Statement on China's "No Action Motion"

Mr. Chairman:

Once again the government of China is seeking to bypass the normal procedures of this Commission by submitting a "no action motion." No other nation here resorts to such maneuvers.

The question the Chinese motion asks of us is this: is the case of China so special that it deserves exceptional treatment?

The United States can see no reason for such special treatment. This is the United Nations Commission on Human Rights and its unique and fundamental purpose is to discuss the promotion and protection of universal human rights. To support this "no action" motion, therefore, is to ignore the purpose for which the Commission stands.

The essential principle of universal human rights is that they apply to every country at every moment. By custom, law, and common understanding, no nation is at liberty to disregard these norms. China should follow the same international standards that every other country does. Discussion of China’s human rights record is not interference in its internal affairs.

The issue before us, therefore, is whether the members of this Commission will choose to honor the principles of open debate or turn a blind eye to contravention of those principles.

We urge every member here to do what is right. Vote "no" in China’s "no action" motion, and let Resolution L. 13 be decided on its merits.

Thank you.

[End.]