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Wednesday, February 23, 2011

You know the UN is useless when....

Yesterday, the UN Security Council condemned Libya's use of violence in killing its own people.
The members of the Security Council expressed grave concern at the situation in Libya. They condemned the violence and use of force against civilians, deplored the repression against peaceful demonstrators, and expressed deep regret at the deaths of hundreds of civilians. They called for an immediate end to the violence and for steps to address the legitimate demands of the population, including through national dialogue.

The members of the Security Council called on the Government of Libya to meet its responsibility to protect its population. They called upon the Libyan authorities to act with restraint, to respect human rights and international humanitarian law, and to allow immediate access for international human rights monitors and humanitarian agencies.

The members of the Security Council called for international humanitarian assistance to the people of Libya and expressed concern at the reports of shortages of medical supplies to treat the wounded. They strongly urged the Libyan authorities to ensure the safe passage of humanitarian and medical supplies and humanitarian workers into the country.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need for the Government of Libya to respect the freedom of peaceful assembly and of expression, including freedom of the press. They called for the immediate lifting of restrictions on all forms of the media.

The members of the Security Council stressed the importance of accountability. They underscored the need to hold to account those responsible for attacks, including by forces under their control, on civilians.

The members of the Security Council expressed deep concern about the safety of foreign nationals in Libya. They urged the Libyan authorities and all relevant parties to ensure the safety of all foreign nationals and facilitate the departure of those wishing to leave the country.

The members of the Security Council will continue to follow the situation closely.
At the same time, the Arab League was meeting in Cairo. Their statement:
"The Arab League condemns crimes against the current peaceful popular protests and demonstrations in several Libyan cities," Secretary General Amr Moussa told reporters in Cairo after the group met.

He said the security forces use of live rounds, heavy weapons and foreign mercenaries is a grave breach of human rights.

"The organization calls for respecting Libyans' right to freedom of protest and expression as they demand democratic change," he said.

"Humanitarian aid must be allowed into the country," the Arab League leader said.

"Libya will be barred from taking part in the Arab League's meetings until leader Muammar Gaddafi responds to the organization's demands," Moussa said.
The UN did not decide to kick Libya off of the Human Rights Council or any other important committee. It did not do anything concrete besides empty words.

At least the Arab League banned Libya.

You know the UN has turned into a useless organization when the Arab League is more critical, and more willing to do something, concerning of one of their its members - than the UN is.