Annual Report - National Human Rights Commission

Annexure 16
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4) The importance of the role of non-state actors for furtherance of the objectives of the
National Institutions needs to be properly appreciated. National Institutions should step
up the pace of dialogue and scope of joint partnerships with the non-governmental
organizations. Such a linkage, our experience shows, bridges the gap between the
government and civil society and helps in creation of public awareness.
5) Issues relating to Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and monitoring their
implementation should form an important agenda for all National Institutions.
6) Networking between National Institutions and sharing of information and best practices
between them can be very useful.
These are only some of the illustrative and not exhaustive suggestions and I wish also to add a
disclaimer. Whether these suggestions can actually advance our fight against terrorism and
addressing its causes or not shall have to be tested because the suggestions are aimed at making
the National Institutions put their think-caps on to see what they can do to fight the menace of
terrorism.
Friends, we need to strive for a world free of fear and oppression while remaining steadfast to
our democratic values and adherence to the Rule of Law. We must act now. Let us remember the
words of wisdom of the United Nations Acting High Commissioner for Human Rights,
Mr. Bertrand Ramcharan, spoken at the Opening Session of the “Sub-Commission on Promotion
and Protection of Human Rights” in Geneva in July 2003. He said:
“Whatever we may say about tomorrow…………….. the challenge of human rights protection
is immediate and pressing” particularly in our struggle against terrorism.
Thank you for your patience.
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