Momentous signing of the Optional Protocol on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights at the United Nations

Muthoni Wanyeki, representing a coalition of over 300 NGOs campaigning for the Optional Protocol, is taking part in the Treaty Event for Heads of State at UN Headquarters in New York. “The Coalition welcomes this significant beginning towards universal support for this historic mechanism: 33794 individuals, and NGOs from 111 countries have signed a global petition calling on all States who are eligible to do so to become a party to the Optional Protocol through ratification.” These individuals and NGOs also call on States to ensure that the Optional Protocol enters into force as soon as possible and is fully implemented without delay.

For the first time, the Optional Protocol establishes a mechanism to access justice at an international level for people whose economic, social and cultural rights are violated. Many people around the world, particularly those living in poverty and discriminated against, suffer violations of their rights and are denied justice at the national level. The Optional Protocol will enable them to seek justice at the international level and will also support efforts within countries to ensure that effective remedies are available to victims.

The Optional Protocol sends a clear and unequivocal message about the equal value and importance of all human rights - all rights should be protected, respected and fulfilled, fully and without exception.

Today’s signing ceremony at the United Nations, was the result of decades of campaigning by NGOs and activists from across the world for economic, social and cultural rights to be implemented and enforced and for everyone, everywhere to have access to justice and effective remedies .