Zimbabwe Marks Human Rights Day Amidst Challenges

By Staff Reporter

As the world commemorates Human Rights Day today, Zimbabwe joins in, reflecting on the progress made and the challenges still faced in promoting and protecting human rights.

The day, marked annually on December 10, is a reminder of the fundamental rights that are inherent to all human beings. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” serves as a poignant reminder that human rights are not just ideals or aspirations, but essential elements that must be safeguarded and promoted today to ensure a better tomorrow for all.

However, in Zimbabwe, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Despite the country’s constitutional guarantees, the protection and promotion of human rights continue to face significant challenges. According to the CIVICUS Monitor, Zimbabwe’s civic space remains “repressed,” with restrictions on fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression, assembly, and association.

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) continue to face legal and extrajudicial harassment, and journalists, human rights defenders, and activists are often targeted for their work advocating for the rights of citizens. These systemic constraints limit the participation of citizens in decision-making processes, which undermines the democratic process and denies individuals their basic rights.

The Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Amendment Bill, 2024, has also raised concerns among CSOs, as it imposes stringent regulations on the sector, severely limiting their ability to function independently and autonomously.

Despite these challenges, the National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) remains committed to promoting and protecting human rights in Zimbabwe. In a statement, NANGO urged the government to promulgate laws and instruments that align with constitutional and international human rights standards.

NANGO also emphasized that freedom of expression, assembly, and association are not privileges but rights enshrined in Zimbabwe’s Constitution. These rights are integral to the ability of civil society to serve communities, advocate for justice, and promote good governance.

As Zimbabwe marks Human Rights Day, it is imperative that the government, civil society, development partners, and citizens work together to create an environment where freedoms are respected, and civil society can thrive.

The government must take concrete steps to address the challenges facing human rights in Zimbabwe. This includes strengthening the judicial system, guaranteeing access to justice for all, and promoting a culture of tolerance and respect for human rights.

CSOs must also continue to play their role in promoting and protecting human rights. This includes advocating for reforms of repressive laws and policies, documenting and reporting human rights violations, and collaborating with other stakeholders to promote social justice and human rights.

As we commemorate Human Rights Day, we are reminded of the importance of collective action in promoting and protecting human rights. It is only through our collective efforts that we can create a Zimbabwe where human rights are respected, protected, and promoted for all.