ADC Welcomes Obama Administration Decision to Join UN Human Rights Council

posted on: Apr 1, 2010

Today, the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee welcomed the Obama Administration decision to seek a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council. A stark reversal of policy toward the Council in comparison to the previous administration, the move sends an important message to the global community that the United States seeks to be a leader supporting and enforcing international humanitarian law and, specifically, all aspects of the UN Declaration on Human Rights.

The UN Declaration on Human Rights (UNDHR), the cornerstone of International Humanitarian Law, was strongly supported by the United States at its inception. The US should rightfully play a leading role in once again protecting human rights across the globe. The UNDHR, authored by representatives from the United States, Canada, China and Lebanon must be ratified by every member state upon joining the United Nations. Enshrined in the UNDHR are such basic and inalienable rights as the right to life and liberty, the right to be free of torture, and the right to return to one’s country among others.

ADC National Executive Director Kareem Shora said “Today, the United States took another brave step toward reestablishing its historical role as a global leader on human rights and rule of law. This is yet another positive step by President Obama and his Administration toward respect for international humanitarian law and global engagement. Since President Obama’s inauguration, our government has no doubt taken several steps in this direction and we continue to look for further improvements as we work together to reestablish the rightful image of our nation around the world.”