Originally published on the CGS blog on March 31, 2009.
Citizens for Global Solutions is thrilled to hear that the U.S. has officially announced its candidacy for Human Rights Council elections in May. Currently, the HRC is the primary global intergovernmental body able to address human rights issues – the U.S. has never been a member or an active participant. CGS has advocated that the U.S. run for a seat for a long time and we are now looking forward to the elections. The U.S. will compete for the seat with Belgium, Norway and New Zealand. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Susan E. Rice, echoed our sentiments when she stated:
Those who suffer from abuse and oppression around the world, as well as those who dedicate their lives to advancing human rights, need the Council to be balanced and credible. The U.S. is seeking election to the Council because we believe that working from within, we can make the council a more effective forum to promote and protect human rights. We hope to work in partnership with many countries to achieve a more effective Council.
Congressman Howard Berman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee also issued a statement supporting CGS views:
I strongly support the administration’s decision to engage with the United Nations Human Rights Council by running for a seat this year. This global forum has become increasingly dysfunctional and politicized, with virtually no guidance from the United StatesΓǪ The time is ripe to take a more positive and active role in challenging the Council and in speaking out about genuine human rights atrocities.
Serious, constructive candidacy will enable the U.S. to generate goodwill worldwide concerning human rights issues. If elected, the U.S. will be in a better position to reclaim its leadership role in international institutions and empower the Council. Historically, U.S. participation in international forums has increased the level of effectiveness of the forums. Responsible U.S. engagement either as a member or an observer in the HRC would enable the U.S. to present itself to the world as a moral authority in both speech and action and encourage the HRC to live up to its fullest potential.
