By Revesai Mavetera
In a recent statement, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called upon the Zimbabwean government to respect, protect, and expand civic space to ensure the freedom of expression for its citizens. Türk’s plea emphasizes the crucial role of civic space in fostering sustainable and resilient societies, while expressing concerns over the increasing restrictions and repressive laws faced by human rights defenders in Zimbabwe.
Drawing attention to the offline and online violations of civic space, Türk’s statement came as part of the United Nations’ monthly focus on the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He emphasizes the significance of providing individuals with the necessary space to express their opinions and engage in constructive debates, which are vital for shaping the future of communities and countries.
Zimbabwe has been flagged by the UN as a country experiencing a closure in civic and democratic space under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership. The government’s imminent passage of the controversial Private Voluntary Organizations (PVOs) Amendment Bill has been viewed as an attempt to silence non-governmental organizations that have been at the forefront of addressing the deteriorating human rights situation in the country.
Türk expresses deep concerns over the threats and attacks faced by journalists and human rights defenders, online bullying and harassment, crackdowns on peaceful assembly, and internet shutdowns in Zimbabwe. These actions pose serious challenges to the exercise of fundamental rights and hinder the free flow of information and ideas within society.
The High Commissioner underlines that protecting and expanding civic space is not only a human rights issue but also crucial for peace and development. Türk calls upon states to increase their efforts in safeguarding civic space, as it serves as a prerequisite for individuals to enjoy other entitlements enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including access to healthcare, quality education, social protection, and labor rights.
Furthermore, Türk highlights the pivotal role of civil society as a key enabler of trust between governments and their citizens, serving as a bridge that facilitates meaningful dialogue and participation. In the era of increasing digitalization, where significant decisions are made online and private companies play a significant role, Türk emphasizes the importance of having an open and safe digital public square.
The High Commissioner notes the challenges faced by states in protecting online civic space, oscillating between allowing unchecked violence and hate speech and implementing overly broad regulations that stifle free speech and target journalists and human rights defenders.
Türk concludes by stating that civic space is a fundamental indicator of a state’s commitment to upholding the noble aspirations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its willingness to address and rectify violations when they occur. The preservation of civic space is intertwined with the question of whose voices are heard in decision-making processes and ultimately determines whose rights will be respected.
