Cairo: The Arab League on Monday convened the 56th regular session of the Arab Permanent Committee on Human Rights, gathering representatives from member states to address pressing regional rights issues. Top of the agenda were the continued Israeli violations and systemic racism in occupied Arab territories, including the plight of Arab prisoners in Israeli jails and the ongoing policy of withholding the bodies of Palestinian and Arab martyrs in so-called “cemeteries of numbers.” The session also discussed the Arab Charter on Human Rights and preparations for the Arab Human Rights Day, slated for March 16, 2026.
According to Jordan News Agency, the committee reviewed a report by the Arab League’s General Secretariat outlining the steps taken to implement previous recommendations adopted up to the 55th session. In remarks delivered by Ahmed Maghari, Director of the Human Rights Department, the General Secretariat underscored that any serious discussion on human rights in the region must begin with the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Gaza Strip, where securing the basics of daily survival has become a life-or-death struggle.
Maghari stressed that the situation in Gaza is a stark test of the region’s collective commitment to human rights, calling attention to the ethical and humanitarian responsibility that falls on Arab states amid the ongoing Israeli assault and global inaction. He condemned what he described as a disturbing silence and complicity that embolden the occupying power to defy international legitimacy, UN resolutions, and rulings from international courts.
The General Secretariat emphasized the historical role of the committee since its establishment in September 1968, particularly in strengthening the Arab human rights system both in theory and in practice, and in fostering cooperation with regional and international organizations. It further warned of worsening global conflicts and their toll on human rights, while also drawing attention to emerging challenges, such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and intrusive concepts that threaten human nature.
The Arab League called for enhanced regional solidarity to confront these mounting challenges, affirming that the current stage demands intensified efforts to promote peace, safeguard stability, and shield Arab societies from all forms of threat.