Human Rights Violations in Tindouf Camps Highlighted at UN Council Session
During the 58th UN Human Rights Council session, NGOs highlighted severe human rights abuses in Tindouf camps, Algeria, where thousands live in harsh conditions. Activists reported increased violence and the exploitation of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, founded on the absence of international oversight. Morocco simultaneously reaffirmed its human rights commitment amid regional tensions concerning autonomy and governance.
During the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, various NGOs and witnesses expressed grave concerns regarding human rights violations in the Tindouf camps, located in southwestern Algeria. The Sahrawi NGO Promotion of Economic and Social Development (PDES) highlighted the dire conditions faced by thousands of residents who have endured almost five decades of humanitarian neglect and deprivation of basic rights.
Fatima Ezzahrae Zouhairi, an activist from PDES, indicated that the security situation in the camps has deteriorated significantly, leading to increased criminal activities and violence that exacerbate the suffering of the inhabitants. She noted that the lack of security measures from Algeria further endangers the people residing there, preventing their access to protection and justice.
Zouhairi emphasized that the camps’ geographical isolation, away from any international oversight, aggravates the ongoing rights violations. Vulnerable groups, especially women and children, face heightened risks of physical and psychological violence in these inhumane living conditions.
Lemaadla Mohamed Salem Zrug, a representative of the African Network for Development, Governance, and Human Rights (RADHEG), provided harrowing testimonies about life in the camps, citing instances of kidnappings, torture, and forced recruitment of children into military training by the Polisario Front. She criticized the impunity enjoyed by Polisario officials under Algerian protection.
El Fadel Braika, a former detainee in Polisario secret prisons, condemned the inhumane conditions, noting issues such as forced disappearances and the exploitation of children as soldiers. He also highlighted Algeria’s repressive tactics against youth attempting to escape the camps.
Judit Segara Casasepare from CIRAC raised concerns regarding child recruitment in Tindouf, claiming that programs like “Vacations in Peace” are exploited for child trafficking. She urged the UN to investigate these matters and hold Algeria accountable.
Abdelwahab Gain of Africa Culture International reiterated the dangers posed to children in Tindouf, accusing the programs of exploiting them and separating families under the guise of humanitarianism. PDES called for the international community to enforce respect for the human rights of those in the camps, demanding unimpeded humanitarian aid and monitoring mechanisms to address violations.
They also urged the High Commissioner for Human Rights to dispatch a fact-finding mission to monitor conditions and ensure compliance with the Geneva Convention on Refugees. In a contrasting stance, Morocco reaffirmed its commitment to human rights at the same session, with Ambassador Omar Zniber stating Morocco’s intent to strengthen its legal frameworks supporting human rights.
Furthermore, approximately forty countries expressed support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, with Yemen’s Ambassador noting Morocco’s proactive engagement with the UN human rights system, advocating for the establishment of consulates in Dakhla and Laayoune to bolster local economic development.
The 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council illuminated the critical human rights violations occurring in the Tindouf camps, emphasizing the urgent need for international intervention and accountability for the affected populations. Activists condemned the lack of security and the exploitation of vulnerable groups, particularly children. Meanwhile, Morocco asserted its dedication to human rights, further complicating the regional dynamics surrounding the issue.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
