IRTF News

What’s new? With its “total peace” policy, the Colombian government aims to engage all the country’s armed groups in talks, but it has no dialogue under way with the largest armed criminal outfit, the Gaitanista Self-Defence Force. This gap is significant, given the Gaitanistas’ deep pockets and their drive to expand. 

Approximately eleven years ago, Berta Cáceres led a group of activists to block a road, initiating a struggle against the Agua Zarca hydroelectric dam in Honduras. Despite their victory and the halting of operations in 2018, the community still faces threats and violence. Since Cáceres' murder in 2016, 70 environmental activists have been killed in Honduras, making it the most dangerous country for nature defenders. The cancellation of the project led to division within the community, with some seeing it as a victory for their rights while others anticipated development opportunities. Despite challenges, there have been some strides towards justice, with evidence implicating individuals linked to the powerful Atala family in Cáceres' assassination. However, impunity remains a pervasive issue, and the community continues to face threats and harassment. The struggle for justice continues amidst ongoing violence and institutional weaknesses in Honduras.

The people of El Salvador have been living under a State of Exception, purportedly implemented to combat gang violence, for two years now. During that time, Salvadoran civil society groups and international organizations have documented serious human rights violations committed against thousands of people detained under the pretext of this security policy. The question now being raised is: might the violations being committed under El Salvador’s current security policies amount to crimes against humanity?

Migration and immigration enforcement continue to garner lots of attention, including from presidential candidates, as well as their supporters and opponents. Advocates for justice and human dignity might pay attention to trends in enforcement (including deportation proceedings) and detention.

See in this monthly newsletter (1) Immigration Court in Cleveland, OH, (2) ICE Air: Removal Flights, (3)  Racism in Immigration Court: The System Works As Designed, (4) At the Border: Recent Incidents at and around the US-Mexico Border, (5) Migrant Children Suffering in Open-Air Desert Camps, (6) US House puts forth “Defending Borders, Defending Democracies Act” HR7372, (7)  800+ Faith Leaders Call for Welcoming Immigration Policy, Reject Anti-Asylum Deal, (8)  SB4 in Texas Still on Hold, (9)  Iowa Residents Organize and Defeat Anti-Immigrant Bills

TAKE ACTION ITEMS:

A) Get Connected: NEO Friends of Immigrants 

B)  RE-Fund Refugee Resettlement 

C) Cut ICE Detention  

D) Volunteers Needed: Call for artists, writers (Ohio Immigrant Alliance)

The government of El Salvador has maintained a state of emergency and implemented amendments to criminal law that erode fundamental human rights such as the presumption of innocence and the right to defense. This approach has been criticized by Amnesty International and other organizations for disregarding international human rights obligations. Reports indicate numerous cases of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, prison overcrowding, and deaths in state custody. Human rights defenders and dissenting voices face increased risks and persecution. The government's response to allegations of human rights violations has been characterized by denial and minimization. Without corrective action, the situation is likely to worsen, leading to more violations and a deepening crisis. It's imperative for the international community to condemn any security strategy that relies on human rights abuses and to advocate for comprehensive policies that respect human rights and address the root causes of violence.

The historic reelection of Nayib Bukele and the New Ideas Party in El Salvador's recent election is marked by various firsts, including the introduction of online voting and voting locations abroad. Despite widespread anticipation of Bukele's victory due to his high approval ratings, the election was marred by controversies and irregularities. Bukele, known for his tough stance on crime, has seen a dramatic decrease in the homicide rate during his tenure, but this has been accompanied by concerns over human rights abuses and mass imprisonments without convictions. The election saw reports of electioneering violations and intimidation tactics, tarnishing what could have been seen as a clear democratic mandate. The outcome underscores the complexities surrounding Bukele's presidency and raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process.

A recent study by Caribbean Affirmative in Colombia revealed alarming statistics regarding violence against the LGBTQ community. On average, one LGBTQ person is murdered every two days in the country. Despite Colombia's progressive legal framework for LGBTQ rights, only a small percentage of cases progress to trial, and violence against the community persists. Trans individuals face the highest risk, with Colombia among the countries reporting the most hate crimes against them in Latin America. Visibility remains a challenge, particularly outside urban areas, where discrimination and violence are more prevalent. The organization calls attention to the state's indifference to these cases and demands a change in attitude from institutions to effectively address and prevent violence against LGBTQ individuals. They emphasize the need for improved data collection and enforcement of laws to ensure the safety and rights of LGBTQ people in Colombia.

The Ixil Genocide Case, targeting Manuel Benedicto Lucas García for genocide against the Maya Ixil people during General Fernando Romeo Lucas García's government (1978-1982), commences on March 25. The case marks the third genocide trial initiated by AJR. Approximately 150 survivors are expected to testify. Michelle Liang of NISGUA urges reflection on the US role in the genocide, highlighting its support for the Guatemalan military and police, which perpetuated violence against indigenous populations. The trial underscores Guatemala's post-conflict pursuit of justice, following the Interdiocesan Project of Recuperation of Historical Memory and the CEH's work. The case details the atrocities committed, including massacres and forced disappearances, and outlines the evidence gathered, including forensic reports and military documents. The ongoing trial faces challenges, including potential judicial interference and risks to witnesses. Organizations are urged to support the pursuit of justice and ensure accountability for the atrocities committed during Guatemala's internal armed conflict.

The article in The Nation by Stephen Schlesinger, co-author of "Bitter Fruit: The Untold Story of the American Coup in Guatemala," praises the U.S. government for recognizing the 2023 elections in Guatemala as a step towards making amends for its intervention in 1954. However, the critic argues that this conclusion is flawed. They assert that the U.S. has not adequately addressed the consequences of its actions in Guatemala, including supporting repressive regimes, complicity in genocides against indigenous populations, and maintaining relations with corrupt governments under the guise of democracy. The critic highlights similar patterns in Honduras, where U.S. support for a military coup led to worsening conditions for its people. They criticize Schlesinger's portrayal of the U.S. role in Guatemala and express concern about future U.S. interests in the region.