C'wealth backs strengthening human rights implementation

The CHOGM summit, held amid international spotlight on alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka, ended today with member states calling for "accelerated efforts" to strengthen implementation of human rights and a "comprehensive approach" to tackle terrorism.
"Heads reaffirmed their commitment, as set out in the Charter, to equality and respect for the protection and promotion of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development for all," a 21-page communique issued at the conclusion of the three-day summit here, said.
"They urged members to accelerate efforts towards the ratification of all major international human rights instruments to strengthen the implementation of rights and freedoms as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights" the communique said, without making a reference to Sri lanka which has drawn criticism for alleged war crimes during the military campaign against the LTTE.

The members called for supporting "the establishment and strengthening of National Human Rights Institutions and regional mechanisms where suitable, in compliance with the Paris Principles."
The statement recognised the right to development as an integral part of all human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The Commonwealth also reaffirmed its commitment to tackle terrorism in all forms and unequivocally condemned terrorism both within and between countries.

"Heads of Government reaffirmed their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever, and for whatever purposes," the communique said.
"They stressed their unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, including international networks on money laundering and financing and rejected the payment of ransom as a source of terrorist funding," it said.

"They emphasised the need for continued solidarity and strengthened resolve to counter terrorism both within and between countries and recognised that new vigour needs to be injected in the negotiations to agree a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism," it added.
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, host of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), outlined the agreements signed by Commonwealth leaders.
He said there had been widespread agreement on a host of issues like ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of equality.