Over 1,000 human rights cases documented in 2024: OHRC
This was unveiled during a press conference held today by Oman Human Rights Commission, which highlighted its key efforts in 2024, including monitoring and receiving complaints, responding to regional and international reports, and organizing internal and external activities.
Dr. Rashid Hamad Al Balushi, Chairman of Oman Human Rights Commission, stated that the commission continues its national role in protecting and promoting human rights, guided by its mandate and the principles enshrined in the Basic Law of the State and international conventions to which Oman is a signatory.
He affirmed the commission's commitment to enhancing its operational mechanisms and strengthening its role as an independent national institution dedicated to fostering a culture of human rights, citizenship, justice, and human dignity in Oman.
Al Balushi explained that the commission's vision is to serve as an effective national platform supporting and protecting human rights across all segments of society and institutions. Its mission is to instill a human rights culture, promote its practice, and safeguard these rights in accordance with local and international laws and principles.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the Royal Oman Police in upholding human rights, particularly in services provided to inmates and detainees. During field visits to the central prison, the commission verified that health, educational, legal, sports, training, recreational, and hobby-related services met appropriate standards.
He noted that press freedom is a cornerstone of freedom of expression, highlighting Oman's 18-place rise in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index issued by Reporters Without Borders compared to 2023. The index evaluates 180 countries annually based on five criteria: political context, legal framework, economic environment, sociocultural factors, and safety.
Al-Balushi also revealed that the National Human Rights Strategy will be launched on 10 December, encompassing various aspects to strengthen and protect human rights in Oman in line with the Basic Law of the State and international conventions ratified by the Sultanate of Oman's.
The commission, he added, provided legal support for 937 cases this year, assisting individuals in resolving their issues through proper legal channels, in accordance with national laws and international agreements. This support covered civil, political, economic, social, cultural, environmental, and developmental rights.
In conclusion, Dr. Al Balushi stated that the commission responded to several international governmental and non-governmental reports, including Amnesty International's 2022/2023 Annual Report on human rights in Oman, the U.S. State Department's 2023 Annual Report on human rights in Oman, and its 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report, which assessed Oman's anti-trafficking efforts in 2022.
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