Launch of new publication on Human Rights in the Commonwealth

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma has said “declarations about values and human rights are hollow if they are not backed by deeds”, in a new publication launched by the Commonwealth Secretariat on 8 December 2010.

In the foreword to the new publication, Human Rights in the Commonwealth - A Status Report 2010, the Secretary-General said: “The Commonwealth’s clear commitment to human rights cannot be taken to mean that all its members have achieved them and are observing them to the letter. But it does mean a determined commitment to pursue the goal. All members are journeying on the same path, and the information we present here is testimony to the continued work being done across the Commonwealth to advance in upholding and protecting human rights.”

The publication, edited by Dr Purna Sen, Head of Human Rights at the Secretariat, is a survey of the state of human rights, as measured by each country’s formal engagement with the main international standards and norms across the 54 member countries of the association.

The report outlines the human rights instruments ratified or acceded to, together with information on the main human rights institution in the country. It also highlights key initiatives being taken across the Commonwealth to protect the human rights of persons with disabilities.

The UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons, Dr Chaloka Beyani, said the publication provides “an excellent overview of the progress made across the Commonwealth to protect human rights”.

The Special Rapporteur on the Situation on Human Rights Defenders, Margaret Sekaggya, noted that the publication offers “invaluable information for all those working to secure human rights across the Commonwealth”.

Dr Sen added that new issues in human rights continue to be brought to the forefront of international thought, with climate change as a topical one.

“Climate change and its impact on human rights, especially for those in developing countries, is a new area that has been given attention in recent years,” said Dr Sen. “Disability rights have also received more thought and increased commitment from states since the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities came into force in 2008.

"Efforts to protect human rights will always need revision and renewed thought – but the underlying principles of non-discrimination and equality remain relevant and need to be promoted.”

She noted that positive steps have been taken over the past two years to promote opportunities for persons with disabilities to enjoy the same rights as others. Dr Sen pointed out that Cyprus has established a dedicated department to ensure persons with disabilities do not face social exclusion. Uganda announced a new programme, which will provide grants to increase the income of persons with disabilities, while Guyana has launched a national strategy for persons with disabilities. In New Zealand, a review was conducted on the effectiveness of its Sign Language Act.

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