A six-day training program on human rights kicked off in New Delhi today, bringing together top officials from national human rights institutions across the Global South. Organized by India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Executive Capacity Building Programme aims to boost these institutions’ strengths.
The event draws 43 senior leaders from 12 countries: Mauritius, Jordan, Georgia, the Philippines, Qatar, Fiji, Uzbekistan, Bolivia, Nigeria, Mali, Morocco, and Paraguay. It focuses on building stronger human rights frameworks through South-South cooperation and global dialogue on rights-based governance.
NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian opened the program with a candid look at today’s world. He pointed to rising protests fueled by anger, inequality, corruption, and media suppression. Drawing from the Carnegie Global Protest Tracker Report, he said over 100 major demonstrations rocked the globe in the past year alone.
Justice Ramasubramanian highlighted how such unrest even led to government changes in three of India’s neighboring countries between 2022 and 2025. But he stressed a key lesson: In places with robust human rights bodies, these protests stay peaceful, serving as outlets for public frustration. “These institutions act as safety valves,” he noted, adding that they’re often misunderstood as anti-government when they’re truly there to support people.
He celebrated India’s vibrant diversity—its mix of religions, castes, languages, and arts that unite under shared values. Turning to the Global South, he praised the region’s rich traditions in tackling human rights challenges. Through programs like this ITEC initiative, NHRC India wants to create spaces for nations to learn, share, and grow together, echoing the ancient Indian idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world as one family.
In his opening address, NHRC Secretary General Bharat Lal reminded everyone that human rights aren’t fixed; they evolve with time. He emphasized India’s long history of sharing knowledge for humanity’s benefit. This program, he said, sets the stage for mutual learning on pressing Global South issues, from energy security and climate change to cybersecurity and AI advancements.
Lal urged participants to band together for better socio-economic progress and human development. He hoped the discussions would spotlight new global threats and foster collective solutions.
Joint Secretary Samir Kumar welcomed the group and walked them through the program’s interactive sessions. Delegates thanked NHRC India for this chance to dive into multilateral talks on human rights. Joint Secretary Saidingpui Chhakchhuak wrapped up with a vote of thanks.
Over the next six days, experts from India and abroad will lead sessions on human rights topics, cultural insights, and historical views, helping build lasting networks among these key institutions.
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