EXPERTS from the United Nations believe the Spanish government's response to Catalunya's independence referendum 'could be in breach of human rights'.
Independent consultants on fundamental freedoms, David Kaye and Alfred de Zayas, have urged both sides of the debate to 'abstain from any acts of violence', especially during the 'peaceful protests' being staged across the north-eastern region ahead of the 'illegal' voting, and to 'exercise moderation'.
Both are working voluntarily on their 'promoting fair and democratic international order' report and have not been commissioned by the UN itself, even though they work for the global organisation and are using their professional experise in compiling the paper.
“On September 21, over 4,000 police officers were stationed across Catalunya with a government order to 'act in the event of an illegal referendum being celebrated'...since then, hundreds of thousands of catalanes have taken to the streets to protest,” the report explains.
“Tensions have increased, with authorities raiding printing firms and seizing electoral material; numerous websites related to the referendum have been blocked, and political meetings on the subject have ceased.
“Several politicians have been arrested, whilst leaders of the massive protests across the region have been accused of sedition, a crime which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.
“The measures we are witnessing are of great concern, since they appear to be violating fundamental individual rights, limiting the flow of public information and the possibility of an open debate at a critical moment for Spanish democracy.
“We are very concerned that the orders given to the police and the rhetoric accompanying this could dramatically increase tensions and social upheaval.
“We urge Spanish authorities to guarantee that the measures adopted in the face of the referendum do not interfere with the fundamental rights of freedom of speech, freedom of reunion and association, and public participation.
“Irrespective of the legality or otherwise of the referendum, Spanish authorities have a duty to respect and comply with these basic human rights, which are essential in any democratic society.”
De Zayas and Kaye have apparently been in contact with Spanish authorities, although clearly, given that the arrests and raids are continuing in earnest and likely to increase in momentum by Sunday, it does not appear the UN experts' paper has had any effect.
