U.N. Needs a Full-Time High Commissioner for
Human Rights and a Full-Time Representative in Iraq
The recent appointment of U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights
Sergio Viera de Mello to serve a four month term as the U.N. special
representative for Iraq is "neither in the best interest of the
Iraqi people nor the effectiveness of the UN's human rights program,"
according to the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights. The Lawyers Committee
is urging Secretary-General Kofi Annan to reconsider this decision.
“We are concerned that the UN needs a full-time permanent
High Commissioner for Human Rights. The escalating human rights
crisis in the Congo, Liberia, Aceh and elsewhere, and the ongoing
human rights challenges in many other places throughout the world
make it essential that the work of the High Commissioner's office
be given the highest priority,” said Michael Posner, the Executive
Director of the Lawyers Committee. “The post of High Commissioner
needs to be filled by a senior figure, with stature and access,
who will give these issues the attention they deserve both within
the UN system and in the broader international debate.”
With respect to Iraq it is clear that Mr. de Mello has the diplomatic
and operational skills and experience to make a very positive contribution
in a number of areas. The Lawyers Committee is concerned that given
the evolving nature of the UN's role in Iraq, Mr. de Mello's ability
to build a strong working relationship with the occupying authority
will be critical. "Real progress in Iraq will require sustained
UN presence and leadership, a process that will be enhanced by continuity
in the UN's leadership team and early signals of the UN's long-term
commitment. For these reasons the appointment of Mr. de Mello to
a short-term assignment as the UN's special representative in Iraq
is inadequate."
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