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Written question asked by Kate Osborne (Labour) on Thursday, 20 May 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 25 May 2021 (named day). It was answered by Wendy Morton (Conservative) on Tuesday, 25 May 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Colombia: Police Brutality

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will make representations to his Colombian counterpart on reports of eye injuries resulting from the actions of Colombian police during protests.

Answer

UK ministers and senior officials regularly raise human rights issues, as well as specific cases of concern with the Colombian Government, and in multilateral fora. We are clear that we support the right of all Colombians to protest peacefully, and that the right to peaceful assembly and association must be guaranteed.

Colombia is a UK 'Human Rights Priority Country,' and we have raised our concerns with the relevant state actors in Colombia since protests began. Most recently, I spoke with acting Foreign Minister Adriana Mejía on 14 May to express my concerns, and welcome Colombia's commitment to transparent investigations into allegations of abuse. We look to the Colombian authorities to investigate fully any reports on excessive use of force against protestors, and take appropriate action against those responsible. Security services must be held accountable for their actions, and any complaints thoroughly investigated.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
4713
Session
2021-22
Subjects
Demonstrations Injuries Eyes Colombia Police brutality
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk