No Passport Voice observes Human Rights Day 2020
Aroma Dutta MP called for advancement of human rights at all levels, advancement of rights for minorities in Bangladesh
At a webinar marking Human Rights Day 2020, speakers urged everyone to redouble their efforts in providing for a life with freedom and dignity - beneficial to physical, mental, social, and spiritual welfare.
No Passport Voice, a non-profit organisation co-founded by barristers Fatemaa Waariithah Ahsan, Prianka Ahsan and Priya Ahsan, organised the event recently, said a press release.
The event was graced by British lawyer Cherie Blair. Via a video message, she said, ''I believe in the efforts of strong women and I believe that you will be able to inspire many in Bangladesh and worldwide.''
High Court Division Judge Naima Haider; Supreme Court lawyer and executive director BLAST Barrister Sara Hossain; Member of Parliament Aroma Dutta addressed the webinar as special guests.
United Kingdom-based social activist Payzee Mahmod; United States-based social activist Celia Daniels; and author of "Better than Normal" and motivational speaker, Hitesh Ramchandani, also spoke at the event as international speakers.
Justice Naima Haider said, ''We should be robust in identifying abuse of process and ensuring that human rights are safeguarded beyond the cloistered halls of courts and parliament.''
Barrister Sara Hossain applauded the courts for interpreting the laws and applying them towards the advancement of individual rights.
She also mentioned the existence of challenges and obstacles, but said it is important to focus on what we can do and where there is space.
Regarding the disability rights protection, she referred to a case where a visually impaired lawyer was not allowed to take the civil service exams due to the policy-rule, which excluded people with disability.
Aroma Dutta, MP, called for the advancement of human rights at all levels, advancement of minority rights in the mainland of Bangladesh, and called for better implementation of the laws in particular.
Hitesh Ramchandani spoke about the discrimination he faced growing up and his journey to becoming an international motivational speaker, speaking to corporate giants on a regular basis.
Payzee Mahmod urged for the end of child marriage and urged the UK government to change child marriage laws where a child aged 16-17 can get married in the UK with parental consent.
Celia Daniels called to the world for advancement of trans rights and also urged everyone to listen to and understand the story of a trans person.