Did you know today is observed as the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and the Dignity of Victims? Well, now you know, and it is crucial for you to help create awareness about it.
As declared by the United Nations (UN), March 24, is dedicated to the celebration of the International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and the Dignity of Victims; to promote the memory of victims of serious and systematic human rights violations, and emphasize the importance of the right to truth and justice. The day is also dedicated to pay tribute to those who have committed their lives to promoting and protecting human rights for all, as well as those who have lost their lives in these efforts. The date was chosen in remembrance of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero of El Salvador, who was assassinated on the same day in 1980.
In ‘Voice For The Voiceless’: Sainthood For El Salvador’s Archbishop Óscar Romero, Monsignor Óscar Arnulfo Romero, a Salvadoran, is recognized as a human rights advocate and promoter in his country who ran a church commission that investigated human rights abuses and openly denounced humanrights violations against the most vulnerable populations in the context of armed conflicts the violence. His work gained international recognition through his messages on broadcast media. As a humanist and defender of the dignity of all human beings, he constantly called for dialogue and opposed all forms of violence to avoid armed confrontation. Sadly, his unwavering commitment to his cause cost him his life on March 24th, 1980.
According to the United Nations (UN), the right to the truth is often invoked in the context of gross human rights violations and grave breaches of humanitarian law. The relatives of victims of summary executions, enforced disappearance, missing persons, abducted children, and torture, are required to know what happened to them. The right to the truth means having access to the complete and accurate facts about the events that occurred, including the specific circumstances and individuals involved. This includes understanding the context in which the violations occurred, as well as the motives behind them.
Aside the International Day of the Right to Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights violations and the Dignity of Victims passed by the UN to pay tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to promoting and protecting human rights for all and those who have lost their lives in these efforts, the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED) is an international human rights instrument of the United Nations intended to prevent forced disappearance, which, as defined in international law, is part of crimes against humanity.
The International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance is a human rights agreement that legally binds all nations to protect their citizens from enforced disappearances. The convention outlines the responsibilities of states and fundamental rights that should be accorded to the victims. Despite being adopted a decade ago, enforced disappearances remain a significant problem worldwide. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done to address this issue effectively. For this reason, it is crucial to actively promote awareness of the protection of human rights, including celebrating occasions such as the International Day of the Right to Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and the Dignity of Victims.
On International Day for the Right to Truth Concerning Human Rights Violations, it is crucial to remember and honour those who have devoted their lives to promoting and safeguarding human rights. We also need to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives while fighting for human rights. This day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about human rights and promote its significance.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Caris Adjei London
