By: Mariama Njie
Nfamara Jawneh, Executive Director of Beakanyang has said that International Day for Human Rights was set by United Nations to celebrate and take stock of human rights challenges that hover across the world.
He made this remakes at a press conference organized by his organization to commemorate International Human Rights Day on Tuesday at Beakanyang Head Office at Serrekunda.
The press conference was held under the theme “Youth Standing up for Human Rights”. Annually 10th December is celebrated by UN National Human Right Bodies and international organizations.
He pointed out that, young people are critical players in the development of any nation and the world at large.
“We calling on young people to stand up for your rights and the rights of others is essential for sustainable development”, he added.
He explained that, the Gambia is a safer place better than before, adding that the more people have access to self-determination, non-discrimination and their fundamental human rights are protected.
Mr. Jawneh further said the Gambia has come a long way regarding respect for human rights under the need administration, noting that there are areas that need improvement to achieve a better human rights record.
He pointed out that, Beakayang proposed human rights priorities to the government to ensure the right to freedom of expression and assembly, strengthening the justice system and end impunity for human rights violations.
“In any country that is perceived to be corrupt it determines social fabric and development of that country”, he added.
Ebrima Njie, Coordinator Gender Based Violence at Beakanyang, said today marked two important session that is the International Human Rights Day and the 16 days Activism Against Gender Based.
He pointed out that, Beakanyang is very concern about the high prevalence gender based violence in the country.
“For the past two weeks we have heard of cases of rape and kidnapping which is a very big concern for us”, he added.
Muhammed Sawaneh, Chairperson of Youth for Human Rights in the Gambia, said this year youths for human rights will be celebrate at St Peters Technical School on the 14th of December.
According to him, their main focus is to make sure every child understand all the articles of human rights, especially right to education and child labour.
“We want to make sure every school or child in this country to know their own rights”, he said.
