This speech was delivered by the Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed at the just concluded 16 Summit of Heads of States in Bhutan. It could perhaps be the first speech in the history of SAARC where a Head of State spoke of regional peace without conflicts on the basis of democracy and respect for human rights in every member country.
This speech was delivered by the Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed at
the just concluded 16 Summit of Heads of States in Bhutan. It could
perhaps be the first speech in the history of SAARC where a Head of
State spoke of regional peace without conflicts on the basis of
democracy and respect for human rights in every member country.
Mohamed
Nasheed said that "On the issue of democracy and human rights, it is
pleasing to note that South Asia is now a region of democracies".
"However,
we all face challenges consolidating democracy and strengthening human
rights. I believe SAARC should consider establishing a regional human
rights mechanism, similar to the one being developed for the ASEAN
region".
This mechanism could help States promote and protect rights and freedoms in their jurisdiction.
It could ensure that international human rights laws are observed and implemented by SAARC members".
"And
such a mechanism could help people in our region develop a common
understanding of universal human rights issues and perspectives".
Please read the full content of the speech HERE .
