A United Nations human rights expert has urged Mozambique and its international partners to keep civilian protection and human rights at the center of their response to persistent terrorist violence.
The statement recognizes the serious security threats facing communities, particularly in conflict-affected areas, while stressing that counterterrorism operations must comply with international human rights and humanitarian law. Security measures that disregard legal safeguards can deepen grievances, expose civilians to further harm and weaken public trust.
The expert highlighted the importance of accountability for alleged abuses, access to justice for victims and cooperation with affected communities. Civil society organizations, local leaders, women and young people should be able to participate meaningfully in the design of prevention, protection and recovery policies.
The appeal also draws attention to the broader needs of displaced and conflict-affected people. Effective protection requires not only security operations but access to housing, education, health care, livelihoods and psychosocial support.
The UN expert’s observations are recommendations rather than a judicial finding. They call for a rights-based approach in which allegations involving any actor are independently investigated and perpetrators are held accountable through fair legal procedures.
