A First Step For Accountability in Ukraine: Daily Brief

Independent experts mandated by the Organization for Security and Co-operation (OSCE) in Europe just released a report covering international humanitarian law and human rights violations committed in Ukraine since February 24. The conclusions show a broad range of abuses and violations of most fundamental human rights that were committed in areas under Russia’s effective control, consistent with Human Rights Watch findings. The experts concluded that more efforts are needed for accountability and justice to establish individual criminal responsibility for war crimes. This report should only be the first step in the long process for justice and accountability. 

Early today, Israeli forces assaulted Palestinian worshippers inside al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem. Israeli forces detained hundreds and at least 152 Palestinians were injured. Israeli police alleged that Palestinians hurled firecrackers and stones at their forces and toward the nearby Jewish prayer area of the Old City’s Western Wall. This is happening during the second Friday of Ramadan, the holiest month of the year for Muslims, when tens of thousands of worshippers go to pray at al-Aqsa Mosque. Last year, Israel’s violent suppression of demonstrators and assault on al-Aqsa Mosque helped to spark hostilities between Israel and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza, from May 10 to May 21, 2021. Human Rights Watch reported then that the escalation highlighted the reality of apartheid and persecution for millions of Palestinians and involved attacks that violated the laws of war and amounted to war crimes.

As the Covid-19 pandemic underscores the importance of social protection, it has led to unprecedented government action. About 168 countries and territories announced at least 915 social protection measures in response to the pandemic. Yet, more than four billion people are not covered at all. A Human Rights Watch study found that targeted social protection programs excluded millions of people who were in need of social security to protect their rights, leaving them without adequate food and with other problems. The World Bank and International Monetary Fund will meet for their Spring Meeting starting next week: they should adopt a different approach that facilitates universal social protection, instead of doubling down on this second-rate approach to social protection.

About a month ago, the Senate for the US state of Florida passed a cruel and dangerous bill banning abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy. Yesterday, Florida's governor signed it into law. Supporters of the 15 week abortion ban have rejected all amendments, including those to provide an exception for survivors of violence. The abortion ban threatens rights and dignity, and young people could face particular harm. This bill is part of a broader attack on reproductive rights in state legislatures across the US.

Many children in temporary accommodation in London have no space to play, can't fully participate in school, and have cold air seeping into their bedrooms and toxic mold growing on their walls. On May 5, voters across London will go to the polls to elect the new London’s local authorities, which are responsible for services such as education, social care, and housing. A good moment for voters to demand that they do more to improve the situation and improve the basic rights of thousands of children. 

If you're interested in finding out more about democracy and human rights in Latin America, tune in to the American Quarterly podcast and hear Human Rights Watch's Americas director, Tamara Taraciuk Broner, talk about freedom of press, judicial independance, and the work of civil society in the region.