In the textbook, Straus defines human rights as a "set of rights afforded to individuals on the basis of being human, i.e., irrespective of national citizenship, gender, ethnicity, or other traits" (1). We see, however, that despite the international system of defining and guaranteeing human rights known as the human rights regime, not every individual or government has the same concept of human rights. For this assignment, you will explore national and international policy responses to a human rights issue.
Based on Amnesty InternationalLinks to an external site., Human Rights WatchLinks to an external site., the UN human rights-related organizations (UNHCRLinks to an external site., United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human RightsLinks to an external site.), or another source that you verify with your instructor, choose a human rights policy issue.
Address the following in a paper of at least three pages:
Define the issue as a human rights issue according to concepts of human rights. Describe its causes, implications, and locations. Use the following questions to help you frame your explanation:
In what ways has a policy caused human rights violations or been enacted because of human rights violations?
Can you recognize conflicts around human rights policy that stem from divergent understandings of human rights, within a country, between countries, or between a country and an intergovernmental or non-governmental organization?
Consider the history, religion, and culture of the country where the issue is taking place in your examination of the human rights policy issue.
Title this section of your paper Understanding the Issue as a Human Rights Concern.
Identify the stakeholders and explain how this issue has an impact on them. Provide references to support the information.
Title this section of your paper Impact of the Issue on Affected Parties.
Describe recent and current efforts aimed at solving the human rights issue, including efforts by NGOs, national governments, and IGOs. Provide supporting references.
Full Answer Section
These atrocities have forced hundreds of thousands of Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh, where they live in overcrowded refugee camps. The Rohingya refugees face a myriad of challenges, including food insecurity, poor sanitation, and limited access to healthcare and education.
Impact of the Issue on Affected Parties
The Rohingya crisis has had a devastating impact on the Rohingya people, both inside Myanmar and in refugee camps. The psychological trauma caused by violence, displacement, and loss has been profound. Many Rohingya have lost loved ones and have been forced to leave their homes and livelihoods behind.
The international community has also been affected by the crisis. The influx of Rohingya refugees has strained the resources of neighboring countries, particularly Bangladesh. Additionally, the crisis has raised concerns about the international community's ability to prevent and respond to mass atrocities.
Efforts to Address the Crisis
Numerous organizations, including human rights groups, international organizations, and governments, have condemned the violence against the Rohingya and called for accountability.
- Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International: These organizations have documented human rights abuses and advocated for justice for the Rohingya.
- United Nations: The UN has condemned the violence against the Rohingya and called for an end to the persecution. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has documented widespread human rights violations.
- International Criminal Court (ICC): The ICC has launched an investigation into the crimes committed against the Rohingya.
While significant efforts have been made to address the crisis, the situation remains dire. The international community must continue to pressure Myanmar to end the violence, allow the Rohingya to return to their homes, and ensure their rights are protected. Additionally, providing humanitarian aid and supporting the resettlement of Rohingya refugees are crucial steps in addressing this ongoing crisis.
Sample Answer
Understanding the Issue as a Human Rights Concern
The Rohingya people, a Muslim minority group in Myanmar, have faced severe persecution and violence for decades. The Myanmar government, dominated by the Buddhist majority, has systematically denied the Rohingya citizenship and basic human rights. This has led to widespread discrimination, violence, and forced displacement.
The Rohingya crisis has been marked by numerous human rights violations, including:
- Genocide: The systematic killing of Rohingya men, women, and children.
- Ethnic Cleansing: The forced expulsion of Rohingya from their homes and villages.
- Mass Rape: The widespread use of rape as a weapon of war against Rohingya women and girls.
- Destruction of Property: The burning of Rohingya villages and the destruction of their livelihoods.