U.S. OFFICIAL'S REMARKS ON ALLOWING ARTISTIC EXPRESSION

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 
Opening Remarks at Screening of Film Leaving Fear Behind
Remarks
Sarah Sewall
Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights 
George Marshall Auditorium
Washington, DC
December 11, 2014

Good morning. Happy Human Rights Day. To our guests, welcome to the State Department.

This is the holiday season. One of our holiday traditions is going to the movies with friends and families. Or perhaps these days, streaming them into our living rooms.

We will watch comedy films that entertain us, action films that thrill us, and documentary films that inspire us. We are fortunate to live in a country where such variety of content is widely available, and where artistic expression is cherished and allowed to flourish.

Sadly, this is not the case everywhere. In too many countries, censorship regimes limit citizens’ access to creative works. In such places, being a film-maker can be risky. Making a film can land you in jail.

Yesterday, we celebrated the Human Rights Day. As Secretary Kerry said, “we live at a time when democratic principles and respect for human rights have greater reach than at any previous time in history. This is due not simply to what governments have done, but to what people around the world have done to elevate, monitor, and enforce human rights standards.”

And yesterday was also the 25th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize being awarded to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

To mark this occasion, I am pleased to join with the Bureaus of East Asian and Pacific Affairs and Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, to offer this screening of “Leaving Fear Behind” by filmmaker Dhondup Wangchen.

In 2008, Dhondup traveled around Tibet to interview fellow Tibetans about their hopes, aspirations and fears in the lead-up to the Beijing Olympics. He knew that documenting these voices would put him at risk. Just before authorities detained him, he was able to smuggle his footage out, where associates edited the final film.

Following release of the film, Dhondup Wangchen was given a six-year prison sentence for “inciting separatism.” He was released on June 5, 2014, but has not been permitted to travel outside of China to reunite with his family.

Dhondup Wangchen has won numerous international awards for his work including the 2012 International Press Freedom Award of the Committee to Protect Journalists, and the 2014 Václav Havel International Prize for Creative Dissent.

Last month, I was fortunate to meet with Dhondup’s parents in Dharamsala, India. They are humble people, and spoke of their longing to see their son in freedom. I also met with Jigme Gyatso, a Tibetan monk who helped Dhondup in the making of “Leaving Fear Behind.” He spent much of the last six years in detention and then went into hiding to avoid further arrest. He arrived in exile earlier this year.

As Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, I reiterate the call for Dhondup to be allowed to reunite with his family. Now, I am pleased to introduce his wife, Lhamo Tso, who lives in San Francisco with their four children, who will join us by teleconference.

Llamo Tso has been a tireless champion for her husband for the last six years. She has accepted numerous awards on his behalf. Lhamo Tso, we welcome your remarks.

U.S. PRESS STATEMENT ON TREATMENT OF AZERBAIJAN PRISONER LEYLA YUNUS

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Detention of Human Rights Defender Leyla Yunus

Press Statement

Jen Psaki

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

October 15, 2014

The United States is alarmed that human rights defender Leyla Yunus remains in pre-trial detention in Azerbaijan, without access to necessary medical care, despite her deteriorating health. We are also especially concerned about continued threats to Leyla Yunus’ physical security. On humanitarian grounds, we urge the Government of Azerbaijan to immediately grant Leyla Yunus access to independent medical evaluation and care, security, and improved conditions. We also urge the Government of Azerbaijan to respect the rule of law and to release those incarcerated for exercising fundamental freedoms, starting with those with serious medical conditions. This would include Leyla and her husband Arif, whose deteriorating health make their release particularly urgent. It is in Azerbaijan’s interest to ensure that its citizens are afforded the dignity, human rights, and fundamental freedoms to which all citizens are entitled under Azerbaijan’s international obligations.

HAGEL MEETS WITH WESTERN DEFENSE LEADERS

FROM:  THE DEFENSE DEPARTMENT

Right:  Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel hosts a news conference following a tour of the Compania de Jesus Church in Arequipa, Peru, during the Conference of the Defense Ministers of the Americas, Oct. 13, 2014. DoD photo by Air Force Master Sgt. Adrian Cadiz.

Hagel Meets with Western Hemisphere Defense Ministers in Peru
By Claudette Roulo
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Oct. 14, 2014 – The Conference of the Defense Ministers of the Americas, which began yesterday in Arequipa, Peru, provides a forum for the defense ministers from 34 nations to discuss their common interests.

Yesterday’s plenary session was particularly significant, Hagel told reporters, as it was an opportunity “to hear from ministers on different points of view regarding different challenges and opportunities in a more formal setting.”

Following the full session, the defense secretary held bilateral discussions with some of his counterparts, where they “were able to talk more specifically about some of the challenges that we face bilaterally, as well as multilaterally,” he said.
The Conference of Defense Ministers of the Americas was created in 1995 to increase defense and security cooperation across the Western Hemisphere. The meeting serves as a venue for discussions on confidence- and security-building measures, peace support operations, civil-military relations and emerging threats such as transnational organized crime and terrorism, according to the conference’s website.

“The importance of the Western Hemisphere to the world as represented by so many different cultures and ideas and values is important to recognize at a time when the world is undergoing an extensive challenge to its present world order,” the defense secretary said.

All countries and all people deserve support in their efforts to guarantee human rights and dignity -- whether they struggle for themselves or for others -- Hagel said. “At the same time we also are mindful of some of the manmade and natural disasters and threats that face our world today,” he added.

SECRETARY KERRY MAKES REMARKS WITH VIETNAMESE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND FOREIGN MINISTER MINH

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT  

Remarks With Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh Before Their Meeting

Remarks

John Kerry

Secretary of State

Benjamin Franklin Room

Washington, DC

October 2, 2014

SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you. Well, good morning, everybody. It’s my distinct pleasure to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh, who I have known for many, many years. I first met him when he was a student in Boston at Tufts University, Fletcher, and we’ve seen each other many times since in my journeys to Vietnam and in his work over here.

It’s fair to say that in the first year of our comprehensive partnership, we have now made significant progress on the civilian 123 nuclear program, on the Proliferation Security Agreement, as well as on economic and other issues that are important to both of our countries.

And we still have things that we’re working on. One of the things that we want to try to conclude is the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, and Vietnam is working very hard with us in order to be able to do that. We continue to talk about issues in the bilateral relationship – human rights, economic development, private company ability to be able to do business. These are all important things. And I look forward to a good discussion today, and I’m delighted to welcome Pham Binh Minh here to have this dialogue.

Thank you. Thank you, sir.

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER MINH: Thank you very much.

SECRETARY KERRY: Want to say anything?

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER MINH: Good morning. Thank you, Mr. Secretary, for inviting me to visit officially the United States. Since the establishment of the comprehensive partnership, we have recorded many achievements in all fields – economic, political, security, defense, and other areas.

So I come to United States today to meet and to work with U.S. colleagues to review the bilateral relations between the two countries. I’m looking forward to have the fruitful discussions on bilateral issues, how to deepen our relation, and also discuss the regional and international issues of our mutual interest. Thank you.

SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you, sir, very much. Thank you. Thank you all very much.

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER MINH: Thank you.

SECRETARY KERRY'S REMARKS REGARDING HUMAN RIGHTS IN NORTH KOREA

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Remarks at Event on Human Rights in the D.P.R.K.

Remarks

John Kerry

Secretary of State

Waldorf-Astoria

New York City, DC

September 23, 2014

Thank you very much, Ambassador King, and I want to thank Assistant Secretary Tom Malinowski for bringing us together today with Danny Russel. And I’m particularly grateful to our fellow ministers and diplomatic corps for being here today, and particularly grateful to my colleagues, the Foreign Minister of Japan, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea, for being here to share in this, and Prince Zeid also, whose leadership is so important on it.

We are here today to really confront some of the most urgent issues of conscience, and policymaking is often marked by complicated decisions, by close calls. But some things remain crystal clear: Barbarity, inhumanity – I think you can call it evil – we all recognize still exist. And in the challenges that we’re facing in the Middle East right now, that has been underscored in the last days. We simply cannot be blind to these egregious affronts to human nature and we cannot accept it, and silence would be the greatest abuse of all.

What goes on inside North Korea – systematic repression, collective punishment, arbitrary execution, penal colonies, prison camps – these abuses are actually unfathomable to nearly the entire world, and they should have no place in the 21st century. North Korea’s leadership may act as if it is impervious to our concern, as if nothing that we say can penetrate its self-imposed isolation. And yet on some level, North Korea’s leaders do understand that their behavior brings shame upon their country in the eyes of the world. Why else would Pyongyang go to such extraordinary lengths to keep their prison camps secret? Why else would they refuse to allow access to the Red Cross, the UN, and the international NGOs, or dismiss out of hand horrific accounts provided by defectors as mere propaganda?

Well, in many ways now, the veil has been truly lifted. No longer can North Korea’s secrecy be seen as an excuse for silence or ignorance or inaction, because in 400 pages of excruciating detail and testimony from over 80 witnesses, the UN Commission of Inquiry’s report on the DPRK has laid bare what it rightly calls systematic, widespread, and grave violations of human rights. Thousands upon thousands of North Korea’s citizens are being robbed of their dignity and stripped of their humanity in penal colonies, if they are lucky enough to survive at all. Torture and forced abortions are routine. And the sentencing of Americans to labor camps without a trial – a fair trial – is as unjust as it is reprehensible.

So today, many nations come together with one voice. To the tens of thousands who are suffering in Yodok, Hwasong, Kaechon, and in prison camps across North Korea, we say, “You may be hidden, but we can see you. We know you’re there. Your captors can silence your voice and assault your dignity, but they cannot deny your basic humanity.” And we have someone with us today who you will meet shortly whose life story proves that to be true.

We should all ask ourselves if we who are free, we who have the extraordinary privilege of coming together in a way like this today, if we don’t stand with men and women suffering in anonymity in places like North Korea, then what do we stand for? And if we don’t give voice to the voiceless, then why even bother to speak about these issues?

So we say to the North Korean Government, all of us here today: You should close those camps. You should shut this evil system down. As the Commission of Inquiry report concludes, “The gravity, scale, and nature of these violations reveal a state that does not have any parallel in the contemporary world.” And the commission makes a set of clear recommendations to the DPRK Government. Some are as simple as acknowledging its abuses and holding those responsible to account. Others involve reforming the basic institutions of society.

The United States looks forward to working with the European Union, Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and other nations on a strong UN resolution that carries these recommendations forward. And I want to thank High Commissioner for Human Rights Prince Zeid and former Justice of the High Court of Australia Mr. Michael Kirby, who chaired the commission. Let me also recognize the extraordinary work of the Australian Government. My friend, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, who is here, for helping to ensure the UN report gets the attention that it deserves.

And finally, I want to thank my counterpart from the Republic of Korea, Minister Yun Byung-se, for his country’s commitment to host a High Commission Field Office that will serve as our eyes and ears to North Korea’s injustice. And of course, I thank the Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida for lending his strong, important voice to this cause.

But most of all, I want to thank Shin Dong-hyuk for being here with us today. Shin was born in a North Korean prison camp. At a young age, Shin was forced to watch executions, to eat frogs and rodents to survive, and to endure having part of a finger cut off as a punishment. He spent the first 23 years of his life living this way. And by recounting his experiences of brutality and humanity, he makes witnesses of us all.

But Shin is far more than a survivor of unconscionable cruelty. In his escape from such remarkable evil, from a nightmare that few of us could even imagine, he is also a source of inspiration and hope. There is no easy solution to this challenge, but none of us have a right to lose hope because the people in those camps don’t. We must stay persistent in standing up for our most fundamental values whenever and wherever they are threatened. That is the only way we can achieve the transformation that is imperative.

Shin, thank you for bearing witness to that truth and for being here with us today, and we look forward to hearing your comments. Thank you. (Applause.)

SECRETARY KERRY'S STATEMENT ON SENTENCING IN CHINA OF HUMAN RIGHTS PROMOTER

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Conviction and Sentencing of Ilham Tohti

Press Statement

John Kerry

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

September 23, 2014

The United States is deeply disturbed that Ilham Tohti has been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Peaceful dissent is not a crime.

This harsh sentence appears to be retribution for Professor Tohti’s peaceful efforts to promote human rights for China’s ethnic Uighur citizens.

Ilham Tohti is known to the world for his many years working to foster mutual understanding, tolerance, and dialogue to peacefully promote harmony and unity between Uighurs and Han Chinese. His detention silenced an important moderate Uighur voice.

Mr. Tohti and those like him are indispensable in helping to resolve the underlying causes of unrest and violence. Silencing them can only make tensions worse.

I have raised Professor Tohti’s case repeatedly, including during the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue in July. Ambassador Baucus reiterated our calls for Professor Tohti’s release just last week during his visit to Xinjiang. And we again urge the Chinese authorities to release Professor Tohti, as well as his students who remain in detention.

They deserve the protections and freedoms to which they are entitled under China’s international human rights commitments and its own constitution.

Differentiating between peaceful dissent and violent extremism is vital to any effective efforts to counter terrorism.

U.S. STATEMENT ON SUDAN'S COURT DECISION TO FREE MERIAM YAHYA IBRAHIM ISHAG

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

U.S. Welcomes Court Ruling to Free Meriam Yahya Ibrahim Ishag

Press Statement

John Kerry

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 23, 2014

---

We obviously welcome the decision by the Sudanese Appeals Court to order the release of Ms. Meriam Yahya Ibrahim Ishag. Her case has rightly drawn the attention of the world and has been of deep concern to the United States Government and many of our citizens and their representatives in Congress.

Nothing can bring the lost moments back to a mother and her children, but today we celebrate the reunification of this family. From this step, we would hope that the Government of Sudan could take further strides toward a different and more hopeful future for the people of Sudan.
We continue to urge Sudan to repeal its laws that are inconsistent with its 2005 Interim Constitution, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. These actions would help demonstrate to the Sudanese people that their government intends to respect their fundamental freedoms and universal human rights.

U.S. CONDEMNS IMPRISONMENT OF MERIAM ISHAG

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

U.S. Condemns Sudanese Conviction and Continued Imprisonment of Meriam Ishag

Remarks

John Kerry

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 12, 2014

---

 

The United States remains deeply concerned about the conviction and continued imprisonment of Ms. Meriam Yahya Ibrahim Ishag.

 

Sudan’s journey has long been a struggle, and back when I was still a United States Senator, I traveled to the region many times to help find greater understanding and hope for a different kind of future. As Secretary, I remain deeply committed to the country and its people. That is one of the reasons we are all so concerned about the travails of Meriam Yahya Ibrahim Ishag.

 

Ms. Ishag is the mother of two young children. She and the children should be reunited at home with her family rather than held in prison on charges of apostasy. I urge the Sudanese judiciary and government to respect Ms. Ishag’s fundamental right to freedom of religion. I also urge Sudan to repeal its laws that are inconsistent with its 2005 Interim Constitution, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Such actions would help to demonstrate to the Sudanese people that their government intends to respect their fundamental freedoms and universal human rights.

SECRETARY KERRY'S REMARKS ON "WORLD DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOR"

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

World Day Against Child Labor

Press Statement

John Kerry

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 12, 2014

---

The International Labor Organization has declared June 12, World Day Against Child Labor.
As a father and grandfather, I know there is no feeling like any other than to hold your child or grandchild for the first time. No parent should ever have to look at a tiny infant and fear that one day that child would be a victim of exploitative child labor. No grandparent should ever fear that they will lose their grandchild to a sweatshop. But that’s precisely the reality today for millions the world over.

Just think about it: roughly 168 million boys and girls throughout the world are involved in child labor. That exceeds the entire population of Russia. More than half of these children are laboring in hazardous conditions – sewing shirts in cramped factories, seeding and harvesting cotton fields in oppressive heat, or forced to carry a rifle in a war they don’t understand. Many never get to attend school, adult responsibilities are forced on them at a young age, and many more are forced to grow up too fast, simply to help provide for their families. Combating these challenges is a major focus of the State Department’s mission. If we’re going to break the chains of poverty and abuse that make children so vulnerable, then we must promote internationally recognized worker rights.

That’s why we use our annual reports, including the Human Rights Report and Trafficking in Persons Report, to bring these critical issues to light. It’s why we work with other government agencies and our partner countries to empower civil society with tools that make a difference for children and their families. And it’s why this year we support the ILO in focusing on social protection as a way to keep children in school and out of the workplace.

U.S. FACTSHEET: PROMOTING PEACE IN BURMA

Description:  Map of Burma.  U.S. State Department Image. 

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Promoting Peace in Burma

Fact Sheet

Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations

May 30, 2014

Opportunity

Changes in Burma provide an opening for investment, promoting human rights, and political and economic reform. These opportunities hinge on building an inclusive political system where parties use dialogue, not violence, to address ethnic identity and reconciliation issues. Longstanding conflicts between the central government and ethnic minorities as well as recent flare-ups of communal violence in areas such as Rakhine State threaten a lasting peace. The U.S. government can help break cycles of violence, particularly in high-risk ethnic minority strongholds, to advance national reconciliation and a lasting political solution between the Government of Burma and diverse ethnic and religious groups.

How CSO Works

CSO supports Department of State conflict prevention and crisis response efforts through locally grounded analysis, strategic planning, and operational support for local partners. CSO deploys civilian talent at the subnational level to catalyze local efforts to build civilian security and connect program implementation to policymaking.


ObjectivesCSO in Burma 

In Burma, CSO officers provide conflict and reconciliation expertise to Embassy Rangoon, focusing particularly on Rakhine State, trust-building through humanitarian mine action, and the peace process. In Washington, a CSO team advises the Department of State on Burma’s peace and reconciliation processes as well as on local conflict.

Support efforts to reduce violence and build community relations, especially in Rakhine State.

Build trust between ethnic groups and the government through issues of common concern, including landmines.

Empower civil society to participate more fully in peace-related initiatives.
U.S. Support for Violence Reduction: CSO contributes to U.S. efforts to reduce violence and strengthen community relations.

Increase U.S. Government understanding of ethnic minority groups’ priorities and concerns. CSO helps the Embassy sharpen U.S. understanding of states facing ethnic armed conflict, increase engagement and trust with ethnic nationalities, and demonstrate U.S. support for the vulnerable, particularly in Rakhine State.
Help shape U.S. Government approaches that support Embassy Rangoon’s mission goals. CSO’s conflict analysis, strategic planning, and violence prevention recommendations are incorporated into post’s approaches.

Facilitate donor and diplomatic coordination. CSO helped establish regular donor meetings to coordinate humanitarian mine action and reinforce conflict-sensitive approaches.

Build Trust: The government, army, civil society, and ethnic minorities share a common interest in reducing the number of landmines. CSO supports the Department of State’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs and Embassy efforts to use mine-risk education and survivor assistance to build trust and support positive interactions between civilians and the military in ethnic states.

Build momentum for mine risk education and survivor assistance as a trust-building tool.

In coordination with the Kayah State government and armed groups, CSO is facilitating small grants to community-based organizations so they can identify and develop landmine-related projects.

In May 2013, CSO convened Burmese Government officials, armed groups, and civil society in Kayah State to build broader community dialogue around mine action.

In May 2013, CSO organized a workshop for journalists to improve the accuracy of conflict coverage and cast mine action as a contributor to national reconciliation.

In an October 2012 speech, the U.S. Ambassador reinforced to mine action organizations and the Government of Burma that humanitarian mine action should be inclusive, conflict-sensitive, and coordinated.

Advance Mine Risk Education and Survivor Assistance. In cooperation with a number of Department of State and USAID offices, including the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs and the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, CSO facilitated the obligation of $3 million to build trust and strengthen civil society around mine risk education and survivor assistance.
Empower Civil Society:

Strengthen civil society’s ability to engage in peace-related initiatives. CSO helped organize a “TechCamp” in January 2014 to introduce local civil society, including members of ethnic minority groups, to new technologies that should strengthen their ability to mitigate conflict.

Empower women and marginalized groups. Through roundtables, CSO helped to advance gender equality and disabled people’s rights and inclusion in conflict resolution.

DEPUTY AG COLE'S SPEECH ON PRISON RAPE ELIMINATION ACT

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 

Deputy Attorney General James Cole Speaks at Press Conference Updating States’ Efforts to Comply with Prison Rape Elimination Act

Washington, D.C. ~ Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Hello everyone.  Thank you for joining us this afternoon to discuss the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and the work being done across the country to implement the National PREA Standards.

I’m joined by Mary Lou Leary, the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.  She and I will both make brief statements, and then we will take a few questions from you.

Let me start with some background on PREA.  PREA was passed, unanimously, by Congress and signed into law by then-President Bush in 2003.  PREA required, among other things, the development and promulgation of “national standards for the detection, prevention, reduction and punishment of prison rape.”  These standards, like the law mandating them, are intended to address a serious public safety, public health and human rights problem – the incidence of sexual violence in our nation’s confinement facilities.

According to our most recent research, an estimated 4 percent of state and federal prison inmates and 3.2 percent of jail inmates reported experiencing one or more incidents of sexual victimization by another inmate or a facility staff member within the previous 12 months.  Even more troubling, an estimated 9.5 percent of adjudicated youth in state juvenile facilities and state contract facilities reported sexual victimization in the previous 12 months.

These statistics are alarming and they are unacceptable.  No one should be subjected to sexual abuse while in the custody of our justice system.  It serves as a violation of fundamental rights, an attack on human dignity and runs contrary to everything we stand for as a nation.

To stem the tide, back in 2009, a bipartisan national commission submitted draft PREA standards to the Department of Justice.  We opened those standards to two rounds of public comment that generated more than 2,000 comments from members of the public and stakeholder groups – including justice system policymakers and practitioners, corrections professionals, and victim and inmate advocates.  In addition, the commission and the department held several public hearings to get feedback from corrections professionals and other constituent groups.  After incorporating many of the comments and input from the hearing, we issued the final standards in 2012.

The states and territories have since begun auditing their facilities for compliance with the standards, and the governors have been asked to submit certifications of compliance or assurances that they are working toward compliance.

This May 15th served as the deadline for state governors to indicate to the Department of Justice that their states and territories fully comply with the National PREA Standards or, in the alternative, that they will use a portion of certain department grant funds to work to achieve full compliance with the standards in the future.

The deadline for those certifications and assurances recently passed.  I’ll let Mary Lou discuss the responses in more detail, but I do wish to say that we were very encouraged.  Forty-six states and territories provided assurances that they will leverage a portion of grant funding to work toward achieving compliance.  Two states – New Hampshire and New Jersey – certified that they are in full compliance.  It’s clear that states and territories are taking this issue seriously and that addressing sexual abuse in confinement facilities is a high nationwide priority.

We know that there are real challenges associated with compliance.  In that regard, the department is fully committed to working closely with the states and territories to help them meet their PREA responsibilities.

For instance, we’ve put into place a number of resources to aid corrections directors and staff, jail administrators, sheriffs, those who oversee and work in juvenile facilities and others.  Since 2010, we’ve made almost 100 awards totaling over $22 million to support state and local jurisdictions in creating zero-tolerance cultures for sexual abuse in confinement facilities.  And we established the PREA Resource Center to provide training and intensive technical assistance to justice system actors and victim advocates on a broad range of issues related to PREA.

While we are encouraged by the responses from the states and territories working actively toward compliance, I must be clear that the jurisdictions that do not comply with the standards – of which there are eight – will be held accountable, as we are required to do by law.

We will continue to work to provide all jurisdictions with the assistance they need to come into compliance.  We expect that the commitment to ending sexual violence in our nation’s confinement facilities – voiced by so many of our nation’s governors – will be reflected not by their words alone, but in the action they take.

The enactment of PREA 11 years ago signaled an unequivocal rejection of the outdated – and morally unconscionable – acceptance of rape as part of the sentence being served by an adult or juvenile in the American correctional system.  The PREA standards have lead us closer to ending the culture of violence in our nation’s prisons, jails, and juvenile facilities.  Going forward, we will continue to help the states and territories work to ensure that their correctional facilities are safe and live up to the standards we’ve set.

I’d now like to let Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mary Lou Leary provide you with details about what OJP has learned from the governors, and OJP’s next steps to assist with compliance.

PRESIDENT OBAMA, PRESIDENT MUJICA OF URUGUAY MAKE REMARKS BEFORE MEETING

FROM:  THE WHITE HOUSE PRESIDENT 

Remarks by President Obama and President Mujica of Uruguay Before Bilateral Meeting

Oval Office

11:06 A.M. EDT

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  I want to welcome President Mujica and his delegation to the Oval Office.  I have had the pleasure on several occasions of having discussions with President Mujica, and have been consistently impressed with the progress that Uruguay has been making under his presidency.

The United States and Uruguay has developed a strong relationship across a wide spectrum of issues.  Our trade and commerce has expanded significantly.  On the international front, we are very grateful that Uruguay is one of the largest contributors to U.N. peacekeeping in places like Haiti and Africa, and has been responsible for helping to facilitate peace in some very volatile regions.

President Mujica personally has extraordinary credibility when it comes to issues of democracy and human rights given his strong values and personal history, and is a leader on these issues throughout the hemisphere.  And we share an interest in strengthening further the people-to-people bonds between our two countries, particularly around the issues of science, technology and education.

So this gives us an opportunity to find ways that we can further deepen this relationship.  We both think that there’s room for additional work to expand trade and commerce between our countries.  We want to see if we can expand exchanges, particularly for teachers and students.  I want to hear from President Mujica additional ideas of how we can strengthen the broad trends of democratization and human rights in the hemisphere.

And we have a shared interest in social inclusion.  Economically and socially, in both Uruguay and the United States, we have a potential great strength of a diverse population, and we want to exchange ideas about how we can make sure that our societies are open and benefiting all people and not just some.

So I very much appreciate the President’s visit, although I will say the first thing he said to me was that my hair has become much grayer since the last time he saw me.  (Laughter.) 
Welcome. 

PRESIDENT MUJICA:  (As interpreted.)  Thank you.  First let me recognize the American people and its institutions that are represented by you, Mr. President Obama.

We live in the south.  We have a soul of the south.  We belong to a continent where our mother tongue is more or less Spanish.  And we live in a time where we need to learn English  -- yes or yes.  And you will have to become a bilingual country -- yes or yes.  Because the strength of Latin women is admirable and they will fill this country with people who speak Spanish and Portuguese, too.

We have been looking toward everywhere, but towards ourselves a bit also.  And from the humbleness of my little Uruguay, my people, who are there amongst an enormous area of fertile and much water, come here to seek out knowledge and research in all groups of the biological sciences, particularly in land that require local research, because the continent must produce much food for the world.  And besides, this is the most advanced country in the world for biological sciences, but we don't want to merely send students out because they get married -- (laughter) -- and the American corporations pay more money, so we lose these qualified people.  We have to bring teachers so then can come, but we need to make arrangements so that they can continue to contribute to Social Security here.  Wisdom must be looked for there where it is.

And I must tell you that in Germany I asked the same thing from Mrs. Merkel, and with the efficiency that Germans have she set up a plan for 10,000 qualified retirees that are on call to spend some time and convey knowledge.  And that I believe that in the long term that's worth much more than money, everything that is being asked for.  We must fight to get our children in the new generation’s new capacities, new knowledge.  And that is going to be the best way to spread freedom, independence, rights.

Mr. President, who is speaking is an old smoker.  But in the world, per year, 8 million people are dying from smoking.  And that is more than World War I, World War II.  It’s murder.  We are in an arduous fight -- very arduous -- and we must fight against very strong interests.  Governments must not be involved in private litigation, but here we're fighting for life.  And nobody must be distracted in this fight for life, because out of all values, the most important one is life itself.

Well, thank you.  I'm wholeheartedly grateful.  And I am getting old, and to be old means you don't want to leave home.  I would like to be a little bit younger to see Mississippi, know the ranches -- in Los Angeles, the milk farms, other things.  But please convey a hug -- I embrace all agriculturalists of this nation. 

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  All right.  Thank you. 

Thank you, everybody.

END   
11:20 A.M. EDT

U.S. EXTENDS WARM WISHES TO PEOPLE OF POLAND ON THEIR CONSTITUTION DAY

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 
On the Occasion of Poland's Constitution Day
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
May 1, 2014

On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I extend warm wishes to the people of Poland on the 223rd anniversary of your constitution on May 3.

I had the privilege of traveling to Poland as Secretary of State in November. I’ll never forget standing at the gravesite of former Prime Minister Mazowiecki. It was deeply moving to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of the United States in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the cause of freedom and human rights.

The United States and Poland share a remarkable history. It’s been well over two centuries since George Washington and Casimir Pulaski stood side by side as America was struggling for freedom. And it’s safe to say that our two countries have stood side by side ever since.

Today, Poland is a model of successful democratic transition for many nations and a powerful reminder that investment in democratic institutions creates the conditions for prosperity. We especially appreciate Poland’s support for the people of Ukraine as they move forward on constitutional reform and elections.

As NATO Allies, the U.S.-Poland security partnership is stronger than ever. U.S. and Polish forces train together in Poland and our troops fight together in Afghanistan. As I said during my visit to Poland last year, our strategic partnership remains strong and the U.S. supports Poland’s defense modernization.

As you celebrate Constitution Day, we offer the people of Poland our warmest wishes and look forward to strengthening the Polish-American relationship in the years to come.

READOUT: NSA ADVISER RICE'S MEETING WITH MALAYSIAN OPPOSITION LEADERS

FROM:  THE WHITE HOUSE 

April 28, 2014

Readout of National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice's Meeting with Malaysian Opposition Leaders

Today, National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice met with three top leaders of the Malaysian political opposition to hear their views on the situation in Malaysia and their efforts to press for greater democracy, transparency, and reform.  Ambassador Rice underscored that the President's historic visit to Malaysia has been an important opportunity to continue the transformation of the relationship between our two countries--but that even as we deepen our cooperation with the Malaysian government, we are looking to expand our engagement with all of Malaysia, including civil society, industry, students, and participants from across the political spectrum.

Ambassador Rice reiterated the President's message that countries that welcome the contributions, and uphold the human rights of all their citizens, regardless of their political affiliation, ethnicity, race or religion are ultimately more prosperous and more successful. She also shared the United States' view that it is critical for Malaysia to apply the rule of law fairly, transparently, and apolitically in order to promote confidence in Malaysia’s democracy and judiciary.

Ambassador Rice emphasized to Mr. Anwar that the United States has followed his case closely, and that the decision to prosecute him and the trial have raised a number of concerns regarding the rule of law and the independence of the courts.

Ambassador Rice told the opposition leaders  that the United States will continue to raise our concerns about issues of political freedom,  the basic universal rights of freedom of expression, freedom of association, and religious liberty--as well as the need to respect and protect the rights of all people, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.

Finally, Ambassador Rice conveyed deep condolences on the passing of democracy and civil rights activist Mr. Karpal Singh.

Participants:

Anwar Ibrahim (Mr. Anwar), Leader of the Opposition, chairman of the People’s Justice Party
Lim Guan Eng (Mr. Lim), Leader of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) and opposition Member of Parliament
Mustafa Ali (Mr. Mustafa), Secretary General of the Pan-Malaysia Islamic Party (PAS) and opposition Member of Parliament
Pictures of the meeting can be found HERE and HERE

U.S. CONGRATULATES PEOPLE OF SENEGAL ON THEIR INDEPENDENCE DAY

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT

On the Occasion of the Republic of Senegal's National Day

Press Statement

John Kerry
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

April 3, 2014

---

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Senegal on the 54^th anniversary of your nation’s independence on April 4.

The legacy of progress in Africa is extraordinary. There are struggles, but there’s also greater freedom and greater development than ever before. It’s more than fair to say that Senegal is at the heart of that transformation.

The friendship between our nations is based on a shared commitment to democratic values, the rule of law, and economic development. Together, we are improving global security through our support for peacekeeping efforts. We also remain steadfast in working closely with Senegal on human rights, trade, and maritime security.

Senegal is a democratic leader in West Africa. Your commitment to human rights, responsive public institutions, economic growth, and regional stability will continue to serve as a model for peace and prosperity in the Casamance.

I wish all Senegalese a healthy, joyful, and festive celebration. The United States looks forward to building on our strong partnership in the years to come.

SECRETARY KERRY'S REMARKS WITH DUTCH FOREIGN MINISTER TIMMERMANS

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Remarks With Dutch Foreign Minister Frans Timmermans

Remarks

John Kerry
Secretary of State

Deputy Chief of Mission Residence

The Hague, Netherlands

March 24, 2014

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SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you. Frans, thank you.

FOREIGN MINISTER TIMMERMANS: Thank you, Mr. Secretary.

SECRETARY KERRY: Nice to see you again. I’m happy to see you – very very much so.

FOREIGN MINISTER TIMMERMANS: Absolutely.

SECRETARY KERRY: Let me say how very grateful we are to The Netherlands for hosting the nuclear summit, and I am particularly grateful to Frans for his friendship and for the extraordinary efforts of The Netherlands with respect to human rights, freedom, standing up on Ukraine, a partner in so many different respects. We’re very, very grateful for that.
We also recognize that The Netherlands is the third-largest investor in the United States, responsible for some 700,000 jobs in our country, a great friend, and also importantly, a helpful advocate for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, which we all recognize will help lift our countries economically.

So we’re really delighted to be here with you and thank you very much for a generous welcome.

FOREIGN MINISTER TIMMERMANS: Well, thank you very much for attending. And I have to say you have shown us great leadership on Syria, on the Middle East peace process, on Ukraine, all these things that preoccupy foreign ministers, you’re the leader of the pack in terms of our values, in terms of where we want to go, and in terms of the solutions we want to bring to the table. And I believe we from The Netherlands, the European Union, and the United States – we need to stand together in this period of great challenges to the international system. Especially on Ukraine, I believe we have the great responsibility to break with the logic that you
can change borders by military means if you don’t agree with the policy of our government.
SECRETARY KERRY: Couldn’t agree more. Thank you, Frans.

FOREIGN MINISTER TIMMERMANS: Thank you very much.

SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you for your hospitality. Thank you. Thank you all very much, appreciate it.

ATTORNEY GENERAL HOLDER'S REMARKS TO PARLIAMENT OF SWEDEN

FROM:  JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Attorney General Eric Holder Delivers Remarks at the Parliament of Sweden
~ Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Thank you, Minister [Birgitta] Ohlsson, for those kind words – and thank you all for such a warm welcome.  First Deputy Speaker [Suzanne] Eberstein; Deputy Secretary General Claes Martensson; Ambassador [Mark] Brzezinski; honorable members of Parliament; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; and future leaders of this great country – it is a privilege, and a great pleasure, to be with you today in this beautiful city.

I would like to thank the government of the Kingdom of Sweden for your hospitality during my visit.  And I’d like to thank all of the leaders and the citizens of this country – both in and far beyond this room – for their commitment, their dedication, and their steadfast partnership with the United States and other leading democracies in confronting the most pressing challenges of our time.

In every corner of the globe, Sweden is recognized as a champion of human rights.  You stand at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change and increase energy efficiency.  And you – and your fellow members of the European Union – are moving in a variety of ways to bolster the institutions of democracy in Eastern Europe, to expand transatlantic trade, and to provide critical developmental assistance and other support to stop the spread of infectious diseases like AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.  The fact that Sweden is America’s primary development assistance partner in the world speaks volumes about your awareness of the importance of sharing.  America and Sweden today share not only common values, but also an awareness of common responsibilities for humanity’s future.

From the districts and villages of Afghanistan, to the towns and refugee camps of Syria; from the offices of the United Nations, to the chambers of this Parliament – your partnerships with other nations, including the United States; your leadership of the international community; and your vital military, humanitarian, and diplomatic contributions – are delivering not just hope for a better future, but tangible progress toward the safer and more inclusive world we seek for ourselves and our citizens.

Throughout my tenure as Attorney General of the United States, I have repeatedly seen the significant, positive difference that Swedish engagement brings to the international stage.  I’ve had opportunities to work closely with key leaders from Sweden to reinforce – and to enhance – cooperation to combat terrorism; to crack down on transnational organized crime; to fight against human trafficking; and to root out the scourge of corruption.  Today, I am proud to stand with you once again in strengthening the ties that bind our nations together.  And I am grateful for your enduring commitment to work with my colleagues in the American government to foster renewed and widespread consensus on the need for collective action in the face of shared challenges.

As President Obama said during his stay here in September – on the first-ever bilateral visit by a United States President to Sweden – “We share a belief in the dignity and equality of every human being; that our daughters deserve the same opportunities as our sons; that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters must be treated equally under the law; that our societies are strengthened by diversity.”

“. . . [W]e stand,” he said, “for universal human rights, not only in America and Europe, but beyond, because we believe that when these rights are respected, nations are more successful and our world is safer and more just.”

We understand, in short, that the values that define our nations – values that give rise to dignity, equal opportunity, and justice for every segment of our people – are anything but novel concepts.  They are written into our nations’ founding documents.  They are etched into our pasts.  And they are woven throughout our histories.  They are part of our collective consciousness.  Over the centuries, they have inspired untold millions – seemingly ordinary, but all extraordinary – to stand up, and speak out, and even lay down their lives to improve the countries they love.

As a result – especially in recent decades – our nations have together made historic strides in the long march toward freedom and justice for all of our citizens.  And Sweden has in many respects led the way.  By enacting parental leave laws in the 1970s, members of this Parliament enabled mothers and fathers to share fully in the lives of their young children.  By adopting and strengthening workplace nondiscrimination legislation over the course of the last three decades, you’ve allowed people of all backgrounds, genders, and ethnic origins to contribute to the success and prosperity of this nation.

By passing the Discrimination Act of 2008, you’ve freed countless people to achieve whatever their dreams, their talents, and their own hard work will allow – without fear of discrimination on the basis of sex, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, age, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation.  By becoming the seventh nation in the world to extend the right to marry to gay and lesbian couples, you’ve stabilized families and expanded individual liberty.  And by building on Sweden’s remarkable history as a safe haven for the oppressed and the persecuted – including the thousands of Jewish migrants who were granted asylum here in and around the time of the Second World War and, in more recent years, those who have come from some of the world’s most troubled regions – you’ve shown that, although it is seldom easy, it is both noble and, more importantly, right to fight the short term comfort of indifference; to welcome those who flee from persecution; and to shelter those who struggle to survive in the lands where they were born.

As we’ve seen in the United States – throughout our history – these and other markers of progress do not come without trials of their own.  Over the years, they’ve tested your institutions and your citizens, just as similar advances have tested ours.  They’ve demanded levels of understanding and acceptance that may come slowly to individual communities and courts of law – just as we’ve witnessed across the United States.  But through years of struggle and sacrifice – by consistently choosing understanding over fear, diversity over intolerance, and inclusion over division – these advancements and many others have brought our respective nations closer to the democratic ideals and the cherished principles that have defined us for centuries, and that must continue to push us forward even today.

Over the last two and a quarter centuries, the United States has confronted the evils of slavery and racial segregation.  We have expanded the voting franchise to include people of color, women, and young people.  And this coming May, we will commemorate sixty years since the United States Supreme Court ordered an end to racial segregation in our public schools.

This landmark legal opinion was written by Chief Justice Earl Warren – one of the most distinguished jurists in our history, and a man of proud Swedish heritage.  The decision he forged helped ignite the modern Civil Rights movement, giving rise to the advancements that defined the 1960s and infusing generations of Americans with the energy – and the optimism – to bring about once-unimaginable progress.

From the Equal Pay Act of 1963, to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 – the resulting legal protections and institutional transformations forever altered the course of the 20th century for my country.  Pioneers like Rosa Parks; President John F. Kennedy; my predecessor as Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy; Medgar Evers; Thurgood Marshall; and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. helped build the fight for civil rights into a national movement and a shared moral crusade.  And countless passionate citizens and courageous young people like the Little Rock Nine – who, in 1957, braved bigotry and threats of violence to become the first African-American students to attend Little Rock Central High School, in Arkansas – and one of whom, Gloria Ray Karlmark, we are honored to have with us today – helped to open a new, but too long in coming, age of inclusion and opportunity.

Their achievements, and their stories, truly belong to the ages.  All of this progress has been remarkable.  All of it is worth celebrating.  But the reality is that our work – in the United States, in Sweden, and around the world – is far from over.  Now, more than ever, we need to be increasingly conscious of our interdependent responsibilities.  Progress is not inevitable. It is built by commitment, by hard work, and by sacrifice.

In every nation that has confronted difficult questions of human and civil rights, the echoes – and, in many cases, the direct effects – of past struggles remain all too apparent.  In so many ways, the promises of our respective Constitutions have yet to be fully realized.  Democracy rests on the rule of law, and democracies are strengthened when we work together.  This is particularly important as we move more deeply into the 21st century – a century characterized by opportunity, but also turbulence and discontinuity.  Our histories have led us here – to this moment.  And as we gather today, it’s clearer than ever before that – as President Obama said in his second Inaugural address – “Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love that we commit to one another must be equal as well.”

Just as our forebears came together to overcome tremendous adversity – and to forge the more just and more equal societies in which we now live – so, too, must the current generation rise to the causes that have become the struggles of our day; the defining civil rights challenges of our time.  I believe one of these struggles is the fight for equality for our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender – or LGBT – citizens.  And that is why my colleagues and I are working alongside leaders like you and people around the world to make a positive difference.  I am particularly impressed by the formulation that the United States Embassy in Stockholm used as it engaged in the annual Pride festival last July:  U.S. Embassy Stockholm is “anti-anti-gay.”

In 2010, the Obama Administration collaborated with the United States Congress to repeal the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, ensuring that those who courageously serve their country in uniform need no longer hide their sexual orientation.  Today, these brave men and women can live openly, honestly, and without fear of punishment.

Last year, Justice Department officials and other leaders helped to strengthen a law known as the “Violence Against Women Act” – by adding robust new protections for LGBT survivors of domestic abuse.  Today, these Americans have access to the same services as other survivors of partner violence, allowing them to get the help they desperately need.

And last June – in a historic decision known as United States v. Windsor – the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal government’s ban on recognizing gay couples who are legally married.  This marked a major victory for the cause of equal protection under U.S. law, and a significant step forward for committed and loving couples throughout the country.  Today, these couples and their families are one step closer to the equal treatment, and the full recognition, to which they, their loved ones, and their children are entitled.  And as we speak, my dedicated colleagues – led by the Justice Department’s Civil Division – are working tirelessly to implement this ruling in both letter and spirit – by expanding critical benefits like health insurance for federal employees in same-sex marriages; by ensuring equal treatment under tax and immigration laws; and by adjudicating visa applications for same-sex married couples on the same terms as applications for opposite-sex spouses.

At the same time, our Civil Rights Division is fighting to achieve justice for victims of hate crimes, and to safeguard those who are targeted just because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.  And countless Americans from all backgrounds and walks of life are proudly standing alongside Sweden and other democratic nations in calling for the protection of our LGBT citizens; in working to secure recognition for the equal love and equal humanity of all people; in supporting local advocates in other countries so they can bring about change from within; and in speaking out for the fundamental truth that no matter where you live, who you love, or who you are – whether you’re a public servant or a businessperson; an educator, a scientist, or an athlete competing at the highest level and on a world stage – every human being is, and must be, free and equal in both dignity and rights.

Neither tradition nor fear of change can absolve us of the obligation we share: to identify and eradicate discrimination in all its forms.  And although I am gratified to note that we have traveled a long way together along the path to inclusion and equality, no one can deny that the road ahead is paved with uncertainty or that a great deal of work remains to be done.

As we continue to move forward, we will undoubtedly encounter resistance and opposition both at home and around the world.  But as long as we keep learning from one another, supporting one another, and standing together as a community of nations, I believe that – if history is any guide – there is good reason for confidence in where our efforts will lead us from here.

Fifteen years ago next month, in his final days as the first democratically-elected President of South Africa, the late Nelson Mandela spoke in this august chamber to thank the people of Sweden for their support in ending apartheid.  It is worth remembering that Sweden was the first country outside Africa that Mandela visited after being released from an excruciating 27-year long imprisonment.  He reminded the world – in this very chamber – that “[t]he achievement of our goals depends also on others achieving the same goals.”  And he urged us to remember that, “In this modern world, whatever happens in one country has an impact elsewhere, even across the globe.”

Let us recommit ourselves – here and now – to the legacy of cooperation that brought President Mandela to Sweden that day.  Let us renew our enduring faith in the inherent dignity and value of every human being – a faith that has for generations driven Swedes and Americans and countless others to stand up for freedom throughout the world.  And let us celebrate the spirit of both friendship and partnership that has drawn our nations together over the years; that has united our citizens in the unrelenting pursuit of justice; and that must always shape our words, guide our deeds, and define our future progress.

I am proud to join you in pledging my own best efforts, and the commitment of the United States government, to keep advancing the cause of civil rights.  I am honored to count you as colleagues in this important work.  I thank you, once again, for your leadership in driving these efforts into the future.  Democracies are strengthened when we work together.  And I look forward to all that the United States and Sweden must and will achieve together in the months and years to come.

Thank you.

PRESS STATEMENT ON NEW TUNISIAN GOVERNMENT

FROM:  STATE DEPARTMENT 
Formation of New Tunisian Government
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
January 29, 2014

The ratification of a new democratic constitution and the installation of an independent government to lead the country towards new elections are historic milestones in Tunisia’s democratic transition.

Three years ago this month, Tunisians inspired the world when a brave fruit vendor sparked a revolution that set the country on a path to democracy. While Tunisia’s transition to democracy is not yet complete, these are very important steps. They are proof positive that Tunisia’s democratic transition can succeed.

Tunisia’s new constitution enshrines universal human rights for all Tunisians. It continues Tunisia’s long tradition of respect for the rights of women and minorities, and it will allow the Tunisian people to realize the aspirations they expressed during their revolution three years ago: democracy, rule of law, personal security, and economic opportunity.

The installation of a new, independent government under the leadership of Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa is an important step to ensure that the country has competent and non-partisan leadership during the period leading to the next election. I look forward to working with Prime Minister Jomaa and his colleagues during this critical period.

The United States also welcomes the establishment of the Independent Elections Commission, and we encourage the new government to move quickly to set a date for early elections so that Tunisian citizens can choose their new leaders and determine the country’s future. Just as men and women made their voices heard on the streets of Tunis, their voices must also be heard in the halls of government.

The United States will continue to support Tunisia’s transition to an enduring democracy in which the rights of all Tunisians are respected and protected.

BOSNIAN NATIONAL EXTRADITED TO STAND TRIAL IN BOSNIA

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Monday, June 3, 2013
Bosnian National Extradited to Stand Trial for Murder and Torture

The United States has extradited Sulejman Mujagic, a citizen of Bosnia and Herzegovina and a resident of Utica, N.Y., to stand trial in Bosnia for charges relating to the torture and murder of one prisoner of war and the torture of another during the armed conflict in Bosnia.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Mythili Raman of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Richard S. Hartunian of the Northern District of New York and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director John Morton made the announcement.

"This extradition is the result of close cooperation between the U.S. and Bosnian authorities to bring alleged perpetrators of war crimes and torture in Bosnia to justice," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Raman.

"Through the coordinated efforts of many law enforcement agencies and prosecutors, Sulejman Mujagic will stand trial in a Bosnian court for the alleged murder of an unarmed soldier and the torture of a second soldier," said U.S. Attorney Hartunian. "This case is a reflection of our steadfast commitment to support the rights of crime victims – wherever they are."

"For the families who lost loved ones during the Bosnian war, justice has been a long time coming, but they can take some comfort in knowing that those responsible for this tragedy are now being held accountable for their crimes," said ICE Director Morton. "I applaud the outstanding work by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents in upstate New York, ICE’s Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, and our partners at the Department of Justice and Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities. Thanks to their efforts, Sulejman Mujagic will now face justice for his actions. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure our country does not serve as a safe haven for human rights violators and others who have committed heinous acts."

Mujagic is being extradited to Bosnia to be tried for war crimes committed on or about March 6, 1995, during the armed conflict that followed the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. Bosnia has alleged that Mujagic, then a platoon commander in the Army of the Autonomous Province of Western Bosnia, summarily tortured and executed a disarmed Bosnian Army soldier and tortured a second soldier after the two prisoners had been captured by Mujagic and his men.

In response to the Bosnian government’s request for extradition pursuant to the extradition treaty currently in force between the United States and Bosnia, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a complaint in U.S. federal district court on Nov. 27, 2012, and HSI special agents arrested Mujagic the next day in Utica for purposes of extradition.

On April 2, 2013, the federal district court in the Northern District of New York ruled that Mujagic was subject to extradition to Bosnia to stand trial for the murder and torture of the two unarmed victims. On May 31, 2013, Mujagic was delivered to Bosnian authorities and removed from the United States. The Office of the Cantonal Prosecutor of the Una-Sana Canton in Bihac is handling Mujagic’s prosecution in Bosnia.

Mujagic entered the United States in July 1997 and obtained status as a lawful permanent resident in March 2001. Mujagic does not retain U.S. citizenship.

This case was investigated by HSI Buffalo, with assistance from the ICE Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center and INTERPOL Washington. The case was handled by Trial Attorneys Ivana Nizich and Jay Bauer of the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carla Freedman of the Northern District of New York. The extradition was handled collaboratively with Criminal Division Trial Attorneys Ken Harris, Marcus Busch and Terry Schubert of the Office of International Affairs.

The case was a result of the close cooperation between the U.S. and Bosnian authorities, particularly the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Office of the Public Prosecutor of the Una-Sana Canton in Bihac, Bosnia.

CLOSING REMARKS AT U.S.-LIBERIA PARTNERSHIP DIALOGUE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
U.S.-Liberia Partnership Dialogue Closing Remarks
Remarks
Wendy Sherman
Under Secretary for Political Affairs
United States Institute of Peace (USIP)
Washington, DC
May 7, 2013

I want to thank you, Minister Ngafuan, for sharing your reflections on the U.S.-Liberia Partnership Dialogue, they were indeed very eloquent.

I also as you did want to recognize the hard work of the U.S. Institute of Peace staff, of course its leader Congressman Jim Marshall, our Liberian colleagues, and my U.S. Government colleagues, including those in the State Department’s Africa Bureau, in making the inaugural session such a success.

Throughout today, as I understand from talking briefly to the Minister and with our staff, we have advanced the U.S.-Liberia bilateral relationship -- a relationship already deeply rooted not only in our historical ties, but our shared commitment to democracy, human rights, and economic advancement.

This joint statement that Minister Ngafuan and I just signed affirms our commitment to work together to address the challenges Liberia currently faces in its agriculture and energy sectors, and acknowledges their importance to Liberia’s overall economic development.

We have committed to hold the next session of the U.S.-Liberia Partnership Dialogue in Monrovia, Liberia within the next year. At that session we plan to convene the first meeting of the Human Development Working Group.

The high-level participation from both our governments demonstrates the significance of the U.S.-Liberia Partnership Dialogue to our bilateral relationship, and the importance of the sectors that were discussed today in the working groups.

In the Agriculture and Food Security Working Group, for example, colleagues discussed policy and institutional constraints to private sector-led development of Liberia’s agriculture sector, and ways to address these constraints. Together, we explored opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation to increase food security and nutrition, especially under the Feed the Future Initiative.

The Energy and Power Infrastructure Working Group reviewed Liberia’s efforts to meet its growing power generation, transmission and distribution requirements. We will continue to collaborate on how we can encourage private sector investment in Liberia’s energy sector by improving regulatory policies and to accelerate the development of a well-governed and inclusive Liberian energy sector.

Though the official government-to-government portion of the U.S.-Liberia Partnership Dialogue has come to an end, I am delighted that the Foreign Minister and the rest of the Liberian delegation will participate in a public outreach event that will discuss how the Government of Liberia and its partners plan to transform Liberia into a middle-income country through an inclusive and equitable economic development strategy. This event, open to the press and public, will further highlight the achievement made today and will allow private sector, civil society, Diaspora, and others to engage with the Government of Liberia on its plan for Liberia’s economic future. We all have a role to play in Liberia’s progress toward a growing and sustainable economy. It is clear to me that this is led by the Liberians themselves, which is as it should be, with all the rest of us in support of your vision and your destiny.

Liberia’s future is full of promise and great opportunities. Thank you all for a very successful inaugural session of the U.S.-Liberia Partnership Dialogue and for your friendship with the United States.

We look forward very much, I in particular, to meeting again in Monrovia. I commend to you Acting Assistant Secretary Yamamoto, who is going to take my place in any question and answer that follow. I greatly appreciate all the work done today.

Thank you very much.