Summary: November 10, 2004: Statement by Mr. Arjan Hamburger, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations, on behalf of the European Union. FIFTY-NINTH SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY - THIRD COMMITTEE. Item 105 (b) Human rights questions, including alternative approaches for improving the effective enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms on the "Situation of human rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo" (New York)
Introduction to draft Resolution on the "Situation of human rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo (A/C.3/59/L.54)
Mr. Chairperson,
On behalf on the European Union and all co-sponsors, I have the honour to introduce, under agenda item 105(c), the draft resolution entitled "Situation of Human Rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo" as contained in document A/C.3/59/L.54
The European Union welcomes the measures taken by the transitional government of the DRC and by the international community in order to re-establish stability and peace in a country that emerges from a long and devastating war.
Having said that, the European Union remains very concerned about the ongoing violations of human rights, in particular in the eastern part of the country. In his statement before the Third Committee, the Independent Expert on the human rights situation in the DRC pointed to such violations, including the use of sexual violence. His horrific account confirms to us that the international community cannot be silent on this subject.
The EU calls on the transitional government to do more to protect civilians and to promote and protect human right and the rule of law. The EU stresses the importance of ensuring that those responsible for violations of human rights are brought to justice. Putting an end to impunity has always been a priority for the EU. In this respect the EU calls upon the government to carry out a comprehensive reform of the judicial system. The EU considers that the DRC's co-operation with the ICC is a
valuable contribution in view of putting an end to impunity.
The text of the resolution has been streamlined, most notably in its preamble part. It takes into account recent developments, such as the appointment of the Independent Expert on the human rights situation in the DRC, the extension of the mandate of MONUC and the decision of the Office of the Prosecutor of the ICC to start an investigation into crimes allegedly committed in the DRC.
Mr. Chairperson,
The EU has actively engaged in discussions with the DRC and other African countries about the resolution, and will continue to do so in a positive spirit. The EU would like to consider this resolution as part of a constructive interaction with the transitional government of DRC and other parties concerned; we believe that a comprehensive solution requires the active commitment of all actors, both at national and at international level.
The EU hopes that this draft resolution will be adopted without a vote; this would express the international community's common concern about the situation in the DRC, but also our common support for the ongoing process.
Thank you, Mr. Chairperson.
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