Human Security Objectives Outlined in Cairo

Physical safety, economic well-being, social inclusion, and the full exercise of human rights are the essential objectives of the human security imperative, emphasized the Human Security Track when concluding its three-day meeting in Cairo (30.9-2.10.2004).

The Track stressed that all human beings are born equal in rights and dignity, but that there are many normative, legislative, institutional and compliance gaps at global, regional, and national levels. Therefore, what is needed is new and tenacious commitment of political energy and direction, a global rededication to the human security imperative. The Track emphasized the importance of regional norms and arrangements to complement local and global efforts in ensuring human security for all.

In addition to emphasizing the role of governments in ensuring human security, the Track also stressed the vital role of other stakeholders – from civil society to the business community – and their consultative and mobilizing capabilities.

Key Priorities Include Health and Women

The need to empower people to secure their own health emerged as a priority in the Human Security Track’s discussions as it deliberated its final report. A Global Health Plan of Action, framed by the Millennium Development Goals, should spell out governmental responsibilities in health, as well as the obligations of international organizations, NGOs, businesses and other stakeholders in the global health community. The Track also emphasized the need for political and financial commitment to primary health care and, moreover, the need to ensure equality of access to health services.

In finalizing its report, the Human Security Track emphasized the role of women as agents of change and stressed the need for serious efforts to initiate a new global consensus to prevent violence against women. It was argued that in order for women in every country to achieve more enforceable protection against violence, the capacity and accountability of states must be strengthened.

In addition to health and violence against women, the final report of the Human Security Track will highlight key concerns regarding the environment, human trafficking, violence against children, and small arms. After the report is finalized in December, it will be launched as a working paper for a process of further consultations and feedback. The key issues of the report will be highlighted in the forthcoming Helsinki Conference, in September 2005.