Argentina’s Jujuy Province: justice Delayed for Victims of State Violence
Two years after a wave of protests and subsequent state violence in Argentina’s Jujuy province, Amnesty International is calling for justice for the victims. The unrest stemmed from constitutional reforms initiated in 2023 by Gov. Gerardo Morales, sparking widespread demonstrations.
The Spark: Constitutional Reform and Protests
The constitutional reform in Jujuy province touched on several sensitive areas, including governmental restructuring, electoral system modifications, and resource exploitation. These changes ignited a firestorm of opposition.
- Government Restructuring: Critics argued the reforms diminished checks and balances against the executive branch.
- Electoral System: Modifications raised concerns about fairness and representation.
- Resource Exploitation: Continued mining activities, especially lithium extraction, fueled indigenous communities’ grievances.
- Freedom of Expression: Restrictions on freedom of expression were also a key concern.
Protesters included teachers’ unions, indigenous communities, leftist parties, and dissenting members of the Jujuy Justicialist Party. Those protesting included teachers’ unions, indigenous communities, leftist parties, and the dissenting wing of the Jujuy Justicialist Party.
Did You Know?
Lithium, frequently enough called “white gold,” is a key component in batteries for electric vehicles and other technologies. The rush to extract lithium has led to conflicts with indigenous communities in several South American countries.
State Response: Repression and Human Rights Violations
The government’s response to the protests was forceful, marked by allegations of human rights violations. amnesty International has expressed serious concerns
regarding the events in Jujuy.
Reports indicate the use of tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters, resulting in numerous injuries. One such case is that of Joel Paredes, a drummer protesting, who was among those injured. Amnesty International believes that the amount of force used against the manifestation was excessive and arbitrary,as some protesters were even criminalized.
Amnesty International documented the violence through photo and video evidence, alleging violations of international human rights laws by state authorities and police.
Amnesty International’s Findings: A Detailed Look
Amnesty International’s investigation highlighted several key areas of concern:
- Lack of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent: The reform process allegedly lacked proper consultation with affected communities.
- Violations of Peaceful Assembly: Restrictions on protests and unjustified dispersal of roadblocks were reported.
- Excessive Use of Force: Unlawful, arbitrary, and excessive force was used against protesters.
- Inadequate Medical Care: Victims faced challenges in accessing assistance and medical care.
- Arbitrary Detentions and Criminalization: Protesters were subjected to arbitrary detentions and criminal charges.
- Cruel Treatment: Instances of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment were reported.
- Lack of Accountability: A persistent lack of oversight and accountability in police conduct was noted.
Pro Tip: Understanding “Free,Prior,and Informed Consent”
Free,Prior,and informed Consent (FPIC) is a principle that indigenous communities have the right to give or withhold their consent to projects that may affect their lands,territories,and resources. It is a cornerstone of international human rights law.
The Call for Justice and Accountability
Amnesty International is urging authorities to ensure justice, reparations, and guarantees of non-repetition for the victims of state violence. the association emphasizes the need for accountability to prevent future abuses.
The situation in Jujuy has raised broader questions about human rights protections and the balance between development and community rights in argentina. The reforms included changes to the Jujuy Constitution
which spurred the protests.
