First ever visit by a UN Human Rights chief to Zimbabwe

Pillay to conduct first ever visit by a UN Human Rights chief to Zimbabwe, 20-25 May

Geneva (14 May 2012) – The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay will on 20 May begin the first ever mission by a UN Human Rights chief to Zimbabwe, at the invitation of the Government.

During the five-day mission, Pillay is due to meet President Robert Mugabe, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Justice and Legal Affairs and other ministers, as well as the Chief Justice, the President and Speaker of Parliament, and the Thematic Committee on Human Rights. Pillay will also meet with the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission and members of civil society in the country.

Pillay is considering a number of field visits within and outside Harare, where she will meet local communities and civil society members in the areas to listen to their experiences and views.

“I am very much looking forward to engaging with the Government, civil society and other stakeholders in Zimbabwe to better understand the human rights situation on the ground and to work with all relevant actors towards full enjoyment of human rights for all,” Pillay said.

At the end of her visit, on Friday, 25 May at 10:30am, the High Commissioner will hold a press conference at the conference room of the UN premises in Arundel Office Park Block 11.

Learn more about the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/AboutUs/Pages/HighCommissioner.aspx

Human rights in Zimbabwe: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Countries/AfricaRegion/Pages/ZWIndex.aspx

ENDS

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