Lawyers Committee calls upon G8 Leaders to Act on Zimbabwe

On May 16, 2003, the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights sent a letter to each of the G8 heads of state, prior to their Summit at Evian, France from June 1 to 3, 2003. The letter raises concerns about the implementation of the G8's Africa Action Plan in light of the ongoing human rights violations being committed in Zimbabwe. In the letter, the Lawyers Committee urges the G8 members to ensure that the current crisis in Zimbabwe receives sufficient attention at the Summit in Evian. The letter points out that resolution of the crisis in Zimbabwe is not only a legal and moral imperative, but fundamental to the successful implementation of the G8's Africa Action Plan and the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD).

The letter states in part:"The crisis in Zimbabwe is a litmus test for the efficacy of your discussions. The situation in Zimbabwe starkly contradicts the principles contained in NEPAD and supported by the Africa Action Plan. Moreover, Zimbabwean civil society groups are routinely being persecuted, which hampers their efforts to promote respect for human rights and the rule of law. Many crises of poverty, disease, armed conflict, and denial of democracy and human rights continue to plague Africa and fundamentally undermine efforts to achieve sustainable development. Combating such crises requires effective, co-ordinated strategies among African states and supported by the international community. The current situation in Zimbabwe is one such crisis, the details of which are well-documented by local and international organizations. Since your June 2002 meeting, the situation in Zimbabwe has further deteriorated, and it is largely the black population that is targeted for abuse. Serious human rights violations committed by the government and its agents continue to receive insufficient attention both within the region and internationally. Efforts to end the crisis must involve the combined efforts of governments and civil society groups in Africa which are encouraged by the G8. Fundamental human rights issues must be addressed, including bringing an end to political violence, arbitrary detention and torture, restoring full freedom of expression and association, ensuring the independence of the judiciary, and combating impunity for human rights abuses."

Read the full text of the letter.

Zimbabwe Independent editorial on LCHR letter to the G8