Saudi Arabia's Substantial Reforms Have Reinforced its Unwavering Principles of Justice and Equality, HRC President Says

Saudi Human Rights Commission (HRC) President Dr. Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, who is heading the Kingdom's delegation to the 114th session of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) in Geneva, yesterday affirmed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and HRH the Crown Prince, has implemented substantial reforms that have reinforced its unwavering principles of justice and equality.

 Al-Tuwaijri observed that since the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has witnessed unprecedented openness to diverse races, cultures, and religions. She said the vision's reforms pertaining to work, tourism, investment, residency, and the hosting of global events have facilitated this increased diversity. The Kingdom's territory is now home to over 13 million residents of more than 60 nationalities, constituting over 40% of the population, Al-Tuwaijri noted, adding that these residents enjoy equal rights and protection from racial discrimination.

 She affirmed the Kingdom's commitment to full cooperation with UN mechanisms, including CERD.

 Al-Tuwaijri highlighted the issuance and amendment of regulations promoting equality and protection from discrimination. She emphasized the national policy to encourage equal opportunities and equal treatment in employment and occupation as a key initiative to eliminate labor market discrimination.

 Al-Tuwaijri further highlighted the national policy to prevent child labor as a strategic initiative aimed at combating and preventing child labor. She also underscored the establishment of labor courts as a qualitative advancement in the realm of labor justice.

 Al-Tuwaijri concluded her remarks by emphasizing that the late King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud established the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the bedrock principles of justice, equality, and the rejection of racism and discrimination. She further noted that, under the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and HRH the Crown Prince, a contemporary interpretation of these steadfast principles has led to the development of a comprehensive legislative, institutional, and judicial framework to combat racism and racial discrimination.