Civil defence forces.

1993/54. Civil defence forces

The Commission on Human Rights, Considering the report of the Secretary-General on civil defence forces submitted pursuant to Commission on Human Rights resolution 1992/57 of 3 March 1992 (E/CN.4/1993/34), Taking note with interest of the observations on the matter of civil defence forces not belonging to the regular law enforcement agencies, in relation to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, contained in the reports of the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, Noting that the formation of civil defence forces appears to be on the rise worldwide, particularly in areas of conflict, Recognizing, however, that action by civil defence forces has in some cases jeopardized the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms, Also recognizing that under exceptional circumstances, when public forces, owing to the exigencies of the situation, are unable to act, there may be a need for the establishment of civil defence forces to protect the civilian population, Reaffirming the obligation of States under the Charter of the United Nations to promote universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms, Realizing that the individual has a responsibility to strive for the promotion and observance of the rights recognized in the International covenant on Civil and Political Rights as well as in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, Being aware of the necessity for further examination of the question of civil defence forces by specialized bodies,

1. Expresses its appreciation to the Governments and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations that have provided information on domestic law and practice relating to civil defence forces or comments concerning their relation to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, pursuant to Commission on Human Rights resolution 1992/57;

2. Requests the Secretary-General to prepare, within the existing resources, and to submit to the Commission on Human Rights at its fiftieth session a report containing a summary of any additional information and comments received concerning civil defence forces and their relation to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms;

3. Invites the special rapporteurs and working groups concerned to continue to pay due attention within their mandates to the matter of civil defence forces in relation to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

63rd meeting
9 March 1993
[Adopted without a vote. See chap. XI.]