Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union on the human rights situation in Syria
- On: 19.09.2008
The European Union is concerned at the situation regarding human rights and fundamental freedoms in Syria.
It condemns the arbitrary arrests carried out recently, in particular among human rights defenders and members of the opposition, and calls for an end to these practices. By the same token, it calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the persons detained arbitrarily and reiterates its wish for the right of all defendants to a fair trial to be safeguarded, in accordance with international human rights standards and principles.
The European Union is also deeply troubled by the restrictions on freedom of expression, and in particular the closing down of a large number of internet sites.
It calls on Syria to abide by the international commitments it freely entered into, and first and foremost by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees freedom of opinion and expression and the right to a fair trial.
- Updated: 12.12.2008
