Five more years of the Danish-Arab Partnership Programme

A new version of the Danish-Arab Partnership Programme was relaunched last week, with a five-year scope and funding from the Danish Foreign Ministry. Divided into two consortiums: one with a focus on job opportunities for young people, and one focussing on human rights and equal treatment. The Danish Institute for Human Rights is part of the latter, together with Danish Institute Against Torture, KVINFO and International Media Support.

GAME Street Mekka hosted the launch, in their asphalt covered common space. With the stage placed directly under the slogan #weloveasphalt, this youth-lead facility served as the perfect environment for two panels of passionate speakers.

Amal Loubani, Senior Project Manager at the Danish Institute of Human Rights presented a practical approach; “It is important to strengthen the national human rights system in each country and work systemically. Success does not only happen from the bottom-up but has to be anchored in the different state institutions like the national human rights institutes, police and courts to create a stronger connection between society and human rights work at a local level.”

All partner organisations were represented on stage as well as the Danish minister for foreign affairs and a group of young activists from the MENA region. The young panellists, all from countries going through important changes, shared their own experiences, and what it takes to break through to younger generations.

“Motivation comes from seeing role models who are our own age, also from other countries”, asserted 25-year-old Zaid Obidat from Jordan, in his answer to a question from foreign minister Jeppe Kofod, about which sources of inspiration are important to young people.

The Danish Institute for Human Rights looks forward to another five years of strengthening rights, freedoms, and opportunities for young people throughout the Middle East and Northern Africa.