Civil society message for First Minister is clear: Prioritise the Human Rights Bill

Civil society message for First Minister is clear: Prioritise the Human Rights Bill

The Scottish Human Rights Bill will be a crucial step forward in human rights protection in Scotland. It will incorporate 4 international human rights treaties- plus additional protections for the right to a healthy environment, and protections for LGBT and older people- directly into law. Initially promised in 2021, civil society now waits for its introduction, which must come before the end of the Parliamentary term in 2026.

On 18th June, the Consortium held an event called 'The Scottish Human Rights Bill: priorities, promises and people,' which brought together over 80 civil society organisations and human rights defenders. Together, with contributions from Poverty Alliance, Shelter Scotland, Broke Not Broken, Amnesty UK, and the Scottish Human Rights Commission, attendees heard about the promises made around the Human Rights Bill, and the impact it could have on ordinary people in Scotland.

During the event, attendees were asked to share 1 key message each with the First Minister. They used this opportunity to share the following messages, which capture the feeling of urgency around the Bill. Civil society in Scotland is united in our call for the Scottish Human Rights Bill to be introduced promptly, and implemented well, so that human rights can be made real for everyone in Scotland:

• “This is a chance for Scotland to be a human rights leader and to ensure that all public bodies better work in the interest of those they serve.”
• “Human rights are fundamental to people being able to live with fairness and dignity. The implementation of the Bill will rely on investment in public services to allow rights to be realised.”
• “The world is watching. Let Scotland lead the way.”
• “If you’re serious about tackling poverty, you need decision making shifts for targeted efforts for the long term – that is what the Human Rights Bill does.”
• "By implementing this Bill, Scotland ensures it leads the way in addressing poverty and its long-term effects, marking a critical moment for future generations to thrive amidst intersecting crises."