Human rights situation in the OPT – GA Third Cttee debate, statement – Press release (excerpts)

ROLE OF MEDIA IN PROMOTION OF TOLERANCE AND PEACE STRESSED

AS THIRD COMMITTEE CONTINUES REVIEW OF HUMAN RIGHTS

UNESCO Delegate Says Influence Can be Positive; Others

Call for Definition of Rights to Allow for Cultural Differences

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The Permanent Observer for Palestine said commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights should be an occasion for the international community to renew its commitment and meet its obligations in combatting all violations of human rights.

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 Committee Work Programme

The Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) met this afternoon to continue consideration of alternative approaches for improving the effective enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and human rights situations and reports of special rapporteurs and representatives. (For information on reports before the Committee, see press releases GA/SHC/3494 of 4 November and GA/SHC/3499 of 6 November.)

Introduction of Report

NINA SIBAL, on behalf of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), introduced the report of the Director-General of UNESCO on the implementation of the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and the Follow-up Plan of Action for the United Nations Year for Tolerance (document A/53/284). …

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Statements

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SOMAIA BARGHOUTI, Observer for Palestine, said that on 10 December, the world would commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  That should be an occasion for the international community to renew its commitment and meet its obligations in combating all violations of human rights.   It was also an occasion to develop more innovative ways and means to monitor and guarantee the implementation of the objectives set forth in human rights instruments.

She said the human rights situation of people in the occupied Palestinian Territories continued to be of great concern.   Israel persisted with its oppressive policies and practices.  The Palestinian people had been subjected to detention, imprisonment, torture and obstruction of movement. It was shameful that they were still deprived of the enjoyment of their basic and fundamental human rights.

The United Nations must give more attention to the flagrant violations committed against peoples living under foreign occupation.  The Palestinian people expressed deep concern over the continuing difficulties facing the peace process.   However, they remained hopeful that the situation would soon change, leading to real and positive change on the ground.

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