Published by: World Tibet Network News, Wednesday, May 1, 1996
April 30, 1996
Human Rights Desk (DIIR)
On April 23, 1996, China once again avoided being criticised for
its dismal human rights record at the 52nd UN Human Rights
Commission session. A resolution was tabled under agenda item
number 10 by Italy, sponsored by the European union and supported
by the United States, expressing concern about the "inadequate
protection of the distinct cultural, ethnic, linguistic and
religious identity of Tibetans.
China proposed a "no action" motion in response. While proposing
the motion of "no action", Ambassador Wu Jianmin of China using a
divisive North-South tactic told the commission: "This
politically motivated draft resolution, however nicely wrapped,
cannot change its anti-China nature. it is directed not only
against China, but also against all developing countries. What is
happening to China today will happen to any other developing
country tomorrow. I appeal to all justice-upholding members of
the Commission to vote for the motion".
After one hours debate, 27 countries supported the procedural
move while 20 voted against China and 6 abstained.
