Date: Mon May 6 15:08:30 2002 (PDT)
To: aicap@justice.com
Subject: Human Rights Update: Bush Administration 'unsigns' ICC Treaty
BUSH ADMINISTRATION 'UNSIGNS' ICC TREATY Statement by William F. Schulz, Executive Director, Amnesty International USA
Today's action by the Bush administration is myopic in the extreme. Driven by unfounded fears of phantom prosecutions, the United States has hit a new nadir of isolationism and exceptionalism. Out of step with our allies and America's legacy, this is an historic low point for the United States' role in protecting human rights.
Our allies do not share our fears, nor do they succumb to them. British, Canadian and German troops are fighting alongside the US in Afghanistan, and yet their governments are leaders in forming the court.
Despite the symbolic setback of today's action, it will not hinder the Court's functioning nor obstruct the international community's efforts to protect the unprotected.
The US will remain obliged to abide by international humanitarian and human rights law, but until reversed, today's action will isolate the US from the international community and its instruments of justice at a time when they are most needed. It casts into question the value of any existing or future U.S. signature on any international treaty or agreement. It sends a message to countries that violate human rights standards that it is acceptable to withdraw from international agreements.
Read more of Bill Schulz's statement at:
http://www.amnestyusa.org/news/2002/usa05062002.html