GCC Secretary General: Formulation of GCC Human Rights Declaration Based on Principles of Islamic Sharia and Founding Charter

Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized that the achievements of GCC countries over the past four decades in the field of human rights—at national, regional, and international levels—are due to the grace of Allah, followed by the wise vision and steadfast support of GCC leaders.
 This statement was made on the occasion of the GCC’s celebration of the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the GCC Human Rights Declaration, issued on December 9, 2014, coinciding with International Human Rights Day, observed globally on December 10 each year.
 According to a press release issued today by the GCC Secretariat General, Secretary General Albudaiwi highlighted that the formulation of the GCC Human Rights Declaration was grounded in the principles of Islamic Sharia, the founding charter of the GCC, the United Nations Charter, the Arab Charter on Human Rights, the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam, and other relevant international and regional treaties and agreements.
 "This represents a significant qualitative step in respecting, protecting, and promoting human rights," Albudaiwi said. "It crowns the Council’s journey in this domain, reflecting a deep belief in human dignity and a commitment to upholding the rights guaranteed by Islamic Sharia, which embodies noble values and principles deeply rooted in the conscience of its societies and foundational to its policies at all levels."
 The release further noted that Secretary General Albudaiwi pointed out how the declaration reaffirms legislative, procedural, and institutional advancements in human rights within GCC states. It preserves the achievements made across all fundamental rights and freedoms—civil, political, economic, social, and cultural—while meeting the aspirations of GCC citizens for a bright and sustainable future.
 On this occasion, Albudaiwi reiterated the GCC states' commitment to their active role in protecting and promoting human rights both regionally and internationally. He explained that the GCC aims to contribute to building a global system where human rights serve as a cornerstone for stability and prosperity, fostering dialogue and cooperation that are integral to the Council's mission and essential for achieving its goals.
 Secretary General Albudaiwi also addressed current global challenges to human rights, such as conflicts, violent extremism, and the growing phenomena of hatred and Islamophobia. He underscored the importance of respecting the rule of law and shared global values, while promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and respect for cultural and religious diversity to secure a future marked by justice and prosperity for generations to come.