Ocean County Leader

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) has reached out to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) ahead of a congressional hearing to address serious allegations of human rights violations in Brazil. In a letter addressed to IACHR President Roberta Clarke and the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression Pedro José Vaca Villarreal, Smith highlighted the need for information regarding the alleged violations.

“The Subcommittee has been informed of serious allegations of human rights violations committed by Brazilian officials on a large scale,” Smith wrote, emphasizing the concerning nature of the accusations. He pointed out that there are credible reports of mass violations of freedom of expression, including censorship enforced through abuses of judicial authority and restrictions placed on opposition media.

Smith, as Chair of the House Global Human Rights Subcommittee, invoked the mandate of the IACHR and the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression to promote and protect human rights and freedom of expression. He requested the IACHR to share any relevant information they have on the situation in Brazil to aid in addressing these violations.

“Additionally, please inform the Subcommittee of what steps or measures the office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression and the Interamerican Commission on Human Rights have taken to address the ongoing situation in Brazil and what suggestions—if any— it can make to this body to attend to it,” Smith added, seeking clarity on the actions being taken to address the human rights concerns in Brazil.

The request from Rep. Chris Smith underscores the importance of addressing human rights violations and upholding freedom of expression in Brazil. As the hearing approaches, the response from the IACHR will be awaited to shed light on the situation and guide potential actions to address these serious allegations.