Amnesty Says Human Rights Com Stifling Must Stop

It Is Time to Stop Stifling Deliberations of the Commission on Human Rights:

Say No to "No-Action" Motions Statement by Amnesty International to the 60th Session of the UN Commission on Human Rights

Amnesty International notes with deep regret that the so-called "no-action motion", taken pursuant to rule 65, paragraph 2, of the rules of procedure of the functional commissions of the Economic and Social Council, is becoming an almost regular feature of the deliberations of the Commission on Human Rights. A successful "no-action" motion effectively halts further discussion of the resolution in question and thus prevents the Commission from taking action to promote and protect human rights in a particular country situation or on a particular thematic issue.

The Commission on Human Rights is a forum in which human rights violations should be discussed in an open and cooperative way to enable action by the international community to promote and protect human rights. Voting proposals off the agenda of the Commission before the Commission has an opportunity to consider them only serves to stifle discussion and undermine the credibility of the Commission. Amnesty International deplores the use of this procedural artifice to prevent the Commission from deliberating on proposals to address the human rights concerns of its Members.

On Thursday, April 15, 2004, the 60th session of the Commission on Human Rights will take action on resolutions tabled under items 9 and 10 of the Commission's agenda. Amnesty International urges Members of the Commission to renounce the use of the "no-action" motion, should such proposals be made, and to assume collective responsibility to effectively address situations of grave human rights violations.

More information on Amnesty International at the 60th session of the UN Commission on Human Rights at http://amnesty-news.c.topica.com/maab9cEaa53Embb0hPub/

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