US Mission Geneva

The human rights situation in Belarus has deteriorated sharply since the December 2010 elections, which failed to meet international standards. The government initiated a wide-ranging crackdown against the political opposition, civil society activists, independent unions and media during the post-election period. Security forces detained hundreds of peaceful demonstrators. Authorities harassed and raided the offices of dozens of nongovernmental groups, seizing documents and equipment.

The United States supports the sustainable development of energy and mineral resources, including renewable resources. We are proud to say tribes in the United States participate in and benefit from natural resources development as beneficial owners of the resources and as regulators. Generally speaking, tribes are beneficial owners of surface and subsurface natural resources within Indian Country, including timber, energy and mineral resources.

Now more than ever, at this important period of transition, the Human Rights Council and the international community need the Independent Expert in Sudan. Hostilities and serious human rights violations persist in Sudan. We are particularly alarmed by the deteriorating situations in South Kordofan and the Blue Nile States.

Senior members of the Syrian regime who bear responsibility for safeguarding their people have betrayed that obligation. They must be accountable for the gross violations of human rights that continue.

We see a better future for Libya without a Qadhafi regime, with a new government that responds to the democratic aspirations of the Libyan people, respects their universal human rights, and adheres to Libya’s international commitments and obligations.

Today’s discussion on Yemen comes against the backdrop of increasingly disturbing reports of additional violence. According to news reports from Saana, yesterday government forces opened fire with anti-aircraft guns and automatic weapons on thousands of protestors. The United States condemns the use of excessive force against peaceful protestors and civilians in Yemen.

While the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health applies not only to older persons, but to persons of all ages, in general older persons have increased health concerns. They tend to be more susceptible to illnesses, chronic diseases and conditions, and disabilities, and therefore require more health services.

People around the world have demonstrated their desire for democratic government. We have been inspired by the strength, courage, and innovation shown by peaceful demonstrators across the Middle East, and we support transitions to genuine democracies that reflect the aspirations of their citizens.

We underscore our commitment to providing safe and clean drinking water and proper sanitation to the American people. The United States is understandably proud of the tremendous accomplishments it has made it the past decades to provide its citizens with clean water at an affordable price.