Addressing the Closure of Civic Space in the Americas: Urgency for OAS States

Amnesty International Calls for Action on Closure of Civic Space in the Americas

Background

Amnesty International has issued an open letter to the heads of state attending the 53rd General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS), urging them to address the closure of civic space in the Americas. The organization emphasizes the need to end repressive policies and respond to the social demands of the population in the region. Erika Guevara-Rosas, Americas director at Amnesty International, highlights the detrimental consequences of repressing protests, militarizing borders, and failing to protect marginalized communities and human rights defenders.

Excessive Use of Force and Arbitrary Detentions

One of Amnesty International’s main concerns is the excessive use of force to suppress social protests, which has been observed in multiple countries in the region. The organization emphasizes the importance of ensuring that individuals can exercise their right to peaceful protest, and that any use of force by security forces is strictly necessary, legitimate, and proportionate. Additionally, Amnesty International urges states to end arbitrary detentions, unlawful killings, torture, and other forms of ill-treatment that are prevalent within the region.

Human Mobility and International Protection

Amnesty International also calls for urgent attention to the issue of human mobility and the need for international protection, particularly in the context of people fleeing human rights crises in various countries such as Venezuela, Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. The organization raises concerns about the restrictive and inhumane migration policies of countries including the USA, Mexico, Peru, and Chile, which endanger individuals in need of international protection. Amnesty International stresses the importance of cooperation among states to address the humanitarian crisis at the region’s borders.

Alternatives to Militarization

The organization believes that states must find alternatives to address public security crises, as militarization has become the norm in several countries in the region. Amnesty International highlights the intensified use of the armed forces for public security tasks in countries like Mexico and Ecuador, which leads to grave human rights violations without effectively addressing the root causes of criminal violence.

Protecting Human Rights Defenders

States in the Americas are called upon to take urgent action to protect human rights defenders, as the region remains the most dangerous for them. According to Front Line Defenders, Colombia had the highest number of killings of human rights defenders in 2022, followed by Mexico, Brazil, and Honduras. Amnesty International stresses the crucial importance of safeguarding the individuals who advocate for and protect human rights.

Climate Crisis and Indigenous Rights

Amnesty International also expresses concern about the climate crisis and its impact on rural and historically marginalized communities. The organization emphasizes that states’ efforts to address the crisis have been insufficient, particularly in terms of reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Similarly, states have not adequately protected the rights of Indigenous peoples, as seen in cases documented by Amnesty International involving the killing of Indigenous leaders in countries like Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico in the context of land-related conflicts.

Violence and Discrimination Against Women, Girls, and LGBTI People

The persistent violence and discrimination against women, girls, and LGBTI people in the Americas require a concerted response from states. Amnesty International highlights the failure of states in the region to adequately address high levels of gender-based violence, including feminicides. Additionally, several states have taken measures that endanger people’s sexual and reproductive rights, further exacerbating the problem.

Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR)

In light of the General Assembly’s upcoming election of four people to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), Amnesty International urges states in the Americas to prioritize individuals with the highest credentials. The organization emphasizes the importance of suitability, impartiality, independence, and recognized competence in the field of human rights. Furthermore, Amnesty International calls for nominations and withdrawals to align firmly with the inter-American legal framework.

Editorial: A Call for Change and Protection of Human Rights

Amnesty International’s open letter to the heads of state attending the 53rd General Assembly of the OAS serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the closure of civic space in the Americas. The organization’s concerns highlight a range of human rights violations and challenges faced by the region’s governments. It is imperative for states to consider the recommendations put forth by Amnesty International and take immediate action to protect human rights and create a freer and safer continent.

The Suppression of Protests and Excessive Use of Force

One of the most pressing issues raised by Amnesty International is the excessive use of force to suppress social protests. The right to peaceful protest is a fundamental pillar of democracy, allowing citizens to express their concerns and hold their governments accountable. States must ensure that individuals can exercise this right freely and without fear of reprisals or violence. Any use of force should be strictly necessary, legitimate, and proportionate.

Protecting Human Rights Defenders

The alarming number of killings of human rights defenders in the Americas demands immediate attention. These individuals play a crucial role in safeguarding human rights and advocating for justice. States must take swift and comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and protection of human rights defenders, as their work is essential for the advancement of society.

The Climate Crisis and Indigenous Rights

The devastating impact of the climate crisis on historically marginalized communities, particularly Indigenous peoples, cannot be ignored. States must prioritize strategies to mitigate climate change, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and protect the rights of Indigenous peoples. This includes ensuring their free, prior, and informed consent in decision-making processes regarding extractive, agricultural, and infrastructure projects that affect their territories.

Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Reproductive Rights

The persistent violence and discrimination against women, girls, and LGBTI people in the region require immediate and comprehensive action. States must adopt comprehensive strategies to combat gender-based violence, including feminicides. Additionally, measures that infringe upon the sexual and reproductive rights of individuals must be reconsidered and reversed.

Conclusion: A Path Towards a Freer and Safer Continent

Amnesty International’s open letter calls for a significant shift in the approach of states in the Americas. The closure of civic space and the various human rights challenges plaguing the region demand urgent attention and action. The heads of state attending the General Assembly of the OAS have a unique opportunity to effect meaningful change and ensure the protection of human rights for all individuals. It is crucial that they heed Amnesty International’s call and work towards creating a freer and safer continent, where the rights of all are respected and secure.

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