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