Philippines: What is the human cost of Duterte’s drug war?

On Tuesday, July 16 at 19:30 GMT:
President Rodrigo Duterte’s “war on drugs” has killed thousands of drug suspects in the Philippines over the past three years. But rights groups believe the number of casualties is much higher than the 6,600 deaths the government admits to, and that the raids disproportionately target poor communities.

Last week, the UN Human Rights Council voted to investigate alleged abuses in the country, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and police impunity. Authorities say those killed in anti-drug raids were crime suspects who were armed and resisting arrest. The Philippines’ human rights commission estimates that there could be more than 27,000 deaths from extrajudicial killings.

Those who support the country’s anti-drug campaign say Duterte’s policies are necessary to reduce crime.

In this episode, we’ll learn about the people impacted by Duterte’s policies and ask whether the nation’s approach towards fighting drug crime needs reform. Join the conversation.

 

Read more:

UN approves resolution to probe Duterte’s ‘war on drugs’ – Al Jazeera
Three-year-old girl latest Philippines ‘drug war’ victim – Human Rights Watch

What do you think? Record a video comment or share your thoughts in below.