November 8, 2005

Draft Resolution on the Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination

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This resolution was adopted by consensus even though it was the subject of profound objections by Western states. It is a classic example of capitulation or despair in the face of a non-democratic UN General Assembly majority which cannot be stopped. It also clearly indicates that UN "consensus" is so often a pretense for fundamental disagreements. On the one side, Algeria said : "self-determination is a pre-requisite to the enjoyment of all other human rights." Translation: self-determination is a tool for non-democratic regimes to perpetuate their grip on power or their failure to protect individual human rights. On the other side the European Union said: "Respect for the right of self-determination requires the holding of free, regular and fair elections within the framework of a democratic society. Full respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms is also essential...[T]he text contains a number of inaccuracies under international law...[T]he EU firmly believes that self-determination is closely associated with respect for all human rights, it is not correct to suggest that self-determination as such is a pre-condition for the enjoyment of other human rights." This was their rationale for joining "consensus"!