Human rights experts from 18 countries have gathered in Beijing for a forum on how to bring about a more harmonious world.
The theme of the 3-day forum is "the respect for human rights and the promotion of a harmonious world." Over 70 experts from Asia, Africa, America, and Europe were present at the opening.
Many called for different cultures and civilizations to be respected in order to promote the development of human rights around the world.
Executive director of the Association for Civil Rights, Roberto Saba said, "We live tether in the world. We have to learn to understand each other. Most of the problem we have with each other probably related to the fact we are ignorant about each other's realities."
Dr. Zaid Alhusain of Saudi Arabia Human Rights Commission said, "We can't have a harmonious world unless we understand each other. When we understand each other, we'll have tolerance to be able to respect diversity of culture and civilization."
In 2004, respect for and guarantee of human rights were formally included in China's constitution. Experts see the initiative as an important step on China's way towards building a harmonious society.
Prof. Qi Yanping of Inst. of Human Rights & Humanitarian Law said, "This indicates that the core of the government's goal is to respect and guarantee human rights. It also shows that China should play its role and shoulder its responsibility as a big nation in world human rights activities."
Meanwhile, participants agree that barriers remain in the development of human rights, and that there is a long way to go to realising the ideal of human rights for everyone. |