NSU with Ambassador for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden

North South University’s (NSU) School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) hosted a distinguished lecture titled “Human Rights and National Security: Why Open Societies Need Open Voices” at the NSU Syndicate Hall in Dhaka. The event was part of the NSU SHSS Distinguished Lecture Series.

The keynote speaker, Irina Schoulgin Nyoni, Ambassador for Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, emphasized that freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy and a key pillar of national resilience.

“Open societies rely on open voices. Freedom of expression is not a luxury—it is the foundation of democracy and the key to national resilience,” she said.

Schoulgin Nyoni highlighted Sweden’s foreign policy priorities in promoting democracy, human rights, gender equality, and the rule of law. She underscored that national security is best protected when all citizens—especially women and minorities—can participate freely in public life.

She also noted Sweden’s ongoing commitment to advancing media freedom, women’s and girls’ rights, and rule-of-law mechanisms through international cooperation and partnerships, including with the OHCHR Mission.

Professor Rizwanul Islam, Dean of SHSS, stressed the global importance of protecting democratic institutions and promoting open discourse, especially amid growing intolerance toward freedom of expression worldwide.

The session was moderated by Professor Abdur Rob Khan, NSU Treasurer and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (in charge), who emphasized the need to nurture “open voices” in education and public life to build stronger, more inclusive societies.