The Ministry of Law and Justice in collaboration with The European Union, Sesotho Media and Development and the People’s Matrix Association convened in Maseru yesterday to commemorate International Human Rights Day and end 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Law and Justice, the Principal Secretary of Law and Justice Lira Ralebese explained that this day marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948 to recognize the equal rights and dignity of all people. He further explained that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has helped shape many human rights laws and institutions around the world, leading to important progress, even though many challenges still persist.

Meanwhile, the representative of the European Union Mette Sunergren urged all

stakeholders to uphold the principles of equality, justice, and inclusion.

She said this day serves as a reminder to ensure that no one is left behind when advancing Human rights

On the other hand, Ladyship Dr. Itumeleng ‘Mamokhali Shale gave public lecture on human Rights. Posing the question “is it possible to advance human rights in this country without having a National Human Rights Commission?”

She said Lesotho already has institutions that fight corruption and protect human rights but they do not oversee all the aspects of human rights hence the need for the National Human Rights Commission

Chief Magistrate Matankiso Nthunya closed the event by saying often times Law enforcement advocates for protection of human rights but they are the first ones to violate them.

She explained that the event made her realize that the way courts are build, especially the one in Ts’ifa-li-mali does not protect the rights of people with physical disabilities but denies them access to justice.

This year’s theme was” Human Rights; Our everyday essential”.