Manama:The Board of Commissioners of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), led by Chairperson Ali Ahmed Al Derazi, convened for its seventh meeting to discuss strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing human rights awareness and cooperation with civil society organizations. A key focus of the meeting was on expanding youth participation in the institution's activities.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was attended by the NIHR Vice-Chairperson, the Commissioner for Child Rights, and the heads of the institution's standing committees. The Board underscored the significance of continuing the development of educational programs for civil society organizations, following positive feedback from two lectures delivered to participant organizations.
The Board also reviewed the "Cities, Local and Regional Governments and Human Rights" initiative launched by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. This initiative aims to document local practices in anticipation of the 80th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 2028. Further information was requested by the Board to evaluate the implementation opportunities of this initiative.
Additionally, the NIHR's efforts to promote constitutional awareness were discussed, including an event planned for October in collaboration with the Bahrain Institute for Political Development. This event will focus on Bahrain's Constitution and the constitutional guarantees that protect human rights and fundamental freedoms.
In preparation for the adoption and publication of findings, the meeting also covered the final statement and recommendations from a regional workshop on "Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance in the Arab States." This workshop was organized in cooperation with the Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions and the United Nations Development Programme.
The Commissioners emphasized the importance of expanding youth involvement in NIHR's programs and activities. They also stressed maintaining engagement with members of the "Friends of the Child Rights Commissioner" group after they reach adulthood, utilizing their experiences in human rights initiatives. Empowering young people and actively engaging them was affirmed as crucial to fostering a human rights culture within society.