Human Abuses Research Articles

Perlindungan Tawanan Perang dalam Konflik Israel-Palestina Berdasarkan Hukum Humaniter Internasional dan Hukum Islam

This study examines the treatment of prisoners of war (POWs) in the Israel-Palestine conflict through the frameworks of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Islamic law. Both legal systems emphasize humane treatment for POWs; however, reports indicate severe rights violations against Palestinian detainees in Israel, including torture and inhumane conditions. Conversely, Hamas is reported to treat POWs by relatively higher standards. By integrating IHL and Islamic principles, this research provides a novel perspective on legal and ethical dimensions in POW treatment amid a prolonged conflict. Findings underscore the urgent need for enforcing humane standards to curb human rights abuses. Although based on secondary data, the study emphasizes the importance of further primary-source research and calls for enhanced international monitoring and strict adherence to IHL to ensure legal protections for POWs in active conflict zones.

Ante la humanidad desnuda. Una reflexión sobre la condición marginal del migrante desde el concepto de rostro de Max Picard

The article proposes an analysis to understand the figure of the migrant and hospitality from the concept of the human face of the Swiss philosopher Max Picard. Although the topic of migration has been debated from diverse perspectives, whether from political philosophy or multiculturalism, it lacks an approach from an ethical and anthropological vision. For this, we turn to Max Picard’s personalist proposal, because the philosopher highlights in his work the danger of forgetting the fact that the human person has a face. The migrant is seen in our societies as a marginal being. Marginality is indifference to the face and, therefore, indifference to the imprint of the sacred in the human person. This gives rise to discrimination, depravity of human rights, vulnerabilities, and abuses against those who do not want to be seen.

The gift of freedom? Exploring the realities of rescue from child trafficking in Ghana

ABSTRACT This paper is a critical reflection on the rescue and reintegration regime associated with the child trafficking intervention in Ghana. The paper acknowledges efforts by anti-trafficking NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) to address conditions of poverty, child/youth economic exploitation, and human rights abuses. However, it also observes that these interventions have had very little impact for some of the beneficiaries. Drawing on ethnographic research with young adults considered as trafficked victims by a child rights NGO in Ghana, the paper demonstrates how reintegrated young adults are still confronted with the socio-structural factors (residential instability, economic exploitation, physical abuse, and attendance difficulties at school) that preceded their transportation to riverine communities for work in fishing. The paper attributes these post-rescue challenges to the inability of the existing remedial regime to address the structural problems that underline children and young adults’ economic mobility. The paper argues for a more nuanced approach to child trafficking intervention in Ghana.

Identification and pharmacological properties of 2-(1H-indazole-3-carboxamido)-3,3-dimethylbutanoate (MDMB-INACA), N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-INACA), and N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-hexyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-HINACA)

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are an evolving class of new psychoactive substances (NPS) with structurally various compounds that are increasing over the past few years. Therefore, they are initially hard to identify because of the lack of analytical information. Moreover, there is little to no information regarding the pharmacology of these compounds despite human abuse. In the present study, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were used to identify the structure of three compounds obtained from seized materials. The pharmacological properties of these compounds were evaluated by subsequent behavioral testing, including von Frey and cold allodynia tests. The results indicated that these compounds were determined to be 2-(1H-indazole-3-carboxamido)-3,3-dimethylbutanoate (MDMB-INACA), N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-INACA), and N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-hexyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-HINACA) via GC-MS, UPLC-Q-TOF MS and NMR analysis, and they can attenuate mechanical and cold allodynia induced by paclitaxel in rats with peripheral neuropathy. Compared with MDMB-INACA and ADB-HINACA, ADB-INACA showed better analgesic effects on paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) in rats, and its effect was similar to that of the positive drug N′-(1-hexyl-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) benzohydrazide (MDA-19).

Addressing war crimes in Ukraine: international response, accountability and the path to reparations for violations committed as a result of russian aggression

It is indicated that russia’s aggression against Ukraine, which began in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea by the russian federation, has since intensified significantly, especially after the large-scale invasion of russia in February 2022. This armed aggression of the russian federation against Ukraine led to a serious humanitarian crisis, serious violations of international humanitarian law (IHL), international criminal law (ICC) and international human rights law (IHRC). The article explores the international legal responses to russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, beginning with the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and intensifying with the full-scale invasion in February 2022. This war has led to severe humanitarian crises and widespread violations of international humanitarian law, international criminal law, and international human rights law. The paper focuses on war crimes, including targeting civilians, the use of prohibited weapons, and the unlawful deportation of children to russia. This article addresses the scientific literature on the war crimes committed by russia against Ukraine and IHL implementation, noting the lack of research on forensic methodologies for war crime investigations in Ukraine. While Ukrainian scholars emphasize integrating international law into national legislation, foreign experts provide more detailed forensic approaches. The study evaluates the actions of international bodies like the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the United Nations, alongside efforts by the European Union and others, to ensure accountability and reparations, with particular focus on the various mechanisms established to address war crimes, human rights abuses, and the path toward reparations and justice for Ukraine. Special attention is given to international initiatives, such as the Atrocity Crime Advisor Group (ACA) and the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA), which are crucial in enhancing Ukraine’s ability to prosecute atrocity crimes. The article underscores the need for coordinated international legal and financial support to achieve justice for the victims and rebuild Ukraine.

Challenges and Opportunities Faced by the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Fulfilling Its Mandate for Peace and Security in the DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been marred by protracted conflict, instability, and human suffering for decades. Studies on or and around United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo with respect to conflict, peace and security, portray shortcomings bordering on ineffectiveness. This presents a serious paradox and a question on conflict intervention by MONUSCO’s peace and security processes. The study objective was to evaluate challenges and opportunities faced by MONUSCO in fulfilling its mandate on peace and security processes in the DRC. The study explored Liberal Theory, Power Theory and Theory of Functionalism from which a conceptual model was drawn. The target population was 49,871 with a unit of analysis of 21,105 civilians comprising 5052 refugees, 4053 internally displaced persons and 12,000 local traders, 16,161 MONUSCO staff, 7,895 from major none governmental organizations (NGOs), and 4,710 from the political class, the rebel groups, and immigration. The study used random, stratified, snowball, and purposive sampling techniques to select 384 participants. The study was conducted in Eastern DRC. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The primary and secondary data were collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions, observation guides, and key informant interviews. Content analysis was done for all qualitative data; statistical data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings of the study indicate that, MONUSCO’s key challenges include; persistent violence of attacks by armed groups, mistrust and limited cooperation from government and local authorities, and logistical difficulties in accessing remote areas. The study concluded that mistrust and dearth of cooperation, non-guaranteed protection of the civilian population, and weak governance institutions are the major problems facing MONUSCO in achieving its mandate. The study recommends supporting the establishment of local and international judicial mechanisms to investigate and prosecute war crimes and human rights abuses, by ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and encourage truth and reconciliation processes to address past injustices and promote healing within communities.

Police Accountability and the Administration of Justice in Nigeria: A Case Study of Cross River State Command

The police are essential for maintaining law and order, yet they face frequent allegations of human rights violations in Nigeria. This study investigates the Cross River State Police Command, focusing on how their actions contribute to human rights abuses. Key objectives include exploring conditions in police custody, assessing the legal rights of suspects, and examining issues of unlawful arrests and detention. Utilizing Tom Tyler's Procedural Justice Theory (1990), the research employs a descriptive survey design, gathering qualitative data through interviews. Participants, including police officers, legal practitioners, and individuals who have experienced human rights violations in Cross River State, were selected through purposive and cluster sampling from three police stations across different senatorial districts. Data were transcribed and analyzed thematically. Findings reveal pervasive human rights abuses by the police, such as corruption, extortion, brutality, and excessive force, which have eroded public trust and impaired effective intelligence gathering. The study recommends enforcing accountability for corrupt practices and serious abuses like extrajudicial killings and torture, urging stringent legal consequences to dismantle the culture of impunity within the Nigeria Police Force. Received: 20 September 2024 / Accepted: 8 November 2024 / Published: 20 November 2024

Pancasila sebagai Pilar dalam Sistem Hukum Anti Terorisme di Indonesia

Pancasila, as the foundation of the Indonesian state, plays an important role in the legal system, including in the context of anti-terrorism law. This study aims to explore how the principles of Pancasila function as pillars in the formation and implementation of anti-terrorism law in Indonesia. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a literature review as the main method, which includes analysis of academic literature, legal documents, and interviews with legal experts. The results of the study indicate that the principles of Pancasila Belief in One Almighty God, Just and Civilized Humanity, Unity of Indonesia, Democracy Guided by the Wisdom of Deliberation and Representation, and Social Justice for All Indonesian People provide a moral and ideological framework underlying the creation and implementation of anti-terrorism law in Indonesia. Pancasila ensures that counter-terrorism efforts remain in accordance with the values ​​of humanity, social justice, and national unity. However, challenges such as potential human rights violations and abuse of authority need to be addressed to ensure that anti-terrorism law remains in line with the principles of Pancasila. This study recommends strengthening the enforcement of human rights, inclusiveness in policy making, and periodic evaluation and revision of anti-terrorism policies to improve their effectiveness and conformity to the country's core values.

Evaluating the human abuse potential of concurrent use of electronic cigarettes and low nicotine cigarettes among adults who smoke.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has stated its intention to reduce the nicotine content of combustible cigarettes to render them less addictive. This study evaluated the impact of providing adults who smoke with both very low nicotine content cigarettes (VLNCCs) and electronic cigarettes (ECs) of varying nicotine content on measures of human abuse potential. Participants (n = 213) were adult combustible cigarette users. They smoked their usual brand cigarettes (UBCs) during Phase 1 (baseline; week 1) and were provided with and encouraged to exclusively use VLNCCs during Phase 2 (weeks 2-4). During dual-product Phases 3 (weeks 5-7) and 4 (weeks 8-10), participants received both VLNCCs and ECs (assigned to one of two EC devices in higher or lower nicotine concentrations and choice of flavor), with instructions to use them freely in Phases 3 and 4. Assessments included product use, exposure, acceptability, risk perception, and withdrawal-related measures. Results indicated that participants used significantly fewer UBCs during the VLNCC and dual-product phases and smoked fewer VLNCCs during the dual-product phases than the VLNCC-only phase. Neither EC liquid nicotine concentration nor flavor influenced product use. The three study product phases resulted in less product liking and more withdrawal symptoms than the UBC phase. These results suggest that adults who smoke are able to switch much of their tobacco product use from UBCs to VLNCCs and will substitute combustible UBCs and VLNCCs with noncombustible nicotine-containing ECs, but most remain dual users, at least in the short term. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

You scratch my back, and I scratch yours: Autocratic reciprocity in the politics of naming and shaming

What drives some authoritarian states to engage in more naming and shaming of human rights violations than others? The Universal Periodic Review is a unique process requiring all UN members to participate in peer review on human rights issues. It has already finished its third cycle with active participation from all members since 2008. Although both democracies and authoritarian regimes have engaged in peer reviews on human rights issues, few studies explore the influence of different regimes on naming and shaming behavior on human rights issues. In this paper, we argue that authoritarian states use the peer review process as a means of legitimation. We expect authoritarian states to be more lenient towards other authoritarian regimes to increase their legitimacy, while democracies are likely to be impartial to shame human rights abusers. This paper examines how the relational politics of naming and shaming behaviors on human rights issues change as a function of political regimes. We test our expectations using a large-N sample of dyads. We compare the peer reviews of the Universal Periodic Review between 2008 and 2020 with different dyads of democracies and authoritarian regimes.

Unpacking Human Rights: Freedom of Consciousness, Bodily Autonomy & Right to Life in the Context of War on Drugs Crimes

Abstract This study explores the interplay between the right to life, right to development, bodily autonomy and freedom of conscience, and demonstrates how these factors collectively shape the concept of freedom of consciousness and simultaneously lead to increased access to altered states of consciousness, cognitive liberty, freedom of development, and the peak experiences that Abraham Maslow researched. Second chapter delves into the intersection of human rights and drug policy, specifically examining the implications of the War on Drugs on individual freedoms. It argues that the War on Drugs has led to a violation of fundamental human rights, including cognitive liberty, bodily autonomy, and the right to life. Through an analysis of international human rights law and case studies from around the world, the paper demonstrates how drug-related crimes have resulted in mass incarceration, violence, and human rights abuses. It also explores decriminalization of drug use, end of War on Drugs and criminalization of its’ crimes. The research results provide insights into the interrelation between these three concepts, shedding light on how they intersect and influence each other and in context of War on Drugs hostile environment. Findings also suggest that the War on Drugs has resulted in a significant violation of fundamental human rights.

Chicago Police Torture and the Limits of Human Rights Enforcement in Liberal Democracies

From 1972 to 1991, a network of Chicago Police detectives used torture to force confessions from over 100 criminal suspects. Almost all were Black men, and many were wrongly convicted, some for capital offenses. I synthesize insights from comparative research on human rights, state abuse, and police violence in democracies to explain why, for nearly two decades, liberal institutions in Chicago failed to stop the torture. I argue that the nature of state violence in this case—targeting marginalized individuals uninvolved in political activity—intensified the practical, affective, and informational obstacles that are inherent to activating liberal institutions—courts, elected officials, media, and civil society—to fulfill their roles as rights enforcers. Applying these literatures to a type of case they typically overlook—a wealthy liberal democracy—contributes to understanding why state violence persists in such states and why it tends to concentrate on marginalized populations.

Environmental and Humanitarian Law Violations in Bangladesh's Coastal Areas: A Survey Analysis

This study investigates the intersection of environmental and humanitarian law violations in the coastal areas of Bangladesh, focusing on the implications of climate change-induced disasters on vulnerable communities. A quantitative survey was conducted, with 150 respondents representing coastal regions, to gather data on the prevalence of environmental degradation, climate-induced displacement, and human rights violations. Findings reveal a significant correlation between environmental hazards, such as cyclones and sea-level rise, and the displacement of coastal populations, exacerbating socio-economic vulnerabilities and human rights abuses. The study employs a quantitative methods design, analyzing survey data of legal frameworks, policy documents, and scholarly literature. The data was analyzed through Smart PLS 4 for Structural Equational Model (SEM). The purpose of this research is to elucidate the complexities surrounding legal enforcement, policy implementation, and grassroots initiatives aimed at addressing environmental and humanitarian challenges in coastal areas. By providing empirical evidence and insights into the lived experiences of affected communities, this study aims to inform evidence-based policy interventions, legal reforms, and humanitarian strategies to enhance resilience and protect the rights of coastal populations facing the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation.

Exploring Human Misuse and Abuse of Veterinary Drugs: A Descriptive Pharmacovigilance Analysis Utilising the Food and Drug Administration's Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS).

Evidence suggests an increasing misuse of veterinary medicines by humans. This study aims to analyse Adverse Events (AEs) associated with selected veterinary products using the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS). A descriptive pharmacovigilance analysis was conducted on AEs related to 21 drugs approved for human and/or animal use. A total of 38,756 AEs, including 9566 fatalities, were identified. The United States reported the highest number of cases (13,532), followed by Canada (2869) and the United Kingdom (1400). Among the eight drugs licenced exclusively for animals, levamisole, pentobarbital, and xylazine were most frequently reported. Reports predominantly involved males (57%) from the 18-64 age group, with incidents related mainly to overdose, dependence, and multi-agent toxicities. Unmasking techniques revealed 'intentional overdose' as the primary reaction. Polysubstance use was evident in 90% of the drugs, with benzodiazepines/Z-drugs and opioids as common co-used classes. Veterinary medications are increasingly infiltrating the illicit drug market due to their pharmacological properties. This trend highlights the need for heightened vigilance and awareness to prevent further public health risks associated with the adulteration of illicit substances with veterinary products like xylazine and pentobarbital.

Indirect Cost Burden as an Emerging Issue of Foreign Employment in Developing Nations

Background: The current migration patterns and shifts present significant challenges, including widespread human rights abuses, exploitation of migrant laborers, high indirect costs due to expensive travel, limited affordable credit options, scarce job opportunities for low-skilled workers, and inadequate domestic migration policies. This study aims to identify the additional financial burdens faced by Nepalese migrant workers in Gulf countries. Methodology: A qualitative research design was used, with purposive sampling to select participants who had migrated to Gulf countries. In-depth interviews with 55 migrant laborers were conducted to gather data on cost burdens and employment conditions. Findings: Results showed that the indirect cost burden increased significantly after 2015 due to extended processing periods and technical procedures. Respondents generally preferred regulations before 2015. Despite legal changes like the "Free Visa: Free Ticket" policy reducing direct expenses, intermediaries and other indirect costs have offset this reduction, increasing the financial burden on migrant workers. Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into Nepal's foreign employment complexities, urging more research and measures for migrant worker well-being. Findings reveal intermediaries exploiting workers by altering passport photos or obtaining counterfeit birth certificates. Additionally, 2% of surveyed workers migrated as young returnees before age 18. These insights are essential to empower recruitment agencies and improve their practices, ensuring safer, prompt, and more productive labor migration. Novelty: This study uncovers the hidden financial burdens Nepalese migrant workers face in Gulf countries. It highlights the offsetting effect of intermediaries on legal reforms like the "Free Visa: Free Ticket" policy. It offers new insights into labor exploitation and emphasizes better regulation and worker protection.

Laws Used to Excessively Impede Naming and Shaming in Business and Human Rights: Elite Power?

Abstract This article explores the use of laws to unduly silence critics of corporate human rights abuses. It considers the hypothesis that state and business elites align their interests, fuelling the employment of regulations to excessively impede naming and shaming activities. This article draws on socio-legal and critical legal studies to demonstrate how laws, while typically perceived as protective, can also serve to empower corporations and suppress dissent. It reviews examples of such collusion and calls for further case studies to better understand the interplay between business interests and regulatory practices.

Reconciliation Pedagogy as Peacebuilding through Education in the Context of Cameroon

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine Reconciliation Pedagogy as Peacebuilding through Education in the Context of Cameroon Methodology: Being a literature-based paper, there was introduction of the paper in which some concepts were defined, a review of relevant literature on Cameroonian scholarship about the ongoing crisis, review of global literature on reconciliation pedagogy, a description of the role of a Christian teacher as a reconciliation pedagogue, and a proposed reconciliation pedagogical framework from a Christian perspective. Findings: The Christian Teacher can positively provide good influence to help address the current Anglophone crisis in Cameroon through pedagogy for contextual reconciliation. This would be seen in actual ethical paradigms like forgiveness, compassionate care, honesty, love, justice and equity as Christian virtues of being and doing, which is a potential gap in teachers’ practice in a crisis situation. Hence, the paper seeks to provide a new paradigmatic shift in ethical discernment in teaching pupils/students who are the immediate beneficiaries of reconciliation pedagogy and the society at large. The focus is not on inculcating ideas but in shaping life through teaching and modeling of Christian virtues that would be constructive to the development of students and the society in general. This would be an integrative approach of historical, ethical, spiritual and practical principles and Christian thinking and doing. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The paper suggests a contextual pedagogy for the Christian Teacher’s practice which is a form of summary of the roles they can play as reflective pedagogues. Hence, this paper sought to suggest reconciliation pedagogy from a Christian perspective for the Cameroonian context which is a characterized with human abuse and which both teachers and learners are victims. It is hoped that the suggested framework guides the Christian Teacher’s practice towards the reconstruction of the society as a step in the process of reconciliation in view of the current Anglophone crisis in Cameroon.

Bringing Realism to the Idealism of Small States: Norway and Atrocity Prevention at the UN Security Council

ABSTRACT This article examines Norway’s approach to the responsibility to protect (R2P) norm and atrocity prevention during its term on the UN Security Council (2021–22). Because it is a small state with high ambitions for its international human rights and humanitarian profile, one might expect Norway to be a strong defender of the R2P norm, in line with the idea that small states are often norm entrepreneurs. However, this article argues that prioritizing R2P and atrocity prevention norms in the Security Council may conflict with other Norwegian foreign policy interests such as peace diplomacy and consensus building. Indeed, in its approach to its Security Council seat, Norway prioritised agendas that fit a neutral, diplomatic approach to conflict prevention and civilian protection. Taking a pragmatic approach to problem solving in the Council was a strategy that served Norwegian interests. In a time when extremely tense global relations hamper the Security Council’s work, small states may not find it in their interest to take strong and outspoken positions on the gravest human rights abuses. Advocates of the R2P norm should look to other institutions to secure international involvement in atrocity prevention and promote R2P.

Assessment of human abuse potential of an unflavored, sucralose-sweetened electronic cigarette in combustible cigarette smokers.

Despite the popularity of electronic cigarettes (ECIGs), limited research has examined the role of sweeteners, independent of other flavors, in shaping ECIG human abuse potential (HAP). This study examined the effects of sucralose and nicotine in unflavored ECIG liquid solutions to provide a basic understanding of the effects of sweeteners on ECIG HAP compared to combustible cigarettes. Individuals who smoked cigarettes daily (N = 14) completed five within-subject, Latin-square ordered study sessions that differed by product used: (a) own-brand combustible cigarettes (OB), (b) 0 mg/mL nicotine, unsweetened liquid, (c) 0 mg/mL nicotine, sucralose-sweetened liquid, (d) 15 mg/mL nicotine, unsweetened liquid, and (e) 15 mg/mL nicotine, sucralose-sweetened liquid. Participants completed subjective questionnaires and behavioral tasks following a 10-puff directed use bout during which puff topography was measured, and blood was sampled for later measurement of plasma nicotine concentration. On average, the OB condition had a greater increase in plasma nicotine concentration and produced more pronounced subjective effects compared to the ECIG conditions. The 15 mg/mL nicotine ECIGs delivered significantly more nicotine and produced greater drug effects and reductions in tobacco abstinence symptoms than the 0 mg/mL nicotine ECIGs. Sucralose-containing solutions increased ECIG product appeal, puff duration, and puff volume during the 10-puff directed bout. Findings revealed greater HAP for OB cigarettes relative to all ECIGs tested and suggest that adding sucralose and nicotine elevates ECIG HAP via different mechanisms; sucralose appears to influence HAP through product appeal, while nicotine influences HAP through drug effects and tobacco/nicotine abstinence symptom suppression. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Accountability for Environmental Human Rights Responsibilities of MNEs: The Case of Enterprises in China

In recent years, the role of MNEs in China's economic development has been significant, yet their activities have also led to environmental degradation and human rights abuses. This paper delves into the intricate issue of environmental human rights accountability of multinational enterprises (MNEs) operating in China and examines the theoretical underpinnings and practical challenges in holding MNEs accountable for their environmental human rights impacts. It begins by outlining the basic concepts of MNEs' environmental human rights responsibilities, drawing upon international and domestic legal frameworks. Subsequently, it analyzes the common areas of environmental degradation and human rights violations committed by MNEs in China, highlighting the complexities of jurisdiction and enforcement. The article further explores the difficulties in determining accountability and selecting appropriate jurisdictions for legal redress. Through a comparative analysis of existing legal mechanisms and international practices, the paper proposes recommendations for China and the international community to strengthen accountability mechanisms and enhance regulatory frameworks. Ultimately, the paper aims to contribute to the discourse on ensuring that MNEs operating in China fulfill their environmental human rights responsibilities.