13/11/2025
North South University’s (NSU) School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) organized a distinguished lecture titled “Human Rights and National Security: Why Open Societies Need Open Voices” at the NSU Syndicate Hall. The session was part of the university’s ongoing SHSS Distinguished Lecture Series.
The keynote address was delivered by Irina Schoulgin Nyoni, Ambassador for Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden. Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (in charge) at NSU, moderated the session.
In her address, Ambassador Schoulgin Nyoni underscored that “open societies rely on open voices,” emphasizing that freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy and a key to national resilience.
“When human rights are respected, societies grow stronger, safer, and more united,” she said, adding, “In Bangladesh, we have seen how young people’s courage and engagement can keep this openness alive and inspire trust in democracy.”
She began by outlining Sweden’s foreign policy priorities in the areas of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, highlighting that a vibrant civil society, freedom of expression, and gender equality are crucial components of resilient national security.
Schoulgin Nyoni reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to advancing human rights through development cooperation and political dialogue—particularly in promoting women’s and girls’ rights, media freedom, and rule-of-law mechanisms, including partnerships with the OHCHR Mission.
She further noted that true national security is best achieved not by restricting voices, but by ensuring equal participation of all citizens—especially women and minorities—in public life.
Professor Rizwanul Islam, Dean of SHSS, highlighted the global importance of protecting democratic institutions and open discourse, noting that intolerance toward freedom of expression is rising even in advanced democracies.
Concluding the event, Professor Abdur Rob Khan stressed the need to nurture “open voices” within both educational and public spheres to build stronger and more resilient nations.
đź§ SAT-Style Questions
1. The main purpose of the event described in the passage was to
A. debate the relationship between democracy and economic growth
B. explore the connection between human rights and national security
C. examine the history of Sweden’s foreign policy in South Asia
D. criticize global intolerance toward democratic values
âś… Correct answer: B
Explanation: The title and content of the lecture focus on how open societies and human rights relate to national security.
2. In the passage, Irina Schoulgin Nyoni suggests that freedom of expression is
A. a luxury that only wealthy societies can afford
B. a potential threat to national unity
C. fundamental to democracy and resilience
D. a secondary concern compared to national security
âś… Correct answer: C
Explanation: Nyoni states that “freedom of expression is not a luxury—it is the foundation of democracy and the key to national resilience.”
3. Which of the following best describes Sweden’s approach to promoting human rights, as presented by Schoulgin Nyoni?
A. Limiting civil society to strengthen government authority
B. Encouraging open dialogue and cooperation through international partnerships
C. Prioritizing military security over gender equality
D. Supporting human rights only through domestic reforms
âś… Correct answer: B
Explanation: She mentions Sweden’s commitment to advancing human rights through cooperation, dialogue, and partnerships, including with the OHCHR.
4. According to the passage, both Professor Rizwanul Islam and Professor Abdur Rob Khan emphasize
A. the decline of democratic values in Sweden
B. the role of education and discourse in strengthening democracy
C. the importance of media censorship for stability
D. the need for less student participation in public life
âś… Correct answer: B
Explanation: Both professors stress the importance of open voices, democratic institutions, and education in building resilient societies.
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Study in Stockholm County North South University with Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden November 13, 2025November 13, 2025 North South University with Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden NSU with Ambassador for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sw...