I have taken up this post with a strong determination to address the most
pressing human rights problems our societies face today.
Respect for human rights is an essential feature of any democratic society
and the ongoing development of new standards is already ingrained in our
European experience. However, as we continue to promote human rights, there is
no room for complacency – new challenges arise every day and societal
expectations are in constant change. Human rights work can only be efficient if
it is done in permanent dialogue with all stakeholders – governments,
international organisations, civil society institutions, human rights defenders
and educational establishments.
To achieve our goal of mainstreaming human rights-based approaches into
political decision-making, we need to encourage the development of open
societies, where respect for diversity and engaged societal participation are
the norm. Legislative reforms will only have a real impact if they are embedded
in a supportive civic and political culture, enabling the consolidation of
democratic practices in the long run.
The time has come to move from rhetoric to genuine reforms. My ultimate goal
will be to achieve tangible results in pushing for the implementation of
governmental commitments and in advancing the development of human rights-based
democratic cultures. I hope that many of you will join me in this endeavour.
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