PHA-Exchange> HR Readers 46+47 (2)

[claudio]

From: "DBanerjee" <nhpp at bol.net.in>
(excerpts)

>  I am particularly
> impressed by the contention made that human rights and community
development
> are, in the final analysis, is about empowerment.
Let me stress that such a
> conceptual underpinning is simply indispensable for taking the side of the
people.
HOWEVER, after all these (mostly intellectual) efforts, how much of these
> have trickled down to those who work at the grassroots level?
If we cut out condescending and patronising attitudes, we are left with very
> little to show.
I am sure you will also agree that political space for
> action varies tremendously in different parts of the world.
> Today, I see a NEWSPAPER REPORT mentioning that Multidrug-resistance (MDR)
> is fast becoming a major problem in India. Whither Human Rights? Wither
empowerment? How
> Have we as activists responded to this drama by facing the power elite
responsible for this?
> I will welcome a debate on these issues against this background.
> Debabar Banerji
> Emeritus Professor JNU,
> New Delhi