Fergus O'Dowd
Question:89 Mr. O'Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on human rights in Liberia in view of the concerns expressed by Amnesty International. [26502/02]
Vol. 559 No. 5
89 Mr. O'Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on human rights in Liberia in view of the concerns expressed by Amnesty International. [26502/02]
The fighting between Government troops and the rebel group Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy, LURD, has been ongoing in Liberia since late 2001 and has had a devastating effect on the country. The mounting toll of deaths, displacements and the general suffering of local populations underlines the urgent need for both parties to negotiate a ceasefire and to work towards national reconciliation. Human rights violations have been committed by both sides and human rights defenders continue to be detained without trial.
The already grim humanitarian situation has been exacerbated by poor harvests and the disruption caused to farming activities by the conflict. Liberia is struggling to provide not only for its own population, but also for the thousands of refugees pouring into the country to escape fighting in neighbouring Cote d'Ivoire. In 2002, Ireland contributed €160,000 to Concern for its rapid onset emergency response project in West Liberia and €196,000 for an emergency health program of the International Rescue Committee.
Arising from concerns about negative developments in Liberia in the areas of human rights, democracy, the rule of law, good governance and corruption, the European Union initiated consultations with the Government of Liberia in November 2001 under Articles 96 and 97 of the Cotonou Agreement. During the consultations, which ended in March, the European Union undertook to resume its co-operation programme with Liberia once Liberia meets specific conditions in a number of areas, including human rights. On the occasion of a follow-up meeting on 6 December 2002 with the Liberian Minister for Foreign Affairs, the European Union delegation conveyed the Union's concern at the ongoing poor human rights in the country, including the harassment of civilians by Government troops.