Lesotho Commemorates International Human Rights Day at Avani

On December 10, 2025, the Ministry of Law, in collaboration with Sesotho Media and Development and The People’s Matrix Association, marked International Human Rights Day at Avani. The event highlighted the importance of human rights in everyday life and Lesotho’s ongoing commitment to upholding them.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Law and Justice, the Principal Secretary of Law and Justice, Mr. Ralebese, explained that the day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, which recognizes the equal rights and dignity of all people. He noted that the UDHR has influenced the development of human rights laws and institutions worldwide, contributing to progress despite ongoing challenges.

Mr. Ralebese connected human rights to global and African development frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, which aim to eliminate poverty and improve living conditions while ensuring no one is left behind. The 2025 theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials”, emphasized that human rights are integral to daily life.

He reported that Lesotho is fulfilling its obligations under international human rights law and recently participated in the Universal Periodic Review. The country accepted most recommendations, including, for the first time, four aimed at enhancing the rights of LGBTQ+ people. During the current financial year, Lesotho will undergo reviews on women’s rights, disability rights, protection from enforced disappearance, and children’s rights. The government is also preparing a report on the Convention against Torture.

Mrs. Mette Sunnergren, representative of the European Union Delegation, urged stakeholders to uphold equality, justice, and inclusion. She emphasized that human rights apply to everyone and that efforts must continue to ensure access to education, healthcare, and justice for all.

The commemoration underscored Lesotho’s dedication to strengthening human rights, promoting inclusion, and aligning national policies with international standards. It reinforced the message that protecting human rights remains essential for sustainable development and social progress.