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.

Speakers and Organisations they represent

Moderator:  Mokhtar Trifi, Vice-President of OMCT

Speakers:

• Sahar Francis, Human Rights Defender and Lawyer - Palestine
• Ahmed Mefreh, Executive Director of the Committee for Justice (CFJ) - Egypt
• Khalid Ibrahim, Executive Director of the Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) – GCC 

Languages spoken: English & Arabic

Interpretation available: EN / AR