Resolution Condemns Libya's Chairmanship
Of U.N. Human Rights Commission
Smith Successfully Rallies Vocal Opposition to Leadership Post
WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Senator Gordon Smith (OR-R) was successful in his co-sponsorship of a Senate Resolution that strongly condemns Libya's selection as chair of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights.
"I am glad to be joined by my colleagues today in voicing our resounding disapproval of Libya as chair to this commission," said Smith. "It is reprehensible that a nation with such a notorious history of disregard for Human Rights would warrant consideration to chair such the UN Commission."
Previously, Smith sent a letter to Colin Powell urging him to exercise his leadership and influence to dissuade delegates from electing Libya to chair the commission which is charged with the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
"Libya, under Muammar al-Qadhafi, has an abysmal human rights record and has been a leading state sponsor of terrorism," said Smith. "Libya's taking the helm of the U.N. Human Rights Commission would make a mockery of that institution and deprive the U.N. of credible leadership on human rights at a critical time."
Libya's history of human rights violations includes the tragic 1988 bombing of Pan American flight 103. The attack, linked to Muammar al-Qadhafi's totalitarian regime, resulted in 270 deaths.
Smith has long been a champion of international human rights. He currently serves on the United States Helsinki Commission, an organization focused on international freedoms and rights. In the 107th Congress he authored an extension of the Iran Libya Sanctions Act, legislation which imposed economic sanctions on Libya and Iran for reasons that include disregard for basic human rights.
