Gambiaj.com – (GENEVA, Switzerland) The Gambia’s longstanding commitment to advancing human rights on the global stage has been affirmed through its critical leadership roles within the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Over the past three years, The Gambia has taken on influential roles, including two consecutive terms as Vice-President and serving as Coordinator for the Africa Group in 2024, underlining its dedication to protecting vulnerable populations and promoting justice worldwide.

The UN Human Rights Council, comprising 47 elected states, is a pivotal body within the UN tasked with promoting and safeguarding human rights globally. The Gambia’s contributions have been significant, notably advocating for peace, climate justice, anti-racial discrimination, and the rights of marginalized groups, including women, children, youth, and persons with disabilities.

As Vice-President of the Council, The Gambia has been instrumental in overseeing Council sessions and coordinating the Africa Group’s initiatives. This coordination ensures that African concerns are reflected in critical human rights decisions. Additionally, The Gambia led the UNHRC Disability Committee between 2022 and 2023, where it championed policies for inclusive protection of those with disabilities, focusing on addressing the needs of particularly vulnerable populations.

In 2024, The Gambia took on two additional significant roles: as a member of the UNHRC Working Group on Situations and as Co-Facilitator on New Technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Human Rights. In the Working Group, The Gambia evaluates complaints and makes actionable recommendations for human rights violations, reinforcing its commitment to accountability. The Co-Facilitator role involves navigating the intricate intersection of AI, technology, and human rights, with a focus on bridging the digital divide.

Through its work, The Gambia has consistently ensured that the voices of the Africa Group are heard, delivering statements and updates on behalf of the group, leading negotiations, and representing African priorities in Council resolutions. The recent re-election of The Gambia to the Human Rights Council is a testament to the international community’s confidence in its commitment to fostering an equitable global order.

Expressing gratitude to all United Nations Member States for their support, The Gambian government stated, “We look forward to continued collaboration with members of the Human Rights Council to contribute to a world where respect for human rights prevails.”