Human rights body questions Air Force over discrimination complaint

Uruguay's National Institute of Human Rights and Ombudsman (Inddhh) has determined that the rights of a musician were violated by the Air Force. The musician had filed a complaint against two superiors, alleging racial discrimination, psychological violence, and abuse of power.

The Inddhh's resolution identified a "malpractice" in the institutional response, stating that the severity of the accusations warranted protective measures that would not negatively impact the complainant's work conditions. The institute specifically criticized the transfer of the musician and the insufficient information provided regarding actions taken against the accused officers.

The musician, who was 31 at the time of his complaint, served as a percussionist in the Air Force band. He reported experiencing insults and comments related to his skin color, as well as mockery concerning his personal life and mental health, while undergoing psychiatric treatment for work-related stress and anxiety.

While the Air Force initiated an administrative investigation and provided psychological support, the Inddhh questioned the decision to transfer the complainant. The institute recommended transferring the accused individuals instead to prevent re-victimization and potential career harm. Furthermore, the Inddhh noted that racial discrimination, the central theme of the complaint, was not explicitly addressed in the Ministry of Defense's response.

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Transferring the complainant can mean re-victimization and can eventually affect their possibilities of developing their functional career.