Human Rights Watch calls on Prime Minister Ramgoolam to prioritize human rights in his new term, focusing on Chagossian rights, freedom of expression, LGBT protections, and inclusive education for children with disabilities. Recent government actions, including social media censorship, highlight the need for adherence to international human rights standards.
In a letter to Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Human Rights Watch urged the leader to prioritize human rights in his new government, following his election win on November 10, 2024. Ramgoolam, who previously held office from 1995 to 2000 and 2005 to 2014, is advised to uphold the rights of the Chagossian people, still affected by their forced displacement by the UK for military interests.
Human Rights Watch highlighted the need for the Mauritian government to advocate for Chagossians’ right to return, seek reparations from the UK and US, and provide adequate support for rebuilding their islands. The organization also called for the protection of privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information, particularly in light of recent social media censorship during the election period, which undermined these fundamental rights.
The temporary suspension of social media access following leaked recordings of government officials discussing mass surveillance showcased violations of freedom of expression. Human Rights Watch emphasized that the new administration should refrain from imposing such blanket restrictions that clash with international human rights norms.
Moreover, Human Rights Watch urged legal protections for the LGBT community, acknowledging a landmark decision by the Supreme Court in 2023 that advanced their rights. Despite this progress, challenges remain, including discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. The government should implement comprehensive legislation to protect LGBT rights and launch educational campaigns to combat stigma and promote awareness of sexual and gender diversity.
Additionally, the government is encouraged to ensure inclusive education for children with disabilities. While Mauritius has made strides in offering free education, inclusive education remains lacking, with many children with disabilities not fully integrated into mainstream schools. Legislative reforms and awareness campaigns are needed to support the inclusion of these students, along with training for educators to accommodate diverse educational needs.
“Human rights should be at the center of the government’s policy decisions,” stressed Budoo-Scholtz. The call to action reaffirms the importance of aligning the new government’s policies with both its domestic responsibilities and international human rights commitments.
Human Rights Watch’s recommendations for the new government in Mauritius center on prioritizing human rights, particularly in relation to the Chagossian people, freedom of expression, and rights for LGBT individuals. Ensuring inclusive education for children with disabilities emerges as a crucial goal, alongside legal protections for vulnerable groups. By adopting these guidelines, the government can affirm its commitment to human rights and inclusivity in public policy.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
