Address by Ms. Navanethem PillayUnited Nations High Commissioner for Human Rightson the occasion of the 4th National Seminar on the National Programme of Protection of Human Rights Defenders

Brasilia, 11 November 2009

 

Mr. President [to be confirmed],
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

It is a pleasure and an honour for me to have the opportunity to address you this evening at the opening ceremony of the 4th National Seminar on the National Programme of Protection of Human Rights Defenders.

 

The launch of the National Programme in 2004 was an important step toward empowering and ensuring security for human rights defenders. This programme set out to protect defenders, raise awareness about the role and importance of their work, and end impunity for crimes committed against them. It reflects the Government’s commendable recognition of the value of the work of human rights defenders, as well as the need to protect them. Indeed, human rights defenders’ continued dedication and tireless efforts in confronting the many human rights challenges in their country testify to the vitality, determination and courage of Brazilian civil society. 

 

Following her visit to Brazil in December 2005, the former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on the situation of human rights defenders, Ms. Hina Jilani, congratulated the Government of Brazil for its transparency and for the excellent cooperation extended to her in the preparation of and during the mission. She reported that the Government had an in­depth understanding of the problems facing human rights defenders and was greatly impressed and encouraged by its efforts to respond to this challenge. She also noted that Brazilian authorities respected and cooperated with human rights defenders, seeking their participation and involvement in the design and implementation of human rights initiatives. It is important that this commitment and cooperation with civil society is maintained and nurtured.

 

Regrettably, we live in a world where human rights -- civil, cultural, economic, political or social -- are violated on a daily basis. These violations occur in complete disregard for the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Yet human rights defenders across the world continue to work courageously to give effect to the Universal Declaration and to human rights law. Not only do they often make a positive difference in the lives of others, but they also willing to stand up for what is right no matter the personal cost. Unfortunately, these defenders do often pay a high price for their dedication. They are often harassed, threatened, intimidated, attacked, abused, criminalized, detained, abducted, tortured and many even killed.

 

It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the efforts of human rights defenders are equally matched with concrete action to assist and protect them. To this end, the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders provides us with an important tool. The Declaration articulates existing rights enshrined in other international legal instruments in a way that makes it easier to apply them to the specific situation of defenders. We must use this tool to increase the support and protection of defenders, so that they are empowered to carry out their work, particularly at the state level.

 

Let us also acknowledge that the great potential of Brazil’s National Programme must be fully achieved. As with any initiative of this nature, there is the need for all relevant actors to be fully engaged. Fulfilling the potential of the Programme will require increased commitment at the state level. Adequate financial and human resources are critical to ensuring that support and protection reaches those who need it most. I am particularly concerned by reports that some defenders have refused to accept the protection offered to them, due to the lack of appropriately trained police officers. 

 

Furthermore, I have concerns regarding the de-legitimization of defenders’ work in some parts of Brazil. This tactic includes spurious claims that associate human rights defenders with criminality, particularly in the south of the country and in certain urban areas. Social activists, trade unionists, farmers, journalists and representatives of indigenous peoples and minorities have been branded by authorities as defenders of criminals or criminals themselves, and have been portrayed as such by the media. In order to address this issue, additional efforts should be made to sensitize local authorities, including law enforcement officials, regarding the role and value of human rights defenders, including by conducting trainings and by fostering an understanding of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders. Law enforcement officials must be educated in human rights law, must be well trained and must be made aware of their responsibilities.

 

In cases where violations against defenders occur, thorough and impartial investigations should take place and those responsible should be properly held accountable. Impunity has no place in a democratic society. Enforcement officials must be reminded that there are serious consequences if they abuse their power and violate rights.

 

I encourage Brazil’s human rights defenders to maintain dialogue with my Office and with the Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders. At the same time, I encourage the Government to remain focused and dedicated to providing effective protection and security to human rights defenders, so that the National Programme will be a positive example for other countries to follow.

 

Human rights defenders are our everyday heroes. We must ensure that they are protected, so that they are free to carry out their activities without fear of retribution. Rest assured that my Office and the Special Rapporteur will always be ready to assist defenders in their vital work.

 

Thank you.