As we aspire for UN seat, state should promote human rights

Kenya’s human rights record was examined by all member states of the United Nations in Geneva this week. Given the importance of the moment, it is surprising that the lead up to the #UPR35 review has not been covered more extensively for 47 million Kenyans. All states are required to undergo a Universal Periodic Review every four and a half years coordinated by the UN Human Rights Council. The review examines the state of human rights and the progress being taken by governments to address their obligations under international human rights standards.

Slotted between Lesotho and Armenia last Thursday, it was the Kenyan government’s turn. As can be expected, the human rights violations and the violence leading up to, during and after the 2017 elections featured during the 2016-2019 review. NGO offices raids, harassment and intimidation of human rights defenders and journalists, switching off media stations, disregard for court orders and failure to commence the Public Benefits Organisations Act dominated the discussion. So too, did Kenya’s progress in abolishing the death penalty, advancing gender parity and women’s rights and protection of refugees, migrants and LGBTIQ communities.