The ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands to South Sudan, Paul Tholen, has said ending human rights violations in the country requires collective efforts from the government, faith-based groups, human rights defenders, and the media among others.
The envoy made the call on Monday during the Third South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) awards conducted in Juba. The event was also to commemorate International Human Rights Day which is celebrated on 10 December annually around the world. This year’s theme is “Equality for all” emphasizing the ongoing struggle for equal rights and justice worldwide.
“All over the world, whether in situations of competition, conflict, different opinions, or simply people who are different, the strength of human rights lies in universality,” Amb. Tholen said. “But the danger is, especially for people like me who no longer have to fight for their rights, that we take our human rights for granted.”
He added: “The civil society organizations that deflect and cherish the diversity that exists in society, and is civil society organizations that can reach out to people, the media, and the government, to the private sector, political parties, and the churches, to jointly defend and protect human rights.”
The envoy commended those already involved in defending human rights and reiterated his government’s support for defending human rights in South Sudan.
“I am just particularly grateful to all of you who are here today because you are day in and day out, and sometimes at great personal risk, working hard to defend these human rights and making a difference,” he stated. “It is for this reason that you personally care, but also why the Netherlands supports human rights defenders so that you can continue your invaluable work as effectively and safely as possible.”
For her part, Adut Christine, the acting deputy chairperson of the SSHRDN, said the event is not only to award people in the quest for human rights but also to celebrate the resilience of the people of South Sudan.
“Your commitment is our testament to the extraordinary potential we have as a nation to restore and renew our society. You show us that no matter the challenges we face, it is compassion, determination, and humanity that will guide us forward” Adut said. “As we celebrate your achievements, it has also recognized the many other unseen heroes who work quietly behind the scenes in villages and towns across South Sudan. Their contributions may not always be visible, but they are also not less significant.”