“The polarization has deepened in recent months and has worrying signs that the anti-rights movement is well established. With local and regional elections set to take place in October, I am concerned that hate speech, discrimination and violence could increase further,” she said. speak.
Ms. Bachelet recalled that while Peru had “important tools” in place to combat any setbacks in upholding human rights, work was still needed to ensure laws, policies and protocols. This is executed.
Act with generosity
The way forward requires different segments of society to work together towards a comprehensive national dialogue that showcases the country’s rich diversity.
“To this end, I call on all political parties to act with what I call chivalry, and with a sense of political responsibility, to address the challenges facing the country. face. Strong, transparent, accountable and ready state institutions to tackle corruption are fundamental to this process,” she said.
Ms. Bachelet met with many members of society during her visit, including the President and members of his cabinet, legislators, and representatives from the justice system, civil society, private sector, indigenous communities and victims of human rights abuses.
South American country is still recovering after COVID-19 pandemic, and Ms. Bachelet addressing its devastating effects. Peru had The highest death rate per capita in the worldwith about 213,845 people fighting this disease.
“The pandemic has left profound socio-economic divisions in Peruvian society, and Its effects will reverberate for many years”, she said, noting that rural areas, the poor, and disadvantaged and discriminated groups are particularly affected.
Expanded protection measures
Rising food and fuel prices, stemming from the war in Ukraine, are also impacting the recovery in a country of about 15.5 million people considered food insecure.
As planting season approaches, the High Commissioner fears this “troublesome situation” could be made worse by fertilizer shortages.
“I have stated to all of my interlocutors that socioeconomic protections should be expanded and focused on creating tangible improvements for the most disadvantaged. Supporting small-scale agriculture and prioritizing efforts to help people move away from the informal labor market are obvious ways to build back up, she said.
© OHCHR
UN Human Rights chief Michelle Bachelet (left) is welcomed by Peruvian Foreign Minister César Landa (centre) and Justice Minister Félix Chero.
Allies Against Punishment
Ms. Bachelet also focuses on issues affecting indigenous peoples and human rights defenders, who are on the front lines when it comes to the impact of threats such as climate change, illegal logging, illegal logging and drug trafficking, especially in the Amazon region.
“They should be seen as allies in efforts to tackle the punishment of criminal groups,” she said, adding that “indigenous peoples living in voluntary isolation are also affected by the activities illegal.”
Although mining and other extractive industries have been the focus of Peru’s economy for centuries, Bachelet said their “promise for development” often not benefit affected communitiesespecially the indigenous people and the rural population.
“Agreements reached to address social discontent caused by mining and other projects must be based on prior consultation, ensuring the protection of basic land rights,” she said. land and resources, incorporate social and environmental protections, and minimize any negative impacts.
The private sector also has an important role to play through the development of voluntary and mandatory measures for corporate accountability.
“The private sector representatives I met emphasized to me their commitment to promoting UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. I also encourage initiatives towards renewable and green energy,” she added.
Still looking for justice
The High Commissioner spoke of her meetings with violators, including a woman who was tricked and forcibly sterilized. Decades later, she’s still seeking justice.
“She is one of thousands of women and men – mostly rural, poor and Quechua speaking – who have experienced this violation,” she said.
The High Commissioner’s visit coincides with the 30th anniversary of the “horrible” bombing of Tarata by the guerrilla group Sendero Luminoso (Bright Path), which resulted in the deaths of 25 people, and the massacre in La Canuta, in there are 9 students and a university professor. was kidnapped and killed by a suicide squad.
Facing Peru’s violent period from 1980 to 2000 is essential to overcoming today’s important challenges, including the current levels of political and social polarization, she declared. she said.
“Peru’s human rights challenges are clear, as we have heard over the past two days. Based on the discussions I’ve had, I believe they can be overcome and find a path to a more holistic future. It is important not to lose hope.”
