March 24th marks the "International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims". This day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010 to recognize the importance of truth, justice, and accountability in addressing gross human rights violations.
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The right to truth is a fundamental human right that has been recognized by the international community. It is the right of victims and their families to know the truth about what happened to their loved ones, and the right to hold accountable those responsible for gross human rights violations. The right to truth is essential in achieving justice, reconciliation, and lasting peace in societies that have been torn apart by conflict and violence.
The International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is an opportunity to honor the victims of gross human rights violations, to promote the right to truth, and to recognize the importance of justice and accountability. It is a reminder that the truth must be unveiled, and those responsible for gross human rights violations must be held accountable for their actions.
The right to truth is particularly important in countries that have experienced conflict or dictatorship. In many cases, victims and their families are still seeking answers and justice for crimes committed many years ago. The right to truth is essential in addressing the legacy of past atrocities and preventing them from happening again in the future.
On this day, we also remember the work of human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society organizations who play a crucial role in advocating for the right to truth and holding governments and perpetrators accountable. They often face significant risks and challenges in their work, including harassment, intimidation, and violence.
In 2020, the United Nations Expert on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation, and guarantees of non-recurrence reminded us that the truth about gross human rights violations must be unveiled. He emphasized that the right to truth is not only a fundamental human right but also a necessary condition for preventing the recurrence of such violations.
As we honor the victims of gross human rights violations and promote the right to truth on this day, we must also recognize the challenges we face in achieving justice and accountability. We must continue to support the work of human rights defenders and civil society organizations and call on governments to fulfill their obligations to investigate and prosecute those responsible for gross human rights violations.
In conclusion, the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is an opportunity to recognize the importance of truth, justice, and accountability in addressing past atrocities and preventing them from happening again in the future. It is a day to honor the victims of gross human rights violations, to promote the right to truth, and to remember the important work of human rights defenders and civil society organizations in advocating for justice and accountability.
With truth,
Naga Surya K
References:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/right-to-truth-day
https://www.eduvast.com/general-knowledge/international-day-for-the-right-to-the-truth-concerning-gross-human-rights-violations-and-for-the-dignity-of-victims-march-24/
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/international-day-for-the-right-to-the-truth-concerning-gross-human-rights-violations-all-you-need-to-know
https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2020/03/truth-about-gross-rights-violations-must-be-unveiled-un-expert-reminds
