As part of the worldwide commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the University of Aruba held an event dedicated to the importance and application of human rights in Aruba. Representing the MEP faction were Members of Parliament Evelyn Wever-Croes and Xiomara Maduro.
The event was attended by Ms. Jolien Schukking, Judge at the Court of Justice of the European Union, who shared her knowledge and perspective on the fundamental role of human rights in a modern justice system. Her main message was a call for more public institutions, schools, and social organizations to focus on educating and informing the community about these universal rights, in order to strengthen a culture of respect, equality, and human dignity.
During the session, local speakers explained how human rights are applied in daily life in Aruba. In many court cases, reference is made to the rights anchored in the ECHR when proceedings take too long. At the University of Aruba, time is also devoted in lectures and through the Tienda di Ley to raising awareness among students and citizens about human rights. It was also emphasized that many workers in Aruba are not fully aware of their own rights, and that employers must also consider human rights principles when making decisions or dealing with staff. It was further highlighted that the Charter of the Kingdom of the Netherlands includes human rights as an integral part of the constitutional relationship within the Kingdom.
The event concluded with an artistic presentation that, in a visual and emotional way, illustrated how human rights are violated in real life. Examples included children unable to attend school because their parents cannot afford it, or people facing discrimination or being denied medical care due to their undocumented status. The performance delivered a clear and powerful message: human rights are the foundation for dignity, freedom, and justice for all people in Aruba.
Press release: MEP