Why Human Rights Did Not Protect Victims of Drug Criminals — And Why They Still Defend Addicts
For many Filipinos, a long-standing question remains:
“Why do human-rights groups defend drug suspects but seem silent about victims of drug addicts and pushers?”
To understand this, we must first know where human rights came from, what their mandate is, and why they operate the way they do.(ads1)
Who Founded Human Rights? — The Origin
Modern human rights were not founded by a single person, but by several global events and institutions.
1. After World War II (1945)
The world created the United Nations (UN) in 1945 to prevent future abuses. It was founded by 51 countries, including the Philippines.
2. Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) – 1948
This is considered the foundation of modern human-rights principles. It was led and drafted by:
- Eleanor Roosevelt – USA
- René Cassin – France
- Charles Malik – Lebanon
- Peng Chun Chang – China
- John Humphrey – Canada
These individuals are often considered the founders of modern human-rights principles.
3. Human Rights Groups in the Philippines
- Commission on Human Rights (CHR) – created under the 1987 Philippine Constitution
- Amnesty International – founded in 1961 by Peter Benenson
- Human Rights Watch – founded in 1978
Why Human Rights Groups Seem to Defend Drug Suspects
1. Their main mission is to prevent government abuse
Human-rights organizations monitor torture, unlawful killings, and wrongful arrests. Their mandate is government accountability, not criminal cases among civilians.
2. Crimes committed by addicts or pushers fall under police and courts
When drug criminals harm victims, the cases are handled by:
- Philippine National Police (PNP)
- Department of Justice (DOJ)
- The courts
- Barangay justice system
Why They Give “Second Chances” to Addicts
1. The Constitution requires due process
Every person—guilty or not—has the right to life, due process, and legal counsel. Human-rights groups follow what the law requires.
2. Addiction is medically classified as a disorder
The World Health Organization considers addiction a health issue. Many believe rehabilitation lowers crime more effectively than violence.(ads2)
3. Preventing wrongful deaths
They defend suspects to avoid mistakes such as misidentification or harming innocent bystanders.
But What About the Victims of Drug Criminals?
Victims DO have rights, but support systems are weak:
- slow investigations
- weak witness protection
- fear of retaliation
- lack of financial support
This frustration is understandable and needs government action.
The Real Solution: Balance
A strong justice system must:
- Protect victims of drug crimes
- Ensure due process for suspects
Both sides must work together.
Conclusion
Human rights groups appear focused on suspects because their mission is preventing abuse by authorities, a role formed after World War II and strengthened by the Philippine Constitution.
However, victims of drug criminals deserve stronger protection, faster justice, and better support from the government.
