In the wake of the first few hundred Syrian refugees voluntarily returning from Lebanon to war-torn Syria, it is imperative that Lebanon reassesses its obligations as a host country. Whilst it is unlikely that Lebanon will become party to the refugee convention, an updated Memorandum of Understanding with the UNHCR could be the solution.
The humanitarian sector has been lagging behind in preventing sexual harassment and abuse committed between humanitarian workers. In the aftermath of the Oxfam scandal, the issue is gaining momentum. But words must be followed by the implementation of robust counter-policies.
While governments quarrel over closed borders, unaccompanied children that migrate to Europe in hope of a better life are often detained in inadequate conditions facing life threatening dangers, missing critical months of schooling and undergoing hardship that no person should endure, let alone a child. There is a need for harmonization of protection standards at the European level and a total abolition of the practice of detaining unaccompanied migrant children.
Transnational Corporations (TNCs) play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet their ongoing failure to comply with Human Rights has been subject to much criticism. Establishing a legally binding framework that incorporates SDGs’ stance on Human Rights is essential to meet the goals by 2030.
The refusal of the United States to adhere to global norms on torture is undermining the foundations of the human rights movement. As President Trump openly advocates the use of torture, it is now more pertinent than ever for the international community to hold perpetrators of human rights transgressions accountable.