The Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR) is an official civil association established by the Ministry of Community Empowerment Decision No. (6) of 2024, dated January 10, 2024. This decision included its declaration and registration as a public benefit association under No. (234). It was issued a license by the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi under License No. (PIA-2024-006-072).
Its main headquarters is in Abu Dhabi, and its scope of activity covers the entire United Arab Emirates, aiming to achieve 15 specific competencies.
The UAHR operates in accordance with Federal Law No. (50) of 2023 regarding the regulation of public benefit institutions.
The association supports the core values and principles of human rights established in international charters, the main human rights agreements, and International Humanitarian Law. It aims to enhance respect for human rights and collaborates with all national, regional, and international actors in the field of human rights. This enables it to become one of the leading civil rights institutions globally, driving positive transformation in the work of public benefit associations to make them more active and influential in the field of human rights.
Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Kaabi
President of the Union Association for Human Rights
The United Arab Emirates’ journey in promoting and protecting human rights is rooted in a deeply established set of values and constitutional principles. The UAE Constitution serves as the supreme legal reference, guaranteeing - under Article 33 - the freedom of assembly and the right to form associations within the limits prescribed by law. This right has been further regulated under Federal Law No. 50 of 2023 on the Regulation of Public Benefit Associations.
The establishment of the Union Association for Human Rights is a practical embodiment of this national approach and a reaffirmation of the UAE’s commitment to developing national mechanisms dedicated to the protection and promotion of human rights, notably through supporting the formation and activation of relevant civil society organizations.
Based on our strong belief in the pivotal role of civil society in advancing the human rights framework, I alongside a distinguished group of leaders from the human rights and civil society sectors embarked on founding this Association as a culmination of a comprehensive rights-based journey driven by a firm will to safeguard and promote human rights. Our work is guided by universally recognized values, principles, and international frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant international instruments.
We reaffirm our commitment as the founding team and leadership of the Association to work in a spirit of partnership and complementarity with all relevant national, regional, and international stakeholders. Our aim is to implement strategic projects and impactful initiatives that enhance the effectiveness of civil society in the UAE and contribute to the advancement of the human rights ecosystem through innovation, responsiveness to emerging challenges, and alignment with global developments. Our goal is to achieve outcomes that exceed expectations and create lasting impact that goes beyond initial targets.
We pray to Almighty God to grant us success in fulfilling this trust and carrying out our human rights mission in the best possible manner, elevating the status of the Association as a national platform dedicated to promoting human rights and reflecting our vision for the UAE to be a global model in empowering civil society and advancing human rights.
Supporting the core values and principles of human rights established in international charters, fundamental human rights agreements, and International Humanitarian Law
Participating in the development of national programs, initiatives, and strategies related to human rights
Striving to harmonize national legislation with international laws in the field of protecting and promoting human rights, in coordination with relevant entities
Providing advice and opinions on national reports submitted by the state to international human rights bodies and mechanisms
Promoting respect for civil, political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental human rights for all segments of society
Actively contributing to understanding regional and international mechanisms and cooperating with UN bodies concerned with human rights to advance human rights and achieve sustainable development goals
Participating in and interacting with regional and international human rights forums, following prior approval from the ministry
Working to enhance the capabilities of national staff in the field of human rights
Contributing to the dissemination of human rights culture and the entrenchment of its values and concepts in society
Organizing training programs, seminars, workshops, conferences, and local, regional, and international events related to human rights, following prior approval from the ministry
Preparing and publishing studies and research, and issuing publications related to human rights
Preparing statements and reports for regional and international human rights mechanisms
Foreseeing future developments in the field of human rights. Receiving and following up on complaints with the relevant authorities
Receiving and following up on complaints with relevant authorities
Coordinating with concerned entities to request field visits to all human rights-related entities, such as detention centers, correctional and rehabilitation institutions, social centers, and specialized facilities, to enhance civil society's participation in developing and aligning the procedures and policies followed in the state
Leadership and excellence in promoting respect for human rights according to international standards
We actively and efficiently contribute to the protection and respect of human rights, enhancing the effective impact of all decisions, practices, and policies related to human rights
