Today, Rwanda shared with its partners some of the progress it has made in implementing recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on human rights.
The UPR is a report produced every 4.5 years by all member states of the United Nations Human Rights Council. Each country outlines commitments aimed at improving the promotion and protection of human rights during that period.
In 2021, Rwanda received 260 recommendations. After reviewing them, the Government committed to implementing 160, while the others were considered not relevant, according to the Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja.
“Since 2021, Rwanda received 260 recommendations related to human rights. Some called for legal reforms, new policies, and public education on human rights. Out of these, we accepted 160, and most have already been implemented. For example, new policies and laws were adopted, and we also intensified human rights awareness campaigns. These efforts were meant to ensure Rwanda fulfills the commitments it made during the 2021 review.” He explained.
The Minister emphasized that such recommendations come from diverse actors, including government institutions, schools (especially on inclusive education), civil society organizations, journalists, and others.
Key Achievements Shared
Rwanda reported progress to its stakeholders, including civil society and human rights groups. Achievements highlighted include: A reduction in poverty levels, with 9,328 vulnerable individuals supported and Legal aid provided to 7,452 people.
Kananga Andrews, Executive director of the Legal Aid Forum (LAF), confirmed these achievements, noting that their independent monitoring aligns with the government’s report.
“As LAF, we assessed the 160 recommendations Rwanda committed to in 2021. We found significant progress compared to previous reviews. The next evaluation in 2026 will be Rwanda’s fourth since 2011. This ongoing progress shows that the country continues to implement meaningful reforms.” He spoke.
He added that positive results include reduced malnutrition, extensive legal reforms, and improved food security, all of which stem from the recommendations, making the latest report encouraging.
Michael Ngabirano, Human Rights Senior Advisor at the UN Office in Rwanda, acknowledged Rwanda’s progress but also noted areas needing more effort, such as reducing prison overcrowding and expanding support for vulnerable groups.
“The government has taken responsibility to strengthen human rights protection. Through the UPR, every 4.5 years we assess progress and challenges. Rwanda has made commendable steps, though, like other countries, challenges remain. Improvements are still needed in media freedom, civil society engagement, and other policy areas.” He said.
A Continuous journey
For Rwanda, this review and the one scheduled next year marks the fourth cycle since 2011. Authorities and partners agree that human rights are a continuous journey, not a one-time achievement, and that efforts must keep advancing.
/Eloi Isengwe