The League of Arab States annually commemorates Arab Human Rights Day on 16 March, marking the adoption of the Arab Charter on Human Rights. In 2025, the observance focuses on "The Right to Food," stressing its significance as a fundamental human right essential for a dignified existence.
International and regional instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the Arab Charter on Human Rights, affirm the right to adequate food and obligate states to undertake necessary measures, within their capacities, to realise this right.
The League of Arab States has prioritised eradicating hunger and ensuring food security through initiatives like the "Arab Strategy for Food Security" and the "Arab Program for Sustainable Food Security." Collaborations with international and regional organisations have led to training and capacity-building programmes for professionals in the Arab agricultural sector.
This year's observance coincides with the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine, where Israeli occupation forces have imposed severe restrictions on the Palestinian population, leading to widespread food insecurity. The destruction of agricultural infrastructure and limitations on humanitarian aid constitute violations of international law and exacerbate the plight of the Palestinian people. The League of Arab States calls upon the international community to intervene, uphold the right to food, and ensure that food is not weaponised for political or economic coercion.
Achieving the right to food necessitates concerted efforts among states, strengthened partnerships between international and regional organizations, and a steadfast commitment to implementing development projects aligned with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
