チベット族の焼身自殺を憂慮…国連高等弁務官
http://sft.convio.net/images/content/pagebuilder/headerun5.jpg
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http://sft.convio.net/images/content/pagebuilder/Pillay_TDK.jpgSFT's Tendolkar with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay, October 24, 2012
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This morning, Navi Pillay, the United Nations High Commissioner on Human Rights issued a powerful statement against China's escalating repression in Tibet as the number of self-immolation protests surpassed 60 last week. Ms. Pillay is one of the most senior public officials to call China out for its growing human rights crisis in Tibet.
“I have had several exchanges with the Chinese Government on these issues. But more needs to be done to protect human rights and prevent violations,” Pillay said in her statement. “I call on the Government to respect the rights to peaceful assembly and expression, and to release all individuals detained for merely exercising these universal rights.”
Her strong message, while long overdue, is a victory for Tibetans and Tibet supporters everywhere because it is exactly what China's leaders don't want just days before their leadership transition. Now that she has broken her silence, China can't ignore Pillay indefinitely. She has pressed Beijing to confirm dates for her visit to Tibet – and if her forceful language is any indication, she intends to follow through on her request.
Today's statement is also a sign that our grassroots pressure is working. Last week, SFT's Deputy Director Tendolkar and International Director Kate attended a briefing session with the UN High Commissioner. They directly questioned her and even held an impromptu meeting afterwards where Tendolkar presented Ms. Pillay with a khata (Tibetan white scarf) and appealed for her support on behalf of Tibetans everywhere.
SFT's direct intervention, combined with the ongoing lobbying efforts of Tibet groups worldwide and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, is making a difference. Now we must keep up the pressure.
Of course, we know the United Nations cannot resolve China's occupation and bring freedom to Tibet, but it must do everything in its power to make a difference. It is, therefore, our responsibility to use the UN's mechanisms and instruments to raise the urgency of the Tibet issue and to deter China's atrocities.
Today's news was a major step in that direction. Please take a moment to read and share the High Commissioner's statement below.
Executive Director
Check the Universal Human Rights Index: http://uhri.ohchr.org/en
