Draft Resolution on Democracy and the Rule of Law

UNCLAS BUCHAREST 000682 SIPDIS SENSITIVE DEPT FOR EUR/NCE - WILLIAM SILKWORTH AND USAID E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PHUM KDEM PGOV RO SUBJECT: Draft Resolution on Democracy and the Rule of Law ¶1. (SBU) Poloff met with MFA OSCE, Human Rights and Council of Europe Division Deputy Director Andreea Chiriac on March 16 to discuss Romania's draft "Democracy and the rule of law" resolution. Chiriac noted that the resolution presents a new focus on the relationship between democracy and the rule of law and tracks with Romania's efforts to promote Community of Democracies activities. She expressed the GOR's interest in securing U.S. support for the resolution and stated that the draft resolution currently is being circulated among Commission on Human Rights members in Geneva. ¶2. (U) Key points in the resolution include its call on governments to enforce the separation of powers through legislative and institutional measures, publicly known standards, and support for civil society organizations. The resolution also urges states to guarantee that no public or private institution or individual is above the law. Parliaments are cited for their role in ensuring the transparent and accountable adoption of legislation. The resolution urges the office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights to further develop its technical assistance programs, develop partnerships to promote democracy and the rule of law, and more accurately assess the needs of countries seeking technical advice. ¶3. (U) Post will fax a copy of the draft resolution and explanatory memorandum to EUR/NCE Desk Officer William Silkworth. Delare