International Protection on Human
Rights and Victims’ Rights
(June 30 – July 30, 2006)
By Pilar R. Dulay
 |
| Pilar
R. Dulay |
The summer course in Strasbourg was where my education on human
rights and victims’ rights had in fact taken place. I had
always considered discourses on human rights intimidating because
of my limited knowledge on the subject matter. Before leaving for
France, I felt uneasy about attending a course which I had little
knowledge of. My apprehension furthermore was brought about by the
thought that my work in Strasbourg might not be up to the expectations
of colleagues in the office and the sponsoring organization.
Though I had worked on issues dealing with justice and human
rights, I was not really immersed in the topic of human rights
per se. As my non-legal background was a limitation to my complete
involvement in human rights discourses, I had left the subject
matter on human rights to our lawyers who could undoubtedly give
expert opinions on human rights issues.
However after attending school in Strasbourg, I realized my education
on human rights had taken place. Schooling was an excellent vehicle
for me to learn about human rights with a specific focus on the
importance of being aware of human rights violations, protection
of victims and international conventions and agreements that protect
the basic rights of people all over the world. I learned people
view human rights according to their culture, values and orientation.
I took note of how the matter was viewed from a global perspective.
After collecting and digesting all the information discussed in
school, I developed a deep appreciation of the subject and certainly
I can say with complete conviction that I now know more about
human rights and can participate in discussions on the subject,
unlike before. I used to take no interest in human rights issues
as I considered them matters beyond my sphere, as an outsider
of the legal profession. After my schooling in Strasbourg, I have
realized how interesting human rights is after all. My attention
was in fact captured when I was walking along the corridors of
a university in Manila that had an exhibit on international humanitarian
law. I stayed and read all the exhibit materials meticulously.
I was happy afterward because I was able relate to the issues
presented in the exhibit.
While I was in Strasbourg, I studied and researched on the Internet
about the matters being discussed in class. I conscientiously
stayed up late night after night to review the day’s discussions.
At the end of the course, my efforts paid off because I passed
the exam given by the school. I am happy not only because I successfully
passed the exam but because I also gained valuable learning from
the course. Over and above that, I had forged lasting friendships
with my classmates who were also sponsored by Friedrich Naumann
Stiftung (FNSt). Lastly, I would like to express my sincere thanks
to FNSt for giving me the opportunity to further my personal as
well as my professional growth. The experience was very meaningful
and has given me a lift professionally.
