UN Authority Figures

UN Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law Advisory Committee: Lebanon

"Beating a Demonstrator." Beirut.Indimedia.org , May 10, 2003

Mission of the UN Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law: "...To contribute to a better knowledge of international law 'as a means for strengthening international peace and security and promoting friendly relations and co-operation among States.'" (Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law web-site, "Introduction")

Term of office: 2004-2007

Lebanon's Record on International Law:
"Hizballah retained significant influence over parts of the country, and Palestinian militias retained control of refugee camps, beyond the reach of state authorities. UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions 1559, 1614, and 1701 call upon the government to take effective control of all Lebanese territory and disarm militia groups operating in Lebanese territory...[T]he government has not taken the necessary steps to disarm extralegal armed groups, including Hizballah. There were limitations on the right of citizens to peacefully change their government. In a climate of impunity, there were instances of arbitrary or unlawful deprivation of life, torture, and other abuse. Security forces arbitrarily arrested and detained individuals, while poor prison conditions, lengthy pretrial detention and long delays in trials remained serious problems. The government violated citizens' privacy rights in an atmosphere of government corruption and lack of transparency. There were some restrictions on freedoms of speech and press, including intimidation of journalists. There were limitations on freedom of movement for unregistered refugees, while widespread, systematic discrimination against Palestinian refugees continued. Domestic violence and societal discrimination against women continued. Violence against children and child labor were also problems." (US State Department's Country Report on Human Rights Practices 2006, Lebanon)

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