There is no particular type of government or nation that excels in human rights violations. Unfortunately, the only common denominator in human rights violations is the presence of humans.
No, human rights issues can occur in both nondemocratic and democratic countries. While nondemocratic regimes often face criticism for blatant violations, democratic nations can also experience human rights challenges, such as discrimination, police brutality, and restrictions on free speech. Therefore, the protection and promotion of human rights is a global concern that transcends political systems.
Basically, human rights are legally mandated, so they have no power beyond their enforcement by established political authorities. Since many groups can achieve better outcomes to their goals (e.g.) war; wealth; power) by ignoring human rights as constructed by these authorities, they violate them where enforcement is weak and punishment is improbable.
While the practices of torture have varied across different countries and historical periods, Western nations have largely moved away from legal and sanctioned torture since the mid-20th century, particularly following the adoption of international human rights treaties like the UN Convention Against Torture in 1984. However, instances of torture and inhumane treatment have still been reported, especially in the context of war or national security concerns, suggesting that while formal policies may have changed, violations still occur. Overall, the commitment to human rights has led many Western nations to officially prohibit torture, but enforcement and adherence can vary.
The Holocaust is an example of extreme violation of human rights. Human rights laws strive to ensure that such a situation will never occur again.
Elie Wiesel is suggesting that when bystanders do not speak up or intervene in the face of injustice, they contribute to the suffering of the victims. The passive inaction of bystanders can enable and perpetuate oppression and harm.
Spying, in itself, does not inherently violate human rights, as it can be conducted within legal frameworks that respect individuals' rights and freedoms. Many governments argue that intelligence gathering is essential for national security, public safety, and the prevention of crime or terrorism. However, violations may occur if surveillance methods are invasive, unregulated, or conducted without proper oversight, leading to infringement on privacy rights. The balance between security and individual rights is a contentious issue, and adherence to laws and ethical standards is crucial to prevent abuses.
The world is in its current state because Satan's influence is over all of society as a whole. (1 John 5:19) Thanks to him, people are under the false impression that they can govern themselves, but people weren't created to do so. (Jeremiah 10:23) The unfair conditions all throughout the world will only cease when Jehovah God steps in, which will put an end to all of Earth's governments. (Daniel 2:44) His kingdom will fix all of mankind's problems (Isaiah 2:2-4), including sickness and death. (Revelation 21:4) (New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures)
Mostly violations of the rights of Native Americans were justified by asserting that the actions were for the benefit of the Natives, or for the greater good of the larger population. In early times, Native Americans were not considered to have rights, so they could not be violated. In many instances, the various actions were seen as violations of rights only in retrospect, and many years afterward.
Double dibble and carry
The freedom from torture is violated when individuals are subjected to cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment, often by state actors or authorities. This can occur through physical or psychological abuse, often in the context of interrogations or detention. Violations may also manifest in systemic practices where torture becomes a tool for control, coercion, or punishment, undermining human rights and dignity. Legal frameworks, such as the United Nations Convention Against Torture, aim to prevent such abuses, but enforcement remains a significant challenge globally.
People are tortured for various reasons, including political repression, to extract information or confessions, to instill fear, or as a means of punishment. Torture is often employed by authoritarian regimes or in conflict situations to maintain control and suppress dissent. It can also occur in the context of criminal justice systems where human rights violations are prevalent. Ultimately, it reflects a severe disregard for human dignity and the rule of law.
DOD officials can be held personally liable.