Norges hovedinnlegg i FNs generalforsamlings 3. komité

Mr. Chairman,

Democracy and democratic practices enhance the enjoyment of human rights.

A key to ensuring that democracies function with all their diversity is freedom of expression. Without this freedom, our efforts to promote human rights will be virtually impossible. And it is an essential value that bridges different cultures and geographical, political and religious divides.

Our view is that freedom of expression cannot and must not be limited, but must be defended in a context where there are also other fundamental rights.

And there is such a thing as showing consideration. No law can guide us through this landscape; only moral decisions by individuals can do so.

Inextricably tied to freedom of speech and of the freedom of religion or belief - is freedom of assembly – the right of people to gather without fear of government harassment or intrusion.

The discussions when dealing with these issues have been polarized and divisive. We are however encouraged by the consensual approach we seen developing in the Human Rights Council.

Norway sincerely hopes that we can continue our efforts to bridge our differences based on a spirit of respect for diversity within the framework of our human rights obligations.

Mr. Chairman,

We reiterate our longstanding and firm opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances.  While we are aware of the suffering of the victims of violent crime and their families, we strongly believe that capital punishment tends to further a casual attitude to the right to life – the most fundamental of all human rights. In our view, the death penalty does not serve as an effective deterrent, and any miscarriage of justice, which is inevitable in any legal system, would be irreversible.

Again a resolution on a global moratorium will be presented for its adoption, and we urge all member states for their support.

Universal human rights are interdependent and indivisible. We have to fight against an attitude of selectiveness - that we can pick and choose which rights to respect. Universality also means that no country can claim that violations of human rights are interference in internal affairs.

Norway deeply regrets that there have been no observable changes regarding the human rights situation in Myanmar. We strongly stress the importance of the regime to strengthen its dialogue and cooperation with the UN aiming to improve the human rights situation.

We have been disappointed by the regime’s lacking effort to keep its promise of a free and fair process towards the 7 November elections. We repeat our call towards the regime to lift restrictions on fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of assembly and freedom of the media. We strongly urge the immediate and unconditional release of human rights defenders, democracy activists and other political prisoners.

Norway is deeply concerned about the ongoing, systemic and serious violations of human rights in Iran. There is a general erosion of the rule of law, which manifests itself for instance in arbitrary arrests and detentions, and denial of the right to a fair trial.

Human rights defenders, who play a key role in upholding the rule of law and respect for human rights, are facing an increasing risk of harassment and persecution.

We are gravely concerned by numerous reports of torture and ill-treatment in Iranian detention centres and prisons, especially in the aftermath of the 2009 presidential elections. We have witnessed increasing limitations on freedom of expression and of assembly.

We are also in particular concerned by reports of execution of minors and of cruel, inhuman and degrading punishments which are in breach of Iran’s international obligations.

We would urge Iranian authorities to fully implement their standing invitation to the Special Procedures and to cooperate with the OHCHR. 

The respect for fundamental human and political rights of all the Sudanese people is one of the key principles in Sudan’s Comprehensive Peace Agreement. Consistent and intensified efforts are needed in order to ensure that these principles are fully respected as we now approach the end of the interim period. The success of the planned 2011 referenda in Southern Sudan and Abyei is conditional on a stable and secure environment, a free press and freedom of speech and association. We urge national and local authorities in the north, south, and Abyei area to ensure a conducive political environment in the lead up to the referenda.

Norway is deeply concerned with the human rights situation in The Palestinian Territory. As the Special Rapporteur points out in his report, the Israeli occupation itself is at the core of the issue, depriving the Palestinian population of its right to self-determination. And that all other human rights derive from or are underpinned by the right to self-determination.

The direct talks launched on 2 September reached an impasse over Israel’s refusal to extend the settlement moratorium. It is however Norway’s view that the only viable path towards securing the Palestinians’ right to self-determination is through negotiations, leading to the end of the occupation and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Norway is concerned by the humanitarian situation in the DPRK, and the serious humanitarian needs of its people. Norway supports international humanitarian presence in the DPRK. It is essential to separate humanitarian issues from political issues.

The situation regarding food shortages and the significant reduction in the WFPs capabilities is of special concern. It is important that the regime takes steps to ensure that there is no disparity as regards to access to food, focusing on the needs of vulnerable groups.

Norway views cooperation with the UN’s various mechanisms and resources on human rights as fundamental. We acknowledge the DPRK’s participation in the UPR hearing last December. We encourage the regime to agree to the requests for visit by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the DPRK.

Norway welcomes the UN report of the mapping exercise documenting serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed in the Democratic Republic of Congo from 1993 to 2003. We hope the report can contribute to the efforts of the Government of the DRC to deal with obstacles to a peaceful national coexistence as well as to reform the judicial sector and thereby fighting impunity. We are pleased to note the positive response the report has received from the Congolese authorities and their expressed will to follow up on the crimes described in the report.

We remain deeply concerned about the vulnerable situation of human rights defenders and journalists working in defence of human rights. We recommend that crimes and violations against these groups are effectively investigated and prosecuted, and that victims, witnesses and judicial personnel involved in human rights investigations and trials are protected.

Norway strongly supports an Afghan led reconciliation process, including talks with the members of armed opposition who are willing to renounce violence and resume a civilian life, as part of a viable broader Afghan political settlement. However, the process of reintegration into Afghan society should not only be Afghan-led but must also be based on the principle of inclusiveness and conducted in accordance with the Constitution and international human rights. No peace talks must undermine the human rights values and justice. Reconciliation requires broad representation of religious, ethnic and civil society groups and the participation of women is a key to any durable peace process.