December 10th marked Human Rights Day and the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In all corners of the world this day is recognized as the day of the universal human rights and the fundamental freedom of others. Dutch Embassies paid extra attention to the global importance of the Declaration and underlined the Dutch government’s view of the importance of human rights. Ambassador Wim Geerts introduced the Human Rights Tulip Award during a special Human Rights Day event in Ottawa at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT).

The Human Rights Day at Foreign Affairs included drawings created by children from more than 20 countries, as well as a screening of a documentary on sexual violence against women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, followed by a panel discussion.

Strong message

After the screening, Ambassador Geerts acknowledged the progress made in improving human rights in the world but also emphasised the challenges that lie ahead. During the panel discussion, the Ambassador’s message was strong. ‘Justine Masika Bihamba, a woman who grew up in the violent east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the winner of the first Human Rights Tulip 2008. This area today is a symbol of lawlessness and impunity. There is large-scale violence and human rights violations are the order of the day. Justine deserves this Dutch award for her bravery in helping victims deal with physical injuries and psychological traumas.

All people, in all places, at all times

The Ambassador stressed that the focus of this special day should not only be on the Congo, but also on other places in the world where the principles of human rights are violated. ‘Universality – the idea that human rights apply to all people, in all places, at all times – was the basic principle underlying the 1948 Declaration. Everywhere in the world, including in our own regions, improvements can be made. It goes without saying that in some places, human rights are structurally violated and in a most atrocious manner. Our government considers humanity a very important value, which reflects clearly in Dutch foreign policy. We do believe that every person in the world has the right to a dignified existence. If there is an opportunity to make a difference, we should seize it. It is our moral duty.’

Impunity