National Human Rights Committee of Qatar and Penal Reform International Forge Partnership to promote human rights and Reform Criminal Justice Systems
Press release
On 6 February 2024, in Doha, Qatar, the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) of the State of Qatar and Penal Reform International (PRI) made a significant step towards improving and safeguarding human rights in the criminal justice system by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic partnership aims to foster a collaborative effort towards criminal justice reform, reflecting a shared commitment to upholding human rights standards globally.
Under the auspices of Her Excellency Ms. Maryam bint Abdullah Al-Attiyah, Chairperson of the NHRC, President of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI). and Ms. Taghreed Jaber, Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Office of PRI, this MoU marks a pivotal step in promoting human rights culture and ensuring the fair treatment of individuals within the criminal justice system.
Her Excellency Ms. Maryam bint Abdullah Al-Attiyah expressed,
“This MoU with Penal Reform International embodies our shared vision for a world where human rights are at the core of the criminal justice system. Together, we are poised to make significant strides towards reform and ensure that justice is served with dignity and respect.”
Ms. Taghreed Jaber added,
“Our partnership with the National Human Rights Committee signifies a milestone in our efforts to promote human rights and reform criminal justice systems worldwide. We look forward to the impactful changes our collaboration will bring to the lives of many.”
A Commitment to Human Rights and Justice
The MoU outlines several areas of cooperation, including the exchange of experiences and best practices, the dissemination of human rights culture, and the contribution to the development of national monitoring systems for human rights. Both parties will work jointly on enhancing the capacity of law enforcement personnel and criminal justice practitioners through human rights-based training programmes and initiatives.
A Foundation for Sustainable Reform
This agreement is grounded in the principles of public international law, international human rights law, and the Paris Principles, aiming to reduce reliance on restrictive freedom measures, utilise non-custodial measures, and support the rehabilitation and reintegration of imprisoned people into society.
A Vision for the Future
The partnership is set to last for three years, underscoring the long-term commitment of both the NHRC and PRI towards achieving their humanitarian and social objectives. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the administration of justice is humane, impartial, fair, transparent, and accountable.
About the National Human Rights Committee
The National Human Rights Committee of the State of Qatar is an independent entity dedicated to enhancing and protecting human rights and freedoms. Established under Committee Regulation Law No. 17 of 2010, the NHRC works within an international framework to cooperate with organisations concerned with human rights.
About Penal Reform International
Penal Reform International is a global non-governmental organisation headquartered across London and the Hague, working across five regions, including the Arab region. PRI is committed to reforming criminal justice systems and ensuring fair treatment for all individuals within the legal system.