Fourth Philippine Human Rights Plan launched

Developed by the Philippine government in consultation with civil society, the PHRP4 is a comprehensive roadmap for national action on the protection of all human rights for everyone in the country. 

The PHRP4 is composed of eight chapters covering continuing and emerging human rights issues, including civil and political rights; economic, social and cultural rights; promotion of gender equality; child-rights; rights of persons with disabilities; elimination of racial discrimination; migrant workers’ rights; and the prohibition of torture and other forms of cruel and inhuman treatment or punishment. This is aligned with core international human rights treaties the Philippines has ratified. Each area is led by a relevant government department that will support implementation.

Launching the plan, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said, “The PHRP4 is crafted to transform our nation’s human rights landscape into a beacon of inclusive growth and social justice, dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Filipinos.” 

“The development of this Philippine Human Rights Plan involved a high number of stakeholders in government and civil society. Its successful implementation will certainly rely on preserving and expanding this inclusive approach,” said United Nations Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez during the launch.

He also shared that the UN Country Team has mainstreamed human rights in all areas of work outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), the partnership agreement between the United Nations and the Philippine Government.

“Through the UNSDCF, the UN will actively support the implementation of the PHRP4,” said Mr. Gonzalez.