Montevideo and More

This past week at work, I continued to review habeas corpus petitions advocating for better treatment of incarcerated individuals, especially pregnant and mentally ill women. Although provincial, national, and international law provide numerous protections for these vulnerable groups, they often face especially harsh treatment and unsanitary conditions. For instance, one petition described how incarcerated women in the province of Buenos Aires are regularly forced to give birth while handcuffed and under the supervision of armed guards. They are also frequently denied their right to be accompanied by a partner or family member. This treatment is blatantly contrary to the province’s Protocol of Intervention and Implementation of Forms of Security Regarding Pregnant Incarcerated People as well as the United Nations’ Bangkok Rules. Despite the Commission's repeated calls for compliance with these existing protections, provincial authorities refused to rectify the situation for over a year. 

Outside of work I traveled to Uruguay for the weekend via the Buquebus, a ferry that traverses the Río de la Plata between Buenos Aires and Montevideo. I enjoyed visiting La Rambla, a riverside path that runs alongside the city, and walking through the tree-lined streets. Though La Plata and Montevideo both sit aside the Río de la Plata, Montevideo has a much beachier ambience. I was very pleased to receive compliments on my Spanish from various guests and employees of the hostel where I stayed. While I certainly have much room for growth, I feel like my Spanish class attendance is starting to pay off. Unfortunately, it rained quite a bit, but I still managed to enjoy my time in the city. I look forward to another exciting week ahead!