April 2, 2003
Secretary-General Kofi Annan
United Nations Secretary General
United Nations
New York, New York 10017
Dear Secretary-General Annan,
I am deeply distressed that the United Nations Human Rights Commission is considering upgrading Sudan’s human rights status from an Item 9 to Item 19 category, which would in effect let Sudan off the hook for its ongoing genocide. This resolution sends a strong message to the Sudan government that the international community condones its continuing genocide. The move from Item 9 to 19 would remove the U.N. Rapporteur for Sudan, freeing the regime from useful scrutiny, and also make Sudan eligible for new U.N. financial support.
This change in status is entirely unwarranted by the realities in Sudan, where the human rights abuses are and have been as serious as ever. It would reward Sudan for genocide at a critical moment in the peace negotiations between the parties.
You should also be advised that a U.N. Human Rights Commission’s upgrade could have a devastating impact on the already strained relationship between the United States and United Nations. I urge you to use your influence to pressure European Union members not to introduce this resolution.
I will continue to ask the intercession of Saint Josephine Bakhita for her people in Sudan, and those struggling throughout the world.
Sincerely,
Rev. Fr. James E. Goode, OFM, Ph.D.
President, National Black Catholic Apostolate for Life
Pastoral Director, Solid Ground Franciscan Ministry
CC:
EU Secretary General Javier Solana
French Embassy
U. S. Secretary of State Colin Powell