Chapter Thirteen. Protecting Human Rights in a Situation of Humanitarian Crisis: the Case of Colombia

Abstract

This chapter reproduces a note prepared by the staff of the OHCHR Office in Colombia on the challenges of protecting human rights in a situation of humanitarian crisis. In seeking to ensure respect for human rights in Colombia, including in the context of the ongoing humanitarian crisis, a number of recommendations of the High Commissioner as set out in his report to the Commission on Human Rights. First, it is the paramount and primary duty of the State to guarantee the respect for human rights of those persons living within the territory of the State without discrimination. Second, in order to guarantee respect for human rights, the State must develop policies aimed at protecting human rights. In addition, the High Commissioner has recommended that the Government, prepare a concerted plan of action on human rights and international humanitarian law, to be created in collaboration with broad sectors of society. Keywords: Colombia; human rights; humanitarian crisis; international humanitarian law; OHCHR office