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HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION TO FOLLOW WORK OF OAS MISSION TO COLOMBIA

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) will closely follow the work of the Organization of American States (OAS) Mission to Support the Peace Process in Colombia, to ensure that this process complies with the standards of human rights and international humanitarian law, IACHR Executive Secretary Santiago A. Canton said today.

Speaking to the OAS Permanent Council, Canton said the Inter-American Commission had already met once with the Director of the OAS mission to Colombia, Sergio Caramagna, to begin an ongoing exchange of information.

The Commission will not only cooperate with and advise the mission on human rights matters, but will also follow the demobilization process independently, through contacts with other entities in the international community, civil society and the Colombian government and through its own visits, Canton said. He added that the efforts of the Commission would depend on the availability of necessary funds.

Noting that the Commission had maintained a permanent interest in the human rights situation in Colombia, the Executive Secretary discussed some preliminary concerns related to the scope, conditions and legal framework of the demobilization process that will be verified by the OAS mission. He emphasized the need to make every effort to broaden the disarmament process so that it includes not only paramilitary forces but also participants in the armed conflict linked to guerrilla movements, adding that a more inclusive process would strengthen the possibility of achieving a lasting peace.

Canton also warned that some members of the paramilitary forces had been identified as responsible for serious human rights violations.

“In light of this situation, it is necessary to carefully monitor the conditions under which the members of these groups join the process, as well as the verification of their identity, affiliation and criminal records, in order to avoid turning this process into a path toward impunity,” he said. “The development of a culture of peace, tolerance, respect for the law and a rejection of impunity requires the efforts of all men and women, and should receive the support of the international community,” he added.

The Ambassador of Colombia to the OAS, Horacio Serpa, stressed the importance of the Inter-American Commission’s participation, presence and advice during this complex juncture for his conflict-torn country. He acknowledged the IACHR Executive Secretary’s concerns, adding that such considerations are part of the “enormous challenge” involved in seeking peace in Colombia.

Several delegations expressed their full support for the work of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and its Executive Secretary, not only in Colombia but also in other countries of the region.

Reference: E-054/04