Kuwait stresses sovereignty, coordination in Gulf human rights dialogue

Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Affairs, Ambassador H.E. Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, underscored on Tuesday the importance of sustained institutional coordination among human rights bodies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to ensure aligned positions and strengthen engagement with international and regional mechanisms.

Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the sidelines of a coordination meeting of heads of government agencies concerned with human rights in GCC countries, Al-Duaij highlighted the need to consider each country’s national and legislative particularities while remaining committed to the overarching principles of human rights and respect for national sovereignty.

The meeting was held at the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Bahrain in Cairo alongside the 57th regular session of the Arab Permanent Committee for Human Rights, convened at the headquarters of the Arab League General Secretariat from February 4–5.

Al-Duaij explained that the gathering aimed to strengthen coordination, exchange perspectives on shared issues, and unify Gulf positions in international forums amid growing challenges facing the global human rights system.

Participants reviewed agenda items of the Arab Permanent Committee and discussed mechanisms to enhance Gulf cooperation, share experiences in addressing human rights obligations, engage in dialogue with international partners, and interact with United Nations mechanisms.

She reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to supporting joint Gulf action in the human rights field, emphasizing its readiness to contribute to greater integration among GCC institutions.

Al-Duaij noted that Kuwait’s approach is rooted in dialogue, constructive cooperation, adherence to international agreements, and alignment with its national vision for institutional reform and development.