Every year on December 10, the world commemorates the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Seventy-seven years have passed since its adoption, during which it has served as the cornerstone of the international human rights system and as a moral and legal reference for safeguarding human dignity and upholding the principles of justice and equality.
The United Nations has chosen this year’s theme for the occasion: “Human Rights… The Basics of Our Daily Lives.” This theme reflects the core message upheld by the National Centre for Human Rights (NCHR): that rights and freedoms are not abstract concepts, but rather daily necessities and fundamental pillars essential to the life of every individual—embodied in the rights to education, health, work, freedom of opinion and expression, political participation, economic development, and all that relates to human dignity and well-being.
On this occasion, the National Centre for Human Rights affirms that it continues to fulfill its national role, as an independent national institution, in protecting human rights in the Kingdom. In this regard, the Centre notes that it issues its annual report, which is submitted to His Majesty the King and to the three constitutional authorities. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of the human rights situation in the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural fields, as well as the rights of groups most in need of protection. It also includes monitoring of violations, follow-up actions, and recommendations submitted to the relevant authorities to improve legislation, practices, and the overall environment for rights and freedoms. The Centre will also continue its efforts in training, awareness-raising, promoting a human rights culture, and developing national mechanisms to safeguard rights in line with international best standards.
The Centre also expresses its appreciation for the national efforts undertaken to strengthen the human rights framework, whether through legislative modernization or through supporting the principles of the rule of law. In this context, the Centre values the national committees formed as part of Jordan’s comprehensive modernization process—such as the Political Modernization Committee, the Economic Modernization Vision, and the Judicial Development Committee—which contribute directly to promoting and protecting human rights and reinforcing institutional reform grounded in participation, transparency, and the rule of law.
The Centre further commends the steadfast positions and forward-looking vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, may God protect him, in supporting human rights, promoting tolerance and the rule of law, advancing state institutions, empowering youth and women, and fostering an environment that guarantees justice and equal opportunities for all. This vision has been reflected in numerous initiatives and reforms that have helped build a more just and open society, better equipped to address human and developmental challenges.
Internationally, Jordan continues to play an active role in supporting international peace and security, consistent with its national principles and firm commitment to the values of international legitimacy. The Kingdom has participated in numerous initiatives aimed at preventing conflicts, supporting peacekeeping operations, and promoting political solutions to regional and international crises, contributing to the protection of civilians and alleviation of suffering. Jordan also emphasizes in international forums the need for a comprehensive approach based on respect for human rights and enabling peoples to live in security and dignity, conditions essential for achieving global development and stability.
On this occasion, the National Centre for Human Rights reaffirms that the human being is both the heart and the goal of national development, and that safeguarding human dignity is the foundation of stability and progress. This requires continued joint action among the Centre, state institutions, civil society, and the private sector to promote a culture of human rights and raise awareness of the importance of upholding the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Centre also calls for maintaining constructive dialogue, strengthening national partnerships, and developing public policies that safeguard human rights and enhance social cohesion and sustainable development.
