September 3rd, 2024 

In the most recent Amnesty Urgent Action letter, the Union has written to Mr. Raúl Latorre, President of the Chamber of Deputies; Mr. Roberto González Segovia, President of the Commission on Constitutional Matters; and Mr. Jorge Ramón Ávalos Mariño, President of the Commission on Legislation and Codification, urging them to take immediate action to withdraw the proposed anti-civil society bill currently under consideration in Paraguay. 

“It is important that we write to the Paraguay Government to withdraw this bill as it will have serious implications on the rights and freedoms of many Paraguayans and human rights organizations,” stated Kennedy Baker, Equity Committee Member at Large.  

The proposed legislation threatens to severely restrict the work of human rights organizations in Paraguay, creating barriers that would undermine the ability of civil society to operate freely. Such a law would stifle the voices of those advocating for justice, equity, and the protection of fundamental rights, which are vital to a functioning democracy. 

The bill is currently under review by the Chamber of Deputies, where it will be examined by key commissions, including the Commission on Constitutional Matters and the Commission on Legislation and Codification. These commissions will make recommendations on the bill’s future, determining whether it will proceed to a full vote. The outcome of this process will have profound implications for the rights and freedoms of the Paraguayan people, and that is why it shouldn’t pass. 

As a member of the United Nations since 1945, Paraguay, is bound by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). This bill, if passed, would violate multiple provisions of the ICCPR, including Article 22, which guarantees the right to freedom of association, allowing individuals to form and join groups, including trade unions, without interference. For the people of Paraguay, this means a loss of their ability to come together to advocate for their rights, to support each other in times of need, and to hold their government accountable. The passage of this bill would not only contravene Paraguay’s international obligations but would also silence the voices of its citizens, stripping away their power to create change and protect their communities.  

It is crucial for the Paraguayan government to reject this bill to maintain its commitment to international human rights standards. We urge the Chamber of Deputies to act decisively to protect the rights of its citizens and uphold Paraguay’s reputation on the global stage. 

We eagerly await a response from the 3 deputies on this urgent matter. 

The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows for the Union to consistently take solidarity action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.