Jeddah: The 27th regular session of the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has commenced. The opening session of the 27th Ordinary Session was held virtually, featuring the presence of prominent figures such as the Minister of Human Rights of the Republic of Yemen, Mr. Mashhad Muhammad Omar Ahmad, the Assistant Minister of Social Affairs and Labor of the Syrian Arab Republic, Dr. Raghad Zaidan, the Chairman of the Independent Human Rights Commission of the OIC, Dr. Saido Dogon Guida, and the Executive Director of the Commission, Dr. Hadi bin Ali Al-Yami, among others.
According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the session marked the launch of the Commission's new official website, aimed at enhancing communication with member states and partners through digital transformation. Dr. Hadi Al-Yami opened the session expressing regret that it could not be held in person due to the evolving security situation in the region. He acknowledged the inspiring commitment of Yemen and Syria's representatives to human dignity and extended gratitude for their participation.
Dr. Al-Yami congratulated Dr. Saido Dogon Guida on his new role as Chairman, expressing eagerness to collaborate closely. He emphasized the significance of the new website as a dynamic and accessible platform, integral to the Commission's digital transformation journey. The website aims to facilitate the dissemination of the Commission's tasks, activities, decisions, and publications.
The session will focus on reviewing the strategic plan's general framework to enhance institutional effectiveness and maximize impact. Dr. Al-Yami highlighted the ongoing human rights crisis in the occupied Palestinian territories as a priority for international attention.
Dr. Saido Dogon Guida, in his address, underscored the session as a reflection of the shared commitment to promote and protect human rights across the Islamic world. He appreciated the efforts in preparing the strategic framework, emphasizing its role in enhancing the Commission's capabilities and credibility.
Guida acknowledged the challenges faced by the Islamic world, including the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, protracted conflicts, Islamophobia, inequality, climate change, and digital technology's emergence. He called for coordinated responses to protect the rights of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and refugees.
Mr. Mashdal Mohammed Omar Ahmed, the Yemeni Minister of Human Rights, spoke about the humanitarian situation in Yemen, citing ongoing violations and efforts to uphold the rule of law and facilitate humanitarian aid. He expressed hope for the session's recommendations to enhance human rights protection.
Dr. Raghad Zeidan, speaking on behalf of the Syrian Ministry, highlighted radical transformations in Syria's human rights situation post-war, with efforts to reduce torture, enforced disappearances, and improve legal frameworks. She noted Syria's engagement in forums related to human rights.