In his new term, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius must prioritise human rights in policy-making on both local and global fronts. Winning a fourth term on November 10, 2024, he is urged by Human Rights Watch to focus on the rights of the Chagossian people. “The ongoing displacement of the Chagossian people is an ongoing colonial crime against humanity,” stated Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz, deputy Africa director at Human Rights Watch.
The Chagossians were forcibly relocated by the UK government, allowing for US military installations to be built. They face poverty and discrimination even today, decades later. The Mauritian government, alongside the UK and US, must respect the Chagossians’ right to return to their islands and seek reparations, including adequate compensation. There is a pressing need for action to address these injustices.
Human Rights Watch also encourages the new government to uphold privacy rights and freedoms concerning expression, assembly, and information access. In November, just before the elections, leaked recordings hinted at state-sponsored mass surveillance, a concerning issue for human rights. In a hasty reaction, access to social media was suspended, undermining freedoms critical during elections. Such restrictions are counterproductive and must be avoided to uphold the country’s obligations under international human rights standards.
Another vital area is safeguarding the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Although a Supreme Court ruling in 2023 advanced some protections, LGBTQ+ individuals still encounter significant discrimination and violence. To combat this, the government must establish robust laws that protect against discrimination and raise public awareness to support inclusivity.
Education for children with disabilities is another crucial matter. While Mauritius has made strides in providing free education, children with disabilities still face numerous barriers to inclusion. The government must implement laws to ensure a human rights-based approach to education and establish training for educators to cater to diverse needs.
Ultimately, “Human rights should be at the center of the government’s policy decisions,” Budoo-Scholtz emphasized, underscoring the necessity for Mauritius to adhere to its human rights obligations as it navigates its policies moving forward.
Human Rights Watch urges Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius to prioritise human rights in his new term. Key areas of focus include the rights of Chagossians, protection of privacy and freedom of expression, strengthening LGBTQ+ protections, and ensuring inclusive education for children with disabilities. The government must act to uphold its domestic and international human rights obligations.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam’s new government has the opportunity to make significant strides in human rights. By prioritising the Chagossian community, safeguarding freedoms, protecting LGBTQ+ rights, and ensuring inclusive education, a foundation for a just society can be laid. The call to place human rights at the forefront of policy decisions is vital for creating a better Mauritius.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
