The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) hosted an interactive dialogue with young students to discuss the meaning of human rights. Ajith Sunghay, a representative of OHCHR, invited the students to share their pain and hopes, urging an end to the war so they could return safely to their homes. The dialogue aimed to show solidarity with the students, support them, and strengthen the relationship between OHCHR and the young people in Gaza.
Mr. Sunghay emphasized the importance of defending the rights of displaced students under international humanitarian law. He highlighted the role of the UN and its agencies in Gaza and their responsibilities towards Palestinians facing dire circumstances daily. The discussion covered various topics, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was drafted in 1948 and serves as the foundation for all human rights agreements.
During the dialogue, the students expressed their understanding of human rights, with one student stating, “Everyone has a right.” Other students mentioned the right to education and the right to live in a safe place as essential human rights. Mr. Sunghay provided an overview of human rights principles and explained the significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in protecting individuals’ rights globally.
One student posed a direct question to Mr. Sunghay, asking why he was in Gaza. In response, Mr. Sunghay outlined two main objectives of his visit: increasing the protection of people and assessing the human rights situation in Gaza. He emphasized the importance of engaging with civil society and understanding the challenges faced by individuals in the region.
A girl in the group questioned whether children in Gaza had the same rights as children in other parts of the world. Mr. Sunghay assured her that children in Gaza have rights outlined in international agreements, but he acknowledged the challenges in ensuring those rights are upheld in practice.
The dialogue aimed to empower the students to advocate for their rights and raise awareness about human rights issues in Gaza. By engaging with young people and listening to their perspectives, OHCHR sought to strengthen its relationship with the community and support efforts to protect and promote human rights in the region.
The discussion highlighted the importance of education, safety, and protection for all individuals, especially in conflict-affected areas like Gaza. It underscored the need for ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy to address human rights violations and promote respect for human dignity in all circumstances.
Overall, the interactive dialogue between OHCHR and young students in Gaza served as a platform for mutual learning, understanding, and solidarity. It demonstrated the power of dialogue in promoting human rights, building connections, and fostering a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. By listening to the voices of young people in Gaza, OHCHR reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human rights and supporting communities in need.
