World Day for International Justice 2023: A focus on injustice against refugees, stateless persons and deprived Muslim communities

ON this occasion of the World Day for International Justice 2023, the Centre for Human Rights Research and Advocacy (CENTHRA) joins the global community in reflecting the injustices faced by refugees, stateless persons and Muslim communities worldwide.

Today, we shed light on the grave human rights violations endured by the Palestinians, Kashmiris, Rohingyas, Syrians, Uyghurs and the minority Muslims in Mindanao and South Thailand. As we commemorate this day, CENTHRA reiterates its firm commitment to continue fighting for justice, accountability and the protection of human rights for all.

In their struggles for freedom and dignity, the Palestinians have endured decades of dispossession, displacement and occupation. Their fundamental rights, including the right to self-determination, have been systematically denied. On this World Day for International Justice, we call for an end to the oppression faced by the Palestinians. We urge the international community to recognize the urgency of the situation and work towards a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We call for accountability for human rights violations committed against Palestinians and support efforts for genuine peace negotiations that respect the rights and dignity of all parties involved.

In their quest for peace and justice, the Kashmiris have faced protracted political unrest and human rights violations in the disputed regions of Jammu and Kashmir. Widespread reports of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions continue to raise serious concerns.

On this day, we stand in solidarity with the Kashmiri people and calls for an end to impunity for human rights abuses. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy in seeking a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir conflict, ensuring respect for the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

As for the Rohingyas, they have endured unspeakable horrors, fleeing violence and persecution in Myanmar. Their struggles for survival have led to one of the largest refugee crises, with millions displaced and living in precarious conditions. CENTHRA implores the international community to address the root causes of the Rohingya crisis and perpetrators must be held accountable for their crimes while support efforts be provided for safe repatriation and reintegration. We call for greater humanitarian aid and assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Rohingyas and ensure their rights and dignity are protected.

The long road to justice and reconciliation for the Syrians has caused immense suffering, with millions displaced, traumatised and grieving for their missing, lost ones. The lack of accountability for war crimes committed during the conflict continues to impede the path to justice and reconciliation. Stronger international efforts to hold those responsible for war crimes in Syria accountable must be made. We support impartial investigations and the establishment of transitional justice mechanisms to ensure redress for victims and promote the healing and reconciliation process.

As for the Uyghurs in Xinjiang, China, who are facing a systematic campaign of repression, including mass detention, forced labor and cultural suppression, the global community must not remain silent in the face of this silent genocide. CENTHRA strongly condemns the human rights violations against the Uyghurs and calls on governments and businesses to ensure their supply chains are free from forced labour. The international community should establish an independent and transparent mechanism to investigate the situation in Xinjiang and take robust actions to protect the Uyghurs' rights and dignity.

In Mindanao, Philippines and South Thailand, the minority Muslim communities are facing protracted conflicts and marginalization. Efforts towards lasting peace and justice have been hindered by violence and a lack of genuine political representation.

On this World Day for International Justice, CENTHRA advocates for inclusive dialogue, socioeconomic development and political representation to address the grievances of these communities. We call for collective efforts to promote peace, reconciliation and the protection of human rights in Mindanao and South Thailand.

As we mark the World Day for International Justice, we reaffirm our commitment to fighting for justice, accountability and the protection of human rights for refugees, stateless persons and deprived Muslim communities worldwide.

The injustices faced by the Palestinians, Kashmiris, Rohingyas, Syrians, Uyghurs and minority Muslims in Mindanao and South Thailand demand urgent attention and action from the international community.

CENTHRA calls on all governments, civil society organisations and individuals to join hands in fostering a world where justice and dignity prevail for all, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances.

Together, let us work towards creating a future where human rights are universally respected, protected and upheld.

Azril Mohd Amin

Founder and Chairman

Centre For Human Rights Research and Advocacy (CENTHRA)