At the recent 2024 China-Central Asia Human Rights Development Forum held in Astana, Kazakhstan, China and Central Asian countries underscored the importance of development as the foundation of human rights. Delegates emphasized that peaceful development is crucial and that human rights should be protected through global security and collaborative initiatives.
The forum was held in the same city where Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Silk Road Economic Belt, the overland component of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a decade ago. The BRI has since become a cornerstone for promoting development and enhancing human rights across the Global South.
Participants suggested utilizing the joint construction of the BRI as the material foundation for human rights and advocated for the implementation of the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) to promote human rights governance. The GCI emphasizes respecting the diversity of civilizations and fostering dialogue to build a shared vision of human rights.
China, along with many Global South nations, highlighted the need to address inequality and instability, which are seen as root causes of human rights challenges. The BRI, based on principles of win-win cooperation and respect for sovereignty, aims to bring development opportunities to developing countries, helping to alleviate poverty and promote stability.
Central Asian countries’ engagement in high-quality projects through the BRI represents a move towards balanced development and a shift away from one-sided human rights discourses. Delegates pointed out that imposing culturally specific human rights standards without considering a nation’s history and culture can be counterproductive.
The forum concluded with a call for open and equal multipolar dialogue to advance collective human rights. By focusing on development and mutual respect, China and Central Asian nations aim to build human rights frameworks that are tailored to their unique civilizations and developmental needs.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
