Statement by the Delegation of the United States
Delivered by Anna Chambers
Geneva, September 23, 2009
Thank you, Mr. President.
The United States welcomed the opportunity to discuss our Universal Periodic Review recommendations with the Government of Chad Human Rights Ministry during a bilateral consultation in Ndjamena in May. Such dialogue is important for advancing human rights.
The United States urges the Government of Chad to continue and to strengthen its efforts to demobilize child soldiers and to end their unlawful recruitment and use, including in the Chadian National Army and other armed groups. Recruitment from refugee camps continues to be a particular concern. The United States welcomes the Government’s recent awareness campaign for various law enforcement and military units and notes with satisfaction the transfer of some presumed child soldiers to UNICEF custody. For example, we are encouraged that more than eighty child soldiers captured in early May 2009 were turned over to UNICEF in June; however, we also note that there were several weeks between the capture of these children and their release to UNICEF.
Increased efforts must be made to end impunity. Many delegations, including the United States, highlighted the importance of bringing to justice those responsible for abuses that took place between 28 January and 8 February 2008. The United States calls upon the Government of Chad to allow the magistrates examining the related cases, especially that of Ibni Oumar Mahamat Saleh, to work without interference.
The United States encourages the Government of Chad to revise its press law to ensure respect for freedom of the press. Freedom of press is a component of Chad’s constitution, and it is important that Chad respects this fundamental civil liberty.
Thank you, Mr. President.