In a landmark event held in Rabat, Morocco on December 7th, Nomawele Njongo, a distinguished advocate for human rights, participated as a panelist in the 30 Universal Commitments for Human Dignity International Symposium. The symposium, organized by the Human Rights Council of Morocco, brought together influential voices from around the world to discuss pressing issues related to human rights and the universal commitments outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Nomawele Njongo’s invitation to the event was a testament to her impactful work and commitment to the cause of human dignity.
The symposium featured notable figures, including the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Slaoui passionately advocated for gender equality, calling for a world free from domination and discrimination, while Dr. Alegre shed light on the challenges posed by information systems and algorithms in the age of digital technologies.
Fatna Ikrame ELFANNE, founder of Youth for Climate, Morocco, made a compelling call for increased representation of African youth in climate change discussions. She commended Morocco for its active engagement in United Nations human rights mechanisms.
Nomawele Njongo, in her address, seized the opportunity presented by the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Her intervention focused on the universality of human rights and the complex, unresolved challenges that persist globally. Drawing parallels between the historical scars of apartheid in South Africa and the broader discourse on human rights, Njongo emphasized the gap between human rights standards and their application, highlighting issues of selective implementation and double standards.
In a commendable effort to bridge these gaps, Njongo called for an unbiased understanding that encompasses diverse cultural perspectives. She urged for more dialogues, a renewal of states’ commitments to universal human rights principles, and effective compliance. Njongo also emphasized the need to hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable.
The President of the National Council for Human Rights concluded the symposium by calling for a major international debate on the universality of human rights. This, he suggested, would renew commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing the necessity of actively engaging philosophers, writers, and artists to implement its contents and achieve its goals.
Nomawele Njongo’s participation in this global dialogue reflects the dedication of individuals striving to ensure that the pursuit of universal human rights remains a collective, ongoing effort. As the symposium concluded, it left a resounding call for more dialogues, renewed commitments, and a holistic approach that considers the unique contexts of Global South countries concerning human rights.
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Nomawele Njongo, being such a powerhouse has broken the gender labels. From my childhood, I grew up knowing that the patriarchy is in charge of such responsibility. I would say she is a man of her word. A blessing to us all