Human Rights Bahamas is urging the newly formed parliamentary Human Rights Committee to commence its work, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle the significant human rights issues plaguing the Bahamian public. David Forbes, parliament’s chief clerk, confirmed that the committee has yet to meet, but anticipates convening by the end of January.
As the year 2025 approaches, Human Rights Bahamas highlighted critical challenges such as violations of labor and workplace rights, police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and inhumane prison conditions. They expressed hope to collaborate effectively with the committee to enhance the lives of Bahamians and uphold the constitutional rights of residents.
Established to fortify human rights protections, the parliamentary committee is charged with ensuring that The Bahamas complies with both regional and international human rights standards. Comprised of five House of Assembly members and three Senators, the committee is tasked with reporting to Parliament bi-annually, recommending legislative changes, and conducting inquiries into human rights violations through public hearings.
Following the committee’s formation on April 26, 2023, Attorney General Ryan Pinder attended the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva to review the country’s human rights record. Human Rights Bahamas asserts that the committee’s continued activity is crucial for addressing longstanding issues and improving the overall conditions for citizens and residents alike.
Human Rights Bahamas urges the parliamentary Human Rights Committee to begin operations by January to confront pressing human rights issues including police brutality and workplace rights violations. The committee was formed in April 2023 but has yet to convene. Human Rights Bahamas expresses a strong desire to collaborate on improving living conditions for Bahamians.
In summary, there is a pressing need for the Human Rights Committee in The Bahamas to meet and begin addressing critical human rights issues. With a firm commitment from Human Rights Bahamas to collaborate, the committee’s establishment presents an opportunity to improve the lives of Bahamians. However, the delay in convening poses questions about governmental priorities and the implementation of effective human rights measures.
The article discusses the urgent call by Human Rights Bahamas for the parliamentary Human Rights Committee to begin its operations effectively. The backdrop highlights ongoing human rights violations in The Bahamas, emphasizing the need for the committee’s work to improve conditions for the local populace. The Human Rights Committee was established recently, yet has not convened, raising concerns about its efficacy and the government’s commitment to human rights progression.
Original Source: www.tribune242.com
