By Jackson Gaaniko
Over 60 participants, including parliamentarians, civil society members, state government officials, and security forces, last week participated in a human rights training session in Yambio.
The training aimed to reduce human rights violations and provide participants with a deeper understanding of individuals’ fundamental rights.
Key stakeholders, including government officials and legislators, were brought together to enhance their advocacy for human rights.
Adam Masko, Human Rights and Advocacy Officer with Hold the Child in Juba, highlighted the impact of the training: “Our goal was to reduce violence in the state by at least 70% through focused human rights advocacy.”
Christina Faida, Executive Director of Women Aid Organization in Yambio, emphasized the importance of historical context in understanding human rights.
“We learned that human rights have existed since creation, not just from 1948 as many believe. This empowers us to advocate within our communities, and we also gained insight into the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process,” she said.
Unice Romai Daniel, Director General at the Ministry of Labor and Public Service in Western Equatoria State, stressed the importance of the training for women.
“We now understand that human rights are for everyone, regardless of their circumstances,” Romai stated
The Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa referenced historical principles, noting that “human rights were established during the Philadelphia Conference and reaffirmed in the Treaty of Westphalia. Every person is born free with the right to life, freedom, and protection from oppression.”
He added, “Human rights ensure individuals have the freedom to live, receive an education, and be protected from violence and oppression.”
This training represents a crucial step in raising human rights awareness in Western Equatoria State, equipping participants with the tools needed to advocate for and protect human rights.