Panel Discussion was held for International Human Rights Day

The welcoming speech was delivered by Prof. Dr. Besa Arifi, Pro-Rector for Research and International Relations at SEEU, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Albana Metaj-Stojanova, Coordinator of the Faculty of Law.

In the first session of the panel on topic “Legal and Institutional Perspectives” participants discussed the importance of human rights from a legal and institutional perspective.

Prof. Dr. Bekim Nuhija emphasized the important role that the protection of human rights plays in a democratic society, while Xhemali Saiti, a judge at the Supreme Court of North Macedonia, shared the institution's experience in promoting and guaranteeing rights. Ilir Iseni, Deputy Director of the Academy for Judges and Public Prosecutors of North Macedonia, focused on the importance of training legal professionals for the effective protection of rights.

In the second session of the panel on topic: “Practical Approaches to Protecting and Promoting Human Rights”, the focus was on practical approaches and challenges on the ground.

Vesna Kostiq Ivanoviq, State Advisor at the Office of the Ombudsman, spoke about the protection of the rights of children and people with disabilities, while Vildan Drpljanin--Senior Protection Assistant in UNHCR Representation in North Macedonia, stressed the importance of addressing the issue of Statelessness and Human Rights: Bridging the Gap to Dignity and Belonging.

Elizabeta Bozinoska, Program Director of HERA – Health Education and Research Association, addressed the topic of gender-based violence and its impact on gender equality.

The event concluded with a question-and-answer session from the audience, creating a dynamic platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences. In conclusion, moderator Elisa Murseli commended the discussions as an important step towards raising awareness and sensitization about human rights.

This activity served as a unique opportunity to reflect on the challenges and progress in the protection and promotion of human rights, underlining the importance of joint efforts in this direction.