.
December 10 is observed every year as Human Rights Day.
In a statement, NHRC said in observance of the day, it becomes imperative for “us as a nation and people to take stock and reflect on what has been achieved and what needs to be done to improve human rights in all areas of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development.”
The statement signed by chairperson Emmanuel Daniel Joof added: “Human Rights Day is celebrated by embracing a particular theme and this year’s theme is “Youths Standing up for Human Rights” and “the Role of the Youths in Advancing the Agenda 2030”. This theme is particularly important for us in the Gambia, as children and young people comprise the majority of our population with approximately 63.6 per cent of the total population of 1,857,181 being under 25 years of age.
“Children are the future leaders of the country and the way we treat and socialise our children generally, the values we instill in them, and the kind of education we provide for them will eventually determine the kind of society that they will inherit tomorrow. Instilling values such as respect for diversity for all regardless of tribe, religion, gender, or other social status is key to our peaceful coexistence as a people. It is also paramount that views and opinions of children and young persons are heard and included in our development agenda.
“The NHRC therefore calls on each and every person living in The Gambia to celebrate this Day and strive to promote a culture of human rights for all.”
