Minister Cowen welcomes the nomination of Louise Arbour as new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

Minister Cowen said that “Justice Arbour’s background as an internationally recognised jurist, with a wealth of experience in the field of human rights, well qualifies her to hold the position of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights”.

The Minister also said that in her role as Chief Prosecutor for the two International Criminal Tribunals, for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, Justice Arbour had shown herself to be a strong, clear and consistent advocate on behalf of victims of human rights abuses.

The Minister went on to add that the “Government of Ireland is well aware of Justice Arbour’s commitment to human rights and is certain that she will make a decisive contribution to the Office and to promoting and protecting human rights.”

The Minister stated that in the UN General Assembly Ireland will support Louise Arbour’s nomination to the position of UN High Commissioner.

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