UN ‘disturbed’ at alleged rights abuses by politicians in former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said today that it is deeply concerned about the prolonged political impasse in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and its human rights implications.

Spokesperson Cécile Pouilly told reporters in Geneva that OHCHR is “particularly disturbed” by the contents of recently published taped conversations that would seem to incriminate senior officials in a number of apparent human rights violations, including election fraud, harassment, interference with the judiciary and the mass media, as well as mass surveillance. It is also concerned about espionage accusations directed against the head of the largest opposition party.

“We call upon the authorities to launch a prompt, independent, thorough and impartial investigation into all allegations of wrongdoing, regardless of their source, and to ensure that the results are made public,” said Ms. Pouilly.

“We also urge the authorities to ensure accountability for any breach of the rule of law or human rights violation revealed by such an investigation. This would help reinforce public confidence in State institutions.”

She added that in the current uncertain political environment, guarantees of the independence of the judiciary were especially important, as was respect for the rule of law, freedom of the press and international standards of fair trial and due process.

OHCHR called on all parties to exercise restraint and to engage in a meaningful dialogue aimed at resolving the political crisis in a way that will ensure full respect for human rights.