Libya / Briefing note from the Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
GENEVA, Switzerland, August 30, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ – Briefing note from the Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights:
We are extremely alarmed by the emerging reports of atrocious human rights violations in Libya, including what appear to be mass summary executions, mostly apparently carried out by the forces of the Gaddafi government during the last few days before they lost Tripoli. We are also deeply concerned about reports that there are still thousands of people unaccounted for who were arrested or taken prisoner by Gaddafi security forces either earlier in the conflict, or before it even started. Given the gruesome discoveries that have taken place over the past few days, there is good reason to be extremely concerned for their safety. We urge any members of the former regime in a position to reveal where prisoners have been held to do so, before more lives are lost.
It is of utmost importance that these crimes – as well as other serious violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law – are properly documented and investigated, as the first steps towards accountability and justice for the victims and their families. The Commission of Inquiry for Libya, whose mandate continues until March will undoubtedly examine all such reports. During the second phase of its work, the Commission will be supported by a team of OHCHR staff.
We once again urge both sides to exercise restraint and refrain from committing further human rights violations or acts of retaliation.
SOURCE
United Nations – Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
