TNAG-2808-FCO40-4053-Future-of-Hong-Kong-International-Rights-and-Obligations-(IR-1994 — Page 98

UN COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS : 48TH SESSION

28 JANUARY TO 8 MARCH 992

ITEM 12 : BURMA

Objectives

1.

To maintain Burma as a country of special concern to CHR by securing a resolution on the lines of the UNGA 46 resolution (if a stronger form of words cannot be passed), and possibly a move from the 1503 Procedure to open

discussion.

2.

To ensure Professor Yokota's report (under the 1503 Procedure) and other materials are used as an effective basis for further action on human rights abuses in Burma.

POINTS TO MAKE

Lobbying Points

UNGA Resolution

Welcome UNGA resolution on situation in Burma underlining breadth of internation concern at continuing violations of human rights by Burmese authorities.

1503 Procedure

Welcome Professor Yokota's report following his visit to Burma in October 1991.

Must decide whether to continue confidential 1503 Procedure or instigate public procedure.

No progress over last two years. UN confidential rapporteurs (Ogata and Yokota) have not been given full freedom by SLORC but are the only UN officials allowed any access at all. SLORC might completely obstruct a public procedure, including eg visit by a special country rapporteur. But probably worth the risk to increase the international pressure, heightened by award of Nobel Prize to ASS.

TYCAFW

RESTRICTED