New york: HE Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah met with HE UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ilze Brands-Kehris. During the meeting, HE Al Attiyah expressed her appreciation for the ongoing cooperation between the NHRC and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
According to Qatar News Agency, HE Al Attiyah emphasized the Committee’s commitment to strengthening constructive dialogue with the United Nations on developing legislation and policies in line with the State’s international obligations. She highlighted the Committee’s dedication to fulfilling its role as an active partner within the UN system by preparing and submitting shadow reports to treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review mechanism.
HE Al Attiyah stressed the Committee’s efforts to enhance cooperation with the OHCHR in building national capacities in reporting and monitoring the implementation of international recommendations. She commended the OHCHR’s efforts and the ongoing communication channels between the Committee and the Office.
The NHRC affirmed its commitment to strengthening technical cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner and exchanging expertise to ensure the practical implementation of legislation, thereby achieving a tangible impact on the ground. HE Al Attiyah highlighted Qatar’s progress in labor reforms, including the abolition of the sponsorship system, the implementation of a minimum wage, and the improvement of grievance mechanisms.
These labor reforms reflect Qatar’s commitment to protecting migrant workers’ rights and ensuring a fairer work environment. HE Al Attiyah noted the amendments to labor laws have greatly benefited workers, who constitute a large segment of Qatar’s population. She commended the efforts of the state’s regulatory bodies in monitoring institutions to ensure adherence to workers’ rights.
HE Al Attiyah also addressed the NHRC’s support for women’s rights and their participation in public life, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. She noted Qatar’s strides in supporting women’s rights, including flexible work arrangements, which support women’s career paths and family lives.
During the meeting, HE Al Attiyah discussed recent legislative developments in Qatar, such as the issuance of the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. She explained that the law includes articles affirming the rights of persons with disabilities to education and employment. The NHRC has been proactive in addressing disability issues, including hosting the Second National Human Rights Forum in 2023.
HE Maryam Al Attiyah affirmed Qatar’s commitment to developing its legislative framework to support human rights, including work on the draft Child Law to protect children’s rights. She noted the NHRC’s role in monitoring human rights violations and providing recommendations, praising the cooperation received from state institutions.