The universality of human rights on trial: MENA perspectives in a collapsing global order

This closed-door session confronts the crumbling state of human rights universality and its consequences in the MENA region. Against a backdrop of global complicity, rising authoritarianism, and openly perceived double standards, this discussion aims at bringing pertinent realities and perspectives to the table. Panelists from Palestine, Egypt, the Gulf, and Tunisia, as well as participants from all over the MENA region, will expose how torture is being normalized, defenders are being criminalized, and dignity is being bargained away. Universality is not abstract; it is the thin line between law and lawlessness.

Objectives

Examine the state of the universality of human rights in light of recent global shifts—particularly since October 2023—and how these shifts have impacted the MENA region.
Highlight how global double standards are undermining the absolute prohibition of torture and enabling its normalization under the pretext of security, sovereignty, or ‘exceptional’ circumstances.
Center the lived experiences of human rights defenders from Palestine, Egypt, the Gulf, and Tunisia, who operate in highly repressive contexts with dwindling international support.
Facilitate reflection among SOS-Torture Network members and partners from the MENA region on how to resist the erosion of universality and build stronger, values-based solidarity.
Spark new strategic thinking on how to defend the absolute prohibition of torture in an increasingly hostile global environment.

English & Arabic

Interpretation available: EN / AR