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UN human rights chief urges independent probe into recent violence in Uzbekistan

UN human rights chief urges independent probe into recent violence in Uzbekistan

Louise Arbour
Deeply concerned by the recent violence and loss of life in Uzbekistan’s eastern city of Andijan, the top United Nations human rights official is urging that an independent investigation be conducted to look into the causes and circumstances of the incidents.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour pointed to disturbing reports from the region telling of indiscriminate and excessive use of force by law enforcement officials, followed by the imposition of restrictions on local and foreign media.

A statement issued yesterday in Geneva said the High Commissioner also urges the authorities to adhere strictly to the Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials and to guarantee the rights Uzbekistan has pledged to uphold under international law, including the freedoms of assembly and expression.