Brasília, January 3, 2003 (Agência Brasil) - In his speech taking office at the National Secretariat of Human Rights, federal deputy Nílmário Miranda said that the Secretariat is a space that Brazilian society conquered within the government and, at the same time, it is the State adopting the cause of human rights. "I am going to end torture in the country, fight against ethnic and sexual discrimination. I am absolutely sure that in Lula's administration there will be no slave labor. I also believe that we shall erradicate this intolerable form of child labor. Yesterday we began a new era. And I believe that human rights will not be just a pretty declaration."

The ex-Secretary, Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro said that he is sure that Miranda will do a good job. "When it comes to human rights, there is no government and opposition. The only party that fights for human rights is the victims' party. What matters is to know whether what we do makes sense to them, whether it gives them more assurance and autonomy," the ex-Secretary said.

According to Pinheiro, the routine application of torture in prisons and institutions for young offenders is not compatible with democracy. "I am certain that Nilmário will try to resolve this problem." (DAS)