This advisory council also constitutes a “important achievement” as announced by the Moroccan presidency since it took duty for directing the work of the HRC, welcomed Mr. Zniber, in a statement to MAP on the sidelines of the launch ceremony of this structure, noting that this initiative was welcomed “unanimously” in Geneva by civil society, but also by all council stakeholders.
The objective of this council is to strengthen the discussions and action of the HRC in matters of equality and gender parity, with the aim of promoting progress and the achievement of sustainable development objectives and more broadly to make so that this issue, wich is at the center of human rights concerns, becomes a reality at the international level, underlined the ambassador.
And to add that by its composition, this Advisory council will have a very crucial role to play, especially since at the invitation of the Moroccan presidency of the UN HRC, ten directors general of international organizations present at Geneva will sit there, as will representatives of UN member countries, civil society and Human rights Council mechanisms working on the issue of gender, such as the president of the Committee for the Elimination of discrimination against women, and other personalities.
These will meet periodically to see what suggestions and proposals can strengthen the gender approach in the work of the Human Rights council, and more broadly in the spectrum of activities of international organizations in the multilateral system with the main objective of disseminating these suggestions and recommendations at the local level in countries with programs in this area, as is the case in the majority of countries in the world, explained Mr. Zniber.
The launching ceremony of this Advisory Council took place at the Palais des nations in Geneva, in the presence of an audience of personalities, representing the various UN agencies and international organizations based in Geneva, and also the diplomatic corps and civil society.
How can local organizations effectively engage with the Advisory Council to support gender equality initiatives?
Interview: Strengthening Gender Equality through the New advisory Council of the UN Human Rights Council
Editor (time.news): Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Zniber, an expert on human rights and a key player in establishing the newly launched Advisory Council of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC). Mr. Zniber, can you share your thoughts on the recent launch ceremony at the Palais des Nations in Geneva?
Mr. Zniber: Thank you for having me. The launch ceremony was indeed a notable moment, not just for Morocco, but for the global pursuit of gender equality and human rights. This advisory council is an vital achievement, welcomed unanimously in Geneva. It’s the first step towards institutionalizing discussions around gender parity within the HRC.
Editor: That’s fascinating. How does this council aim to impact discussions on equality and gender parity on an international scale?
Mr. Zniber: The primary objective is to strengthen the discussions and actions of the HRC related to gender equality.We wont to ensure that gender issues, central to human rights concerns, are prioritized and integrated into our international frameworks. This will help promote progress towards enduring advancement goals that benefit both communities and nations.
Editor: Who comprises this advisory council, and why is their composition crucial?
Mr. Zniber: The council will include ten directors general from international organizations present in Geneva and representatives from various UN member countries, as well as civil society.This diversity is crucial because it introduces a wide array of perspectives and expertise. Such cross-collaboration enables us to address gender issues more holistically and develop comprehensive suggestions and proposals that can be disseminated locally in various countries.
Editor: Can you elaborate on the meeting structure and frequency?
Mr. Zniber: Certainly! The council will convene periodically to discuss actionable suggestions that can strengthen our gender approach. We aim to align our recommendations not onyl with international goals but also with the needs of local programs across countries. This ensures that while we focus on global objectives, we also consider local realities.
Editor: what implications do you see this advisory council having on the global agenda for gender equality and human rights?
Mr. Zniber: I believe this council will catalyze a transformative change in how gender is perceived and addressed in international human rights discourse. By uniting influential voices and stakeholders committed to gender parity, we can foster a stronger network that ultimately translates into meaningful actions on the ground.
Editor: For individuals and organizations keen on supporting gender equality initiatives, what practical advice would you give them?
Mr. Zniber: I encourage them to engage with local civil society organizations and participate in discussions that amplify women’s voices. Collaboration is key. Sharing best practices and innovative approaches can come from both grassroots movements and international organizations. Everyone has a role to play; collective action can break barriers and foster change.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Zniber. Your insights into the Advisory Council of the UN Human Rights council and its potential influence on gender equality are invaluable.
Mr. zniber: Thank you for this opportunity. Together, as we strive for equality, we can make a significant impact on human rights and sustainable development globally.
Keywords: Advisory Council UN Human Rights Council, gender equality, gender parity, human rights concerns, sustainable development, civil society, international organizations.