Mrs. Maryam bint Abdullah Al-Attiyah, President of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions and Chairperson of National Human Rights Committee of Qatar, emphasized the critical responsibilities we face regarding human rights in light of the atrocities committed during the Israeli aggression in Palestine and Lebanon.

She was addressing at the opening of the 23rd Arab Network Conference in Amman, Jordan, highlighting that human rights are a universal legacy that requires our commitment.

Al-Attiyah expressed unwavering determination, stating that despite the apparent decline in human values, we must continue our work to uphold human rights principles. She assured attendees that humanity will ultimately prevail.

She briefed on Global Alliance's efforts to support member institutions operating in conflict zones, including Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan. She assured that the Alliance aims to ensure these institutions can maintain their operations independently and effectively, despite the challenges they face.

During the conference, which coincided with the General Assembly, participants discussed internal challenges faced by national human rights institutions. These challenges include shortage of qualified personnel and insufficient funding necessary for promoting human rights. Additionally, the stability of these institutions’ independence—legal, financial, operational, and policy-related—often fluctuates due to political climates and emergencies arising from conflicts.

The participants examined external challenges particularly how institutions interact with state authorities while executing their mandates. Obstacles such as a lack of political will, inadequate resources, and a competitive rather than collaborative atmosphere hinder effective cooperation. These factors can severely limit the institutions’ ability to fulfill their missions.

The Arab Network chose to focus the conference on the urgent challenges confronting national human rights institutions in conflict zones, especially in occupied Palestine. Al-Attiyah drew attention to the severe violations faced by Palestinians in Gaza due to actions by the Israeli occupation forces, which contravene international humanitarian law.

The conference also addressed the ongoing struggles of the National Human Rights Commission in Lebanon following intense military aggression, as well as the severe impacts of conflict in Sudan and Libya on their respective human rights institutions.

Discussions included strategies for mobilizing resources and support to empower these institutions to effectively carry out their mandates. Stakeholders, experts, and partners were invited to collaborate in identifying best practices and addressing weaknesses. The goal was to foster a cohesive effort in supporting national human rights institutions, ensuring they can uphold their vital roles amid adversity.

Overall, the conference aimed to strengthen partnerships and enhance cooperation to advance human rights initiatives across the region, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing these pressing challenges.