In a letter to Britain’s Secretary of State for Communities, Eric Pickles, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights criticized the British government for failing to provide the country’s travelers with appropriate accommodation.
Thomas Hammarberg maintained that the provision of “adequate housing” is a pre-requisite for the fulfillment of the travelers’ human rights.
“The rights of Gypsies and Travelers to adequate housing are undermined throughout the United Kingdom. The authorities must uphold this right, which is a pre-condition for the enjoyment of other human rights, including the rights to education and health,” said Hammarberg in his damming letter.
Furthermore, Hammarberg referred to the forced eviction of travelers from Dale Farm last year as “highly regrettable.”
“It is highly regrettable that it was not possible for the relevant local authority to find an acceptable solution, respectful of the rights of all parties involved,” said Hammarberg.
In October last year, the British police used Taser guns and violent tactics to forcibly evict over 80 families including more than 100 children. Hammarberg clearly stated that the British authorities are obliged to serve the best interest of children in any measure they take.
Moreover, Hammarberg called on the British government to recognize and respect the travelers’ right to appropriate accommodation.
ISH/JR/HE
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