HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS ADDRESSES HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE

25.07.02

High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson this afternoon addressed the Human Rights Committee, stressing the role played by the Committee in the promotion and protection of human rights in the present globalizing world. She said that the work of the Committee was significant and valuable.
Mrs. Robinson said that she had welcomed the establishment of the counter-terrorism committee of the Security Council and the adoption of resolution 1373 following the 11 September events in the United States. However, the obligations on countries to take steps to comply with that resolution had also brought about a situation where a significant number of countries had used that as an excuse to clamp down on political dissidents or opposition members. Harsh measures had also been taken against refugees and asylum-seekers, and had made life more difficult for human-rights defenders.
Following the High Commissioner's brief statement, some members of the Committee said that measures taken by States parties to counter terrorism might be a cause for future communications by some individuals. In some cases, legislation aimed at fighting terrorism might affect the human rights of citizens, and the Committee was competent to request States parties to report on the impact of such steps. The 11 September events had brought new challenges and the Committee had recognized the seriousness of the situation. The Experts expressed their appreciation to the High Commissioner for her work in fighting human rights violations around the world and expressed their regret that she would be leaving her post in September.
In conclusion, Mrs. Robinson said that she welcomed the appointment of Sergio Vieira de Mello as the new High Commissioner for Human Rights starting 12 September. She said that she will continue to pursue her work in the promotion and protection of all human rights and the fight against violations of these rights.
The Committee will meet at 10 a.m. on Friday, 26 July, to conclude its session.
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