In latest report, UN expert calls on Baghdad to respect Iraqi people's rights

A United Nations expert has reiterated his earlier calls for the Government of Iraq to protect the human rights of Iraqi citizens, particularly as relating to religious freedom, forced relocations, the death penalty and the rights of women.

In his latest report on the human rights situation in Iraq, Special Rapporteur Andreas Mavrommatis also repeats his request for the Iraqi Government to allow him to visit the country, which it so far has refused to do.

The expert says he is still concerned about the unintended human rights consequences of the international embargo against Iraq, and highlights continued reports about the violation of women's rights and the persecution of religious minorities within the country.

On capital punishment, Mr. Mavrommatis reiterates his call to the Government of Iraq to review and revise laws permitting the imposition of the death penalty, consider a moratorium on executions and begin a dialogue with him on matters relating to the supreme right to life.

Reacting to reports of human rights violations of minorities and mass relocations of non-Arabs, the expert urges the Government to examine all such allegations, and to ensure that no person is relocated against his or her will. He also notes reports on the practice of "Arabizing" areas from which non-Arab persons are expelled.