U.N. Rights Panel Accuses Sudan, Iraq of Killings, Terror
The U.N. Human Rights Commission condemned Sudan and Iraq on Wednesday for what it said were widespread executions and terror, and it took unprecedented steps to have the alleged atrocities investigated.
The 53-nation body, at its annual meeting, voted for the first time to order a public examination of violations in Sudan.
The Islamic military leadership’s record--reported to be among the worst in the world--has until now been studied behind closed doors.
The commission also called for a team of monitors in Iraq to check on reports of “massive violations of the gravest nature.” Its resolution condemning Baghdad was among the toughest ever issued by the watchdog agency.
During the most politically charged part of the annual session, the commission accused Sudan’s government of widespread executions, torture and forced population transfers.
U.S. delegate Kenneth Blackwell said abuses are worsening as the civil war against rebels in southern Sudan intensifies. He said government troops have executed hundreds of people, including Sudanese workers of relief agencies.
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