Ulaanbaatar /MONTSAME/ On the occasion of International Human Rights Day which is being marked today, the Delegation of the European Union to Mongolia together with the Embassies of France and Italy presented European Union Human Rights Defenders’ Award to nine people, who are making their efforts to human rights protection.

The date was chosen to honour the United Nations Assembly's adoption and proclamation, on December 10, 1948, of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the first global enunciation of human rights. The Human Rights Day is being celebrated this year under the theme ‘Youths standing up for human rights’.

“Over last 70 years, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations has been consolidating powerful democracy that honors human rights, in countries. When Mongolia has celebrated its 30^th anniversary of democratic revolution a few days ago, we saw that people were demanding to respect democracy, human rights, freedom and free election. Respecting human rights is the most important factor to ensure sustainable development of democratic society and to secure peace.

Unfortunately, we are still observing human rights violations in many countries, especially gender and racial discrimination and discrimination in sexual orientation. Therefore, the EU Delegation to Mongolia, the Embassies of France and Italy and the Embassies of other countries are showing respect to human rights activists in Mongolia.

Protection of human rights is one of main principles of the European Union, which defines its internal, and foreign policies and it is belonged to everyone. We will ever protect and encourage the people who endeavor for human rights, “ Ambassador of the European Union to Mongolia Traian Laurentiu Hristea said at the opening of the award presenting ceremony.  The Ambassador also highlighted that the event will be traditionally held in the future.

The following human rights activists and organizations have been awarded with the European Union Human Rights Defenders’ Award:

Awardee: Ms. Ts.Oyungerel, a human rights activists and author, in recognition of efforts to promote and protect universally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms

Ms. Kh.Naranjargal, President of Globe International Center, Mongolia, in recognition of efforts to defend and promote freedom of opinion and expression

Ms. B.Boloroo, Officer of Population Development Department’s Division for Development of People with Disabilities, in recognition of activities to create equal opportunities for persons with disabilities and efforts to build a more inclusive society

The LGBT Center Mongolia, represented by Ms. D.Munkhtuya, commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons

Ministry of Labor and Social Protection represented by State Secretary Mr. G.Unurbayar, in recognition of promoting and protecting freedom of opinion and expression of Civil Society Organizations

Ms. N. Oyundari, Member of Parliament and Head of the Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights, in recognition of courageous advocacy for the promotion of gender equality and combat discrimination against women

Mr. O.Munkhsaikhan, Associate Professor at the National University of Mongolia School of Law, in recognition of efforts to involve non-governmental organizations as key actors of democratic governance processes  

Prevention Division of the General Police Department, Mongolia, represented by Mr. D.Budzaan, Head of the Division, in recognition of efforts to promote, protect and enforce the rights of children

Gavj D.Nyamsambuu (represented by Mr. Nomundalai), in recognition of his activities for promoting and protecting freedom of religion or belief.