International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

International Day for the Right to Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is dedicated to acknowledging the right of victims of gross human rights violations and their families to know the truth about these atrocities. Besides advancing the notion of the right to truth, it honours and pays tribute to those individuals who have lost their lives in the struggle to promote and protect human rights. Additionally, it calls for the protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms, underpinned by the principles of accountability, justice, and the rule of law.

The observance was established by the United Nations in 2010 but its roots trace back to the life and work of Archbishop Óscar Arnulfo Romero, who was assassinated on March 24, 1980. In the UK, this day mirrors the country's long-standing commitment to address human rights abuses, both domestically and internationally. The UK government strongly supports the empowerment and protection of victims of human rights violations. It has taken tangible actions that resonate with the ethos of this observance such as prosecuting human rights violators and implementing various policies aimed at promoting transparency, justice, and post-conflict reconciliation.

The UK observes this day with a range of activities including presentations, film screenings, panel discussions, and exhibitions that highlight issues related to human rights abuses and the need for truth. Throughout these events, survivors and their families share their stories, fostering a culture of remembrance and respect for the dignity of victims. Campaigns are often launched to raise awareness about unanswered cases of gross human rights violations, putting the country's commitment to justice and the right to truth at the forefront. The International Day for the Right to Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is commemorated every year on March 24, remembering the legacy of Archbishop Óscar Arnulfo Romero.

Facts about this day

• March 24th serves as tribute to the memory of El Salvadorian Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero. Romero was assassinated on March 24th, 1980 after denouncing human right violations against vulnerable populations. He tried to preach human dignity and to speak out against all forms of violence.
  
• According to the UN, the right to the truth about human rights violations is an inalienable and autonomous right. As such, this right must be protected and guaranteed by individual nations. It is up to each nation to conduct effective investigations and to guarantee effective solutions and reparations.
• The UK has faced international controversy and legal challenges over its expulsion of the native Chagossian people from the Chagos Archipelago in the 1960s and 70s, to make way for a United States military base on Diego Garcia. The case is seen as a significant instance of a violation of human rights, with the former inhabitants and their descendants campaigning for recognition and the right to return.
• Between 1997 and 2013, it was exposed that there had been widespread child sexual exploitation in Rotherham, leading to serious failings by social services and the police. It was a violation of children's rights and incited a national conversation about child protection services.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Read the UN's resolution to implement effective practices to promote the right to truth https://undocs.org/A/HRC/12/19
• Attend Educational Talks: These could be about gross human rights violations that have occurred in history, the current human rights climate, or ways to promote and protect human rights in the future. Organizations may host speakers, seminars, or debates on these topics.
• Read a book to learn more about Human Rights Violations in United Kingdom:
  Human Rights: Between the Law and Politics - by Kurt Mills
  The Right to Protest: The Basic ACLU Guide to Free Expression - by Ira Glasser