On November 10, UN Ambassador Penny Wensley, speaking...

On November 10, UN Ambassador Penny Wensley, speaking on item 116a, question of human rights, at the Third Committe of the General Assembly, singled out two issues on which progress seems halting at best. First, the increasing use in some countries of the death penalty, especially for minor crimes. "It is Australia's view that the death penalty is an inhumane form of punishment, which violates the most fundamental human right - the right to life," she said. "Secondly, we are concerned at the way national security legislation is brought to bear to deal harshly with the peaceful expression of opinion or belief, in a disturbing number of countries. Australia urges all states to sign or adhere to human rights instruments addressing these issues."