23 May 1986

19th plenary meeting

Status of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide

The Economic and Social Council,

Recalling General Assembly resolution 260 A (III) of 9 December 1948, by which the Assembly approved and proposed for signature and ratification or accession the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, annexed thereto,

Mindful of the fact that the year 1986 marks the thirty-fifth anniversary of the entry into force of the Convention,

Reaffirming its conviction that genocide is a crime under international law, contrary to the spirit and aims of the United Nations,

Expressing its conviction that recognition and strict observance of the provisions of the Convention by all States are necessary for the prevention and punishment of the crime of genocide,

Welcoming General Assembly resolution 40/142 of 13 December 1985 and Commission on Human Rights resolution 1986/18 of 10 March 1986,

1. Once again strongly condemns the crime of genocide;

2. Reaffirms the necessity of international co-operation to liberate mankind from such an odious scourge;

3. Takes note with appreciation of the fact that many States have ratified the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide or have acceded thereto;

4. Urges those States that have not yet become parties to the Convention to ratify it or accede to it without further delay.