Some residents of Kigali City, specifically in Nyarugenge District, have pointed out obstacles in the protection of human rights.
These residents mentioned that family conflicts negatively impact family development and are also a barrier to safeguarding human rights, especially for children born into families facing such conflicts.
Bimana Elidephonse affirmed that conflicts are one of the obstacles that prevent family development and the protection of human rights.
He said: “Citizens must be educated about their rights and the agreements that our country has committed to, so that human rights are respected. Everyone must know their responsibilities within the family because it is the foundation of the country. Parents should live in harmony, love their children, and provide them with proper upbringing so that the rights of the child within the family are respected.”
Another resident from Muhima Sector in Nyarugenge District, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated that conflicts are one of the reasons for the lack of respect for human rights.
He said: “Every citizen has the right to voice their opinions about what happens to them. We are pleased with how Rwanda implements resolutions related to human rights and how we are progressing. We are committed to contributing to the protection of human rights by preventing conflicts in families.”
He continued, “Indeed, a family based on good relationships is what the country needs, and the development the country seeks depends on a peaceful family.”
Rasana Pitie Benedict, a legal officer at GLIHD and the coordinator of a project aimed at connecting citizens with civil society organizations to address local issues, said that the project he coordinates will bring changes to some of the barriers to human rights protection.
He said: “We are engaging citizens in assessing the services they receive and making recommendations on how things can improve where they live to advance human rights. Citizens will be educated on their role in what happens to them and their responsibility in the changes they seek in their communities.”
Family conflicts in districts of the Eastern Province have significant consequences, with some spouses even being killed by their partners. These conflicts also affect children, as some end up on the streets or become pregnant before reaching the legal age.
Married couples have equal rights and responsibilities during marriage, wedding ceremonies, and even during divorce. Article 18: Family Protection The family, as the natural foundation of the Rwandan society, is protected by the State.
Both parents have equal rights and responsibilities in raising their children.The State enacts laws and establishes institutions to protect the family, particularly children and mothers, in order to support the family’s development.
Article 20: Right to Education Every Rwandan has the right to education.Freedom of learning and teaching is protected under the law.Primary education is mandatory and free in public schools.Laws determine how free primary education is provided in government-supported schools.Laws also define how education is structured.
Article 21: Right to Good Health All Rwandans have the right to good health.
