Communication and the Human Rights-based Approach: A view from the Ombudsmen of the people and its work of communication for development

Abstract

Reducing poverty, underdevelopment and the eradication of illiteracy among part of the world population requires further approach to development which has been applied so far. The actions aimed at meeting the basic needs of the disadvantaged but have proven insufficient. It imposes a new approach based on the recognition of human rights. From this perspective, that may mean a change of paradigm, communication is a strategic element. A new model of governance based on transparency and social responsibility requires the implementation of communication networks operating in the intermediate space located between holders of rights and holders of obligations and responsibilities. The Defensorias del Pueblo (Ombudsman), institutions with strong presence in the Hispanic community can play a key role in this endeavor. In addition to being constitutional institutions and having strong social prestige, have experience in communication for development. This article investigates the work done in this regard and raises the possibility of turning them into agents of change to stimulate the new paradigm.