Resolution 1110 (1997) on the situation in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

1.   The Assembly stresses that respect for democracy and human rights in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia is essential to peace and stability in the Balkan region and to the implementation of the Dayton Agreement.

2.   The Assembly condemns the cancellation, by the authorities, of opposition victories in the second round of the local elections held on 17 November 1996.

3.   The Assembly proclaims its solidarity with those who are peacefully, persistently and courageously demonstrating against this manipulation and for democratic reforms.

4.   The Assembly deplores the failure of the state-dominated media to report on these demonstrations and strongly condemns the pressure exerted on the independent media.

5.   The Assembly fully endorses the recommendations of the special Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (osce) delegation, led by former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe González, which visited Belgrade on 20 and 21 December 1996.

6.   The Assembly expresses its deep concern about the general situation in Kosovo. It condemns the recent incidents. Any escalation of violence there would have grave consequences for the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and for the region as a whole.

7.   The Assembly calls on the authorities of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to:

i.    implement the recommendations of the special osce delegation forthwith;

ii.    refrain from the use of force against the opposition demonstrators;

iii.   establish a genuine political dialogue with the opposition with a view to introducing democratic reforms;

iv.   respect fully the principles of pluralist democracy, human rights - including freedom of the media - and the rule of law, notably in Kosovo, Vojvodina and Sandjak;

v.    observe strictly the Dayton Agreement including co-operation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

8.   The Assembly reaffirms its position that the development of contacts with institutions of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia will depend on the implementation of the policies called for above.

9.   The Assembly calls on the opposition also to commit itself clearly to respect for democracy and human rights in Kosovo, Vojvodina and Sandjak, and to the full implementation of the Dayton Agreement.