Honduras Creates New Ministry for Human Rights

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, May 31, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández has announced the creation of a new Ministry for Human Rights, which will include responsibility for cases of crimes against journalists.

The Honduran president announced the decision during his speech at a Honduran Association of Journalists ceremony bestowing the Álvaro Contreras Award (2017-2018) on journalist Blanca Moreno, on the occasion of Honduras's Journalism Day.

The president supported the Association of Journalists' request that the authorities investigate murders of media and communications professionals.

"To the members of the Executive Branch, the instruction is clear and direct: Bring to trial those who must be tried to see justice done for Honduras and for journalists," Hernández said.

He added, "The instrument we have built together with you and with other leaders who defend and promote human rights not only in Honduras but in other parts of the world is beginning its work."

"I recognize that we have to relaunch this, I recognize that there is a lot left to do. We have assumed our responsibility, and I take this opportunity to say that I have made the decision to elevate the Office of the Undersecretary for everything involving human rights, to a new Ministry, because this portfolio should be important, today, tomorrow and always," Hernández said.

"I hope that you will join us in this effort," said Hernández.

Media contact:
Yael Wollstein
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202-471-4228 ext. 118

SOURCE Republic of Honduras