Human Rights promotes Social Media

By: Ngardi Lahai

Human Rights Commission Sierra Leone commemorated ‘Human Rights Day’ Saturday 10th at the new YWCA hall in Freetown.

The chairperson, Commissioner Yasmin Jusu Sheriff, said that the human rights section in Sierra Leone has on a number of occasions prized itself. She told all present that as at the appointment of respective Commissioners as Human Right workers, they voluntarily worked for six months with pay-free service.

“The Human Rights Commission ensures the freedom of persons and supports them in their fight for their rights, she said.

“All human beings are born free and equal, and as we seek justice and put hands together in the advancement of human rights, we are guided by the law of equality.”

A representative from UNIPSIL, Beatriz Balbin said, however, that as human rights activists, they are compelled to celebrate December 10th as the day explains about the rights of persons.

“This day,” she said, “tells of how different people from all walks of life share the experience in real time struggle.”

“Human Rights is a campaign that should be used as long as rights are abused.”

The Chairman of the Human Rights Commission Sierra Leone, Edward Sam, in his statement said human rights are the foundation of freedom and peace.

“Across the world,” he said, “people gather together to fight for their human rights,” adding, “human rights are now being used by the social media to effect change.”

He advised all to use this innovative idea for them not to be disused.

Commissioner Sam outlined the 2011 defense for human rights as:

The primary responsibility of government to do all in their power to gain freedom of expression and information. Government to hold the rule of law and corruption.

Government to see that the right of every citizen is guaranteed.

The Minister of Social Welfare, Children’s and Gender Affairs, Steven Gaojah in his remarks said his ministry has had restless moments advocating for the marginalized and oppressed of society.

He said though that the fibre optic cable will help boost social media as they propagate the issues of human rights.

Mrs. Mariama Diarra, the UNFPA Assistant Representative said human rights started in 1948.

“The declaration of human rights draws the life of freedom, justice and peace,” Mrs Mariama reiterated.

“Human rights defenders are people who act to protect individual’s human rights.” She therefore called on journalists, community workers, trade unionists and women working to promote human rights to join hands together and see that human beings have a deserving treatment.

An award, plus cameras, and recorders, were given to four deserving journalists on human rights issues.


(2011-12-13/Sierra Express Media)