Amnesty International is calling on Dominican authorities to honour their international obligations on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. They stress the need to protect those advocating for human rights, particularly Haitian migrants, Dominicans of Haitian descent facing statelessness, and Afro-descendants, as escalating threats may silence crucial voices within Dominican civil society. To create a just society, the government must decisively combat structural racism – ending extremist practices and policies that have perpetuated discrimination.
Restoration of nationality rights for Dominicans of Haitian descent, stripped of citizenship by 2013’s ruling 168-13, is paramount. The government must also halt its racist migration policies, which facilitate collective expulsions and racial profiling based on skin colour. Stigmatising statements against migrant communities should cease to prevent scapegoating for societal issues. Such biases invariably deter access to justice for victims of racism and racial discrimination, limiting their capacity to exercise their rights.
Ana Piquer reveals how the government’s racist policies have created an oppressive climate of fear in bateyes – communities populated by Haitian migrants and Dominicans of Haitian descendants. Many avoid seeking medical assistance or employment due to anxiety surrounding migration operations, even when they possess proper documentation. This pervasive dread illustrates the need for state intervention to ensure safety and justice for oppressed individuals.
Another alarming trend is the rise in racist rhetoric across media and social platforms, leading to online harassment and threats against human rights defenders. This phenomenon includes ‘doxing,’ where personal information is circulated to endanger the individuals in a xenophobic context. Women defenders report facing misogynistic harassment, illustrating the convoluted layers of discrimination entwined within this crisis. Organisations like MOSCTHA have faced physical attacks on their headquarters, reflecting a growing violence against racial justice activist groups.
The Dominican government also restricts public expressions of human rights advocacy through racial discrimination. For instance, police disrupted a cultural celebration on International Women’s Day, mistaking it for a foreign protest song, thereby infringing on the freedom of assembly and cultural rights. Authorities ought to facilitate peaceful anti-discrimination events, ensuring equality in public spaces.
Johanna Cilano emphasises the government’s obligation to protect human rights defenders from attacks related to their activism against racist policies. Failure to provide such protection not only threatens these individuals but jeopardises the broader freedom of expression in the country. Independent investigations into threats against these defenders must occur to ensure accountability and recognition of any discriminatory motives behind such acts.
In conclusion, Ana Piquer highlights President Abinader’s opportunity to bolster support for dissident voices and foster an environment that upholds racial justice. Taking evident steps in this direction is crucial for the Dominican Republic’s commitment to human rights, preventing violations from becoming commonplace and ensuring protection for all who oppose discriminatory views. Therefore, Amnesty International insists on urgent measures to safeguard the right to advocate for human rights without discrimination, especially those tackling racial issues.
Amnesty International urges the Dominican Republic to respect human rights and combat structural racism. They stress the vital need for protection of Haitian migrants, Dominicans of Haitian descent, and Afro-descendants facing rising threats. The government must end racist policies, restore nationality rights, and ensure safety for human rights defenders. Additionally, independent investigations into attacks against activists are essential for safeguarding justice and equity in the nation.
In summary, Amnesty International urges the Dominican Republic to uphold human rights and protect those fighting against structural racism. The government must end discriminatory policies, restore the nationality rights of affected individuals, and cease xenophobic rhetoric. Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure the safety of human rights defenders and address digital harassment. There is a pressing need for independent investigations into attacks against these activists to affirm the nation’s commitment to equity and justice for all.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
