Bonaire Human Rights defenders attended UN Permanent Forum in Geneva to Advocate for Justice

GENEVA -- President of Bonaire Human Rights Organization, Davika Bissessar Shaw, and Political Leader of Pueblo Progresivo Uni, James Finies, took their island's plight to Geneva, Switzerland last week, where they spoke at the Permanent Forum of People of African Descent. "This trip holds immense significance as it marks a pivotal moment in the fight for human rights and reparations on the island of Bonaire," they said.

Addressing Urgent Human Rights Concerns
The trip's agenda was packed with engagements with various international groups focused on human rights. The Bonaire delegation participated in the United Nations - Geneva in the 3rd Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, with a focus on the Caribbean, reparations and decolonization. The delegation expressed their deep concern with the widespread violations of human rights that continue to plague Bonaire. These violations, which contravene international law, permeate every facet of our society. Alarmingly, many interest groups appear more invested in their own agendas than in championing the rights of the Bonerian people.

Seeking Solutions Beyond Self-Interest
The delegation said that their mission to Geneva reflects a collective call for a higher solution to address the escalation of these human rights violations. It is imperative to hold accountable those who perpetrate injustices and to ensure that political leaders prioritize the welfare of the Bonerian people over personal gain. Recent corruption charges against political party leaders only underscore the urgent need for systemic change.

Presenting the Bonaire Case at the United Nations
Central to the delegation's agenda is the presentation of the Bonaire case at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva. This critical forum, hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, provides an unparalleled opportunity to expose the realities facing the people of Bonaire and to advocate for meaningful action.

Join Us in the Fight for Justice
Bonaire Human Rights and Pueblo Progresivo Uni urge all stakeholders to join hands in this crucial fight for reparatory justice, and not to accept the recent insincere Dutch apology and handout intended to bury their crimes committed in the past, which continue up to today in their Caribbean colonies. "Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future, where the rights and dignity of every Bonerian are respected and upheld as we, Bonaire Human Rights and Pueblo Progresivo Uni, build bridges progressively between the United Nations, CARICOM, and Bonaire"