“Law is not law if it violates principles of eternal justice” -Lydia Maria Child
“If we desire respect for the law, we must first make the law respectable“- Loius D.Brandis
Laws are made for the betterment of society. Law enforcement is the responsibility of the government. Everybody needs peace to prosper, right?
Let us take an example of Brunei. The nation of Brunei, popularly known as the ‘Abode of Peace’, is a small but rich nation in Southeast Asia. Brunei is a crime-free and safe country. However, it is interesting to note that the country is quite infamous owing to frequent human rights violations.
Human rights are provided to all human beings regardless of race, religion, caste, gender, language, ethnicity, nationality. Brunei has a set of brutal laws and punishments. These include pelting stones at those who are found guilty of having an extramarital affair.
Abortion has also been criminalised. On one hand, the whole world is busy making laws to decriminalise abortion and same-sex marriage, while on the other hand, the Sultanate of Brunei has imposed a new penal code with brutal punishments. In Brunei, you get 40 lashes on your back if you’re caught indulging in lesbian sex. A government that criminalises private sexual activities and imposes such inhuman punishments cannot be tolerated. The country’s Sharia laws have been heavily criticised by the United Nations.
Criticism and condemnation are just not enough. It’s the time for the Sultanate of Brunei to face the consequences. Formulating human rights is one thing. Ensuring that they are implemented properly is another.
In an era wherein countries are trying their level best to get rid of primitive inhuman practices, The Sultan of Brunei is trying his level best to establish a draconian state.