RETAINING THE MANDATE OF THE SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR

C O N F I D E N T I A L MEXICO 000866 SIPDIS SIPDIS FOR DRL/MLGA - MCGEENEY, IO//RHS - OSTERMEIER E.O. 12958: DECL: 03/26/2018 TAGS: PREL PHUM UNHRC SUBJECT: RETAINING THE MANDATE OF THE SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR REF: STATE 29095 Classified By: Charles V. Barclay under E.O. 12958, Reasons 1.4(b) and (d), (C) On March 26, Political Minister-Counselor spoke with Alejandro Negrin, SRE Director General for Human Rights and Democracy to convey our concerns regarding the proposed OIC amendment to the Canadian Special Rapporteur resolution. Drawing on reftel points, PolCouns outlined our fears that the proposed language could provide cover for states to limit both religious and civil expression, noting in particular the recent trend toward prosecuting individuals for defaming Islam. Negrin said the GOM too had its concerns in this regard and that the resolution appeared to be inappropriately focused on Islam. He noted that Mexico had abstained last year during the mandate renewal. PolCouns urged that Mexico actively oppose the ammendment this year. Negrin said Mexico was carefully considering this year's text, but declined to say how Mexico would vote. Visit Mexico City's Classified Web Site at http://www.state.sgov.gov/p/wha/mexicocity and the North American Partnership Blog at http://www.intelink.gov/communities/state/nap / GARZA