### Amnesty International’s High-Level Visit to Lebanon: A Call for Accountability and Human Rights
In an impactful visit spanning from November 23 to 25, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard, urged Lebanese authorities to take significant steps towards accountability regarding violations of international humanitarian law, particularly in light of the country’s recent tumultuous events, including the Beirut Port explosion and the ongoing humanitarian crises linked to conflicts with Israel.
### Meetings with Key Officials and Victims
During her stay, Callamard engaged in crucial dialogues with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Minister of Justice Adel Nassar, alongside local human rights defenders, survivors, and the families of victims affected by human rights violations. Her discussions centered around the urgent need for justice and the protection of civic space in Lebanon.
### A Landscape of Wounds: The Context of Callamard’s Visit
Callamard highlighted the compounded trauma faced by the Lebanese people, who have endured a devastating war with Israel, one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history, and a severe economic collapse within a short span of time. “The harms continue, and victims are still waiting for those responsible to be held to account,” she noted, underlining the gravity of the situation.
### The Opportunity for Change
“With a rare and urgent chance to break decisively from years of impunity and neglect, Lebanon’s government is at a crossroads,” Callamard asserted. She acknowledged a willingness from officials to engage on critical human rights issues but stressed that the real challenge lies in translating these discussions into tangible actions.
### Accountability for International Humanitarian Law Violations
Since the conflict escalation in October 2023, Amnesty International has extensively documented serious violations by Israeli forces, including unlawful airstrikes resulting in civilian casualties and the use of controversial munitions like white phosphorus. The organization has also noted Hezbollah’s use of unguided rockets in populated areas, calling for investigations into these actions as war crimes.
Despite the implementation of a ceasefire in November 2024, ongoing destruction along the Lebanese borders highlights the precarious situation many communities find themselves in. In light of this, Amnesty International has urged the Lebanese government to initiate credible domestic investigations into war crimes and address the urgent need for reparations for affected individuals and communities.
### Justice for Beirut Port Explosion Victims
The August 4, 2020, Beirut port explosion remains a fresh wound for the city, having killed at least 236 individuals, injured thousands, and devastated large portions of Beirut. Victims and families are still waiting for justice as authorities hinder investigations by shielding key political figures from accountability. Callamard stressed the necessity of an independent investigation free from political interference, emphasizing that public trust in the justice system hinges on this case.
### The Ongoing Struggle for Political Accountability
Lebanon’s history is marred by politically motivated killings that often go unprosecuted. The case of Lokman Slim, an intellectual and human rights defender killed in February 2021, exemplifies the challenges faced. Although a new judge has been appointed to oversee the investigation, progress has been sluggish, leading Callamard to assert that this moment must not become yet another instance of delayed justice.
### The Fight for Free Expression
The conversation surrounding human rights extends into the realm of media and free expression. Callamard highlighted her deep concerns regarding the misuse of defamation laws to intimidate journalists and activists. As the parliament reviews a draft media law, she emphasized the importance of reforms that would abolish punitive measures for speech-related offenses, advocating for new civil provisions instead.
### Callamard’s Expertise and Advocacy
Agnès Callamard stands as a leading voice in the international human rights arena, bringing her wealth of experience to the forefront of critical discussions. As an advocate for freedom of expression and a prominent feminist, she has dedicated her career to addressing significant human rights challenges globally.
### How to Engage Further
For ongoing updates and to support the work of Amnesty International, you can reach out via email at media@aiusa.org to stay informed about their initiatives and advocacy efforts in Lebanon and beyond.