Safeguarding Democracy and Human Rights: A Landmark Collaboration

Local news, 27.07.2024

A concrete step was taken to strengthen democracy and human rights in Mongolia. The Constitutional Court of Mongolia and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) signed an agreement to implement the Safeguarding Human Rights and Democracy Through Constitutional Court Reform project for two years. 

Contract signing with Constitutional Cort
Contract signing with Constitutional Cort ©SDC

The signing ceremony marked the beginning of a crucial initiative to strengthen the rule of law in Mongolia.

Several dignitaries graced the event, highlighting the importance of this collaboration. Among them were Laurent Wehrli, a member of the National Council of the Swiss Confederation and President of its Foreign Relations Committee; Justices Solongo and Ulziisaikhan, members of the Constitutional Court of Mongolia; Jürg Burri, the Swiss Ambassador to Mongolia; Ambassador Arno Wicki, Deputy Director of SDC; and Stefanie Burri, Head of the Swiss Cooperation in Mongolia.

Ambassador Wicki underscored the critical nature of this project. He stated: "This initiative is a testament to our shared commitment to strengthening democratic governance and human rights. Through this collaboration, we aim to support the Constitutional Court of Mongolia in its pivotal role of safeguarding the rule of law and ensuring that the rights of all citizens are protected."

A representative of the Constitutional Court highlighted ongoing discussions in the Parliament of Mongolia concerning Constitutional Court reforms. A member of the court noted, "It is heartening to see this project underway during such a significant period of reform. The outcomes of this endeavour are expected to greatly enhance the enforcement of Mongolia's Constitution and bolster the ability to oversee its implementation."

The Safeguarding Human Rights and Democracy Through Constitutional Court Reform project spans two years and has ambitious goals. The project will support the court’s ongoing legal reforms to ensure it can effectively uphold the Constitution and enhance mechanisms for safeguarding human rights, ensuring that citizens' fundamental freedoms are protected. A key component of the project is public awareness and education. Efforts will be made to disseminate knowledge about the Constitution, human rights, and the role of the Constitutional Court.

The collaboration between the Constitutional Court of Mongolia and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation is a significant milestone for the pursuit of a more just and democratic society. By reinforcing the rule of law and ensuring that human rights are protected, this project will help create a more equitable and transparent governance system. As Mongolia continues to navigate its democratic journey, initiatives like this are essential to ensure its constitutional framework remains strong and effective.