NOBEL PRIZE TO UN AND SECRETARY-GENERAL A RECOGNITION OF LEADERSHIP IN SEARCH FOR PEACE, FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS, SAYS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

12 October 2001




The following statement was issued today by United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson:

I have just learned of the decision of the Norwegian Nobel Committee to award its 2001 Peace Prize to the United Nations and to Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

The award is explicit and timely recognition of the leadership demonstrated by the Secretary-General in the search for peace around the world and in making respect for the fundamental human rights of all people a priority concern for the international community. It is all the more significant in this hundredth anniversary year for the Nobel Prize and given the current situation in the world

In the aftermath of the horrific attacks in the United States and in light of the terrible humanitarian situation facing civilians in Afghanistan and in that region, this recognition heartens all human rights defenders, in the United Nations and in civil society, and encourages us to continue the struggle for human dignity and human security.

I extend my warmest congratulations to all my United Nations colleagues and in particular to the Secretary-General.



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