ANDl human rights ambassador of the NetherlandsWim Geerts, was visit in Colombia. During his three-day trip he visited Cali and Bogotá where he learned about the situation of fundamental rights in Colombian territory.
By the way, Geerts spoke with EL TIEMPO about his impressions of how the country is progressing in this matter and the challenges that still remain.
“I was very impressed by the strength of civil society organizations; their courage and resilience to defend human rights in difficult conditions is admirable“he said in dialogue with this newspaper.
He also spoke about the situation of human rights in the world.
His visit to Colombia is due to his intention to have a better understanding of the human rights situation in the country. What is his perspective after it?
After having been in Colombia for three days, in Cali and in Bogotá, I have a fairly clear idea of the country's progress in terms of compliance with fundamental rights for Colombians, and also of the challenges it faces. I was very impressed by the strength of civil society organizations; Their courage and resilience to defend human rights under difficult conditions is admirable. I also salute the commitment of the Colombian government to work towards the fulfillment of human rights. Regarding challenges, I consider that the implementation of the peace agreement with the FARC signed in 2016 continues to be essential to achieve lasting peace in the country. Peace and human rights are closely related.
A recent report from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) ensures that Colombia is the deadliest country in America for human rights defenders and reveals that the departments where defenders are killed the most are where the most coca is grown. What do you think should be the priority of the Colombian government with a view to ceasing to be one?
The work of defenders is essential for the development of human rights, democracy and access to justice in Colombia. For this reason, it is essential to guarantee prevention, protection and support mechanisms. In the conversations I had with defenders, I heard their call for the strengthening of these mechanisms to be done in collaboration with civil society. The Colombian government already has a series of policies, it has an integrated approach. However, the challenge now lies in implementation.
Precisely, you visited the capital of Valle del Cauca, Cali, one of the most dangerous departments in the country due to the coexistence between coca cultivation, drug trafficking and armed groups that has resulted in years of bloody conflicts that control lives. of the civilian population. How to confront this dangerous dynamic perpetuated for years?
I already mentioned that human rights and peace are closely interconnected. Therefore, it is about articulating security policy, drug policy, public policy for the dismantling of illegal armed structures and the protection of citizens in general, a comprehensive approach.
You also had the opportunity to visit the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP), one of the bodies created during the peace process that ended the FARC guerrilla, but which has been seriously questioned by former leaders of that guerrilla. From your perspective, why is it important for Colombia to respect the institutions with a view to total peace?
I highlight the creation and progress of the JEP as an important step in the fight against impunity. It is a unique institution, with an innovative approach to restorative justice, which seeks truth and reconciliation and puts the interests of victims at the center of attention. I hope that the JEP can be an inspiration for other contexts.
You also had the opportunity to meet with a consortium of women's rights organizations (ICCO). What perception did that meeting leave you? What would you highlight that Colombia is doing well in this regard and what does it have to improve?
Women are in an especially vulnerable position, particularly social leaders and human rights defenders. I greatly appreciate that Colombia has already taken steps towards the formulation of a National Action Plan for Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. We look forward to this Plan and value the participatory process.
In addition, he was able to speak with members of the Venezuelan organization Voto Joven, at a time when Venezuela faces a difficult outlook for the democratic transition. What is the main warning that Nicolás Maduro seems to have little intention of leaving power, in terms of human rights?
Here I would like to emphasize the importance of registering to vote, both in Venezuela and also here in Colombia, which is home to a large number of Venezuelans. And, of course, it is important to hold free and fair elections, including meaningful observation missions.
Currently, the world faces a series of conflicts that increase human rights violations. Why is it risky for governments like those of Israel and Russia to cross red lines in relation to their protection, especially in the civilian population?
I would like to mention the importance of respecting international humanitarian law. Furthermore, all parties must do everything possible to avoid civilian casualties.
You also served as ambassador to China, also in difficult times: during the covid-19 pandemic. What is your perspective on China regarding human rights?
The Netherlands has serious concerns about the human rights situation in China in many areas, such as in Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong. Regarding issues such as civil society, freedom of the press, freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief.
In a few months, the European Union will go to elections and there are fears of a shift towards far-right forces whose agenda can seriously put civil rights at risk. What is your vision of what is at stake in Europe in the mid-year elections?
I am not going to speculate on the outcome of the June European Parliament elections. First, people have to decide. And, subsequently, that will must be respected.
What warning could I give to autocratic rulers around the world who seem to gain favor by promising security no matter what the cost?
Here I would like to mention the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I believe in the universality of human rights; That means they are for everyone, everywhere and always. Autocratic rulers will be judged by history, and history books are not always positive about their role.
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