SALALAH: During the second day of the regional forum for Arab National Human Rights Institutions, a distinguished official from the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Unit underscored the profound relationship between Oman's strategic roadmap for sustainable development and the objective of protecting human rights.
In her presentation, Kawthar al Farsi, the Director of the Government Performance Measurement Department within the Unit, detailed how the core tenets of Oman Vision 2040 are inextricably intertwined with human rights principles, functioning as a guiding framework for fostering a more equitable and sustainable governance model.
Al-Farsi elucidated that the aspirational targets of Oman Vision 2040, aimed at nurturing a vibrant Omani society, are intricately connected to the integration of human rights into all governmental policies and initiatives.
She emphasized the fundamental rights of Omani citizens, such as their right to a healthy environment and access to appropriate natural resources, which she views as essential not merely for current welfare but also for the sustained development necessary to safeguard the well-being of future generations.
Moreover, Oman Vision 2040 ensures the protection of citizen rights to health, education, and adequate housing, highlighting their significance in both social and economic contexts. Al-Farsi linked these rights to the overarching objective of enhancing the quality of life for all citizens, asserting that societal progress hinges on these foundational principles.
She also highlighted the necessity for economic development to be underpinned by equitable income distribution and robust labor rights protections, stressing the importance of achieving a balance in this regard. This balance is crucial for the development of an inclusive and resilient economy, she opined.
Additionally, the promotion of transparency and accountability within governmental operations is deemed a pivotal aspect of Oman Vision 2040. This approach enables community participation in decision-making processes, leading to a more informed and engaged citizenry, according to her.
Kawthar al Farsi articulated a vision where the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and human rights are seen as mutually reinforcing. She posited that "achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040 is closely linked to human rights." These principles are complementary, working in harmony to foster a prosperous and equitable society of Omani citizens. She further contends that sustainable development can only be achieved by upholding the rights of all societal members.
The strategic emphasis of human rights at the core of Oman Vision 2040 represents a progressive strategy that aligns the nation's development objectives with universal human rights principles. This commitment not only underscores Oman's dedication to these ideals but also sets a benchmark for comprehensive and inclusive governance across the region.
