GENEVA/STRASBOURG/THE HAGUE, 08.12.99
- We wish to express our profound concern at the situation of civilians
in Grozny who, according to the ultimatum of 6th December from the Federal
authorities of the Russian Federation, are being given no other choice
than to leave the city within five days or risk injury or death as a result
of indiscriminate bombardment.
We wish to emphasise the obligations
of the Russian Federation under international human rights and humanitarian
law and we call for strict compliance with these standards. Whatever its
motivation, any police or security action must conform to fundamental humanitarian
principles.
Everything possible must be done to save and protect innocent lives.
Mary ROBINSON
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
Walter SCHWIMMER
Council of Europe
Secretary General
Max van der STOEL
OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
Press Contact
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Tel. +33 3 88 41 25 60 - Fax. +33 3 88 41 27 89
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