On February 20, 2025, the International Relations and Diplomacy Department at Tishk International University proudly organized a national workshop titled “How Human Rights are Related to Academic and Scientific Institutions, and How Can We Recognize Human Rights?” The event provided valuable insights into the crucial intersection of human rights and academia, exploring how universities and research centers play a vital role in promoting and upholding these fundamental rights.

Discussions on the Primacy of Human Rights

The workshop was moderated by Mr. Bayad Sarwar Abdullah, who introduced the distinguished speaker, Mr. Mohammed Saber, a respected sociologist and Director of Public Awareness and Media at the Independent Human Rights Commission, Kurdistan Region.

In the first session, Mr. Saber explained the universal essence of human rights and the necessity of their observance by all actors at local, regional, and international levels, particularly by the 193 member states of the United Nations. He emphasized that rights such as life, property, liberty, freedom of speech, and human dignity are universal values that must be protected and promoted. Mr. Saber also highlighted the challenges facing human rights’ observance in the Kurdistan Region, given the nature of its relationship with Baghdad within a federal Iraq.

The Nexus Between Human Rights and Academia

The second session focused on the vital connection between human rights and academic and scientific institutions. Mr. Saber explained the strategic importance of these institutions in promoting and protecting human rights by educating and enlightening the public. He underscored that this knowledge is essential for fostering peaceful coexistence, harmony, and sustainable development within society.

The workshop was attended by approximately 30 participants, including university staff and students, and provided them with a deeper understanding of the significance of human rights and the critical role of academic institutions in their protection and promotion. The event is fully aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Key Recommendations for Advancement

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Saber provided several key recommendations:

  • Government Action: Governments, at all levels, should do more to observe, protect, and promote human rights.
  • Institutional Support: Academic and scientific institutions should be supported in their efforts to educate and enlighten the public on human rights.
  • Legal Strengthening: Existing legal frameworks should be reinforced to ensure the full protection and promotion of human rights.

The workshop concluded with certificates of appreciation presented to Mr. Mohammed Saber and Mr. Bayad Sarwar Abdullah by the Head of the International Relations and Diplomacy Department, Dr. Mohammad Salih Mustafa. This event reinforced the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of human rights advocacy and education.

Keywords: Human Rights, Academic Institutions, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SDG 16, Peace, Justice, Independent Human Rights Commission, Kurdistan Region, Tishk International University, International Relations, Political Science, Law