<<previous  |  index  |  next>>

VI. Conclusion

The political, economic, humanitarian and human rights conditions in Zimbabwe are all in precipitous decline. While drought and the devastating HIV/AIDS pandemic have influenced these conditions to some extent, the actions of the Zimbabwean government and its indifference to the dignity and well-being of its citizens lie at the heart of Zimbabwe's current crisis.

Ruling through intimidation and with no respect for the rule of law or the rights of his citizens, President Mugabe's latest outrage - the forced eviction and displacement of hundreds and thousands of mostly poor people from the urban areas throughout Zimbabwe - has attracted international condemnation but been defended with characteristic bluster. As the report documents in detail, those displaced by Operation Murambatsvina have continued to suffer the cruel indifference of their government: no real protection or assistance; no compensation; no accountability; restrictions on freedom of movement and other continuing abuses.

United Nations efforts to assist and protect the displaced have had little impact given an almost complete lack of cooperation from the government and its own difficulties in making human rights protection a central part of its humanitarian response in the face of a hostile and abusive government. The plight of people displaced by the Zimbabwean government as a result of Operation Murambatsvina cannot be overlooked any further. It must generate a sense of outrage sufficient to trigger concerted action to protect and assist the displaced.