Mauritius Reaffirms Its Commitment to Human Rights

On December 10, 2025, Human Rights Day was officially commemorated at a ceremony organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) at Hennessy Park Hotel in Ebène. The event was graced by the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Dharam Gokhool.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Attorney General Gavin Glover, the UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh, and NHRC President Satyajit Boolell.

Key speakers at the event included Dr. Mellissa Ifill, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, and Professor Clare Anderson, Director of the Institute of Advanced Studies at the University of Leicester.

In his speech, the President emphasized that recognizing our shared humanity is essential for upholding human rights, which come with responsibilities that give these rights meaning and moral strength. He highlighted that human rights are not only defended by institutions and legislative frameworks but also through our daily actions and interactions as human beings.

Referring to this year's theme, "Our Daily Essentials," he noted that it reminds us that human rights are not abstract ideals but principles reflected in how we treat others. He expressed hope that this symbolic day would inspire reflection, stimulate action, and reinforce our collective commitment to a fairer, more inclusive, and humane society.

The Attorney General reaffirmed the government's commitment, as outlined in the 2025-2029 Government Program, to restore the rule of law, renew democracy, and modernize rights protection.

He emphasized that the current reform, aimed at addressing the country's realities and changes in demographics, economic pathways, modern technologies, environmental pressures, and rising expectations for transparency and justice, seeks to ensure that institutions fundamentally serve the people and not the reverse. Gavin Glover added that one of the most significant steps in this regard is the establishment of the Constitutional Review Commission.

Meanwhile, the UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles reminded everyone that defending human rights is a responsibility that falls on all of us. She reiterated the UN's determination to continue strengthening the capacities of key institutions to ensure human rights protection and promote dignity for all. Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh further highlighted the UN's significant contribution to upholding human rights by supporting key national processes, such as the establishment of a national reporting and monitoring mechanism.

The NHRC President noted that this year's theme encapsulates the profound message that human rights are fundamental to our dignity and vital in our daily lives, whether at home, in workplaces, schools, or on the streets, as well as in how we treat one another. Satyajit Boolell emphasized that human rights are essential elements of life, protected not just by laws but also by our respectful attitudes in daily interactions.

Speaking about the NHRC's mission, he stated that it exists to protect human rights and support those suffering from human rights violations and facing obstacles in accessing justice.