Youth urged to be champions of human rights

Youth in the country have been urged to promote a culture of human rights respect particularly for the most vulnerable in society. The call was made yesterday during the third conference on Human rights organised by Never Again Rwanda, in Kigali. It is running under the theme “Stand up for someone’s rights today: The role of Rwandan youth in promoting sustainable culture of human rights.” Dr. Joseph Nkurunziza, country director for Never Again Rwanda, said the change the country wants to see begins with youth. They should be active agents of positive change, building sustainable peace and development in Rwanda, he said. “Youth represent over 50 per cent of Rwanda’s population. We want young Rwandans to understand the culture of human rights in their communities because they are the ones who will drive Rwanda towards sustainable peace and development. So they must understand their rights and respect others’ rights,” he added. Participants follow proceedings during the conference in Kigali. Youth were challenged to be able to differentiate between what is right or wrong as well as stand up for the rights of others. Providence Umurungi, Head of International Justice and Judicial Cooperation at the Ministry of Justice, commended Never Again for the role they are playing in investing in the youth, building the future generation with a solid foundation. She urged the youth to be wary of unruly conducts that prevent them from exercising their rights. “Youth have challenges standing up for human rights. Use of drugs among the youth, youth trafficking are some of the threats to be aware of. The process for the society to embrace human rights should be continuous,” she said. A participant takes a picture during the conference. Youth speak out Some of the youth who attended the conference voiced their take on human rights. According to Claire Umuhoza, human rights means being free and living a free life but also helping others to enjoy their rights. Faustin Maniraguha, said the youth should make use of available platforms such as the media to learn about their rights. Dr. Joseph Ryarasa Nkurunziza the Country Director of Never Again Rwanda (L) chats with Florian Heensen from GIZ during the Human rights conference. “As the youth, we must know our rights in the first place and defend others. We should listen to radios, visit websites, among other media as well as attend meetings at grassroots to inform themselves about human rights,” he said.

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Youth urged to be champions of human rights