Source : WAM
The 13th session of the UAE–EU Human Rights Dialogue was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abu Dhabi, highlighting recent developments, ongoing initiatives, and the exchange of information, expertise, and best practices in the area of human rights between the UAE and the European Union.
The meeting addressed a range of shared priorities, including labour rights, women’s rights, freedom of expression, the rule of law, efforts to combat human trafficking, the impact of digital technology on human rights, and coordination within United Nations human rights bodies, mechanisms, and committees.
The UAE delegation was headed by Saeed Al Hebsi, Director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and included representatives from the Ministry’s Strategic Communications Department, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
The European Union delegation was led by Anna-Maria Panagiotakopoulou, Head of the Arabian Peninsula and Iraq Division at the European External Action Service (EEAS).
During the dialogue, Al Hebsi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to constructive engagement with its partners, noting that such discussions offer an important platform to highlight the country’s efforts and progress in advancing human rights.
He also stressed that the UAE continues to strengthen cooperation with strategic partners by fostering dialogue, implementing training programmes, and sharing expertise and best practices to promote and protect human rights.
The EU delegation praised the UAE’s continued progress in the human rights field, particularly in advancing women’s empowerment and enhancing the role of women in peace and security. It also welcomed the official launch of negotiations between the UAE and the European Union on a Strategic Partnership Agreement.
