This special event was held in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Turki Al-Faisal, and was hosted by Dr Hala bint Mazyed Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission (HRC), who emphasised that "Human rights are not concepts or practices inspired by a given civilisation or society, but rather lie at the core of every human person." 

Dr Al-Tuwaijri stressed that human rights in Saudi Arabia are deeply rooted in values firmly established by Islam. She highlighted that the late King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud founded Saudi Arabia on the principles of justice, equality, brotherhood, and cooperation in righteousness and piety — principles that are now embodied as human rights.

During the inaugural ceremony, HRH Prince Turki Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, stated that the Kingdom is committed to protecting human rights but has also launched Saudi Vision 2030, which has opened broader horizons for citizens, residents, and visitors. His Highness described the programme as a significant stride by the HRC towards the Kingdom's goal of promoting human rights.

On this occasion, Mr Nikhil Seth, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), remarked, "We attach special importance to enhancing awareness of international human rights law as a legal framework for promoting better societies for all, which has been one of the great successes of the UN. Strengthening national synergies and capacities is essential for promoting and protecting human rights." He also added that the Kingdom can play a leading role in human rights and pave the way for the transition from theory to practice through international cooperation. Regarding the "Expert in Human Rights Programme", Mr Seth said: "We, UNITAR, as a partner of the programme, affirm our commitment to its success, noting that human rights training consolidates the foundations of justice, equality, and peace within societies, and has a profound positive impact on building awareness and empowerment."

During his speech at the inauguration ceremony, Mr Alex Mejia, Director of UNITAR's Division for People and Social Inclusion, described the "Expert in Human Rights Programme" as a model for the international community, marking the beginning of an educational journey with great potential for sustainability. He noted that it will eventually become a master's programme. Mr Mejia highlighted that human rights underpin all aspects of human development, governance, social welfare, and justice, ensuring that no one is left behind. He added, "I firmly believe that a better understanding of human rights dynamics at the national, regional, and international levels will empower participants and increase their awareness of human rights, leading to better societies for all."

In this regard, HE Prof Musallam Al-Dosari, Vice-Rector for Development and Investment at Majmaah University, described the "Expert in Human Rights Programme" as a high-quality initiative by HRC that reflects its active engagement with human capital empowerment initiatives in the Kingdom. He noted that the programme's launch is one of the outcomes of the effective and exclusive partnership between the University, represented by the Saudi CIFAL Centre, and UNITAR.