On behalf of the European Union Delegation to Lesotho, I am deeply honoured to stand before you once again at the Police Training College.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the invitation to participate in the early commemoration of International Human Rights Day, as we approach the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) this Sunday, on 10 December 2023.

The European Union remains unwavering in its commitment to the universal values encapsulated in the UDHR. The core principles of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and respect for human rights continue to be the guiding force shaping all facets of the EU's internal and external actions.

Today's commemoration marks also the closing session of the capacity-building workshops for police officers—a tangible testament to our shared dedication to human rights and democratic governance. These workshops were made possible thanks to a project implemented by Sesotho Media and Development with the support of the European Union, aimed at strengthening the accountability of the security sector and promoting the respect, fulfilment, and protection of human rights by the Lesotho Mounted Police Service.

The capacity-building programme covered diverse modules, including leadership, public speaking, human rights legal frameworks, a human rights-based approach in policing, and the role of policing in a democratic system.

Allow me to I extend my congratulations to all those who have successfully completed these enriching trainings.

This collaborative effort would not be possible without the invaluable partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs, and Police, LMPS as well as Sesotho Media and Development. This partnership, unique in the framework of an EU-supported projects, signifies our shared commitment to advancing the promotion and protection of human rights in Lesotho.

We firmly believe that adhering to a human rights-based approach in police reform can transform lives, decrease social tensions, prevent abuses, and provide justice to victims. Building trust between people and the police is pivotal, ensuring citizens feel empowered and safe to report crimes. Without this safety, the negative impacts can spill over onto the entire society.

Today's event significantly falls within the 16 days of activism to eradicate gender-based violence, symbolised by the orange ribbon I wear.

Shockingly, one in three women worldwide have endured gender-based violence in their lifetime. As law enforcement officers, you play a critical role in eradicating this scourge, ensuring everyone in Lesotho enjoys the full protection under the law, especially the Countering Domestic Violence Act of 2022.

In our collective quest to end gender-based violence, it is imperative to shift our focus from survivors to perpetrators, addressing the root causes of such heinous acts rather than merely reacting to their consequences.

I speak as a man to fellow men in the audience, when I say that we must stand as allies, not oppressors, recognising that violence is a manifestation of weakness and fragility, not strength.

True strength lies in empathy, respect, and the rejection of toxic masculinity. A strong man embraces the success of their partners, mothers, sisters, and daughters – is not threatened by it – understanding that their thriving contributes to a better community for all.

Let us unite against gender-based violence, for a society where all individuals can thrive without fear or harm.

In conclusion, I invite each one of you to sign the pledge wall.

Thank you for your attention and commitment to a future free from violence and full of justice for all.