New human rights program to build national expertise

Special New human rights program to build national expertise
The program reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering human rights in line with Vision 2030. (Supplied)
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Updated 09 December 2024
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New human rights program to build national expertise

New human rights program to build national expertise
  • Global experts highlight program’s potential to inspire regional human rights leadership
  • Alex Mejia: Human rights underpin every aspect of human development, governance and societal well-being

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Human Rights Commission has launched the Expert in Human Rights Program, the first initiative of its kind in the Kingdom to enhance national expertise in the field.

Developed with Majmaah University, the UN Institute for Training and Research, and the International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders, the program was inaugurated in Riyadh on Monday.

The 250-hour curriculum blends theory and practice to build a strong understanding of human rights. The first cohort includes 130 people, with 50 advancing to higher levels. Graduates will receive certifications, including foundational, expert and trainer qualifications.

Nikhil Seth, UN assistant secretary-general and executive director of the UN institute, praised the collaboration and highlighted its importance in promoting national and international human rights.

“Saudi Arabia can play a leadership role in the multilateral arena by moving from theory to practice through international cooperation,” Seth said.

He highlighted the transformative power of human rights training in promoting justice, equality and peace: “Training equips individuals and institutions to actively contribute to a more equitable and rights-respecting society.”

Alex Mejia, director of the training center’s global network, highlighted the essential link between human rights and sustainable development.

“Human rights underpin every aspect of human development, governance and societal well-being,” Mejia said, adding that the program’s approach integrates leadership, communication skills and public policy, which are key to achieving inclusivity and equality.

The program reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering human rights in line with Vision 2030. It aims to benefit the Kingdom and serve as a model for the international community.

Participants will gain insights from global experts, engage in self-assessments and take part in skill-building workshops, positioning them as advocates for human rights.

The initiative is expected to have a multiplier effect, inspiring similar efforts across the Gulf region and beyond.

“This program, rooted in Saudi Arabia’s vision, demonstrates the potential to create a more inclusive and just global society. It is a shining example for the region and the world,” Mejia said.

At a recent meeting in Geneva, Human Rights Commission President Hala Al-Tuwaijri said that Saudi Arabia has implemented significant reforms to reinforce its “unwavering principles of justice and equality.”

Since the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has “experienced unprecedented openness to diverse races, cultures and religions,” she added.

Al-Tuwaijri highlighted the national policy promoting equal opportunities and treatment in employment as a key initiative to eliminate labor market discrimination.

The establishment of labor courts in the Kingdom represents a significant advancement in labor justice, she added.


Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributes over 3,000 food parcels in Pakistan

Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributes over 3,000 food parcels in Pakistan
Updated 16 January 2025
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Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributes over 3,000 food parcels in Pakistan

Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributes over 3,000 food parcels in Pakistan
  • Monday’s aid delivery benefitted 20,444 people from the most vulnerable groups in flood-affected areas

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has distributed 3,007 food parcels in Pakistan’s Matiari and Thatta districts of Sindh province and the Tank and Torghar districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.

Monday’s aid delivery benefitted 20,444 people from the most vulnerable groups in flood-affected areas, as a part of this year’s Food Security Support Project in Pakistan.

The project aims to provide 147,500 food parcels, each weighing 95 kg and containing essential food for one month.

KSrelief will continue to provide aid to vulnerable people in Pakistan, the SPA reported.


Saudi Arabia appoints Japan envoy as commissioner for pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka

Saudi Arabia appoints Japan envoy as commissioner for pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka
Updated 16 January 2025
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Saudi Arabia appoints Japan envoy as commissioner for pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka

Saudi Arabia appoints Japan envoy as commissioner for pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka
  • Kingdom’s Dr. Ghazi Binzagr takes on new duties for global exhibition which opens in April

TOKYO: Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Japan Dr. Ghazi Binzagr has been appointed the general commissioner for the Kingdom’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.

The announcement comes as construction on the pavilion enters its final stages in preparation for the Kingdom’s participation in the global exhibition, set to start in April.

Binzagr, who has been ambassador since 2024, will continue his current duties alongside his new responsibilities as the general commissioner, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

He has also served as a member of the Shoura Council for three terms and previously held the position of deputy chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee from 2023 to 2024.

As ambassador, Binzagr oversees initiatives to boost relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

He also recently contributed to the Saudi-Japanese Business Forum and has been actively engaged in collaborative initiatives in key areas including energy security, technology, trade and investment.

The Kingdom’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka embodies its commitment to international efforts for sustainable human development.

In February of last year, Saudi Arabia was among the first nations to begin constructing their pavilions at the Expo 2025 Osaka site.

The design reflects the Kingdom’s history, culture and current economic transformation, the SPA reported.


Thriving lavender in Saudi’s Northern Borders has environmental benefits

Thriving lavender in Saudi’s Northern Borders has environmental benefits
Updated 16 January 2025
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Thriving lavender in Saudi’s Northern Borders has environmental benefits

Thriving lavender in Saudi’s Northern Borders has environmental benefits
  • The plant has been observed to grow on the edge of the Nafud Desert, an indication that it could be propagated to fight desertification, says environmentalist

ARAR: The Northern Borders region of Saudi Arabia, spanning approximately 104,000 sq. km, boasts an aromatic, seasonal and annual plant biodiversity, with lavender emerging as a prominent species.

These plants play a crucial role in sustainable development, combating desertification, increasing vegetation cover, stabilizing soil, and fostering ecotourism, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

Lavender, characterized by its fragrant scent and vibrant purple hue, has been observed on the edge of the Nafud Desert, signaling its potential expansion throughout the region.

This emergence highlights the region’s ecological significance and capacity to support diverse plant life.

Nasser Al-Majlad, head of the Aman Environmental Association, told SPA that the lavender species is Horwoodia dicksoniae.

This annual herbaceous plant features branching stems, typically reaching about 30 centimeters in height, and large, lobed leaves. Its dark lilac flowers, gathered in spike inflorescences, release a distinctive fragrance.

The plant thrives in shallow sandy loam and is valued for its ornamental qualities, making it suitable for cultivation in both homes and gardens. Its smooth brown seeds further contribute to its propagation.

Al-Majlad emphasized the positive impact of nature reserves and the Saudi Green Initiative on the region’s ecology.

These initiatives have facilitated afforestation, land reclamation, and the protection of wild areas, contributing to the resurgence of numerous trees and plants, including lavender, within the environmental landscape, he added.


Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments
Updated 16 January 2025
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Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss bilateral relations, regional developments

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a call from French President Emmanuel Macron, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The pair also reviewed bilateral relations and cooperation, as well as the latest regional and international developments.


Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister

Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister
Updated 16 January 2025
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Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister

Madinah deputy governor receives Indian minister

Madinah Region Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Khalid bin Faisal recently met Indian Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju during his official visit to the Kingdom.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed arrangements for Indian Hajj pilgrims during their stay in Madinah, India’s Ministry of Minority Affairs said in an official statement.

Rijiju also visited the Hajj Terminals at the Jeddah and Madinah airports, and reviewed the facilities available for the arrival and departure of pilgrims as well as baggage handling.