Expressing profound concern at the continuing armed conflict in Liberia and its toll on the civilian population, the United Nations human rights chief has urged all parties to the conflict to commit themselves immediately to the protection of civilians. In a statement issued from Geneva, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR), Sergio Vieira de Mello, said he has continued to receive credible reports of serious abuses and violations of human rights and humanitarian law by both parties to the Liberian conflict.
UN News Centre Report:
Liberia: UN rights chief concerned at abuses against civilians
24 March - Expressing profound concern at the continuing armed conflict in
Liberia and its toll on the civilian population, the United Nations human
rights chief today urged all parties to the conflict to commit themselves
immediately to the protection of civilians.
In a statement issued from Geneva, the UN High Commissioner for Human
Rights (UNHCHR), Sergio Vieira de Mello, said he has continued to receive
credible reports of serious abuses and violations of human rights and
humanitarian law by both parties to the Liberian conflict. These violations
include extra-judicial killings, torture and rape. Civilians, including
children, have also been deliberately targeted and forcibly recruited for
fighting.
"Parties to the conflict should ensure respect for human rights and
humanitarian law in areas under their control and in the conduct of
hostilities," Mr. Vieira de Mello said. "Where these abuses and violations
occur, parties have an obligation to bring perpetrators to justice."
The High Commissioner urged all parties to the conflict to commit
themselves immediately to the protection of civilians, especially their
physical integrity and the means necessary for their survival. He stressed
that there can be no impunity for violations of human rights and
differences should be resolved peacefully within the context of the rule of
law and democratic principles.
Mr. Vieira de Mello also endorsed the appeal made by the UN to the
Government of Liberia and the Liberians United for Reconciliation and
Democracy (LURD) to enter into cease fire negotiations.
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