Joining forces for Human Rights

We have been preparing to celebrate Human Rights Day on 10th December. And for that, we have invited different organizations to participate with us in this celebration, sharing their vision and work for the rights of Guatemalans and Hondurans. It has been inspiring to read the different inputs from so many people. From a journalist in Europe talking about the situation of Freedom of Expression in Honduras, to Guatemala’s private sector’s commitment to make things better, working for a more conscious approach to human rights in their economic activities.

I have been in Guatemala for a couple of years now and I have traveled a lot to Honduras, and I am still aware of continuing needs that require attention, but I also see the important work that many dedicate to achieve a more democratic system that offers everyone better opportunities. The United Kingdom shares this commitment and we have joined local efforts to promote the protection and respect for human rights in both countries, through financing projects, accompanying human rights defenders, promoting the work of government, civil society and private sector to contribute to create better life conditions for everyone. We understand that this is not an easy job for them; nor is it for us. Being in a small Embassy, we have had to prioritize issues that we consider to be the key areas in which we can have a positive impact through joining forces with others.

As our Secretary for International Development, Justine Greening, said, “…We are also realistic about the challenges that we, and many of you, face in many countries. We are often working in complex situations. Even so, where we see the trend moving in the wrong direction on corruption and on human rights, we will not simply stand by and ignore that.”

Human Rights are an issue that concerns every human being, as individuals, members of society, professionals or public officers; and we have the duty to work for human rights in any place and situation in which we may be. Only when we all become truly conscious and committed to achieve full enjoyment of human rights, we will be able to make a transcendental change. In this spirit, I want to recognize, congratulate and thank all the effort that many people put in to make Guatemala and Honduras better.