GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONTINUES COMMEMORATION OF FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Press Release
GA/9534
GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONTINUES COMMEMORATION OF FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
19981210 Forty-nine Speakers Address Afternoon, Evening Sessions On Danger of Sanctions, Human Rights Defenders, Poverty as Denial of Rights"Sanctions are a blunt instrument, damaging those who are powerless to effect the political change that the international community demands", the President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies told the General Assembly this afternoon, as it continued its commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Sanctions were a legitimate tool of diplomacy, but they could kill, she continued. When imposed by the Security Council, they exposed potentially fundamental contradictions in implementing two of that body's core principles -- promoting peace and human rights. Sanctions, which were intended to deal with threats to peace and with human rights violations, also risked undermining basic human rights during their implementation. A formal mechanism was needed to assess the possible negative impact of such measures and monitor their effects.
In two meetings this afternoon and evening, 49 speakers addressed the Assembly's commemoration. The Universal Declaration, adopted by the United Nations on 10 December 1948, represents a common statement of international goals and aspirations on human rights and fundamental freedoms. It expresses the belief that there are inherent rights to be enjoyed by all human beings and all social groups -- which were not "gifts" to be granted, withheld or withdrawn.
Several speakers expressed unqualified support for the draft resolution submitted this morning by Assembly President Didier Opertti (Uruguay) and adopted unanimously. By that text, the Assembly, concerned that human rights and fundamental freedoms continued to be violated in all parts of the world, reaffirmed the need for the international community to continue to assess progress made in the field of human rights since the adoption of the
* Pages 14-24 of this press release should indicate 87th and 88th Meetings.
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Declaration and to identify obstacles and ways in which they could be overcome.
The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Thailand said the time for debating whether each civilization, culture, religion or race should have the right to define its own concept of human rights was over. Action, not more argument, was needed. Everyone in the international community needed to pool wisdom and knowledge, experiences and insights, so that a truly effective global partnership for human rights can be established.
Also this afternoon, many speakers praised the adoption yesterday of the Declaration of Human Rights Defenders. The representative of Germany said it would be a document of reference for the numerous groups and individuals who tirelessly -- often at the risk of their own lives -- spoke up for the respect of human rights as well as for victims of human rights violations.
One of those Human Rights Defenders, the National Secretary for Human Rights of Brazil, Jose Gregori, recipient this morning of the United Nations Human Rights Prize, told the Assembly on behalf of his country in the afternoon that the rights referred to in the Declaration were not concessions, but attributes of the human condition. It would be useful for the United Nations to prepare a report on the attainment of all forms of human rights, to help develop public policy for human rights. Its publication could be the shared objective of the international community for the beginning of the twenty-first century.
Many speakers also emphasized the importance of economic rights. The representative of Cuba said the neo-liberal globalization that was being forced on the world went hand in hand with poverty and social polarization. "If we do not act, economic, social and cultural rights will continue to be the invisible part of the United Nations human rights mechanisms and the right to development will be a fairy tale", he said.
"A hungry man is not a free man", said the representative of Côte d'Ivoire. Promoting human rights went hand in hand with development and peace. Peace and poverty did not live well together and extreme poverty was the denial of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Access for all to primary health care, education, nutrition, work and basic social services was the key to human rights, he said.
"The ideals of the Declaration seem to mock our ability to implement them", said the representative of India. The one closest to the aspirations of the vast mass of humanity was Article 22, which spoke of the right to economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for the dignity and free development of personality. The dignity and the free development of a person's personality was most generally compromised by poverty and economic deprivation. Yet, freedom from want had never been addressed as a global crusade.
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Statements were also made by representatives of Benin, Mozambique, Monaco, Iceland, Botswana, Tunisia, Mongolia, Singapore, Argentina, Croatia, Nigeria, Ecuador, Chile, Colombia, Peru: China, Romania, Lithuania, Malta, Costa Rica, Pakistan, Uganda, Venezuela, Ukraine, Liechtenstein, Bangladesh, Egypt, Belarus, Guyana, United Arab Emirates, El Salvador, Cyprus, Kazakhstan, Paraguay, Uruguay, Lebanon, Burkina Faso, Poland, Senegal, Viet Nam, Turkey and the Republic of Korea.
The Assembly will continue its commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 10 a.m. Friday, 11 December.
Assembly Work Programme
The General Assembly meets this afternoon to continue its commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Adopted by the United Nations on 10 December 1948, the Declaration represents a common statement of international goals and aspirations regarding human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The Declaration expresses the belief that there are inherent rights to be enjoyed by all human beings -- men, women and children; and all social groups -- which were not "gifts" to be granted, withheld or withdrawn. It recognizes, among other things, the fundamental rights of all people to life, liberty and security of person; the right to an adequate standard of living; the right to own property; the right to freedom of opinion and expression; the right to education, freedom of thought, conscience and religion; and the right to freedom from torture and degrading treatment.
During this afternoon's meeting, the Assembly will continue to declare its commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a common standard of achievement for all people and nations and as a source of inspiration for the further promotion and protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms -- political, economic, social, civil and cultural -- including the right to development.
The Assembly further strengthened that declaration this morning by adopting a draft resolution submitted by its President, Didier Opertti (Uruguay). Concerned that human rights and fundamental freedoms continue to be violated in all parts of the world, the Assembly reaffirmed the need for the international community to continue to assess progress made in the field of human rights since the adoption of the Declaration and to identify obstacles and ways in which they can be overcome.
Statements
FASSASSI A. YACOUBOU (Benin): The content of today's statements show the special interest and commitment the United Nations has always had for matters relating to human rights. Through the prize ceremony, the Organization has shown that human rights are a matter of concern to all. The awards reflect merit done, but also encourage us to struggle for the dignity of humankind. The importance each State attached to human rights should be reflected in the way today is commemorated. His country is observing the fiftieth anniversary with two programmes, one undertaken by the national preparatory committee for the anniversary, and the other coming from civil society. The programmes include seminars, workshops, and conferences, both in French and in national languages. The programmes would be impossible to implement without assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other partners.
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The objective sought in 1948 with the adoption of the Declaration was to remove the scourge of war, one of the main causes of which was the violation of human rights. However, the human race continues to witness tragedies, such as genocide, due mostly to racial and religious discrimination. Poverty is also a serious problem in implementing human rights. Information on the United Nations Decade on Human Rights (1995-2004) is part of the strategy to sow peace and tolerance in the hearts of man.
CARLOS DOS SANTOS (Mozambique): His country looks to the celebrations as an occasion to educate itself on the scope and magnitude of human rights and fundamental freedoms, taking into account that the promotion and protection of those rights is essentially everyone's responsibility. However, it recognizes the State's primary responsibility in ensuring the enjoyment of human rights by citizens. In connection with the fiftieth anniversary, Mozambique had prepared a nationwide programme of activities, which involved all sectors of its society. The key element of those celebrations was human rights education, because without knowledge, people could not claim their rights, nor could they report human rights violations.
Mozambique's ultimate goal is to eradicate poverty, illiteracy and disease, which represent the major stumbling blocks to the enjoyment of rights and freedoms by its people. Also, the need for the preservation of the integrated, interdependent and indivisible nature of all categories of rights -- political and civil, economic, social and cultural -- must be underscored. Appropriate strategies have to be devised to enable future generations to live in harmony, peace and sustainable development.
JACQUES L. BOISSON (Monaco): In December of 1947, a historic decision was made to elaborate an international charter of human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was to become the first chapter in the international charter of human rights. Later, two international covenants were adopted on human rights. Finally, the Statute of the International Criminal Court was adopted in Rome, which was the third stage in the elaboration of human rights instruments. Today, the Declaration of Human Rights is universally recognized. Its principles are indeed exceptional. The constitution of Monaco gives it an indisputable authority.
The rights to freedom, equality and solidarity are universal, indivisible and interdependent. All men, women and children of the world have the right to enjoy those rights. If, because of the great diversity of civilizations, they take different forms, the universal values remain the same for everybody. The peoples of the world have the same concept of the inalienable rights of the human family. In 1948, those who survived the cataclysm of the Second World War put in writing that the human being could live in peace and dignity. His country subscribes to the principles and values of the Declaration and hopes it will help the world reach the common ideal of the universal implementation of human rights.
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THORSTEINN INGOLFSSON (Iceland) More than 60 human rights instruments have been adopted in the past half century that have helped to raise a public awareness and a growing support for the cause. Governments can no longer neglect or abuse human rights without scrutiny and criticism. Nevertheless, the sad fact exists that great violations continue in many parts of the world.
It is important to strengthen the tools and mechanisms in the United Nations system. Human rights activists and defenders must work together with the Secretariat and non-governmental organizations to strengthen this work. The year 1995 marked the decade for human rights, and Iceland hopes that the goals and objectives set forth at that time would soon be fulfilled. Public participation is perhaps the best guarantee to ensure human rights in a free and democratic society.
LEGWAILA J. M. J. LEGWAILA (Botswana): There is today growing acceptance, albeit grudging by some, that the protection of and respect for human rights is indeed universal and indivisible, and that it cuts across civilizations and cultures. The number of human rights legal instruments and organizations at the national, regional and sub-regional levels has increased drastically since the Declaration was adopted, which is a clear manifestation of the commitment of the international community to the promotion of greater observance and enjoyment of human rights throughout the world. Human rights activists, whom we are increasingly all becoming, are the most daring and the bravest people on earth. It is hoped that the International Criminal Court will soon become another key player in the struggle for the promotion of respect for human rights.
Efforts should be redoubled to make the system of international human rights instruments more effective. Enough progress has been registered, and the scales are increasingly tipped in favour of the greater protection of and respect for human rights. We should now forge ahead with vigour and even greater effort until the tenets of the Declaration are truly universal, and until the world is rid of the demons which guided the perpetrators of genocide and other crimes against humanity in Bosnia, Cambodia, Rwanda, South Africa during Apartheid and wherever tyranny and totalitarianism have reared their ugly heads in the past 50 years. It is time for the international community to say "never again" to these horrendous crimes and their perpetrators.
ALI HACHANI (Tunisia): In its economic, social and cultural policy, my country has pursued a comprehensive strategy aimed at the promotion of man in all fields. Convinced that human rights can not be fully achieved without ensuring a dignified life for all categories of society, Tunisia has set up a national strategy for the eradication of poverty, which has allowed the reduction of the poverty rate from 11 per cent in the mid-eighties to 6 per cent now. It had also created a National Solidarity Fund, which collects voluntary contributions from individuals and enterprises to develop remote areas and those lacking basic conditions for living. The Fund, the most important pillar of the strategy, has allowed the integration in the
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economic cycle of many of those needy areas and the financing of many small and medium-sized projects for low-income categories.
Tunisia's choice stems from the deep-rooted civilizational and cultural values of Tunisian society, within the framework of a constant evolution, which allows for the consolidation of human rights in all their dimensions, the materialization of pluralism on the ground and the promotion of liberties and the consolidation of civil society's fabric. The approach has taken into account my society's specificities, without undermining the principle of universality. No one can pretend to be perfect in that field, impose a certain model on all peoples, or claim the right to give lessons to others. The international community must work: for the consolidation of the values of tolerance among and inside States; to eradicate extremism and terrorism in all its forms; and to prevent the threat of conflicts, exclusion and marginalization.
JARGALSAIKHANY ENKHSAIKHAN (Mongolia): Some of the human rights standards are becoming international and the interrelationship between such rights, democracy and development should be noted. Besides setting standards, the very approach to human rights issues are changing: from proclaiming basic rights and freedoms to elaborating legally binding norms and their incorporation in national legislation; from introducing reporting procedures to monitoring compliance; from condemning to preventing abuses. Much more can and should be done by the United Nations.
Fifty years ago, two complimentary, revolutionary ideas were before the Assembly -- adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the establishment of an International Criminal Court. For half a century, the latter did not materialize. But the ideal lived. This year the world made a major, historic breakthrough in Rome, which must be regarded as the ultimate fulfillment of the Universal Declaration. It supplies the missing link, which is the prosecution and punishment for gross human rights violations. In my own country, the people are exercising political and civil freedoms and the constitution guarantees economic, social and cultural rights. However, due to the inherent difficulties in moving to a market economy, the overwhelming majority of the population cannot enjoy such rights and freedoms. Mongolia will be able to overcome these difficulties.
KISHORE MAHBUBANI (Singapore): It is remarkable that it took mankind several thousand years to agree on a simple truth: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity". Even if it may have come a thousand or more years late, it is a significant leap forward from mankind's past. As the key foundation stone, the Universal Declaration's principles have been cited in and adapted to the legislation and constitutions of many newly independent states and it has inspired more than sixty human rights instruments.
Despite these achievements, can a Declaration written in the peculiar post-World War II environment remain the last word on human ideals as
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societies evolve? Documents, like human beings, languish when their lovers are uncritical and critics are unloving. They thrive when they are subject to scrutiny by loving critics. Even Eleanor Roosevelt admitted that the Declaration is not a perfect document, but a composite of compromises. Its drafters had both noble and ignoble motives. It is shocking to realize that much of the Declaration was drafted by then major colonial powers who saw no contradiction between colonial rule and human rights. Double standards were present in 1948 and they continue in 1998. The key challenge is to ensure that human rights is not used today as an instrument for political warfare and destructive finger-pointing.
Emerging from fascism and totalitarianism, the Declaration's drafters, obsessed with limiting the impact of the state upon the individual, spoke only of their rights and not of their responsibilities. The pursuit of "rights" over "responsibility" in some Western societies, has led to a culture of permissiveness and social problems that are disturbing to more traditional societies. It is puzzling that the international community is not discussing a draft Universal Declaration of Human Responsibilities, endorsed by a group of senior global statesmen.
MARIA M. LORENZO ALCALA, Undersecretary for Human Rights of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Argentina: In the past 50 years the defence of the dignity, respect and freedom of the individual has reached a strong momentum never seen in past centuries. This progress has been neither peaceful nor free of setbacks. Argentina is a clear example of the fight to ensure human rights. The 1970s were especially dark years in most of Latin America. Authoritarian regimes disregarded the respect of the individual with an unforgettable balance of pain and death. However, the following decade was brightened with the return of democracy and a growing respect for human rights on the continent.
The various historical, social and cultural realities of the different States must be respected. But all countries should be held accountable before the international community when those obligations are not respected. In spite of all the progress, the developing world still suffers from numerous forms of intolerance, such as racial discrimination, anti-Semitism, xenophobia, neo-nazism and ethnic cleansing. Such harsh realities should keep Member States ready and willing to cooperate among governments and the United Nations system so that no country or region of the world will turn the clock back on human rights. Moreover, Argentina has adapted the principles embodied by the Declaration into its laws, through the Constitutional reform of 1994, to overcome the injustices of old, and to compensate the victims of authoritarianism in the 1970s.
JOSE GREGORI, National Secretary for Human Rights of Brazil: It is a pleasure to address the Assembly when the Organization is generously including me in the Human Rights awards. The Declaration reaffirmed that freedom, justice and peace in the world have, as their basis, the inherent dignity of
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the human person and the basic rights of all. Those rights are not concessions, but attributes of the human condition. For that reason, they cannot be denied. Today's commemoration should inspire reflection on how the Declaration has become a reality in the daily lives of people. However, the principles of peace, justice, equality and social welfare are not a reality for everyone. The right to life remains threatened in many places in the world. Poverty, hunger, and the lack of basic human services remain.
Brazil, under the leadership of its President, has given clear evidence of its commitment to human rights. The National Programme of Human Rights, adopted in 1986, brought human rights to a level of priority in the Government. Its implementation is the responsibility of the National Secretariat of Human Rights. Another example is the adoption of the Law of the Disappeared, which recognizes the responsibility of the State and makes it possible for the families of those who had disappeared to receive financial compensation. It would be useful for the United Nations to prepare a report on the attainment of all forms of human rights, to help develop public policy for human rights. Its publication could be the shared objective of the international community for the beginning of the twenty-first century. I propose that a preparatory meeting be held in Brazil, with the help and participation of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Member States and members of civil society.
IVAN SIMONOVIC (Croatia): The Universal Declaration has demonstrated a great ability to unite the world's people; it has been translated into more than 200 languages. During the past 50 years, it has vividly shown that it was not merely a list of good wishes, as some skeptics perceived it at the time of its adoption. Rather, it has proved to be a living document and programme of action that has inspired different nations, international and national organizations, non-governmental organizations, and many individuals, from what they were a half century ago. Despite these positive developments, the Declaration's ultimate goal, namely, "all human rights for all", is still far ahead.
The session today is an opportunity to examine the Declaration's implementation and the universal protection of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development, which is still perceived by some as controversial. Questions are raised as to how evolving human rights, for example in the areas of environment and human genetics, should be recognized. What the international community essentially needs is a consensus on a new human rights concept for the 21st century.
Although transforming human rights ideals into concrete international procedures for their enforcement would be enhanced by the recent adoption of the International Criminal Court, the greatest responsibility for the protection of human rights remains with individual governments. Violations of human rights in Croatia related to the armed aggression carried out against it demonstrate that strong and effective international preventive mechanisms are
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needed and that the concept of international peace and security must include concerns for human rights.
GABRIEL SAM AKUNWAFOR (Nigeria): Over the last 50 years, human rights have become a legitimate issue in international relations. How a country treats its citizens is no longer a matter for its own exclusive determination. Others can and do express a claim to know and show their concern. The last half century therefore has witnessed an emerging global culture of human rights, as well as the International Law on Human Rights. However, there is a need for the international community to treat human rights globally in a fair and equal manner on the same footing, and with the same emphasis stressed in the 1993 Vienna Declaration. This is due to the universality, individuality, interdependency and interrelationship of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction.
As the world approaches the new millennium, it is witnessing more social problems than solutions to the challenges of an increasingly interdependent world. The nature of many of today's conflicts are intra-State, often with devastating consequences for civilians, particularly women and children. These conflicts are sometimes fought by irregular armies and militias who pay little or no attention to international humanitarian laws. Such situations have engendered widespread violations of human rights.
BRUNO RODRIGUES PARRILLA (Cuba): The United Nations has the responsibility of urgently preventing the impact of the economic crisis from falling mainly on the poor, the hungry, the sick, the illiterate and on children, the elderly and women in developing countries. It is undeniable that the 1990s have seen an increase in the gap between the rich and the poor. Neo-liberal globalization that is being forced goes hand-in-hand with poverty and social polarization. If we do not act, economic, social and cultural rights will continue to be the 'invisible' part of the United Nations human rights mechanisms and the right to development will be a fairy tale.
Cuba reaffirms the need for a Declaration of the Right to Development. To enhance the human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration, the drafting of a new international bill of human and people's rights must urgently be undertaken. The strengthening of the legislative groundwork applicable to international cooperation in the field of human rights cannot, however, make up for the necessity for a new political will for dialogue and mutual respect amongst countries of the north and south. Objectivity, impartiality and non-selectivity must be the pillars of concerted action for the promotion and protection of human rights all over the world.
RAMON JIMENEZ, Attorney General of Ecuador: Commemoration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights illustrates the resolve of the international community to make the Declaration respected by all countries the world over. As we enter the new millennium, the Declaration means hope for innumerable human beings. It is an enormous honour for Ecuador to have
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participated in the small nucleus of States that, 50 years ago today, had drafted the Declaration.
Today Ecuador continues to work in an effective way to pursue its goals. The work of Ecuador's present Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ayala Lasso, led to the creation of the post of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and as the first holder of the post, he set a high standard for the office and others to follow.
JUAN LARRAIN (Chile): For Chile, this commemoration is not just a question of mere rhetoric. Chile was party to the Declaration from the very beginning. Although some people thought the human race had learned its lesson, Chile, unfortunately, discovered how fragile the respect for the human person was, when our democracy was disrupted. The Declaration offered guidance for those who believed that dignity and basic rights for human beings could not be trampled on for any reason. All human beings should be respected regardless of culture, religion, social condition, ethnicity, traditions, or the level of development.
This commemoration is a special opportunity to enable the international community to intensify its work, and make the principles in the Declaration tangible for all people. Much remains to be done; there are millions around the world whose rights are being violated every day. The next step is for the entry into force of the Statute of the International Criminal Court, so it can begin functioning as soon as possible.
SUKHUMBHAND PARIBATRA, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Thailand: The time for debating whether each civilization, culture, religion or race should have the right to define its own concept of human rights is over. Action, not more argument, is needed. Everyone in the international community needs to pool wisdom and knowledge, experiences and insights, so that a truly effective global partnership for human rights can be established. Thailand stands ready to play its part in the forging of this global partnership. The promotion and protection of human rights is now a matter of highest priority for my country. Last year, a new constitution was promulgated and is the most progressive and comprehensive in Thailand's history.
A national commission on human rights is in the process of being established. Since the promulgation of the new constitution, a number of laws have been passed or are being considered by Parliament that offer more extensive rights and freedom to the poor and underprivileged. These include the protection of labour in accordance with the principles and guidelines of the International Labour Organization (ILO). For the first time, human rights have also been included as an integral part of Thailand's foreign policy.
ALFONSO VALDIVIESO (Colombia): Five decades after the international community closed the bitter chapter of war and laid the foundation for a universal application of human rights, the world community is distinctly aware
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that respect for human rights lies at the core of the proper functioning of a harmonious society. For its part, the Colombian Government has entrusted the office of its Vice-President with coordinating its commitment to human rights. To highlight the significance of today's commemoration, Columbia today signed the Statute creating the International Criminal Court and will begin the process of ratification.
Among Columbia's more pressing challenges in granting its citizens full exercise of their human rights is reducing the violence generated by armed groups inside the country. For that reason, Columbia condemns the indiscriminate use of mines by non-State agents in the ongoing conflict and insists, once more, that the international community must strongly condemn that inhuman practice. Furthermore, it will press on with its investigations of human rights violations through a special organ that brings together high- level Government offices. In accordance with the Declaration of Human Rights defenders, adopted yesterday by the General Assembly, Colombia will conduct to the end the investigation of several deaths of human rights defenders.
FERNANDO GUILLEN (Peru): As a direct consequence of the Declaration, over the past five decades a jurisdictional and non-jurisdictional, legal and political, multilateral and bilateral system of legal protection has developed and transformed human rights into a mandatory reference point in the relations between States and individuals. Today, it is possible to state that the Universal Declaration has played a tremendously important role in the production of an evolving, but nonetheless substantial, body of positive law. Efforts should not be confined only to mechanisms that serve to denounce human rights violations.
For Peruvians, the defence, promotion, protection and development of human rights is a priority and a responsibility. For this reason, they defend the principles of universality and indivisibility of human rights, as well as non-discrimination in their application. The concept of sustainable human development inspires the national human rights policies in Peru. Civil society also participates in the promotion of human rights and provides a significant contribution. A post of the Defender of the People has been created, as well as a ministry for the promotion of women and human development, to ensure focus on the most vulnerable segments of society. Regarding international mechanisms and procedures on the follow-up on the human rights situation, Peru believes in transparency, dialogue and cooperation as the fundamental principles that support effective protection of the human being.
QIN HUASUN China: China values the positive role of international human rights instruments. It has acceded to 17 such covenants and signed the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In September, China also signed a memorandum of intent for the development of cooperation with the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights. The right to development is
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crucially important. Through several decades of effort, China has solved the problem of providing adequate food and clothing and improving the livelihoods of its people, who make up one fifth of the world's population. That is a major contribution to the cause of human rights.
As a country under the rule of law, China gives equal importance to the individual rights of its people. It respects and protects civil and political rights and opposes the activities that violate the legitimate rights of its people. Worldwide, the enjoyment of human rights is faced with numerous difficulties and obstacles. War is the grossest violation of human rights, and poverty is the greatest impediment. To survive and develop is the most basic need of human beings. The international community should settle disputes among various countries through peaceful means, based on the Charter of the United Nations. Dialogue and cooperation should take the place of confrontation and conflict. China is willing to join hands with other countries to bring a peaceful, secure, stable and prosperous world.
ION GORITA (Romania): The promotion and protection of human rights has acquired particular significance for Romania in the context of the democratic transformations it has undergone since 1989. My country adhered to all major international human rights instruments and committed itself, with all openness, to the international reporting procedures. Moreover, it adhered to the European Convention on Human Rights and to other important conventions of the Council of Europe. Constant steps have been taken for bettering and updating the national legal and institutional framework, according to the requirements of the rule of law, political pluralism and respect for human rights. For example, in 1997, the institution of Human Rights Ombudsman was created to defend rights and freedoms.
Within the United Nations Decade for Human Rights Education, Romania has been carrying out a vast national programme of action targeted towards consolidating respect for fundamental freedoms and democratic values, through education and information. It has brought together governmental representatives, various actors of civil society, national human rights institutions, academics and other personalities in the joint endeavours to achieve human rights objectives. The protection of the rights of the child represents one of the major concerns of my Government. Likewise, the objective of ensuring gender equality is regarded as a prerequisite for the sound and democratic development of society.
VYTAUTAS PAKALNISKIS, Minister of Justice of Lithuania: In order to achieve universal effectiveness of the system of human rights protection, States must pursue moral domestic policies which ensure fundamental human rights and freedoms for their residents. We must educate individuals who understand their rights and duties to the State. Documents for the protection of human rights of the 1975 Conference for Security and Cooperation in Europe (Helsinki process) enabled, in the then totalitarian States of Eastern and
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Central Europe, the emergence of active political movements which limited authoritarian powers.
The moratorium on capital punishment declared by the President of the Republic in 1995 enables Lithuania to be considered as a de facto abolitionist State. It is symbolic that yesterday, upon the request of the Lithuanian Parliament, the Constitutional Court held that capital punishment contradicts the Constitution, an essential step towards the abolition of capital punishment. Lithuania's accession to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, and to the Sixth Protocol of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, will support the progressive aspirations of the international community on this issue.
GEORGE SALIBA (Malta): My country has, to date, adhered to 14 international instruments in the context of the promotion and protection of human rights and is considering adhering to some of the rest. Malta has consistently contributed in most spheres of international life, be it within the Euro-Mediterranean Forum, the Council of Europe, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Commonwealth, or the European Court on Human Rights.
Malta has constantly pronounced its unconditional commitment to the safeguarding of human rights. Furthermore, it attaches a fundamental importance to the essential role that the United Nations is called upon to play in the promotion of human rights.
BERND NIEHAUS (Costa Rica): On 10 December 1948, the international community, with great courage, indicated that the recognition of the inherent dignity and basic rights of human beings is the foundation of peace and justice in the world. It showed us a simple programme to ensure the coexistence of men and women on an unquestionable basis. It was not just another treaty. The symbol and content of the Declaration reflected the interest of the international community in protecting fundamental freedoms. They form a vigorous institutional structure, with the moral and legal foundation to ensure respect for rights of men and women. One must not evade the contents of the Declaration.
What we have done during the past 50 years is not enough. We cannot attend this forum with the same joy as our predecessors did 50 years ago. Respect for human rights has advanced in many parts of the world, but much remains to be done. The continuity and consolidation of the progressive development of a global system for the protection of human rights must be addressed, such as the recently established International Criminal Court. We have to move forward on questions not already sufficiently developed, such as the protection of women's and children's rights, and the full incorporation of civil society in the process. After 50 years, we are witnessing the emergence of a new universal conscience.
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CH. ABDUL GHAFOOR (Pakistan): Despite an impressive array of legal instruments that have been codified over the past five decades, the objectives and vision of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights remains far from positive. Racism is alive and well. Women and children continue to suffer, particularly in armed conflicts. The genocide in the Great Lakes region, ethnic cleansing in Bosnia and Herzegovenia, massacres in Kosovo, and the continued human rights violations in Palestine and Kashmir, where people are struggling for their right to self-determination, all reflect the insensitivity of perpetrators of such heinous crimes against humanity.
An issue of particular concern has been the recent tendency in some quarters of equating Islam with fundamentalism and terrorism. In some societies, Muslims have become a favourite target of racist groups and hate propaganda. This "Islamophobia" has grave implications. Islam is a religion of peace. It teaches brotherhood, and abhors extremism and fanaticism. The international community should resist the temptation of inventing imaginary enemies to satisfy narrow political motives. Moreover, Member States must appreciate the fact that every society has its own cultural and religious ethos, which must be respected. Experience shows that the collapse of a local value system invariably leads to egregious human rights violations and social disintegration. Human rights should, therefore, not be used for political considerations.
SEMAKULA KIWANUKA (Uganda): The present climate of change and acute vulnerability poses new challenges to the pursuit of universal human rights. Potential threats to human rights and the environment exist in international investment agreements, including the draft General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT)/World Trade Organization agreements. Some international trade and investment agreements contradict certain multilateral human rights and environmental treaties. Further, measures to eliminate discrimination and promote equality among vulnerable groups are challenged by the trade- investment concept of non-discrimination. Moreover, the economic priorities required by certain trade policies may jeopardize the human right to sustainable livelihoods and collective survival.
It is often asserted that human values vary according to differing cultural perspectives. Human rights, however, are universal rights, whose indivisibility and interdependence has made them essential benchmarks for democratic governance. The root cause of endless conflicts in Africa is the absence or repeated violation of human rights. With the support of friends and the United Nations, however, Africa can buttress those rights and consolidate peace, democracy and reconstruction after years of war, turmoil and suffering. Durable peace requires durable institutional structures, in order to realize the goal of the Universal Declaration.
ASDRUBAL AGUIAR, Minister of the Interior of Venezuela: The adoption of the Universal Declaration was a source of satisfaction for the people of his country. A year ago Venezuela's President entrusted the National Commission
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on Human Rights with conducting a broad programme on promoting and disseminating human rights. Today his Government signed a framework agreement on the promotion of human rights with agencies of the United Nations system. His Government is aware of the commitment to seek a better system guaranteeing a better atmosphere for human rights. Almost all the instruments on human rights have been recognized by Venezuela, which has also recognized the mandatory jurisdiction of the Inter-American Court on Human Rights.
In recent elections, in an exemplary manner without violence, an overwhelming majority of Venezuelans removed almost all national political leaders. His country remains committed to peace. In the past, a system was replaced, because it promoted equality and disregarded freedom. "If we did the opposite today, we will also be doomed." Now there is a need to ensure human rights and establish peace, and to eliminate radicalism and fatalism, poverty, exclusiveness and other ills facing the country. Today tribute has to be paid to the adoption of the Statute of the International Criminal Court and the declaration on human rights defenders.
ASTRUD N. HEIBERG, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies: In dealing with food aid, health care and shelter, and by defending human rights, the Federation and other members of the humanitarian community are faced with problems which relate not only to scarce resources, logistics and security, but also to policies, such as sanctions imposed by the United Nations. Sanctions are a legitimate tool of diplomacy, but they can kill. They also frequently impoverish those who are already vulnerable. In the worst case, they actually create the possibility of greater wealth for those who find ways to exploit the situation through crime and smuggling.
In short, sanctions are a blunt instrument, damaging those who are powerless to effect the political change that the international community demands. For the Security Council, imposing sanctions exposes potentially fundamental contradictions in implementing two of its core principles -- promoting peace and human rights. Sanctions are intended to deal with threats to the peace and with human rights violations, but they also risk undermining basic human rights during the course of their implementation. A formal mechanism is needed to assess the possible negative impact of sanctions and monitor their effects. Also, effective relief is needed for the most vulnerable groups subject to economic sanctions.
VOLODYMYR YEL'CHENKO (Ukraine): The breakdown of the old bipolar world has created new possibilities for the promotion and protection of human rights. In turn, globalization has opened borders to new ideas and information, providing new opportunities in building a universal culture of human rights. Democracy has taken root in the majority of States. The conditions for ensuring further progress in promoting human rights, unimagined by the drafters of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, have become more favourable. It has always been the task of the United Nations to
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provide a forum for diverse cultures and, at the same time, to seek the common denominator that bespeaks a common humanity.
"It is now our responsibility to strengthen the adherence of the international community to the principles of universality, indivisibility and interdependence of human rights and translate them into reality." In September a conference devoted to the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was held in Yalta, Ukraine. One of the major achievements of that conference was the adoption of the Plan of Action, which envisages the establishment, under the UNDP auspices, of an international network for the gathering and exchange of information on the best practices in the promotion of human rights.
CLAUDIA FRITSCHE (Liechtenstein): The six core human rights instruments all derive their inspiration from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. She is especially pleased her Government deposited this morning its instruments of accession to the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as to two Optional Protocols.
It is not a time for self-congratulation, however. While much has been achieved in the last 50 years, the implementation of human rights for the benefit of every individual in every country is far from realized. Two developments this year constitute significant contributions to the Human Rights Year: adoption of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, which we hope will eliminate the wrong that those who strive to secure the enjoyment of human rights are often subject to serious violations themselves; and adoption of the Statute of the International Criminal Court, finally providing an effective means of breaking the circle of impunity for serious violations of human rights.
ANWARUL KARIM CHOWDHURY (Bangladesh): Bangladesh has drawn on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in its own Constitution to guarantee the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people, with special statutory provisions to ensure the rights of women, children, minorities and other vulnerable groups. The challenge before the United Nations assumes greater meaning with the approaching millennium. The need for realization of all human rights is so pressing and the consequence of delay so dire that practical and action-oriented measures should be the order of the day.
The international community's first priority should be the eradication of poverty. One out of every five people worldwide is living on less than a dollar a day. The Organization must also ensure that atrocities cannot be committed, and that human dignity cannot be violated without impunity. The establishment of the International Criminal Court marks great progress towards this objective. Immediate measures and special efforts must also be taken for the fulfilment of the rights of women and children.
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KAMALESH SHARMA (India): Human rights abuses are reported by the media every day, but those reports in themselves are a testament to the success of the Declaration. India is proud to have left an imprint on the founding of the Declaration. However, its ideals seem to mock our ability to implement them. The one closest to the aspirations of the vast mass of humanity is Article 22, which speaks of the right to economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for the dignity and free development of personality. The dignity and the free development of the personality of a person is most generally compromised by poverty and economic deprivation. Yet, freedom from want has never been addressed as a global crusade.
Developing countries need the engaged, committed and enlightened appreciation of their more fortunate colleagues in the developed world. It is no surprise that the aggressive promotion of human rights in international forums comes from those countries that are the most self-satisfied. A larger dose of introspection and policies of meaningful assistance would be far more useful than lofty judgementalism. New economic, technological and social forces are also at work. The role and functions of the State are being eclipsed by the forces of the new globalized market, supranational institutions and other non-State actors. The universality of human rights will be truly promoted when lives everywhere on the planet are held in equal value and sanctity.
NABIL ELARABY (Egypt): Fifty years after the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights there is a need to assess the international community's commitment. In fact, respect for human rights has not risen to the level of the expectations that prevailed when the Declaration was adopted. It also has not risen to the level expected by the international community. The elimination of slavery, prohibition of genocide, elimination of apartheid and racial discrimination and adoption of the Statute of the International Criminal Court are all, certainly, noteworthy achievements.
Yet, there has been no such progress in other important areas. Instead, they have suffered setbacks. Cultural and social rights are subject to discrimination and have not achieved the same status as civil and political rights. The occupation of Arab territories is a worse case scenario in the denial of political rights. In addition, there are double standards. Human rights are observed in some States, but not in others. The international community needs to find a new agreeable vision that is commensurate with the requirements of the age.
ALYAKSANDR SYCHOU (Belarus): I reconfirm my country's invariable adherence to the letter and spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Belarus is committed to the principle of the United Nations Charter, the Helsinki Final Act and the Paris Charter for a new Europe, and is a party to the most important treaties on the field of promotion and protection of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights and freedoms.
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Rights proclaimed in the Declaration and reinforced in the international covenants and conventions have become part of the Constitution and national legislation of Belarus.
The fundamental position of Belarus in the field of human rights is that human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated, and that their protection remained the important duty of the State.
S.R. INSANALLY (Guyana), speaking on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM): With the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the international community made a major step towards fulfilling the provisions of the Charter. However, despite numerous achievements, it was necessary to remember that for millions of people, the principles of the Declaration remained an unfulfilled aspiration. The open civil conflicts in several countries have resulted in systematic human rights violations and serious threats to regional peace and development. The United Nations can and must do more to halt those horrendous abuses. Grave economic and social disparities, which continue to widen the gap between the rich and poor countries, effectively withhold the basic right of food, shelter, health care and work from millions of people.
The CARICOM Governments have sought to attain a decent standard of living for their peoples, but the burden of huge external debt, dwindling resources and the marginalization of their economies have forced many governments to make hard choices, often resulting in harsher conditions for the poor. The CARICOM countries are also committed to people-centred development, through which their citizens can be educated about their rights and obligations. There is an ongoing dialogue in the Caribbean between democratically elected governments and their social partners. Welcoming the establishment of the International Criminal Court, CARICOM countries have also moved closer to the creation of a Caribbean court of justice to provide a common forum of appeal for their citizens. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights remains as relevant and important to the Caribbean countries as it was at the time when it was adopted.
YACUB YOUSIF AL-HOSANI (United Arab Emirates): The international community has a forward-looking vision in the field of human rights, which is expressed in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action. That forms the institutional framework for the protection of universal human rights, which are indivisible and interdependent. In spite of that, blatant human rights violations occur in areas where divisions are growing, with violence, genocide and ethnic cleansing. Those accentuate the problems of war refugees. The protection and promotion of human rights are also a prerequisite for sustainable development and stability.
The United Arab Emirates supports the efforts of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in such areas as peacekeeping. It is committed to the promotion of economic and other human rights, in keeping with Islamic
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laws. It, however, rejects the exercise of double standards, when they are used for narrow political objectives. It believes in the importance of supporting the supremacy of human rights on the basis of the human rights charter, with consideration of each society's own history, social and cultural factors. Further, it supports an integrated, coordinated approach, which does not compromise on famine, disease and backwardness and which promotes justice for all mankind.
RICARDO CASTANEDA-CORNEJO (El Salvador): Progress over the last 50 years has been founded to a large extent upon people who had given their lives in the cause of promoting and protecting human rights. That progress represents the recognition and acceptance of a set of rules and guarantees. The Declaration and its inclusion on national and international agendas are the most important historic legacy of the twentieth century. That legacy is, unfortunately, marked by a past of violence and intolerance. The path for countries such as El Salvador has not been easy. In many areas of the world, the international community has also witnessed atrocities that have moved the conscience of nations.
Mankind had to wait until the middle of the twentieth century for the drafting of the Universal Declaration. Fifty years later, international law on human rights is the fastest growing area of international law. The 1993 Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, the Declaration on the Right to Development, and other international human rights instruments provide the tools for mankind to move into the next millennium with renewed hope. The celebration of this anniversary should lead to revitalizing the commitment of mankind to human rights. The day will come when the progress of nations will not be measured by economic power or by the splendour of capitals, but by the living standards and human rights of the people. There will be a true culture of peace, a crucial element in the implementation of human rights.
SOTOS ZACKHEOS (Cyprus): The Declaration established the principle that the protection of human rights is a matter of legitimate international concern. It also consolidated the efforts of the international community in creating a comprehensive system to safeguard the values that inspired the founding fathers of the United Nations -- freedom, justice and peace. New conflicts have demonstrated that the international community still has a long way to go in order to fully realize the aims of the Declaration. Intolerance -- whether religious or ethnic -- has manifested itself in new forms of conflict, with gross violations of human rights.
In this respect, we welcome the development of international legal instruments, the objective of which is to enforce humanitarian law and prosecute violators of human rights. We reiterate our support for the speedy establishment of the International Criminal Court and for the efforts to reinforce human rights mechanisms. This anniversary is particularly significant, since the basic human rights and fundamental freedoms of the people of Cyprus continue to be subjected to gross and ruthless violations,
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resulting from the Turkish invasion and the continuing forcible division of the country, in flagrant violation of United Nations principles and resolutions. Respect for the rule of law and human rights for all, regardless of race, religion, language or gender, remain the solid foundation for harmonious relations among States.
AKMARAL ARYSTANBEKOVA (Kazakhstan): The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is especially important for newly independent States on the road to democracy, such as Kazakhstan. Human rights laws were integral seven years ago, as Kazakhstan began on the road to democracy and started political reform, whose ultimate aim was to ensure the rights of every citizen. Today, many components of the Declaration are included in the laws of Kazakhstan. Further, Kazakhstan recognizes the importance of the integration of human rights issues into all United Nations activities as well.
Recently, the President of Kazakhstan initiated new steps towards a democratic transformation in many sectors of society. These should lead towards the development of Kazakhstan's political and socio-economic potential. Moreover, the Government of Kazakhstan will do everything possible to protect the values of the various ethnic groups of the people of Kazakhstan, based on tolerance and mutual respect.
GENARO VICENTE PAPPALARDO (Paraguay): Much progress has been made in the area of human rights since February 1989, when democracy was re- established in Paraguay. The new democracy proclaimed itself dedicated to respect for human rights. That conquest of democracy was the keystone that allowed the whole of Paraguay to move forward and take the fundamental steps in the process of transition.
Paraguay has adhered to and ratified the major instruments for the promotion, defence and protection of human rights, both in the United Nations and the Organization of American States (OAS).
In 1996, Paraguay recognized the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. More recently, in Rome, my Government signed the Statute for the establishment of an International Criminal Court. We pay tribute to all those organizations who have participated in these and other human rights forums.
JORGE PEREZ-OTERMIN (Uruguay): It appears that after 50 years, the necessary structure and instruments for the defence of human rights is concluded and the time now propitious for reflection. The question now is, where should the thrust of future actions be placed to achieve the desired goal of no longer seeing human rights violations in the world? While the world has come a long way in protecting human rights in the last 50 years, much still remains to be done. It is appropriate at this point to pause for reflection in order to seek responses for future action. At such a time, nothing could be better than a return to the roots of the Organization, which are still fully valid.
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The maintenance of peace is the first purpose set forth in the United Nations Charter. This purpose is the foundation on which the rest of the Organization's objectives are constructed. Without peace there can be no development or any force to address basic rights. Also, there can be no effective development or realization of human rights without a well-defined educational policy. Human rights can be disseminated if society has the means to learn and to understand the meaning of those rights. Education should begin with family. Most important is the recognition that there can be no full exercise of human rights if there is no democracy -- a system of government where there is clear separation of power.
HASSAN KASSEM NAJEM (Lebanon): The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a reaction to the tragic sufferings of millions of human beings throughout history. Fifty years after its adoption, there is a continuation of violations of human rights, particularly in the form of racist practices. The worst manifestation is ethnic cleansing and such practices such as the expulsion of peoples from their homes. The only language of occupation is that of massacre and oppression. Basic human rights and fundamental freedoms are limited around the world in political, social and economic spheres. There are still many manifestations of poverty around the world, which is an offence to human dignity.
The exercise of political will, the strengthening of legal instruments on the international level and their implementation are important objectives. Politicians, thinkers and statesmen around the world have made efforts to implement the enjoyment of human rights, and there have been many regional agreements to that effect. In the near future, the right to development should be implemented, a goal to which some are still creating obstacles. A consensus is needed on that important issue.
MICHEL KAFANDO (Burkina Faso): The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted 50 years ago in France, the country of liberty. It gradually gained force, because of its relevance. It is not a catalogue of pious wishes. Rather, it represents the efforts of the United Nations, with its broad range of bodies and people of every stripe who waged a struggle for human rights. All those must be paid tribute. The two covenants -- on civil and political rights, and on economic, social and cultural rights -- have not been fully implemented, but awareness of them has grown. At the same time, human rights legal tools have been strengthened, through such bodies as the International Tribunals for Rwanda and for the Former Yugoslavia.
Africa had suffered slavery and been subjected to inhuman treatment. The colonial administrations had not been on a civilizing mission, but rather set out to subjugate the African people. Africa was concerned with human rights, however, not because it had suffered from degradation, but because it had made human rights its trojan horse. Many national human rights bodies have been created. Further, human rights includes respect for women, the protection of children, accepting the inept and handicapped, and understanding
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that helping the poor, the hungry and the sick is a right, not a favour. Human rights in the twentieth century had been flouted by totalitarian ideologies. The twenty-first century should, instead, uplift the human spirit.
JANUSZ STANCZYK (Poland): Few people believed that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights could change the world, but from the very beginning, human rights, their protection and promotion provided a unique stimulus to the growth of international law and the evolution of international relations. They became an object of the policy of States and action by social movements, as well as the focus of attention for the mass media. In the post- cold war era, they have become a basic element of the nascent international order. Since the adoption of the Declaration, an impressive body of international law has been enacted, covering issues such as racism, poverty and the rights of women.
Poland is committed to the implementation of human rights. The battle for human rights ideals and principles is far from over. All governments must accept basic standards of human rights and States must know that they will be held accountable for their actions. The High Commissioner for Human Rights should be equipped with adequate budgetary and human resources to ensure that her mission can be carried out. Despite various kinds of regional, cultural and ideological resistance, the recognition of human rights is gradually becoming universal. The lack of observance of human rights can no longer be shielded from criticism and condemnation by the principles of sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. This is a revolutionary development, a qualitatively new feature for the international order, for which the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has laid the foundations.
DIETER KASTRUP (Germany): For many people the stipulations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are still far from being a reality. Nobody can say that in his or her country there is no room for improvement. The ill-treated and the poor are not in a position to wait and are entitled to ask for their rights now. The adoption yesterday of the Declaration of Human Rights Defenders will be document of reference for the numerous groups and individuals who tirelessly -- often at the risk of their own lives -- speak up for the respect of human rights, as well as for victims of human rights violations. When the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was first adopted, Germany was an enemy State and absent. Both Poland and South Africa abstained.
These three countries, after having overcome their nightmares of national socialism, communism and apartheid have now joined efforts in a cross-country initiative to make specific contributions to the promotion of human rights. So far, Poland, South Africa and Germany have organized, in close cooperation, three international symposiums in which numerous government, United Nations and non-governmental organizations experts
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participated. In this series, a conference was held in Bonn, Germany, last week devoted to the subject "Strengthening of Human Rights Field Operations".
JACQUES BAUDIN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Senegal: To a certain extent, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has contributed to the process of emancipation and decolonization and has thus favoured the emergence of a new international order. Like the first United Nations human rights conference held at Tehran in 1967, that of Vienna in June 1993 confirmed our common adherence to the Declaration's principles of the universality and interdependence of human rights.
We must make efforts to ensure the signing, ratification and implementation of all international human rights instruments, as well as those relating to the rights of children, women and the elderly. It is equally important that we ensure that the Statute of the International Criminal Court, adopted in Rome last July, enters into force as soon as possible. Senegal intends to be among the first to deposit the instruments of ratification. Under the directive of President Abdou Diouf, Senegal has already introduced education in human rights and in international humanitarian law in its training institutions, including those of the armed forces, security personnel and paramilitary corps.
NGO QUANG XUAN (Viet Nam): Thanks to the tireless struggle of oppressed peoples, the world has witnessed fundamental changes over the past 50 years. In many areas of the world, however, underdevelopment continues to be the most serious threat to the effective enjoyment of human rights. Almost three fifths of people living in developing countries live without safe drinking water, and a quarter of them lack basic housing. The common cause for human rights, including the right to development, demands further concerted efforts and strong commitment.
While human rights have a universal character, their expression and implementation in the national context should remain primarily within the competence and responsibility of each State. The complex variety of problems, different economic, social and cultural realities, and unique value systems prevailing in each country should be taken into consideration. Cooperation on the basis of respect for sovereignty, dialogue in good faith and peaceful negotiation constitute the best way to promote and protect human rights, rather than confrontation, conditionalities, the use or threat of force, or interference in another State's internal affairs.
AHMET ARDA (Turkey): The Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes that each human being is entitled to all human rights without any distinction. It is a direct response to the human suffering experienced in the past, and the only course for a dignified way of life for all. Never before in international relations have States agreed to limit their right to exercise their authority over their own citizens and to open themselves up to international scrutiny. There is growing awareness that human rights not only
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encompass civil and political rights, but also cultural, economic and social rights.
Yet, after 50 years of substantial work, the international community is far from the ideal. There is growing poverty and the right to life is challenged in many parts of the world. Underdevelopment and economic and social deprivation often render civil and political rights meaningless. Such a situation erodes the moral basis of the solemn commitments of the international community. The day's commemoration could have been better served by concrete action, rather than by lofty rhetoric. There must be an increasing international effort to promote ethnic and religious harmony and tolerance. Future generations must be assured that they will not be subject to discrimination.
DIENEBOU KABA CAMARA (Côte d'Ivoire): There has been real progress in the implementation of human rights. The creation of international courts to judge war crimes and the establishment of the International Criminal Court in Rome, for example, make it possible to end impunity for violations of human rights. Despite the progress that has been made, however, there are still flagrant violations of human rights, and even acts of genocide in some countries. Successes in fighting such violations have not so far been notable. The causes of such actions must be sought and addressed.
Côte d'Ivoire fully respects human rights and is committed to their implementation. It continuously works to strengthen its rule of law and to guarantee individual liberties and democracy. Promoting human rights goes hand in hand with development and peace. Peace and poverty do not live well together. Extreme poverty is the denial of human rights and fundamental freedoms. A hungry man is not a free man. A favourable environment would also require an increase in official development assistance, a system that would ensure proper prices for commodities and reduction of the debt burden. The impact of globalization on developing countries should also be addressed by developed countries. Access for all to primary health care, education, nutrition, work and basic social services are the key to human rights.
LEE SEE-YOUNG (Republic of Korea): In my country's experience, an integrated approach encapsulating civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights has proven to be most effective in pursuing the human rights agenda. Democracy, development and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are interdependent and mutually reinforcing -- as affirmed in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action. Indeed, respect for human rights rings hollow without serious efforts to eradicate poverty, empower individuals and their communities and promote women's rights as an integral part of human rights.
The Member States of the United Nations should renew their efforts towards ratification of the six principal international human rights instruments. Of equal importance is the need to ensure that Member States
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live up to their commitments. Further, effective steps must be taken to collectively prevent and forestall situations where massive human rights violations occur, as those are among the root causes of conflict in the post- cold-war era. In that connection, my Government looks forward to the International Criminal Court being launched at the earliest possible date.
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