Un Expert Calls On Government To Improve Lives Of Minority Groups

When addressing the media in Gaborone on Friday, Varennes who was urging for a Bill of Rights said even though the country has made considerable progress in economic development and other areas including education and literacy, religious freedom, the fight against HIV/AIDS and other critical areas, access to public service, land and the use of resources for minorities could be improved. He welcomed moves by the government towards adopting more international human rights standard, but expressed concern about the lack of a comprehensive human rights legislative framework. He said there were gaps, uncertainties and even contradictions in the protection and promotion of human rights, which could best be addressed through a dedicated Bill of Rights.

“The obstacles to a widespread and vibrant flow of information and exchange through private newspapers and broadcasting media, appear not to use or allow broadcasts in minority languages, or to receive licences to do so. During our 12-day mission to different parts of the country, we have also observed difficulties faced by minority children in education.”