Re: Pedro Jaime Mosquera, human rights defender
To: Senior President Alvaro Uribe Velez
From: Heather D. Neun, LL.B, M. Phil., B.A.
Date: 2004-10-17
I am writing in response to the recent death of Pedro Jaime Mosquera. LWRC has received reports that early in the week of October 3, 2004, Mr. Mosquera was murdered and that his body showed signs of torture.
LRWC calls for an immediate and thorough investigation of Mr. Mosquera’s death, for the results obtained to be made public and for those responsible to be brought to justice. LRWC also calls upon the government of Columbia to take swift and effective action to ensure the security of other FENSUAGRO members and trade unionists in Colombia.
The government of Colombia is a signatory to the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Colombia’s obligations to guarantee the physical safety of trade unionists, investigate extra legal executions, and punish violations, also arise from Colombia’s membership in the Organization of American States (OAS) and the provisions of the American Convention on Human Rights.
Please advise LRWC by mail, e-mail or fax of the actions that the government of Colombia is taking to:
1. investigate the death of Mr. Mosquera with the goal of identifying the person(s) responsible and bringing them to trial;
2. protect and ensure the safety of FENSUAGRO and other trade unionists.
LRWC awaits your response. Thank you for your attention to our concerns.
