Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chair Chito Gascon has called on people of the world to resist the global trend of “regression” in democratic spaces due to the rising popularity of so-called “strongmen” as leaders. “Let us be emboldened by an unrelenting will to stand up for justice, and an undying faith in humanity’s capacity for good. “If we are unable to ensure the respect, protection and fulfillment of human rights and fundamental freedoms of all—especially the poorest and the most marginalized—then the universal human rights project will indeed mean nothing,” Gascon said. The appeal of “strongmen” to citizens, Gascon said, is fueled by the public’s frustration over the inability of governments to make democracy work. ADVERTISEMENT“[The leaders] pose a false choice, presenting … an alternative of greater safety, security and stability, in exchange for diminished freedoms,” he said.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer June 01, 2018 23:15 UTC