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International Human Rights day statement
Youth Agenda Trust
December 10, 2008

The Youth Agenda Trust wants to join the rest of the world in celebrating the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As the day is being celebrated the whole world over it is saddening to note that the intentions and aspirations of the architects of this most important human rights instrument are still far from being realised in most parts of the world.

This year's celebrations which are being held under the theme "dignity and justice for all" comes at a time were human rights violations in Zimbabwe are at their peak. Human rights defenders and opposition activists and sympathisers continue to be killed, abducted, arbitrarily arrested and detained for their firm belief in championing the cause of human rights.

The government continues to violate Zimbabweans their basic rights by disallowing donor agencies to unconditionally give food aid in all parts of the country. The right to health and other basic rights continue to be violated by the state as evidenced by the complete breakdown of the health delivery system and the recent cholera outbreak. In 2008 we have also witnessed some of the worst ever gross violations of human rights as the state unleashed a wave of terror and state organised violence soon after the 29 March elections when the then ruling party had lost elections. As the Youth Agenda Trust we call upon:

• SADC and the African Union to urgently review its mediation process come up with and implement more practical interventions aimed at bringing an end to the untold suffering Zimbabweans are going through
• The United Nations Security Council to probe the human rights abuses that have been and continue to be perpetrated by the Zimbabwean government on its citizens and hold those responsible accountable
• The illegitimate government of Zimbabwe to uphold and respect the rights of its citizens as enshrined in the various charters and instruments it has signed and ratified over the years
• The young people of Zimbabwe to stand firm and united in promoting and protecting human rights

Finally we also would want to salute all those who lost their lives in 2008 for their stance and dedication in defending human rights.

Visit the Youth Agenda Trust fact sheet

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