Human Rights Day: women's and girls' rights remain a priority for Slovenia

SLOVENIA, December 10 - "Respect for human rights is the litmus test of democracy and the rule of law. Protecting the rights of women and girls holds a mirror to our society and is a harbinger of a better future for all. That is why women's and girls' rights, including the elimination of all forms of discrimination, remain an important priority of Slovenia's foreign policy on human rights. In a world where we are witnessing massive violations of international law and the erosion of international order, a healthy civil society – which cannot exist without a strong voice for women – is crucial," said Tanja Fajon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, on the occasion of Human Rights Day. Today also marks the conclusion of the 16-day campaign to prevent violence against women and girls, in which the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs actively participated.

Slovenia actively promotes the respect for, protection and implementation of human rights, particularly through its engagement in international organisations. This commitment is reflected in its work as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2024–2025 term and as a member of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2023–2025 term. In 2025, Slovenia will commence a three-year term on the UNICEF Executive Board. Slovenia is recognised as a prominent defender of human rights, especially the rights of women, children and the elderly; the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment; human rights education; and the rights of persons belonging to minorities. Building on its activities as an observer in the UN Human Rights Council, Slovenia is now applying for membership of this principal UN intergovernmental body on human rights for the 2026–2028 term.

On this year's Human Rights Day, the UN highlights the role of human rights as a pathway to solutions, particularly in the areas of prevention, protection and transformation during crises. The message Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now aims to inspire everyone to recognise the importance and relevance of human rights, challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions, and reinvigorate the human rights movement.

This year's world Human Rights Day also commemorates two significant anniversaries of fundamental international human rights instruments: the 40th anniversary of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the 45th anniversary of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.