The following media round up on international and foreign policy issues from around the world for the period of 5 to 12 November 2024.
Guernica 37 will provide weekly media updates from the International Criminal Court, European Court of Human Rights, United Nations, European Union and other sources. Should you wish to contribute or submit a media summary, opinion piece or blog, please send to Ned Vucijak at nenadv@guernica37.com for consideration.
India – 11 November 2024
In a ruling hailed as a major victory for civil rights, India’s Supreme Court has condemned the practice of “bulldozer justice,” wherein authorities demolish homes and businesses without due process, often targeting marginalized communities. The court’s decision underscores the judiciary's role in curbing executive overreach and safeguarding citizens’ property rights. The judgment is expected to strengthen procedural safeguards and reaffirm constitutional rights against arbitrary state action.
Burkina Faso – 11 November 2024
The government of Burkina Faso is currently debating the reintroduction of the death penalty, raising significant concerns regarding the country’s human rights commitments. Critics argue that reinstating capital punishment would constitute a setback in the nation’s adherence to human rights norms, particularly given the global trend towards abolition.
New Zealand – 11 November 2024
A nationwide protest march has begun in New Zealand opposing the controversial Treaty Principles Bill, which protesters argue threatens indigenous rights. The bill’s critics assert it undermines the Treaty of Waitangi’s principles and jeopardizes Maori representation in legal and governmental systems.
International Criminal Court – 11 November 2024
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has initiated an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against Karim Khan, its Chief Prosecutor, in a move that underscores the institution’s commitment to internal accountability. This inquiry into a senior official raises complex questions about the ICC’s internal culture and policies related to workplace conduct while observers view this as a test of the ICC’s procedural integrity in handling misconduct allegations in the context of potentially politically motivated attacks on the Court.
Peru – 11 November 2024
A delegation of survivors and families affected by Peru’s state-led lethal repression of protests is set to present their accounts to European leaders, seeking international solidarity and intervention. The delegation aims to draw attention to Peru’s pattern of human rights abuses, particularly the excessive use of force against demonstrators.
Sudan – 10 November 2024
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been implicated in severe human rights violations, with reports indicating deliberate attacks on civilians in conflict zones. The RSF’s actions, characterized by indiscriminate violence and forced displacement, are exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis and reflect systematic abuses that contravene international laws of armed conflict. Civilian protection remains elusive as the conflict intensifies, raising alarms among international watchdogs about potential war crimes.
China – 10 November 2024
Provincial governments in China are reportedly engaging in coercive practices akin to extortion, targeting businesses and individuals for arbitrary fines and fees under the guise of economic regulations. This practice has sparked public discontent and intensified critiques of state overreach, highlighting systemic abuses of power in local governance.
Uganda – 7 November 2024
A landmark case challenging the use of ‘seclusion and restraint’ practices in Ugandan care facilities for individuals with disabilities has come before the courts, raising questions about human rights compliance in mental health treatment. Plaintiffs argue these practices violate Uganda’s commitments under international disability rights agreements, and the case could set a significant precedent for mental health rights in the region.
United States – 6 November 2024
In a second presidential term, Donald Trump’s administration is expected to intensify actions that imperil human rights protections within the United States and globally. Civil rights advocates warn of increased rollbacks on democratic norms and civil liberties, especially regarding immigration policies, freedom of the press, and anti-discrimination safeguards. International observers express particular concern about a shift towards isolationism and diminished US participation in multilateral human rights frameworks.