Group marks human rights efforts

DE PRENSA.COM/ Carmen Fernández

La Organización de las Naciones Unidas ha decidido dedicar el día este año al derecho de todas las personas sin discriminación a hacer oír su voz en la vida pública.

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10/12/2012 - Panama celebrated International Human Rights Day today with the Citizens Alliance for Justice recognizing the work of 20 Panamanians in this area.

Those recognized included chieftainess of the Comarca Ngäbe Buglé Silvia Carrera and President of the National College of Journalists Rafael Candanedo. Other honorees included Maribel Jaén, Patricia Pinzón and Pierre Blandón.

The United Nations has decided to devote this year to the right of all persons without discrimination to make their voice heard in public life and to be included in the political decision-making process.

'THERE ARE POLICE AND MILITARISATION OF SECURITY ABUSE'

A report prepared by alliance on human rights reveals that the country has advanced very little in this matter.

The document highlights that in recent years there has been a "noticed increase in hostility" toward groups and figures who have demanded human rights be respected.

This hostility comes "via campaigns of hatred, disgrace, disqualification and the use of discriminatory language."

According to the results of the report, human rights activists prefer not to use the judicial system.

"They prefer the actions of social mobilization in defense of human rights," it said.

The document also highlights that the Office of the Ombudsman has done a poor job.

The report also highlights police abuse and militarization of the security forces, focusing on clashes between protesters and police in a number of communities that have left people dead and injured.