Celebrating Human Rights Day in Beirut
Ambassador Shorter calls for the confirmation of Human Rights Institution and full implementation of human rights laws in Lebanon.
Human Rights Reception 2017
Speaking at a reception in honour of civil society to mark Human Rights Day, British Ambassador Hugo Shorter called for the full implementation of human rights laws.
There have been some great moments of progress this year. Article 522 was amended, removing a loophole which allowed rapists to escape conviction. Torture was criminalised, with an important extension of the usual statute of limitations. But as usual, the test is in the implementation. Last year I welcomed the law on the National Human Rights Institution and National Preventive Mechanism. One year on that law has still not been implemented. I am encouraged by the Prime Minister’s remarks on Human Rights Day regarding its funding and independence and hope to see qualified, committed individuals appointed, so that they can commence their very important job. And as for the laws passed in 2017, I hope to see coalitions between civil society, government and parliamentarians to ensure their fullest implementation.
During the reception at the Ambassador’s Residence, which saw attendance from civil society as well as government representatives, journalists, and diplomats, the Ambassador particularly highlighted the key role of civil society in protecting freedoms and democracy in the run up to the 2018 elections.
He also referenced the work the British Embassy is doing in support of human rights in Lebanon, including on women’s rights, statelessness, standards of detention, torture prevention, and protection of refugees.