MICHELLE BACHELET RECEIVES INDIRA GANDHI PEACE PRIZE
Introduction
- Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile and former UN Human Rights Chief, has been awarded the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2024.
- The award was presented by Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party.
ABOUT HER
- She is the first and only woman President of Chile.
- Served two terms: 2006–2010 and 2014–2018.
- Former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
- Also served as first Director of UN Women Agency in 2010.
- Known for promoting education reform, tax reform, human rights, women’s rights, and LGBTQ rights in Chile.
Background and Personal Life
- Michelle Bachelet experienced political oppression in her own life.
- Her father, Air Force Brigadier General Alberto Bachelet, died in prison after he opposed the 1973 military coup of Augusto Pinochet in Chile.
- She herself faced exile, loss, and torture during that period.
MAJOR CONTRIBUTIONS
- Created the National Institute for Human Rights.
- Established the Museum of Memory and Human Rights that honours victims of dictatorship.
- Set up the Ministry of Women and Gender Equality.
- Introduced quotas to improve women’s political participation.
- Supported the rights of minorities, including the LGBTQ community.
HER ROLE AT UN
As UN Human Rights Chief, she spoke about human rights issues in different countries, including India.
She raised concerns on:
| Issue | Her Concern |
| FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) | Said it was used to restrict NGOs and human rights groups |
| CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) | Said activists faced pressure and restrictions |
| UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) | Said it was used against activists |
| Freedom of NGOs | Felt NGOs face legal obstacles in doing rights-based work |
AWARD CEREMONY & HIGHLIGHTS
- Award presented by Sonia Gandhi.
- Sonia Gandhi compared Michelle Bachelet and Indira Gandhi, saying both experienced difficult times, political struggles, and their families suffered oppression.
- Bachelet praised Indira Gandhi, saying she believed that progress is only possible through harmony among nations.
- She said it is a privilege to be in India, a country rich in culture and diversity.
ABOUT INDIRA GANDHI PEACE PRIZE
- Started in 1985.
- Given for peace, disarmament, development, and human welfare.
Named after Indira Gandhi, India’s first and only woman Prime Minister.
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