Training Workshop on Strengthening the Capacities of Civil Society

Within the framework of the technical cooperation program between the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Saudi Human Rights Commission, a training workshop was implemented on strengthening the capacities of civil society organizations in dealing with the international human rights mechanisms of the United Nations. The workshop targeted the heads of civil society organizations in Saudi Arabia, where 146 representatives / representatives of various organizations were present.

The training workshop was opened with a welcoming speech by the President of the Human Rights Commission, where the importance of strengthening the capacities of civil society institutions in the field of protecting human rights and activating their role was emphasized in line with the sustainable development goals and the Kingdom's vision 2030.

The first session of the training workshop presented the concepts and characteristics of human rights, and an overview of the international human rights system. Where it was shed light on the mechanisms based on the United Nations Charter (the universal periodic review, and special procedures)

The second session dealt with the role of civil society organizations in promoting human rights, enhancing their capabilities and increasing their opportunities with the international human rights system. Also, indicate the role of society in monitoring the human rights situation.

The recommendations and concluding observations submitted by the United Nations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were reviewed in the last session of the first day.

The first day sessions concluded with an open panel discussion on the role of civil society institutions in doing reporting. Also, it was opened for discussion about the experiences of civil society institutions in the Arab world.

On the second day of the training workshop, the spotlight was placed on the role of civil society in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's presidency of the G20, and the importance of activating the role of civil society in line with Saudi Arabia vision 2030, and the sustainable development goals in support of human rights.