China Again Blocks U.N. Censure for Its Policies on Human Rights

China blocked a U.S. attempt to censure its human rights policies Friday, but Cuba, Iran and Iraq were among nations criticized by the 53-nation U.N. Human Rights Commission.

The U.S. attempt to bring U.N. criticism against China suffered the same fate as similar motions had for seven years since 1991. The commission voted 22-17 in favor of a Chinese proposal to take no action on the U.S. motion. Fourteen countries abstained.

The United States last year suspended its annual effort to criticize China in favor of a policy of diplomacy and dialogue. Washington put forward a motion this year after a sharp clampdown on dissent by Communist Party leaders in recent months.

The motion, which welcomed China’s efforts to develop its economy, expressed concern at “continuing reports of violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms in China.”

Cuba claimed a “moral victory” after a close commission vote of 21-20, with 12 abstentions, to criticize its record.

Cuba has faced criticism over recent moves to punish dissidents it says back the U.S. embargo and other anti-Cuba policies.

In other voting, Iraq was condemned for “all-pervasive repression and oppression sustained by broad-based discrimination and widespread terror.” No country supported Iraq, although 18 nations abstained.

Iran was held under special scrutiny and was censured 23-16, with commission members expressing particular concern over the country’s many executions.