TEGUCIGALPA (21 November 2024) -The Government of Honduras deserves credit for committing to implement an alternative model of development, but needs to take decisive steps such as improving law and order, enhancing transparency, reducing inequality and incentivising responsible business conduct, to realise its vision, a UN expert said today.
"The Government has an opportunity to develop and implement a model of planet-centred participatory development to respond to poverty, social conflicts and climate change-related loss and damage," the Special Rapporteur on the right to development, Surya Deva, said in a statement at the end of a 11-day visit to the country. "Such a model must be built through active, free and meaningful participation of all people, especially marginalised or vulnerable groups," the expert said.
The expert highlighted not only the Government's progress in reducing poverty and the homicide rate, but also the challenges in ensuring inclusive, sustainable and harmonious development.
"Despite many challenges faced by the Government, it should do more to leave no one behind," said Deva. "It must ensure that Indigenous Peoples have access to water, health, education, energy and employment. Women and Afro-Hondurans should be able to realise their development aspirations free from fear of any discrimination, harassment or violence," he said.
The Government should also take stronger action to control the narcotics economy and build resilient infrastructure, Deva said. Moreover, to address the national debt burden, the Government should generate more resources by introducing progressive taxation, ending blanket tax exemption for companies, seeking grants from development partners and negotiating debt swaps for climate action.
Deva said no one should die or face intimidation for protecting Mother Nature or one's land. "The Government must take decisive steps to end the criminalisation of environmental human rights defenders and Indigenous communities. It should also issue land deeds to Indigenous Peoples and grant project licenses only after obtaining their free, prior and informed consent," said Deva.
He advised the Government to build consensus among all stakeholders towards an alternative vision and create conditions conducive to responsible business conduct. "All companies operating in Honduras must follow relevant laws and international standards concerning human rights, labour rights, the environment and climate change. Rather than demanding billions of dollars through arbitration claims, foreign investors should support the Government's legitimate efforts in protecting the environment and the rights of Indigenous Peoples."
The Special Rapporteur's detailed report on his visit and recommendations will be presented to the Human Rights Council in September 2025.
