RESPONSE TO SPECIAL RAPPORTEURS NOWAK AND ERTUERK

UNCLAS STATE 123202 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PHUM UNCHR SUBJECT: RESPONSE TO SPECIAL RAPPORTEURS NOWAK AND ERTUERK REGARDING THE PRACTICE OF SHACKLING OF PREGNANT INMATES - GENEVA LOG 65-2009 ¶1. This is an action request: Mission Geneva is requested to transmit the response of the United States Government to the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment Manfred Nowak and to the Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences Yakin Ertuerk. The text of the response to the communication will be e-mailed to the Mission. This is Geneva log 65-2009. ¶2. In their letter dated July 23, 2009, Special Rapporteurs Nowak and Ertuerk brought to our attention reports they had received describing the on-going use of shackles and other restraints on pregnant women incarcerated or detained in U.S. prisons. The Special Rapporteurs are concerned that in many prisons and jails women are restrained by their ankles or wrists when transported for prenatel medical appointments or when they go to the hospital for delivery. Pregnant women reportedly also remain shackled during labor, delivery and the post-delivery period despite the presence of armed guards. The Department of Justice has provided the response which will be e-mailed to the Mission. ¶3. Department appreciates Mission's assistance. End text. CLINTON