Protecting Human Rights amidst the Philippine War on Drugs

Abstract

In 2016, President Duterte commenced the campaign promise of waging war on drugs and criminality. Casualties reached thousands—ranging from 4,000 according to the Philippine National Police, to more than 20,000 according to human rights groups and media organizations. The Philippine War on Drugs was a state-directed conflict that involves several dimensions including human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, organized crime, politics, economic issues, and deep socio-cultural factors. Despite its controversies, the drug war has continued to enjoy ample support among the public and a supermajority in the Congress. Any opposition has failed thus far, placing the country in a complex situation that remains unresolved. This case study examines the human rights violations that have allegedly been focused on the poor. What views and sentiments have enabled the continued popularity and legitimacy of the drug war? What is the impact on the families and communities left behind by the victims? Are there potential avenues for seeking justice? The case study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the drug war and trigger discussions on upholding human rights.