Human Rights Watch : the week in rights

THE WEEK IN RIGHTS January 3, 2013

Liberia Cracks Down on Cross-Border Raiders

Photo © 2012 Reuters 

In June, Human Rights Watch reported that dozens of former Ivorian and Liberian combatants loyal to the previous Ivorian government were using Liberia as a base to launch raids into Côte d’Ivoire. There, they targeted civilians perceived as supporting President Alassane Ouattara. We reported that since July 2011, attackers killed at least 50 people during these raids and displaced thousands more. 

After interviewing some of the fighters, Human Rights Watch warned that more cross-border raids were likely, as the forces remained mobilized and were recruiting. Two days after we publicized this information, seven United Nations peacekeepers and at least 10 civilians were killed in yet another cross-border attack into Côte d’Ivoire. 

This time Liberian authorities reacted quickly. They initiated investigations and between June and October arrested at least 17 militants allegedly involved in cross-border attacks. Several media outlets cited Human Rights Watch’s work as crucial in spurring the government to take effective action. 

Read more >>

share on:

Barack Obama: Dump These 8 Unsavory Allies by Kenneth Roth  Foreign Policy In this new world, standing up for human rights reflects not only America's values but also its interests. It should be at the heart of U.S. policy, not an option of convenience. If Obama wants to bolster his legacy in his second term, he can and should get tough on some of the United States' most unsavory friends and allies.  See the Latest News in the United States >> share on:

In India, Rape Victim’s Death Demands Action This murderous gang rape of a 23-year-old paramedical student is a sobering reminder of the pervasive sexual violence that women and girls across India suffer. The government needs to act now to prevent sexual assault, aggressively investigate and prosecute perpetrators, and ensure the dignified treatment of survivors.  See the Latest News in Asia >> share on:

Most Popular Human Rights Topics on Twitter in 2012  In 2012, @hrw sent over 2,000 tweets and a quarter of a million new people started following the feed. Here are the top ten most-clicked stories of the year.  Follow Human Rights Watch on Twitter >>