Nations Unite for Human Rights: Urgent Appeals on the Conflict in Kashmir

24-08-2023

Alexandra Posta

East and South Asia Human Rights Researcher

Global Human Rights Defence

In a world marked by diversity and interconnectedness, the safeguarding of human rights remains an imperative shared by all nations (Isilow, 24 August 2023; ANP, 24 August 2023). Recent developments underscore the pressing need for international engagement to address grave human rights violations (Isilow, 24 August 2023; ANP, 24 August 2023). The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the BRICS bloc have both taken strong stances, urging nations to reverse actions that infringe upon these fundamental rights (ANP, 24 August 2023; AZER TAC, 23 August 2023).

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has called for India to reverse its decision to revoke the special constitutional status of the disputed region of Kashmir, while also highlighting the need to address human rights concerns in the area (ANP, 24 August 2023). The Secretary-General of the OIC emphasized the importance of meaningful engagement and dialogue among all parties involved in the Kashmir dispute, supported by the international community, to bring about a resolution to this longstanding conflict (ANP, 24 August 2023).

The call by the OIC for India to reverse its decision on the special constitutional status of Kashmir and to address human rights concerns in the region underscores the vital link between political decisions and human rights obligations. The situation in Kashmir is intimately tied to several international human rights instruments, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). India, as a signatory to these agreements, is bound to uphold principles enshrined in these documents, ensuring the protection of individuals' rights to self-determination, freedom from discrimination, and the right to peaceful assembly and expression. The OIC's emphasis on meaningful engagement and dialogue aligns with the spirit of these instruments, urging India to recognize the importance of addressing human rights concerns in Kashmir through diplomatic efforts and inclusive conversations that respect the fundamental rights of the people involved.

The Way Forward: As advocates for human rights, we must recognize the urgency of the situation and the responsibilities that come with it (Isilow, 24 August 2023; ANP, 24 August 2023). The situation emphasize the critical need for governments and international bodies to come together to protect the people (Isilow, 24 August 2023; ANP, 24 August 2023). Promoting peaceful resolutions, advocating for inclusive dialogue, and reinforcing the principles of justice are essential steps towards a better future for all (Isilow, 24 August 2023; ANP, 24 August 2023).

SOURCES

Hassan Isilow. (24 August 2023). BRICS countries support mediation proposals to end Russia-Ukraine conflict. AA. Available at < https://www.aa.com.tr/en/politics/brics-countries-support-mediation-proposals-to-end-russia-ukraine-conflict/2975348>.

ANP. (24 August 2023). At program organised by Pakistan, OIC asks India to restore Kashmir’s special status. Arab News. Available at < https://www.arabnews.com/node/2360596/pakistan>.

AZER TAC. (23 August 2023). OIC Secretary-General renews call on India to reverse all illegal and unilateral measures taken in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. AZER TEC. Available at < https://azertag.az/en/xeber/OIC_Secretary_General_renews_call_on_India_to_reverse_all_illegal_and_unilateral_measures_taken_in_occupied_Jammu_and_Kashmir-2738620>.

United Nations General Assembly. (1948). Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Available at < https://www.ohchr.org/en/universal-declaration-of-human-rights#:~:text=The%20Universal%20Declaration%20of%20Human%20Rights%20(UDHR)%20is%20a%20milestone,rights%20to%20be%20universally%20protected.>.

United Nations. (1966). International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Available at < https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/international-covenant-civil-and-political-rights>.