What Are the Biggest Human Rights Issues in Honduras?
Honduras faces significant human rights challenges, including threats to environmental defenders, gender-based violence, and systemic issues within its justice system. Environmental activists, particularly those opposing illegal logging and mining, often face harassment and violence. Gender-based violence remains a critical concern, with high rates of femicide and limited access to justice for victims. Additionally, the justice system struggles with corruption, impunity, and inadequate protection for vulnerable populations. Organizations like ASJ are working to address these issues through advocacy, legal reform, and community engagement.
Why are environmental defenders at risk in Honduras?
Environmental defenders in Honduras often face threats due to their opposition to illegal logging, mining, and other activities that harm natural resources. The lack of effective legal protections and enforcement mechanisms contributes to their vulnerability.
What are the main challenges in addressing gender-based violence?
Challenges include societal norms that perpetuate discrimination, insufficient legal frameworks, and limited access to support services for victims. Efforts are ongoing to improve legal protections and provide resources for those affected.
In 2023, on average, a Honduran woman lost her life violently every 21 hours and 50 minutes.
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) ranked Honduras in 2022 as the country with the highest rate of violent deaths of women in Latin America and official figures show that one out of every two women aged 15 years or older has experienced violence at some point in her life.
Given the persistent violence against Honduran women, the Association for a More Just Society (ASJ) urges the State to design and implement a prevention strategy aimed at saving the lives of dozens of women who live in fear because of gender violence that has taken root in the country.
The Association for a More Just Society will continue to monitor progress in public policies to prevent and combat gender violence and reiterates its commitment to support all initiatives that allow Honduran girls and women to live without fear.
How is the justice system impacting human rights in Honduras?
The justice system in Honduras faces issues such as corruption, impunity, and inadequate resources, which hinder its ability to protect human rights effectively. Systemic reforms are needed to ensure accountability, effectiveness, and justice for those living in the most poor and vulnerable conditions.
WHAT WE DO
We strive to be brave Christians, dedicated to doing justice in Honduras and to inspiring others around the world to seek justice in their own contexts.
In Honduras
We work together with our partner organization ASJ-Honduras as they seek justice, work for peace, and lead systemic reform in Honduras.
GET INVOLVED
Written by ASJ Co-Founder Kurt Ver Beek and Christian philosopher Nicholas Wolterstorff, Call for Justice draws on stories from Honduras to illustrate what it means to do justice. It provides a practical and inspiring guide to seeking justice in our everyday lives.
As a Justice Partner, you are part of a committed group of supporters who give monthly to sustain the work of justice. Justice Partners are a community of over 285 passionate justice-seekers who believe that building a more just society in Honduras is possible.
Join Our Movement for Justice
One of the best ways to be a part of ASJ's work is by signing up for email updates. Sign up to hear about our latest work for justice, our current prayer requests, and opportunities to get involved.
We have t-shirts, coffee mugs, and our book Call for Justice available for sale. Represent ASJ and share the message of justice through our merchandise!
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We regularly host events across North America, including our annual celebration in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Check to see if there’s an event happening near you!
ASJ offers both short- term and long-term volunteers/interns. We need volunteers of all ages and with all skills – especially for event planning and event set up. Take a look at our volunteer opportunities.
One of the first steps to getting involved is learning more about the issues facing Honduras. Check out our resources on issues like violence, corruption, and immigration.
Looking for a way to help kids get involved in seeking justice? Design a thank you card for our donors!
