GENERAL ASSEMBLY OFFICIAL RECORDS: FORTY-SIXTH SESSION SUPPLEMENT No. 35 (A/46/35) New York, 1992 NOTE Symbols of United Nations documents are composed figures. Mention of such a symbol indicates a reference of capital letters combined with to a United Nations document. ISSN 0255-2035 [Original: [3 March CONTENTS Paraorap& LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL I. II. III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..~... l-8 9 - 11 12 - 18 English] 19921 Lza!2 V INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MAWDATE OF TRE COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..*............. ORGAEIZATION A. B. C. Election Participation Be-establishment OF 1 3 4 4 WORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. ... .. ... ... ... ... .. .... .. . work of officers in the 12 - 15 16 - 17 18 19 - 74 19 - 52 of the Committee Group .. ... .. of the Working . ... .. .... .. IV. ACTION TAKEN BY THE COMMITTEE A. .. ... .. ... .. ... ... ... . .. Action taken in accordance with General Assembly resolution 45167 A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1. Review of the situation relating to the question of Palestine and efforts to implement the recommendations of the Committee .. ... .. .. Reactions inalienable to developments affecting rights of the Palestinian the people . 5 19 - 33 34 - 47 5 9 2. 3. Action taken by the Committee to promote the convening of the International Peace Conference on the Middle East in accordance with General Assembly resolution 45168 . . . . . . . Attendance at international conferences meetings . . . ..a................................ and 48 - 50 51 12 13 4. 5. Action taken by United Nations bodies, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and intergovernmental organisations . .. ... .. ... .. . 52 13 B. Action taken by the Committee and the Division for Palestinian Rights in accordance with General Assembly resolutions 45167 A and B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1. 2. Regional Cooperation organizations semiaars . ... ... .. ... ... .. ... .. ... .. . 53 - 74 54 - 59 60 - 67 15 15 16 with non-governmental .,,............................. * -Ill- * . CONTENTS (continuea) 3. 4. 5. V. VI. Information International Palestinian Proposal database activities ... ...... .... .... ... ... 68 - 72 73 74 75 .- 86 87 - 96 ?8 18 19 20 23 Day of Solidarity with the People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . for establishing a computerfzed .,...,.............a*................ ACTION TARRN BY THE DEPARTMBNT PUBLIC INFORMATION OF IN ACCORDANCEWITH GENERAL ASSEMBLYRBSOLUTION 45/67 C RBCOMMBNDATIONS THE COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OF Annexes I. II. Recommendations of the Committee endorsed by the General Assembly at its thirty-first session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Conclusions and recommendations adopted by the Twenty-eighth United Nations European Seminar on the Question of Palestine, Madrid, 27 to 30 May 1991 . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..*........................ Eighth United Nations North American Regional NGO Symposium on the Question of Palestine, Montreal, 28 to 30 June 1991 . . . . . . . Declaration adopted by tbe Fiftb United Nations Symposium on the Question of Palestine, Vienna, 26 to 27 August 1991 s...................,........................ Regional UGO 27 30 35 III. IV. 37 V. Declaration adopted by the Eighth United Nations International NGO Meeting on the Question of Palestine, Vienna, 20 to 30 August 1991 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 -iV- LETTER OF TNANMETTAL 15 November 1991 Sir, I have the honour to encloss herewith the report of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Bights of the Palestinian People for submission to the General Assembly in accordance with paragraph 4 of resolution 45/67 A of 6 December 1990. Accept, Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration. Absa Claude DIALLO Chairman of the Comnittee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (&&ld) His Excellency Mr. Javier Pkez Secretary-General de Cudllar of the Unitea Nations I. INTRODUCTION 1. The Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable RiJhts of the Palestinian People was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 3376 (XXX) of 10 November 1975, in which the Assembly requested the Committee to consider ana recommend to it a programm& ciesignerl to enable the Palestinian people to exercise its inalienable rights as recognised by the Assembly in resolution 3236 (XXIX) of 22 November1974. During the reporting period, the COmittee Was Composed of the following 23 MemberStates; Afghanistan, Relarus. Cuba, CYPWS~Guinea. Guyana, Hungary, Tndia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Ralta, Nigeria, Pakistan, Romania, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine and Yugoslavia. JJ 2. The recommendationsmade by the Committee in its first report to the General h'sembly 21 were first endorsed by the Assembly in its resolution 31/20 of 24 November 1976 as a basis for the solution of the question of Palestine. Those recommendationswere reaffirmed by the Committee in its subsequent reports 91 and were endorsea by the Assembly with overwhelming support on each occasion. The Assembly also continued to renew and, as necessary, expand the mandate of the Committee. 3. Despite the repeated an8 urgent appeals of the Committee, the Security Council has not yet been able to act on or implement the recommendationsof the Committee. The Committee is of the view that positive consideration and action by the Security Council on these recommendationswould contribute to promoting a peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine, the core of the Arab-Israeli conflict in the Middle East. The Committee has also reiterated its appeals to the Security Council to take action urgently to convene the International Pesce Conference on the Middle East, in accordance with the principles reaffirmed by the General Assembly in its resolution 45160 of 6 December 1990, which provides the most comprehensive, practical and universally accepted framework for peace. 4. The Committee believes that, with the recent manifestation of a renewed international determination to ensure equity, justice and consistency in the application of the principles of international law, it is of the utmost importance to intensify efforts to bring about a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the question of Palestine, the core of the Arab-Israeli conflict. In this regard, the Committee has continued to stress the importance of implementation of all General Assembly and Security Council relevant resolutions on the question of Palestine and the Midale East situation. in the aftermath of the conflict 5. During the past year, an& particularly in the Gulf, the Committee expressed its most serious concern at the further deterioration of the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory and at the continued imposition of harsh repressive measures by the occupying Power, The Committee decided to do everything possible to strengthen its Israel. role in monitoring the situation of Palestinians Under Occupation and promoting the adoption of concrete measures by the High Contracting Parties t0 the yourth Geneva Convention &/ to ensure respect by Israel, the occupying Power, of the Convention in all circumstances, in conformity with their obligation under article 1 of the Convention. In this regard, the Committee -l- expressed full support for the efforts of the convening of a meeting of the Sigh Contracting Security Council resolution 681 (1990). 6. Secretary-General Parties in accordance regarding with t:he The Committee strongly deplored Israel's continued re?iance on military the intifadah, which had continued force to suppress the Palestinian uprising. for a fourth year against overwhelming odds. The Committee further deplored Israel's rejection of the Palestinian peace initiative of December 1988, of the United Nations resolutions aimed at advancing the peace process, and of the all other efforts to promote peace. The Committee also condemned intensification of land confiscation and of the settlements policy and practice pursued by Israel in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem, the imposition of a prolonged general curfew in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip during and after the conflict in the Gulf, and the increasing restrictions on freedom of movementaa economic activity of Palestinians, which greatly jeopardised their livelihood. 7. The Committee reaffirmed that Israel's continued occupation of the Palestinian territory, including Jerusalem, and the other occupied Arab territories and its denial of the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people in Palestine, including those to self-determination without external interference, to national independence and sovereignty, and to return to its homes and property, constitute the priacipal obstacle to the achievement of a just peace. The Committee was concerned that the continued stalemate in the peace process, together with the ongoing repression of the intifa8ah and the creeping annexation of the occupied Palestinian territory, and the worsening economic and other living conditions of Palestinians in the entire region, might lead to disastrous consequencesfor the Palestinian people as a whole. The Committee believed that a solution was urgently needed in the aftermath of the Gulf War, taking into account the new opportunities that now exist, on the basis of international law and in conformity with the principles ana purposes Of the Charter of the United Nations and the relevant United Nations resolutions, which must be applied in an even-haided manner. 8. -2- II. 9. t0 MANDATEOF THE COMMITTEE The Committee's mandate for the year 1991 is contained iu peragraphs 3 5 Of General Assembly resolution 45/67 A of 6 December 1990, in which the Assemblyr I3itUatiOU Requested the Committee to continue to keep under review the relating to the question of Palestine as well as the implementation of the Programme of Action for the Achievement of Palestinian Rights) 5/ and to report and make suggestions to the General Assembly or the Security Council, as appropriate2 (a) (b) Authorized the Committee to continue to exert all efforts to promote the .nplementation of its recommendations, including representation at conferences and meetings and the sending of delegations, to make such adjustments in its approved programme of seminars ana symposia aa meetings for non-governmental organisations as it may consider necessary, and to report thereon to the General Assembly at its forty-sixth session and thereafter] (c) Also requested the Committee to continue to extend its cooperation to non-governmental organisations in their contribution towards heightening international awareness of tie facts relating to the question of Palestine and creating a more favourable atmosphere for the full implementation of the Committee's recommendations, and to take the necessary steps to expand its contacts with those organisations. 10. In its resolution 45/67 B of the same date, the General Assembly also requested the Secretary-General, ,hnter alia, to provide the Division for Palestinian Rights of the Secretariat with the necessary resources and to ensure that it continues to discharge the tasks detailed in earlier resolutions, in consultation with the Committee and under its guidance. 11. In its resolution 45/61 C of the same date, the General Assembly requested the Department of Public Information, in full Cooperation and coordination with the Committee, to continue its special information programme with particular emphasis on public opinion in on the question of Palestine, Europe and North America. III. ?. . 12. At its 175th meeting, following officers: ar ORGANIZATION OF WORK Flectio n of officer& 1991, the Committee re-elected the on 6 February Mrs. Absa Claude Diallo (Senegal) hairman: Mr. Ricardo Alar&n de Quesada(Cuba) (Malta) RauoorteuE: Mr. Alexander Borg Olivier 13. At its 178th meeting, on 16 July 1991, the Committee also elected Mr. Khodaidad Basharmal (Afghanistan) as Vice-Chairman. 14. Mr. Mr. At its 180th meeting, on 7 October 1991, the Committee elected Victor Camilleri (Malta) as Rapporteur in place of Alexander Borg Olivier (Malta). 15. At its 177th meeting, on 8 April 1991, the Comwittee adopted its programme of work for 1991 (A/AC.183/1991/CRP.l/Rev.l) in implementation of its mandate. B. 16. As in previous years, the Committee reconfirmed that all States Members of the United Nations and Permanent Observers to the United Nations desiring to participate in the vork of the Committee 88 observers were welcome to do 50. Accordingly, in a letter dated 10 April 1991, the Chairman of the Committee so informed the Secretary-General , who subsequently transmitted the letter, on 19 April 1991, to the States Membersof the United Nations and members of the specialixed agencies and to intergovernmental organixations. The Committee also decided to invite Palestine, represented by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), to participate in the work of the Committee as an observer, to attend all its meetings and to makeobservations and proposals for the consideration of the Committee. 17. During 1991, the Committee again welcomedas observers all the States and organisations that had participated in its work in the preceding year. a/ The Connnittee also welcomed the additional participation of Qatar as from 22 February 1991. 18. At its 175th meeting, the Committee re-established its Working Group to assist in the preparation and expedition of the work of the Committee on the understanding that any Committee member or observer could participate in its proceedings. I/ The Working Group was constituted as before under the chairmanship of Mr. Alexander Borg Olivier (Malta). Mr. Dinesh Kumar Jain (India) was re-elected Vice-Cbrirman of the Working Group. Mr. Victor Camilleri (Malta) was elected Chairman of the Working Group as from 7 October 1991. -4- IV. ACTION TAKEN BY THE COMMITTEE A. m resolution 1. 45/61 A Review of the situation relating to the guestion 9f Palestine and efforts to implement the recommendations of the Cornmitteg 19. In accordance with its mandate, the Committee continued to keep under review the situation relating to the question of Palestine and to exert all efforts to promote the implementation of its recommendations as repeatedly endorsed by the General Assembly. In response to urgent developments affectin the inalienable rights of 20. the Palestinian people, the Chairman of the Committee, on a number of occasions, brought such developments to the attention of the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council, urging the adoption of appropriate measures in accordance with United Nations resolutions (see paras. 34 and 35 below). 21. The Committee, with the assistance of the Division for Palestinian Rights, continued to monitor the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory on an ongoing basis through the media, the reports of United Nations organs and agencies, as welr as information collected by Governments, non-governmental organisations, individual experts and persons from Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory who participated in meetings held under the auspices of the Committee, ind other sources. 22. The Committee expressed its support for the Intifadah, the uprising of the Palestinian people for the end of Israeli occupation and for the achievement of the inalienable national rights of the Palestinian people. The Committee noted that the intifadah had continued for a fourth year despite overwhelming odds and increAsed repressive measures, and that it had pursued its efforts to maintain the structure and well-being of Paiestinian society through organising popular and civil committees for Self-defence, medical relief, information and public education, as well as provisions and supplies. The Committee received repeated appeals from Palestinians living under occupation urging the United Nations to do all in its power to ensure the safety and protection of the Palestinian people, to meet emergency needs, and to bring about the impartial and comprehensive implementation of all United and expressing their determination to remain on their Nations resolutions, land and to maintain and consolidate their resistance to Israeli occupation. in its efforts to suppress 23. The Committee noted with deep concern that, the intifadah, Israel had continued to resort to the use of often excessive or indiscriminate force, including shooting at demonstrators, the misuse of tear-gas and punitive beati.rgs. It was reported that the Israeli authorities extrajudicial executions as a were effectively condoning, if not encouraging, means of controlling unrest. In June 1991, a Palestinian human rights group published the names of 47 pjrsons who were said to have been killed in Israel As at Defence Forces (IDF) undercover operations since January 1989. 31 July 1991, according to the Palestine Human Rights Information Centre, the -5- total number of paleatiniana killed since the beginning of the intifadah through direct responsibility on the part of the Israeli forces* armed amounted to 966 identified cases. settlers, civilians and collaborators. 91 in tear-gas-related incidents and 63 these, 812 had died from gunfire. In addition, it was reported that 116,118 Palestinians had other causes. up alarmingly high proportion of children. about 25 Per tout of injured. . total, were victims of the repression of the Wifadah Of from been the 24. The Committee noted that Israeli occupation authorities continued to resort to a variety of harsh measures and collective punishments against Palestinians. These measures Fncluaea deportations, large-scale arrests# detentions, raids on homes and villages, prolonged curfews which culminated during the Gulf War, and the destruction of trees and crops. According to the Israeli military prosecutor, since the beginning of the intifadah until February 1991, 75,000 Palestinians were detained, 14,000 of whom under administrative detention orders, i.e. without charges or trial. A human rights organisation reported that the incarceration rate for the occupied territories is by far the highest known anywhere in the world, i.e. close to The Committee noted with concern 1,000 prisoners per lOOI inhabitants. reports that the Israeli General Security Service continued to use torture as Ill-treatment and deteriorating an interrogation bih0a against Palestinians. conditions, including a reduction in food rations, had prompted hunger strikes at several Israeli prisons and detention centres in June 1991. It was also reported that, through July 1991, the West Bank and Gaza had experienced a total of 10,391 days of curfews, affecting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. A total 0: 2,017 houses and other structures had been demolished or sealed and 116.735 trees had been uprooted. The Committee noted with particular concern the continued lawless and violent actions of Israeli settlers, including attacks on individuals, raids on Palestinian villages and vandalism. 25. The Committee was alarmed at the further increase in Israeli settlement activity in the OCCUpiea Palestinian territory, including Jerusalem, and in the confiscatton Of PnleStiniM lands in the period under review, in contravention Of the provisions of the aforesaid Fourth Geneva Convention and several Security Council resolutions. &/ It was estimated that, between the beginning of the -fadah and 31 July 1991. a total of 504.120 dunumsof land (ldunum = 1,000 m2) had been confiscated by the Israeli authorities. Over 230,000 Israeli settlers were reported to reside in some170 settlements, rural and urban, in the occupied Palestinian territory, including expanded East Jerusalem. The settler population had increased by 9,000 to 10,000 in the West Bank in 1990; it was estimated that 4 per cent of the Soviet immigrants who had arrived in 1990 had settled in the occupied territories. 26. several new Settlements were established and others were expanded in the West Bank iu the first half of 1991. Furthermore, it was reported that the Israeli Government had budgeted more than $500 million during the lggO/gl fiscal year for settlements in the occupied territory and related expenS*s, and that the Housing Occupied Palestinian Minister territories, water had drawn up including for Plans to build Jerusalem. the benefit also noted with great concern the continued exploitation resources of the 36,000 In this housing connection, units the in by Israel of population the Committee and settlers, to the detriment of Palestinian farmers and residents of the occupied territory. Israeli -6- 27. The Committee expressed the greatest concern at the intensification of controls and restrictions against the Palestinian people in the occupied territory duriuy and after the war in the Gulf. The longest-running comprehensive curfew in the territories since they were first occupied in 1967 was imposed for several weeks from mid-January 1991 and was enforced with the use of firearms and summary trials of curfew violators. Palestinians in the occupied territory were confined to their homes, on a &%-hour basis, and curfew breaks would be allowed only every three to four days, for a couple of hours in different areas and at different times, primarily to enable women and young children to shop for food. It was reported that the curfews had caused extreme hardships such as denial of medical care, food and medicine shortages, crop and livestock losses, and had had devasting consequences for the Palestinian economy as a whole. 28. In addition, it was reported that a ban was imposed on Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaaa entering Israel or Jerusalem without a special permit issued by the military authorities. The new permit was the latest, and most restrictive, in a series of pass systems which tightly control the movements of Palestinians living under occupation, and was continued after the end of the war. One third of the total Palestinian labour force from the occupied territory was thereby preve:lted from earning an income for an extended period of time; by April 1991, it was estimated that 75,000 to 100,000 Palestinians had lost their jobs with Israeli employers. 29. It was also reported that these new restrictions were accompanied by punitive measures affecting the Palestinian economy, such as the imposition fines on a vast scale by the military personnel for stone-throwing, curfew violations and other security offences8 severe restrictions on Palestinian exports and business licences; an oppressive capital transfers, imports, system of taxation, including the excessive use of force in the collection taxes) and collective punishments in the form of bans on Palestinian commercial activity. of of 30. The new pass regulations were also reported to have had damaging consequences for education, culture and freedom of worship. Large numbers of Palestinians from the West Bank were prevented from praying at the holy sites in Jerusalem or from participating in the city's cultural ana intellectual life. as well as employees of research centres, Many students and teachers, were negatively affected by the newspapers and other institutions, as of June 1991, it was reported that nearly restrictions. Moreover, 70 per cent of university students - those at Najah, Birseit, and the Islamic to be denied the right to enter their University at Gasa - continued ana there was no indication as to when they might be allowed to universities, reopen. by the imposition of additional measures 31. The Committee was disturbed Measures restricting access to proper health care services for Palestinians. continued to be taken to prevent those wounded in the .intifadah from receiving including delay and blocking of the transport the hospital care they required, of the injured, repeated attacks on hospitals and detention Of the injured Measures were also taken against the operat:on inside hospitals and clinics. of the primary health-care programmes carried Out by Palestinian CliniCS and including the closing or demolition of clinics and the health-care committees, Fees for government health services were confiscation of equipment. -7- Sections of the Population. resulted in further reductions in the availability of ediual care for Palestinians as the new regulations interfered vitb transporting of patients and medical person=1 to el-Mukased which serve those with serious health and other hospitals in East Jerusalem. problm ubo cannot find suitable treatment in the West Sank and Gasa Strip. during the Gulf War and despite the many The CoPPittee further deplored that, urgent appeals, tha military authorities had not taken adequate measures to epIIure the aafety of the Palestinian population living under occupation through the distribution of gas masks and other protective gear. and the In view of the grave deterioration of health installation of warning systems. the Committee deplored that Israel had conditions in the occupied territory. continued to refuse to cooperate with the Special Committee of Experts est&lished by the World Health Assembly and to allow it access to the area. Increased restrictions on t avel to Jerusalem increased, ca=iPg psticdar hardship to poor further noted that the Director-General of the 32. Tbe Committee in his annual report &/ had stated International Labour Organisation (ILO). that there had been no improvement in the conditions of work and life of the vorkers of the occupied Arab territories and their families and in fact, as a consequence of t&e Gulf War and measures taken by the Israeli authorities, the vorkers of the territories and their families had been put into a more precarious position than they had known for some time. The consequences of those events had served to aggravate an already difficult economic situation caused by various constraints on agriculture, industry and other sectors of In addition, the relatively poor efforts that had previously the economy. been made to promote development and employment opportunities in the territories, commensurate vith the requirements of a rapidly growing labour force, had resulted in lover living standards, disturbing social conditions, increasing unemployment and general tension. 33. Taking into aCcoW.It tha continuing intolerable situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, the Committee wishes to draw once again the most urgent attention of the General Assembly and the Security Council to the policies and practices of Israel, the occupying Power, which are in violation of the aforesaid Fourth Geneva Convention. The Committee reiterates its most urgent appeal to the Security Couxil, to the High Contracting Parties to the Convention and to all concerned to take all necessary measures to ensure the Safety and international protection of the Palestinians in the occupied Palestinian territory pending the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the achievement of a just settlement. The Committee further wishes to express appreciation to the Secretary-General for his personal efforts in this regard. Above and beyond protective and emergency relief measures, the international community must take all possible measures to halt the rapid deterioration in the living conditions of the Palestinian people and to develop Socio-economic structures that will lead to the genuine development of the occupied Palestinian territory in preparation for independent nationhood, The Committee noted that the United Nations Development Programme (mp) had undertaken the implementation of a number of development projects in the occupied Palestinian territory. -a- 2. actions mta.of 'h tc developments the affectina the inalienable of the Se curity to SecretarV-General and the President 34. The Chairman of the Committee on a number of occasions drew the attention of the Secretary-General and of the President of the Security Council to urgent developments in the occupied Palestinian territory. The Chairman condemned the resumption by Israel of its policy of deportations as well as the indiscriminate shooting of demonstrators by the army, and the intensification and expansion of collective punishment such as the imposition of curfews and mass detention of Palestinian civilians, including minors. She drew attention to urgent appeals received by the Committee from Palestinians in the occupied territory requesting immediate action by the United Nations to ensure their safety and protection. She also deplored the intensification of the settlement policy and practice in the occupied Palestinian territory. The Chairman pointed out that those policies and practices were in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention and requested that Israel accept the dm applicability of that Convention to all the territories occupied since 1967 and abide scrupulously by the provisions of that Convention and relevant The Chairman appealed urgently to the Security Council resolutions. Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council and to all parties concerned, in particular the High Contracting Parties to the Convention, to take all necessary measures for ensuring the safety and protection of the Palestinian civilians under occupation and to intensify all efforts towards the achievement of a peaceful settlement. 35. The following letters by the Chairman of the Committee were circulated under the agenda item entitled official documents of the General Assembly, **Question of Palestine", and of the Security Council: (a) letter dated 18 December 1990 (A/45/881-3/22012); (b) letter dated 14 January 1991 (A/45/925-S/22073); (c) letter dated 6 February 1991 (A/45/915-S/22207); (d) letter dated 1 March 1991 (A/45/968-6/22294); (e) letter dated 26 March 1991 (A/45/985-S/22388); and (f) letter dated 18 April 1991 (A/45/998-S/22511). as (b) 36. matters Action taken within the Securitv Council the activities of the Security Council mandate and participated in Council on The Committee followed closely relating to the Committee's debate& as necessary. 37. The Security Council resumed its consideration of the situation in the 2954th and 2957th meetings, on occupied Palestinian territory at its 2953rdr 7, 9 and 16 November 1990, and at its 2965th to 2968th, and 2970th meetings, on 5, 8, 10, 12 and 20 December 1990, respectively, having before it the report submitted to the Security Council by the Secretary-General (S/21919 and Corr.1 and S/21919/Add.l-3) in accordance with resolution 672 (1990). The Chairman of th8 Committee spoke in the debate at the 2954th meeting 38. on g November 1990, and praised the report submitted of the Security Council, by the Secretary-General as a Vary useful and Valuable document that had need to meet the challenge provided a better understanding Of the imperative -9- issued by Israel and to take all steps necessary to accelerate the process of reaching a peaceful settlement of the Middle East conflict and, thereby. the She recalled the Assembly's repeated call for an question of Palestine. of the international peace conference on the Middle East, under the auspices with the participation of all parties to the conflict, United Nations, and the five permanent member5 of the including the PLO, on an equal footing, Security Council, based on Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) and the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, primarily the right She urged the Council to set up a system of protection to 3elf-determination. for the Palestinian civilian5 in the occupied Arab territory. The High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention should find the necessary means of ensuring respect for that Convention by Israel, as the occupying Power. She hoped that the debate would lead to the adoption of a resolution that would guarantee the Pazstinian population effective protection and represent a decisive step to a comprehensive solution of the crisis in the Middle East. At its 2970th meeting. on 20 December 1990, the Council unanimouSlY 39. adopted resolution 681 (1990). in which it deplored the decision by the of Government of Israel, the occupying Power, to resume the depmrtation Palestinian civilians, urged the Government of Israel to accept the de applicability of the aforesaid Convention, ot 1949, to all the territories upon the High Contracting Parties to the occupied by Israel since 1967: called Convention to ensure respec: by Israel, the occupying Power, for its obligations under the Conveltion in accordance with article I thereof: in cooperation with the International requested the Secretary-General, Committee of the Red Cross, to develop further the idea expressed in his report of convening a meeting of the High Contracting Parties to the Convention and to discuss possible measures that might be taken by them under the Convention and for this purpose to invite the Parties to submit their views on how the idea could contribute to the goals of the Convention, as well as on other relevant matters, and to report ther-eon to the Council; also requested the Secretary-Genrral to monitor and observe the situation regarding Palestinian civilians under Israeli occupation , making new efforts in this regard on an urgent basis, and to utilize and designate or draw upon the United Nations and other personnel and resources present there, in the area and elsewhere, needed to accomplish this task and to keep the Security Council regularly informed; further requested the Secretary-General to submit a first progress report to the Council by the first week of March 1991 and every four months thereafter, and decided to remain seized of the matter as necessary. 40. The Committee noted that, prior to the adoption of Security Council resolution 681 (1990), the ?resident of the Council made a statement (S/22027), on behalf of its members, by which the members of the Council reaffirmed their determination to support an active negotiating process in which all relevant parties would participate leading to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace to the Arab-Israeli conflict through negotiations which should be based on Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) and which should take into account the right to security of all State5 in the region, including Israel, and the l!$.timate political rights of the Palestinian people. The members agreed that an international conference, at an appropriate time, Properly structured, should facilitate efforts to achieve a negotiated settlement and listing peace in the Arab-Israeli conflict. However, the members were of the view that there was no unanimity as to when -lO- would be the appropriate said that, in the view conflict was important own merits. time for such a conference, The statement of the members of the Council, the Arab-Israeli and unique and must be addressed independently, further on its 41. At the 2973rd meeting of the Security Council, on 4 January 1991, the President of the Council made a statement (S/22046) on behalf of its members, expressing deep concern about recent acts of violence in Gaza, especially actions by Israeli security forces against Palestinians, which had led to scores of casualties. The members of the Council deplored those actions, particularly the shooting of civilians. They reaffirmed the applicability of the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 to all the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel since 1967, including Jerusalem. and requested that Israel, the occupying Power, fully comply with the provisions of the Convention. The President made a further statement (S/22408), on behalf of the 42. Council, at its 2980th meeting on 27 March 1991, by which the members of the Council expressed grave concern at the continued deterioration of the situation in the Palestinian and other Arab territories occupied by Israel since 1967, including Jerusalem, and especially by the serious situation resulting from the imposition of curfews by Israel. The members of the Council deplored the decision of 24 March 1991 by the Government of Israel to expel four Palestinian civilians in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention, and called upon Israel to desist from deporting Palestinians and to ensure the safe return of those deport& In a letter dated 23 May 1991 (S/22634), the Permanent Representatives of d'Ivoire, Ecuador, Cuba, India, Zaire and the Charge d'affaires a.i. of Yemen requested an urgent meeting of the Security Council to examine the situation created by the deportations by Israel of four Palestinians from the occupied territories. 43. C&e At its 2989th meeting, on 24 Kay 1991, the Security Council adopted 44. unanimously resolution 694 (1991), in which it declared that the action of the Israeli authorities of deporting four Palestinians on 16 May was in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949, which is applicable to all the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel since 1967, including Jerusalem: deplored this action and reiterated that Israel, the occupying Power, refrain from deporting any Palestinian civil&n from the occupied territories and ensure the safe and immediate return of all those deported. (c) Visit by the President refuuees in the OCCUDiea at f h territories he Palestin end in Jordan 45. Professor Guide ae Marco. President of the forty-fifth session of the General Assembly, visited the Palestinian refugees in the occupied territories and in Jordan from 2 to 7 January 1991. He was accompanied by the Commissioner-General of the United Rations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Mr. Giorgio Giacomelli. and The President met with the Minister for Foreign Affairs Of Israel, staff. He visited the Jabalia, Beach officials. Mr. David Levy, and other Israeli and the Jalasone refugee camp in and Nuseirat refugee camps in the Gaza Strip. Re also vis:ted a number of clinics and other installations the West Bank. and met with prominent Palestinians as well as with representatives from -ll- Palestinian wom~n's organisationti, WRWA officials and others. who briefed him xn Jordan, the on the current situation with regard to the ;ntLfadf!b. President met with Crown Prince Bassan, w. mdar Badran the Prim8 Minister, Mr. Taher al-Masri the Minister for Foreign Affairo, 5nd other senior government officials. Be also met with Mr. Farouk Qaadoumi. head of the Political Department of the PLO, ana other PLO officials. Be visited the Baqa'a. Wadi Seer and Jerash refugee camps and met with URRWA. UNDP and other United Bations officials an11 diplomats. by 46. At its 176th meeting, on 22 February 1991, the Committee was briefed Professor de Marco on his visit to the Palestinian refugees in the occupied in view of the importance of the President's territories and in Jordan. report and its relevance to the work of the Committee, the Committee decided that the report ehould be widely disseminated as a United Nations document. 47. III a letter dated 22 April 1991, addressed to the Secretary-General, the Chairman of tile Committee tansmitted the comprehensive report of the President of the General Assembly and requested its circulation as a document of the General Assembly under the item on the question of Palestine ~A/45/1000). 3. 1 `n kn the International accordance with he c nin Peace Conference on the Middle East General AssemhTv resolution 45/68 in 48. By its re5oluc:ion 45/6# of 6 December 1990, thhe General Aseembly reaffirmed the urgent need ;o achieve a just and comprehensive Settlement of tbe Arab-Israeli conflict, the core of which is the question of Palestine. It called once again for the cmvening of the International Peace Conference on the Middle East, under the auspices of the United Nations, with the participation of all parties to the conflict, including the PLO, on an equal footing, and the five permanent members of the Security Council, based on Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) and the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, primarily the right to self-determination. It reaffirmed the following principles for the achievement of comprehensive peace: the withdrawal of Israel from the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem, and from the other occupied Arab territories; guaranteeing arrangements for security of all States in the region, including those named in General Assembly resolution 161 (II) of 29 November 1947, within secure and internationally recogni58d boundaries; resolving the problem of Palestine refugees in conformity with Assembly resolution 194 (III) of 11 December 1946, and subsequent relevant resolutions; dismantling the Israeli settlements in the territories occupied since 1967; and guaranteeing freedom Of aCC855 t0 BOly P1eC8s, religious buildings and sites. The Assembly also noted the expressed desire and endeavours to place the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem, Under the supervision of the United Nations for a limited period, a5 part of the peace process; once again invited the Security Council to Consider measures needed to convene the International Peace Conference on the Middle East, including the establishment of a preparatory committee, and to consider guarantees for security measures agreed UpOn by the Conference for a11 Stat85 in the region; and requested the Secretary-General t0 Continue his effort5 with the parties concerned, and in -12- consultation Conference. 49. with the Security Council, to facilitate the convening and to submit progress reports on developments in this of the matter. give its programme of work, the Committee decided to continue to Priority to promoting the early convening of the International Peace Conference on the Middle East. The Committee decided to take an active role in all aspects relating to the convening of the Conference and the search for peace, and to initiate a process of interaction with all concerned for the regular exchange of information ana views. In adopting the utmost 50. The Committee was greatly encouraged by the overwhelming international support for its objectives and by the intensification of efforts among the international community in favour of a just and lasting settlement of the question of Palestine, as reflected in particular by the recommendations aaoptea by the regional seminar and by symposia and meetings of non-governmental organizations on the question of Palestine organized under the Committee's auspices (see paras. 54-67 below). 4. Attendance at intemconferencesg9 its mandate, the Committee meetings during the period was represented at the since its previous report 51. In accordance with following international to the General Assembly: (a) Fifty-fourth ordinary session of the Council of Ministers, held at Abuja, Nigeria, from 27 May to 1 June 1991, and twenty-seventh Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Organization of African Unity, held at Ahuja from 3 to 5 June 1991; held (b) Tenth Ministerial Meeting at Accra from 2 to 7 September 5. Action taken bv United g n- li n D graanizationg of the Movement 1991. Nations bodies. of Non-Aligned Countries, the Movement 52. The Committee continued to follow with great interest the activities relating to the question of Palestine of United Nations bodies, the Movement The Committee of Non-Aligned Countries and intergovernmental organizations. noted especially the growing concern at all levels of the international community about the further deterioration of the situation in the occupied and the increasing sense of Palestinian territory, including Jerusalem, urgency with which the intecnational community a&dressed the need to ensure the safety ana protection of the Palestinian people under occupation and to advance towards a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the question of Palestine. The Committee took particular note of the following documents: (a) Final communiqu& of the annual meeting of Ministers for Foreign Affairs of the States members of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, held in New York, on 1 0cto:er 1990 (see A/46/113-S/22345): -13- (b) co~~iqu& of the Meeting of the Coordinating Bureau of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries on the situation in the occupied Ral.estinian territory, held in New York, 0~ g October 1990 (A/45/603-S/21858): (c) Resolution on the Israeli act of aggression against the Boll Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, adopted by the Council of the League of Arab held at Tunis on 17 and 18 October 1990 States at its extraordinary session, (S/21897); (d) Declaration on the Middle East by the European Council, 30 October 1990 (A/45/700-S/21920); (e) Communiqud of the Grganization of the Islamic Conference on the Situation in Jerusalem, issued at the United Nations on 14 December 1990 (A/45/887-S/22017); (f) Declaration on the Middle East issued by the 12 States members of the European Community at the meeting of the European Council, held in Rome on 14 and 15 December 1990 (A/45/888-S/22018); (g) Communique of the eleventh session of the SupremeCouncil of the States membersof the Gulf Cooperation Council, held at Doha, Qatar, from 22 to 25 December1990 (A/45/948-S/22191, p. 7); (h) Resolutions adopted by the Commission Human on Rights at its forty-seventh session (resolutions 1991/l A and B, 199113 and 199116 of 15 February 1991)s (i) Declaration on the Gulf crisis issued on 19 February 1991 by the 12 States membersof the European Community (see A/45/960-S/22247); Closing statement issued after the joint meeting of the Ministers Affairs of the States members the Bureau of the Fifth Islamic of Summit Conference and the Nineteenth Conference of Islamic Foreign Ministers and of the States memberschairing the standing committees of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, held at Cairo, on 21 February 1991 (see for Foreign A/46/94-S/22256); (j) (k) Resolution 13/6 adopted by the Commission Human on Settlements on 8 May 1991 (A/46/8): (1) Economic and Social Council resolutions 1991/19 of 30 May 1991 and 1991/69 Of 26 July 1991, and deCi8iOnS 1991/279 and 1991/280 of 26 ~~~~ 1991; (m) Resolutions of thtt fifty-fourth ordinary session of the Council of Ministers of the Organisation of African Unity, held at auja from 3 to 5 June 1991 (A/46/390, CWres. 1334 and 1335 (LIV)); (n) Declaration on the peace process in the Middle East issued on 29 June 1991 by the European Council (A/46/285-~/22766); (0) Joint CoIMIunique Of the twenty-fourth ASEANMinisterial issued at Kuala LumpUron 20 July 1991 (A/46/323-5/22836, paras. Meeting, 29-31); -14- (p) Non-Aligned (q) Community Final document of the Tenth Ministerial Meeting of the Movement Countries, held at Accra from 2 to 7 September 1991 Statement on the Middle East peace process issued by the European and its member States on 10 October 1991 (h/46/573). B. Action taken by the Committee and the Division Palestinian 1ih 'n Assemblv resolutions 45167 A and B for of (A/46/659-S/23223): 53. The Committee and the Division for Palestinian Rights, pursuant to their respective mandates, organixed a number of regional seminars and non-gov8rnmental organisation symposia and meetings in 1991. In adopting its programme of work for the year, the Committee decided that in these activities, it would focus on the following priority issues: (a) The need for conv&ning with urgency the International Peace Conference on the Middle East on the basis of the relevant United Nations resolutions for the achievement of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace the region: (b) The intifadah of the Palestinian people, the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory and the need for international support and assistance; (cl International protection of the Palestinian people under occupation, including measures that could be taken by the High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention in order to ensure respect for the Convention by Israel, the occupying Power, in all circumstances; (a) The increasing Jewish immigration - Israel's the occupied Palestinian territory, including Jerusalem on the achievement of a just settlement of the question 1. Reaional seminar-a settlement policy in - the adverse impact of Palestine. in 54. In accordance with the programme of work for the 1990-1991 biennium, European and Asian regional seminars were included in the calendar of meetings to be held under the auspices of the Committee in the period under review. (a) Se 55. The European Regional Seminar on the Question of Palestine was held at The Committee was deeply grateful to the Madrid from 27 to 30 May 1971. Government of Spain for agr.teing to provide the venue for this important seminar and for providing the conference facilities free of charge. "The 56. The Seminar considered the topics of two panels: Panel I: $.i; the safety and protection of the Palestinian people in the occupied "The urgency of the implementation of the Palestinian territory": Panel If: United Nations resolutions on the question of Palestine and the situation in -15- Some details 0~ the Seminar the Middle East". ana recommendations adopted by the participants the present document. and the text of the conclusions are contained in annex II to by the participation in the Seminar of 57. The Committee was pleased prominent political personalities, parliamentarians, policy makers. and other The Committee expressed experts, including Israelis and Palestinians. a seminar on this issue had met in a satisfaction that, for the first time, country member of the European Community at a moment characterised by new as well as by a rapidly deteriorating situation in the occupied opportunities, The Committee noted that the Seminar participants had Palestinian territory. adopted conclusions and recommandations expressing support Sor the Committee's objectives for a peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine, particularly through the '*land for peace" formula and the "two peoples, two States" principle and tha convening of the International Peace Conference on the Middle East. Participants had also expressed deep concern at the violations of Palestinian human rights by Israel and had called for measures to be taken to ensure respect by the occupying Power for the Fourth Geneva Convention. (b) Pther reaional semSnare held on 8 April, the Committee accepted with the Government of Cyprus to provide the venue for The Seminar is scheduled to be held at Nicosia practice, the North American Seminar would preceding the North American Symposium. As the Symposium, however, was and logistical considerations led the Seminar in 1991 a& instea& to consider at a suitable time. oraanizationg 58. At its 177th meeting, gratitude the kind offer of the Asian Regional Seminar. from 20 to 24 January 1992. 59. In accordance with established have been held in New York immediately Non-governmental Organizatian (NGO) held in Montreal, Canada, financial Committee to decide not to hold the organising another appropriate activity 2. aoperation with non-aovernmental The Committee, in accordance with its mandate under General Assembly 60. resolution 45/67 A, coutinud to extend its cooperation to non-governmental organisations active on the question of Palestine and to expand its contacts with them. The Division for Palestinian Rights, in consultation with the Committee and under its guidance, organised regional symposia and an international meeting for non-governmental organisations during 1991 in implementation of the Committee's objective. The Committee noted that non-governmental organisations had further intensified their activities to assist the Palestinia?; peopie and to promote a just and comprehensive peace. (a) worth American ReaionalQ Svmnosium 61. The North from 28 to 30 Government of programme for Committee and American Regisnal NGO Symposium was held at Montreal, Canada, June 1991. The Committee expressed its deep gratitude to the Canada for providing the venue for this important event. The the Symposium was elaborated in consultation between the the North American Coordinating Committee for NGOs on the -16- Question New York of Palestine within the framework on 11 and 12 February 1991. of a preparatory meeting held in 62. The Programme for the Symposium provided for two main panels: Panel I: "Palestiner Protecting lives and promoting peace - the impact of the Gulf war"; and Panel II* . WPalestine: Responding to current developments". The programme Ski0 included 20 action-oriented workshops on various topics related to the question of Palestine. Some details on the Symposium are included in annex III to the present document. The Committee expressed its satisfaction that for the first time, a Of North American NGOs on the Question of Palestine had been held away from United Nations Hendguarters, thereby enabling the Committed to reach out to a wider constituency The Committee noted that the NGOs tdd adopted a variety of concrete proposals and action programmes to guide their future work, and had elected a new coordinating committee for the region. SppOSiUm 63. (b) 64. 27 Surooean August Reaional NGO Svmoosium The European Regional NGO Symposium was held at Vienna, on 26 and 1991, and was folLowed by the International NGO Moeting, which took place from 28 to 30 August -991. The Committee expressed its gratitude to the Government of Austria for hiving kindly provided the venue for these two activities at the Austria Centre, free of charge. for the Symposium and the International Meeting were 65. The programmes elaborated by the Committee in consultation with the European Coordinating Committee for NGOs on the Question of Palestine and the International Coordinating Committee for NGOs on the Question of Palestine within the framework of a preparatory meeting held at Geneva on 25 and 26 March 1991. 66. The Symposium had as i:s main theme "Time for Palestine: The role of Europe in securing Palestinian rights" and considered the topics of two panels entitled: **Implementation of United Nations resolutions on Palestiner European collective responsibility and strategies following the Gulf war"; and *'International protection of the Palestinian people: The responsibilities Of European States as co-signatories of the Fourth Geneva Convention". The programme for the Symposium also included seven action-oriented workshops. The Committee noted that thu Symposium participants had adopted a declaration and had elected a new coordinating committee and action-oriented proposals, Further de:ails on the Symposium are contained in annex IV to for the region. the present document. (c) International NGO Meet i ng 67. The International NGO Meeting had as its main theme "Palestine NOW" and "United Nations protection, considered the topics of three panels as follows: united Nations resolutions, from the Gulf to Palestine"; "Palestine update"> What have we accomplished? What remains and "NGO Forum - A call to action. Six action-oriented workshops also met to be done7 How shall we proceed?" The Committee noted that the Meeting within the framework of the Meeting. participants had adopted a declaration and action-oriented proposals, and had Some additional details elected a new international coordinating committee. on the Meeting are containei in annex V to the present document. -17- 3. Information for Palestinian the following 68. The Committee noted with appreciation that the Division Rights, in accordance with its mandate, continued to prepare publications, under the guidance of the Committee: (a) Monthly bulletins covering action by the Committee, other United Nations organs, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations concerned with the question of Palestine; (b) meeting3 Reports of regional of non-governmental seminars, regional organisations; symposia and international (c) Monthly and bimonthly question of Palestine, monitored the use of the Committee. 69. The question brochure the update completion. territory" "Question reports on developments relating to the from the Arabic, English and Hebrew press for Committee noted that the Division had issued a study entitled "The of Palestine: 1979-1990". This publication updated an earlier on the question of Palestine prepared in the late 1970s. The work of a study entitled "Acquisition of land in Palestine" is nearing The study entitled "Water resources in the occupied Palestinian is being finalised. A compilation of seminar papers entitled of Palestine: leIa1 aspects" is being prepared for publication. on 70. An updated issue (April 1991) of the information note entitled **The Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the Division for Palestinian Rights" was also prepared. Another information note, entitled "The United Nations and non-governmental organisations activities on the question of Palestine", was updated in October 1991. Both information notes were issued in the six official United Nations languages, as well as in German. In response to a decision of the Committee , the Division 71. prepared monthly issues of the publication entitled "Approaches towards the settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict". These compilations of the relevant statements, declarations and proposals regarding the settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict, including the question of Palestine and the convening of the International Peace Conference on the Middle East, were prepared for the use of the Committee. 72. The following publications were also issued by the Division period under review: Resoltions and decisi onssf in h n tg and Soecial bulletin on the cojjmgmpration w AC.183/L.2LAt18.11) . . International Dav of Solr&)ritv w ith the Palestinian Peoph. 4. InternatiOnal Dav Of Solidaritv with the during of the the n Day Jf Solidarity with the Palestinian People ~2~s 73. The International observed on 29 November 1993 at United Nations Readquarters in New York and at the United Nations Offices at Geneva and Vienrn?. The Committee noted with -10- appreciation other cities that the International throughout the world 5. pronosal for Day had also in 1990. been commemorated in many establishing a computerizod database a 74. In its programme of wo;k for 1991, the Committee included a request to the Division for Palestinian Rights to study the feasibility of establishing computerised database relating to the question of Palestine. The Committee noted that steps were taken by the Division to initiate such a study, in cooperation with the relevant departments of the Secretariat. -19- V. ACTION TAKEN BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INFORMATION IN ACCOBDAUCE WITH GENERAL ASSEMBLY RESOLUTION 45167 C of 75. The Department continued to provide press coverage of all meetings including the Security Council and the relevant United Nations bodies, Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People. Press releases were issued on regional seminars and symposia organised by the Committee, including those held in Madrid and Montreal. 76. All regional seminars and NGO symposia sponsored by the Committee on the Inalienable were covered extensively in weekly regional 77. Additional press releases Secretary-General's statements situation in the occupied A:ab on its activities were reissued Information of the Secretariat. on the question of Palestine Rights of the Palestinian magazines. People were issued containing the texts of the relating to the question of Palestine and the and press releases issued by UNRWA territories, and disseminated by the Department of Public 70. The Departmbnt of Public Information responded to almost 200 inquiries on the question of Palestine between January and June 1991. Additionally, this issue is integrated into the presentation given visitors during the guided tours conducted by the Public Services Section of the Department. 79. The Department of Public Information continued to distribute its publications, including a revised version of the booklet The United Nation9 mnd the Ouestion of Palesti. in Arabic, English, French, German and Spanish: the booklet For the Riahts ,f Palestinians: Work of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Riahts of the Palestinian Peop&; the booklet entitled Bmtinians: The Work of the Special Committee t; :$e;t$%aelt PfzcFices Affectina the Human Riahts of the PowlatioR c I A total of 13,703 of these publications, in Arabic, English, French, Ge:man and Spanish were distributed. 00. The World Chronicle produced a video entitled "Visit of the General Assembly President to the Occupied Territories". PrOfeSSor Guido de Marco, Deputy Prime Minister of Malta and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Justice, and President of the forty-fifth session of the General Asse&ly, stresses the human dimension of the question of Palestine and the need to solve this problem through United Nations efforts. The Audio Visual Promotion and Distribution Unit disseminated worldwide to its film and video libraries and to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation the video entitled "About the UN: Palestine". radio 61. Fifty-nine Palestine and related progr%nnies of varying topics were Produced lengths between on the question of 1 January and 30 June 1991. 62. The Department co-sponsored two national encounters for journalists on the question of Palestine, held at Brussels, on 22 May, and at Bonn, on 24 May 1991. Those two events were hosted at Brussels in cooperation with the Parliamentary Association far Euro-Arab Cooperation and with the support of the Commission of the Europaan Communities, and at Bonn in cooperation with the German Association for :he United Nations. The theme of the two -2o- enCOUnter was the protectitin of Palestinian civilians under Israeli occupation. Two Palestiniar and two Israeli panelists addressed that theme in each of the two cities with brief opening remarks, followed by a substantive dialogue between the four panelists and about 40 senior media representatives who had been invited to participate. The two Palestinian panelists were Nasser Al-Kidwa, Permanent Observer of Palestine to the United Nations, and Sa'ab Erekat, Professor of Political Science at An-Najah University, Nablus, West Bank. The two Israeli panelists were Y'ael Bayan, Labour Party activist and author, and Avigdor Feldman, an attorney who co-founded the Israeli human rights documentation centre. *'Betselem", and who had appeared in a number of landmark civil rights cases in Israel. The two encounters were moderated by the Chief of the Anti-Apartheid, Decolonisation and Palestine Programmes Section of the Department of Public Information. 83. From 3 to 5 June 1991, the Department sponsored in Helsinki, with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, an international encounter for European journalists on the question of Palestine. It explored the prospects for an international peace conference on the Middle East, and was moderated by the Under-iecretary-General for Political and Security Council Affairs. There wers nine panelists: Yasir Abed Rabbo, member of the Executive Committee of the ?LO; Hanan Mikhail-Ashrawi, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Bir Zeit University, Pamallah, West Bank; Haim Ramon, Member of the Chairman, United Workers Party, Israeli Knesset, Labour Parcyp Elazar Granot, Israel; Fuchang Yang, Deputy Foreign Minister of China: Simon James Fraser, Middle East Policy Planner, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, United Kingdom; Anatoly Ivanovich Philyov, First Deputy Head, Directorate for the Middle East and North Africa, USSR$ William Quandt, Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, Washington, D.3., United States of America: and Mohammed El-Shafei Abdel Hanid, former Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs of Egypt. There were 62 media participants, including columnists, senior They represented the following news editors and editorial writers. organisations: ari I Ponulit (Albania)r Die Pra (Austria); De Standaard, L.&%%& (Belgium)3 DemokratzrQ &z (Bulgaria)t Xinhua (China)8 CTK, Naroani Information, Politiken (Denmark); Obroda. RefleXQ (Czech&lovakia): Belsinuen Sanomat, Hufqudstadsbladet, Oy Gig Films Ab, Uusi Suomi (Finland): Le Monde (France)# Berliner Zeitung, Westdeutscher Rundfunk (Germany); plessimvrini, Ta Nea (Greece); Hungarian Radio, Nenszabadsag (Hungary): &I&id (Iceland); The IrishJ&6& TheSunaav Indenendent (Irelaid)? 11 Corriere della Sera, La Reou@&&9 (Italy); Ha'aretz, Davar, New Outlook (Israel); Al-Fair (Jerusalem): Luxemburaer w (Luxembourg); The Sundav Times of Malta (Malta)) Elsevier, &9N!!! (Netherlands); NQK (Norway)) Palestine News Agency - "WAFA" (PLO); (%2!2!3 Wyborcxa PolitykQ (Poland); $xpressQ, PublicQ (Portugal): A2I. pomlnia Libera (Romania): El VJ&, El Pai&, TVE (Spain): Sve ska Baobladet (Sweden); La Tribune de Gen&Q, 24 (SwitxerlanI)t Cumhurivet willi ye& (Turkey)j Izvestia, ;Nezavis'maya &3zQ!3, Novosti, povove Viemva (USSR)) The Guardian, The Timea (United Kingdom): Borba, 8edielia, Gslobodienie (Yugoslavia). 04. DpI is in the process the Middle East which will The mission November 1991. of completing preparations for a news mission to take place during the end of October and early is conceptua-ized as a follow-up to the Helsinki -21- "Prospects for an International Peace Encounter which had as its theme: It i5 intended to provide journalists an Conference on the Middle East". opportunity to acquaint themselves firsthand with the facts of the question of Palestine. To this end, meetings will be arranged with the leadership of the Jordan, the Syrian Arab Republic PLO. senior government officials of Tunisia, Twelve and Egypt, as well es individual Palestinians in the re*ugee camps. They senior journalists from Europe will participate in the mission. represent the following papers: Le Sok (Belgium); &&G&&&R (Denmark); m (Finland); b . MOndQ . (France); && iner Zeitunq (Germany); Messimvzini, (Greece); mea (Ireland)* ~ (Italy); &Q,W (Netherlands); p6bliCQ (Porti%al)r El PaiS (Spain): The Guardian (United Kingdom). 65. The United Nations information centres/United Nations information services have taken an active role in disseminating information on the question of Palestine. All European UNICs/UNISs played a part in the and in some cases panelists, who participated in the selection of journalists, International Encounter for European Journalists on the Question of Palestine; UNIC Brussels en& UNIC Bonn assisted Headquarters in organizing two national Other UNICs/UNISs have also encounters, in Brussels and Bonn. respectively. undertaken specific programmes with respect to the question of Palestine, e.g. Bogota, Cairo, Tokyo. 66. The Department held two briefings at Headquarters for NGO representatives relating to the question of Palestine. The first was entitled "A UN perspective on Palestinian rights", and the second, "Prospects for the establishment of e nuclear-reapon-free zone in the Middle East". Total participation wa5 1,000 NGO representatives. The Department also transcribed and edited summaries of the briefings mentioned above and distributed them to UN1c5/UN1s5, and to the healquarters of over 1,200 NGOs associated with the Department. Additionally, the Department regularly features and distributes United Nations information materials, documents and press releases to NGO representatives, including all documents disseminated by the Division for Palestinian Rights, the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Right5 ,f the Palestinian and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories, edi the Conunit:ee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People. -22- . VI. 81. RECOMMENDATIONS OF THECOMMITTEE The year under review was one of great change, marked by the tragic events of war, but also by renewed hopes for peace with justice in the region, as the international community expressed its determination to ensure equity and consistency in the application of the principles of international law ena of United Nations resolutions. Solidarity with the Palestiniau people became an even more urgent task in the aftermath of the conflict arising from the situation between Iraq and Kuwait, as their suffering increased manifold and their existence as a people appeared increasingly threatened. Israel's stepped-up colonisation and economic strangulation of the occupied Palestinian territories, its increasing violations of humanrights, and the growing numbersof Palestinian refugees made it imperative that a just and comprehensive settlement of the question of Palestine be finally achieved. At the sametime, the new spirit of international cooperation in resolving regional conflicts peacefully and the current initiatives in this regard have given rise to hope that a concrete peace process can be initiated. 08. The Committee expresses its continued and full support for the intifadah, the courageous struggle of the Palestinian people, to end Israeli occupation and implement the proclamation of independence of November 1966. Through the jntifadah, the Palestinian people has clearly expressed its national purpose and its determination to bring about the exercise of its inalienable rights and has affirmed that the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) is its sole legitimate representative. The Committee reaffirms the international consensus that full respect for , and the realisation of, the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people are indispensable for the solution of the question of Palestine. The Committee calls once again upon Israel to recognize and respect the national aspirations and rights of the Palestinian people and to acknowledge as well the desire of its own people for a future based on peace with justice. The Committee appeals to all progressive forces in Israel to intensify further their efforts to bring about this essential objective. 09. The Committee welcomes the convening by the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics of a conference for the achievement of a comprehensive peace based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) and on the land-for-peace principle, to ensure security and recognition for all States in the region, including Israel, as well as the legitimate political rights of the Palestinian people. The Committee expresses the earnest hope that such a conference will bring about a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the question of Palestine based on internationally recognised principles and United Nations resolutions. The Committee hopes that the role of the United Nations will be generally intensifiad in this process. consensus has already been 90. The Committee recalls that an international In its first report achieved on the essential principles for such a solution. to the General Assembly, the Committee had recommended modalities for the attainment of Palestinian rights (see annex I), later complementedby the Declaration and Programme Action adopted by the International Conference on of the Question of Palestine, held at Geneva in 1983. The intifadah ena the Palestinian peace initiative of 1968 lea to an even wider consensus8 as shown -23- once again by the near-unanimous adoption ef General Assembly resolution 45168 In that resolution the Assembly called once again for the of 6 December 1990. convening of the International Peace Conference on the Middle East, under the with tho participation of all parties to the auspices of the United Nations, conflict, including the PLO, on an equal footing, and the five permanent based on Security Council resolutions members of the Security Council, 242 (1967) and 333 (1973) and the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, primarily the right to self-determination. the achievement of comprehensive occupied territories; 91. The Committee recalls the principles for peace contained in that resolution, namely: since (a) The withdrawal of Israel from the Palestinian territory and from the other occupied Arab 1967, including Jerusalem, (b) Guaranteeing arra$rgements for the security of all States in the region, including those named in General Assembly resolution 181 (II) of 29 November 1947, within se%re and internationally recognised boundaries; (c) Resolving the proolem of the Palestine refugees in cclnformity General Assembly resoiution 194 (III) of 11 December 1948 and subsequent relevant resolutions; since (d) Dismantling 1967; Guaranteeing and sites. the Israeli freedom settlements of access in the territories occupied rsligious with (e) buildings to the Holy Places. 92. Pending progress towards a political settlement, however, the Committee considers it is of the utmost urgency that all necessary measures be taken to protect the Palestinian people in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem, in accordance with the provisions of the Geneva Convention relative to the Protectiou of Civilian Persons in Time of War, of 12 August 1949, and numerous resolutions of the Security Council and the General Assembly. In the past year, Israel's continued violation of the Convention has led to increasing casualties and the deterioration of already unbearable living conditions. A matter of special concern is the suffering inflicted on Palestinian women and children as a result of Israeli practices. The Committee considers that it is now all the more urgent for the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Convention and for the United Nations system as a whole to ensure that Israel abide by its obligations as the occupying Power and, in particular, t3 implement Security Council resolution 681 (1990) of 20 December 1990 and subsequent resolutions. 93. The Committee is deeply concerned at the growing Israeli colonization of the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem, as manifested in the intensified establishment and expansion of settlements, confiscation of land and water resources and settler vigilantism, in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention and United Nations resolutions. The growing influx of new immigrants exacerbates the situation. The Committee considers that it is incumbent upon the Security Council to review the matter urgently and to undertake appropriata measures, in conformity with the Fourth Geneva -24- Convention and the relevant to deal with the situation. principles of the Charter of the United Nations, 94. The Committee wishes to reaffirm that the United Nations has a duty and responsibility to render all assistance necessary to promote the social and economic development of the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem, in preparation for the full exercise of national sovereignty in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions. The Committee accordingly reiterates its call upon the organisations of the United Nations system, as well as on Governments and on intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations, to sustain ana increase their economic and social assistance to the Palestinian people, in close cooperation with the PLO. 95. The Committee noted with satisfaction the increased international support for the attainment of a comprehensive, just and lasting solution of the question of Palestine in the year under review. The Committee believes that its programme of regional seminars, NGO meetings and other informational activities has played a valuable role in this process and it will continue to strive to achieve maximum effectiveness in the implementation of its mandate. The Committee will continue and intensify its efforts to ensure that those meetings provide a useful forum for an in-depth consideration of the substantive issues to be addressed in any peace process, with the assistance of experts from all regions and representing diverse points of view, including The Committee once again extends an invitation to Palestinians and Israelis. all Governments, including those of the United States of America and Israel, to participate iu its work and in the events organixed under its auspices. At the 59th meeting of the forty-fifth session of the General the President of the General Assembly informed the Assembly that in accordance with its resolution 3376 (XXX), of 10 November 1975, the members of the Committee are appointed by the Assembly and following consultations with it has been agreed that the Byelorussian SSB (later the regional groups, renamed Belarus) should be Appointed to fill the vacancy created as a result of the accession of the Gerran Democratic Republic to the Federal Republic of Germany with effect from 3 October 1990. 11 Assembly, 21 Suonlement Official Re o ds of No. 35 (A/il;35). the General Assemblv. Thirty-first Session, SuDDlement No. 35 (A/32/35); ibid., Ibid., Thir tv second Session. _21 tv-third Session. SuDDlement No.~ (A/33/35); ibid., B Session. Sunolement No. 35 (A/34/35 and Corr.1): ibid., Thirtv-fifth Session, lement No. a (A/35/35)$ ibid., Thirty-sixth Session. Suoolement NO. 35 (A/36/35); ibid., Thirty-smupplement Nd (A/37/35 and Corr.l)r ibid., Thirtv-eiqhthDDlement No. 35 (A/38/35); ibid., Session. SuDDlement No. 35 (A/39/35): ibid., FESsssion, Thi rtv-ninth SuDDlement No. 35 (A/40/35); ibid., &&v-first Session. SuDDlement No. 35 :i (A/42/35): ibid., (A/41/35); ibis., I?s!aksecondSession.plemanW No. 35 (A/43/35); ibid., Fortv-fourth Session, Fort? - thira " Sess ion. SWDlement lement No. 39 (A/44/35): and ibid., Fortv-fifth Session, Sumdement t:o. 35 (A/45/35). -25- &&GS (continued) Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian 41 . Time of War, of 12 August 1949. United Nations Treatv Series , vol. 51 Biaortofnal Coni ence on the--of va. 29 Auuust-7 Sentember 1983 (United iations publication, NQ. E.83.1.21), chap. I, sect. B. Persons in 75, No. 973. n, sales The observers at ,ae Committee meetings were as follows: Algeria, P/ Bangladesh, Bulgaria. China. Caechoslovakia, Ecuador, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Mauritania, Morocco, Nicaragua, Niger, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Syrian Arab Republic, United Arab Kmirates. Viet Barn. the League of Arab States and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference. Palestine, represented by the Palestine Liberation Organisation, as the representative of the Palestinian people, the principal party to the question of Palestine, was also an observer. The membershipof the Working Group was as follows: Afghanistan. u Belarus, Cuba, Guinea, Guyara, India, Malta, Pakistan, Senegal, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine and Palestiae, represented by the Palestine Liberation Organisation, as the repres*+ntative of the people directly concerned. 81 Ipternational Labour Conference. 78th Sess'on. 1991. Report of the +- 9~9~9.l, appendices (vol. 2), pp. 41 and 42: -26- ANNEX I Becommendations Of the Committee endorsed bv the Assembly at its thirtv-first session* I. Basic considerations and auidelines General 59. The question of Palestine is at the heart of the Middle East problem, and consequently, the Committee stresses its belief that no solution in the Middle East can be envisaged which does not fully take into account the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people. 60. The legitimate and inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to return to their homes and property and to achieve self-determination, national independence and sovereignty are endorsed by the Committee in the conviction that the full implementation of those rights will contribute decisively to a co.mprehensive and final settlement of the Middle East crisis, 61. The participation of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), the representative of the Palestinian people, on an equal footing with other parties, on the basis of General Assembly resolutions 3236 (XXIX) and 3375 (XXX), is indispensable in all efforts, deliberations and conferences on the Middle East which are held under the auspices of the United Nations. 62. The Committee recalls the fundamental principle the acquisition of territory by force and stresses for complete and speedy evacuation of any territory 63. The Committee considers that concerned to enable the Palestinians it is the duty to exercise of the inadmissibility the consequent obligation so occupied. and responsibility their inalienable of all rights. of 64. The Committee recommen& an expanded and more influential role by the United Nations and its organs in promoting a just solution to the question of The Security Council, Palestine and in the implementation of such a solution. in particular, should take appropriate action to facilitate the exercise by the Palestinians of their r'ght to return to their homes, lands and property. urges the Security Council to promote action The Committee, furthermore, towards a just solution, taKiag into account all the powers conferred on it by the Charter of the United Wations. It is with 65. resolutions of proposals and the Committee implementation people. this perspective in view and on the basis of the numerous after due consideration of all the facts, the United Nations, suggestions advanced in the course of its deliberations, that submits its recommendations on the modalities for the of the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian Suonlzment Gfficial Records No. 35 (A/31/35), of the General Assembly. paras. 59-72. Thirtv-first Session, -27- II. Theoht of return 66. The natural and inalienable right of Palestinians to return to their homes is recognised by resolution 194 (III), which the General ASSemblY has reaffirmed almost every year since its adoption. This right was also unanimously recognised by the Security Council in its resolution 237 (1967)s the tima for the urgent implementation of these resolutions is long overdue. 67. Without prejudice to the right of all Palestinians to return to their homes, lands ana property, the Committee consiaers that the programmeof implementation of the exercise of this right may be carried out in two phases. 68. The first phase involves the return to their homesof the Palestinians displaced as a result of the war of June 1967. The Committee recommends that: (a) The Security Council should request the immediate implementation of its resolution 237 (1967) and that such implementation should not be related to any other condition; (b) The resources of :he International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, suitably financed and mandated, may be employed to assist in the solution of any logistical problems involved in the resettlement of those returning to their homes. These agencies could also assist, in cooperation with the host countries and the PLU, in the identification of the displaced Palestinians. and/or phase twQ 69. The second phase deals with the return to their homesof the Palestinians displaced between 1948 and 1967. The Committee recommends thatr (a) While the first phase is being implemented, the United Nations, in cooperation with the States directly involvbZ!. and the PLO as the interim representative of the Palestinian entity, should proceed to make the necessary arrangements to enable Palestinians displaced between 1948 and 1967 to exercise their right to return to their homesand property. in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions, particularly General Assembly resolution 94 (III): (b) Palestinians choosing not to return to their homesshould be paid just ana equitable compensation as provided for in resolution 194 (III). III. * T 'h grid sovereiqw fa 70. The Palestinian people has the inherent right to self-determination, national independence and sovereignty in Palestine. The Committee considers that the evacuation of the territories occupied by force and in violation of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and relevant resolutions of the United Nations is a condition sine aua non for the exercise by the -28- Palestinian people Of it5 inalienable rights in Palestine. The Committee consider5 furthermore that, upon the return of the Palestinians to their homea and property and with the establishment of an independent Palestinian entity, the Palestinian people will be able to exercise its rights to self-determination and to decide its form of government without external interference. 71. The Committee also feels that the United Nations and responsibility to render all assistance necessary development and prosperity of the Palestinian entity. 72. has an historical duty to promote the economic To those ends, the Committee recommends that: (a) A timetable should be established by the Security Council for the complete withdrawal by Israeli occupation forces from those areas occupied in 1967; such withdrawal should be completed no later than 1 June 1977: (b) forces The Security Council may need to provide temporary in order to facilitate the process of withdrawal; peace-keeping (c) Israel should be requested by the %curity Council to desist from the establishment of new settlements and to withdraw during this period from settlements established sin:e 1967 in the occupied territories. Arab property and all essential service5 in those areas should be maintained intact; (d) Israel should also be requested to abide scrupulously by the provisions of the Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, of 12 August 1919, and to declare, pending its speedy withdrawal from those territories, its recognition of the applicability of that Convention; (e) The evacuated territories, with all property and service5 intact, of the should be taken over by the United Nations, which, with the cooperation League of Arab States, will subsequently hand over those evacuated areas to the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people; (f) The United Nations should, if necessary, communications between Gasa and the West Bank; assist in establishing (g) As soon as the inllependent Palestinian entity has been established, involved and the the United Nations, in cooperation with the States directly Palestinian entity, should, taking into account General Assembly resolution 3375 (XXX), make further arrangements for the full implementation of the of outstanding inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, the resolution problems and the establishment of a just and lasting peace in the region, in accordance with all relevant United Nations resolutions; (h) The United Nation5 should provide the economic and technical assistance necessary for the consolidation of the Palestinian entity. -29- ANNEX II 1n usions . and matrons n (Madrid, min r adopted nh bv the Tueutv-eiohth i 27 to 30 May 1991) 1. The Twenty-eighth United Nations Seminar on the Question Of Palestine (Sixth European Seminar) was held at Madrid from 21 to 30 May XW1. 2. The Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People was represented by a delegation comprising% Chairman of the Committee and head of the Mrs. Absa Claude Diallo (Senegal), delegation; Mr. Alexander BJrg Olivier (Malta), Vice-Chairman and Rapporteur of the Seminars Mr. Nana Sucresna (Indonesia), Vice-Chairman: (Palestine). Mr. Ren6 Juan Mujica Cantelar (Cuba); and Mr. Nasser Al-Kidwa From 29 May, Mr. Borg Olivier acted as Chairman of the Seminar. 3. A total of 7 meetings were held and 17 panelists presented papers on selected aspects of the question of Palestine. Representatives of 50 Governments, Palestine, three United Nations organs, one United Nations specialised agency, one intergovernmental organization, as well as 23 non-governmental organizations, as observers, attended the Seminar. 4. A welcoming address was made by Mr. Francisco Fernandes Ordoiiee, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Spain. A statement on behalf of the Secretary-General Mr. Javier P6ree de Cubllar, was made by his of the United Nations, representative, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and General Assembly Affairs and Secretariat Services, Mr. Ronald I. Spiers. Mrs. Diallo also addressed the meeting on behalf of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People. Mr. Isaam Kamel el Salem, the representative in Madrid of the Palestine Liberation Organixation (PLO), read out a message from Mr. Yasser Arafat, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the PLO. 5. motion 6. The Seminar of thanks participants adopted conclusions and recommendations to the Government and people of Spain. which were establishea and their panelists were and a as follows: people The two panels 1. "The in the occupied Mr. Mr. Mr. Wifadah; Palestinian the safety territory": and protection of the Palestinian Freih Abu-Midain (Palestinian); Mr. Roberto Mesa (Spain); Mikko Lohikoski (Finland); Mr. Hans Peter Kotthaus (Germany); Moshe Amirave (Israel); and Mr. Chawki Armali (Palestinian). urgency of the implementation of Palestin ? and the situation of the United Nations resolutions in the Middle East": "The 2. on the question were * These panelists iaformed the United Nations Secretariat attending the Seminar as experts and not as participants. -3o- that they Mr. Michele Achilli (Italy); Rabbi Balfour Brickner (United States of America)8 Mr. Rafael Estrella (Spain)3 Mr. Yilmaz Altug (Turkey); Mr. Leonard Doyle (United Kingdom); Mr. V. J. Gogitidze (USSR)8 Mr. Richard Murphy (United States)r Mr. Viktor V. Pashfouk (Ukrainian SSR); Ms. Inger Lise Gjarv {Norway); Mr. Izhar Beer* (Israel); and Mr. Saeb Erekat (Pelestinian). 7. The report of the Semixar, including summaries of the proceedings, has been issued as a publicatiou of the United Nations Division for Palestinian Rights. The conclusions are as follows: and recommendations adopted by the Seminar 8. participants (a) The participants loted that the Seminar was being held at a time when fundamental changes were taking place in the international political sicene with increased international cooperation and greater respect for norms and principles of internatfsnal law and morality, including the right of peopPes to enjoy peace and their political, civil, social and economic rights; (b) The participants considered that recent events in the Persian Gulf had heightened tensions and brought instability to an already troubled region and focused even more the attention of international public opinion on the urgent need for a peaceful settlement of the conflict in the Middle East, the core of which is the question of Palestine. A solution was urgently needed in the aftermath of the Gulf War, taking into account the new opportunities that now exist, on the basis of international law and in conformity with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations and relevant United Nations resolutions, which must be applied in an even-handed manner; (c) The participants urged the Security Council, particularly its permanent memberu, to undertake every effort to facilitate the convening the International Peace Conference on the Middle East under the auspices the United Nations and with the participation of all parties concerned, including the Palestine Liberation Organisation. In this regard, the participants peace process; expressed appreciation for all efforts being made to initiate of of the (d) The participants etressed that the peace process and related negotiations must be based ,n Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 336 (lg73), and the legitimrte national rights of the Palestinian people, The participants expressed their primarily the right to self-determination* conviction that the "land fX peace" formula and the "two peoples, two States" principle adequately addressed the rights and concerns of both Parties, and their acceptance and implementation would Israelis and Palestinians, result in a comprehensive and just Peace in the region; (e) participants aimmea the intifadah and the Palestine peace initiative of November 1966 awl acknowledged these and other efforts by the Palestinian people in its struggle to obtain and exercise its inalienable at the continued loss of life rights, The participants Evprwsed deep concern ia the Palestinian aud Aral: territories Occupied by Israel and at the -31- of the human rights of the civilian PoPulation continued violations by Israel The international community had repeatedly deplored the in these territories. Israeli policies and practices in the occupied Palestinian territory, which were in violation of its obligations as a party to the Geneva Convention relative to the protection of civilian Persons in Time of War and ContrarY to United Nations resolutions and generally recognixed norms of international The participants noted that the United Nations StWUritY Council, in its law. resolution 681 (1990). urged the Government of Israel to accept the de applicability of the Fourth Geneva Convention, of 1949. to all the territories occupied by Israel since 1961 and to abide scrupulouslY by the Provisions of the said Convention and asked the States parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention to ensure that Israel, as occupying Power, fulfilled its The participants expressed full Support Of obligations under the Convention. the Security Council's request to the Secretary-General. in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, to pursue the idea of convening a meeting of the States parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention in order to They noted examine measures that might be taken by them under the Convention. that the Secretary-General was requested to monitor and observe the situation regarding Palestinian civilians under Israeli occupation, and to make new and to utilize and designate or efforts in this regard on an urgent basis, draw upon the United Nations and other personnel and resources present there, in the area and elsewhere, needed to accomplish this task and to keep the Many participants appealed to the Security Council regularly informed. Security Council to assume and discharge its responsibilities and to take urgent measures, including the deployment of a United Nations force to ensure the physical protection and to guarantee the safety and security of the Palestinian people under Israeli occupation. The participants noted also the recent adoption by the Security Council of its resolution 694 (1991) on 24 May 1991, deploring, as it had done cn previous occasions, Israel's deportation of Palestinians in violation of its international obligations; (f) The participants deplored the process of Israeli colonisation of the occupied Palestinian territory as manifested in the continued establishment of settlements and usurpation of land and water resources. They were alarmed at the recent establishment of additional settlements and condemned these actions as insensitive and provocative, which created yet another most serious obstacle to peace. The international community had vigorously opposed the Israeli policy of establishing settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, which WaS in contravention of the Fourth Geneva Convention and security Council resolutions which had declared these settlements to be illegal and that they had to be dismantled; (9) territory that the necessary People in national resolutions; The Serious deterioration in the economic situation in the occupied was a source of great concern to the participants. They stressed United Nations has a duty and responsibility to render all assistance to promote the social and economic development of the Palestinian the occupied territory in preparation for the full exercise of sovereignty in accordance with the relevant United Nations (h) The participants, cognizant of the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which recognises the right of freedom of movement and the right Of everyone to leave any country and the right to return to one's own country, condemned the settlement of immigrants and -32- Israeli civilians in the occupitid Palestinian territory, and urged the Security Council to take appropriate measures new and serious obstacle to peace) including to Jerusalem, address this (i) The Participants expressed appreciation for the sustained efforts of the international community to promote a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the question of Palestine, in accordance with United bations resolutions. They stressed the great importance of the valuable contribution which the European countries have made and could continue to make towards the achievement of an equitable settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict in the Middle East. The Participants welcomed the steps already taken by the European countries in this regard and urged them to increase further their valuable assistance to the Palestinian people. In this connection, the participants noted with appreciation the doubling of the aid by the European Community t0 the occupied territory and the efforts for facilitating and increasing the trade between the territory and the Community, both decided by the Council of Ministers of the European Community. The participants expressed their appreciation for the position adopted by European Governments in responst to the proclamation of the State of Palestine, the Palestinian Arab State, to exist side by side with the State of Israel, in conformity with the two-State principle, and in accordance with United Nations resolutions. The participants considered that the European Community could play a valuable role in the peace process and should be an active participant in this process; (j) proposed security The participants took note with appreciation of new initiatives recently by a number of European countries aimed at enhancing and cooperation in the Mediterranean region; (k) The participants appealed to all European Governments to support the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People in its efforts and urged the same Governments to give serious consideration to participation in the work of the Committee as members or observers. The participants considered that increased representation by European countries and the European Commission in the work of the Committee would broaden the scope of its deliberations and increase its effectiveness; (1) The participants expressed appreciation for the Secretary-General's continuing endeavours to advance the peace process and to facilitate the The participants expressed convening of the International Peace Conference. deep appreciation to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) for the invaluable work being carried out They under difficult circumstances for the benefit of the Palestine refugees. appealed to Governments to increase their contribution to the UNRWA budget and to other organixations and potential donors to contribute generously to the of the activities of activities of UNRWA. They took note with appreciation the Division for Palestiniaa Rights of the United Nations Secretariat and Of its commitment to work, under the guidance of and in COUSUltatiOU with the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, comprehensive and lasting peace in the towards the attainment of a just, Middle East in accordance with the resolutions Of the United Nations: (m) Tne participants noted with appreciation that the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalie;lable Rights of the Palestinian People was intensifying its efforts to ensure that the United Nations regional seminars on the for diverse points of view to be question of Palestine proviled an opportunity -33- expressed so that a real dialogue could be held among people of good will on 1n that context the participants expressed satisfaction that there all sides. had been a constructive and frank exchange at the Seminar between the Israeli They acknowledged the efforts Of the IIIOder%te and Palestinian participants. elements within the Isreeli community who are contributing constructively to the peace process and to a better informed public opinion in their country. The Seminar noted, however, that while Palestinians representing the PLO had the official viewpoint of Israel had yet to be participated in the Seminar, expressed; (n) The participants in the Seminar took nots with appreciation of the valuable support the Government of Spain had extended over the years to the The participants attributed particular just cause of the Palestinian people. significance to the fact that the Seminar was held in Madrid, the capital of Spain, a country which had, throughout its history, accommodated people of different faiths and cultures including Moslems, Christians and Jews who were able to coexist peacefully and in harmony. The participants expressed their prOfOund gratitude to the Government and people of Spain for providing a venue for the European Seminar on the Question of Palestine, and for the excellent facilities and warm hospitality extended to them. -34- ANNEX III .. bzrrhth Uniteions t&d&7&&n (Montreal, 1. The Eighth United Nations Question Qf Palestine was held ~!s+ix$ca~ymDQS3.Um . On of PalestinQ 28 to 3ll June 1991) North American Regianal NGO Symposium on the in Montreal, Canada, from 28 tQ 30 June 1991. of the Inalienable Rights Qf the by a delegation CQmpoSed Qf Committee Chairman and leader Qf the (Palestine). 2. The CQmmitteQ on the Exercise Palestinian People was represented Mrs. iibsa Claude Diallo (Senegal), delegation, and Dr. Nasser Al-Kidwa 3. The Symposium was attended by 104 non-gQvernrr,ental organiaations (64 participants and 40 observers); three non-governmental organisation Coordinating committees (North American, African, International); the Palestine Committee fQr non-gQVerXImenta1 Qrganieations; 19 GQV0rnmeutS; one intergovernmental Qrganizatfon, and Palestine. The formal opening session was addressed by Mrs. Absa Claude Diallo on behalf of the Committee. A message was received from Mr. Yasser Arafat, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Orgnnieation (PLO) and was read QUt by the representative Qf Palestine in Canada. A statement: was also made by Ms. Jeanne Butterfield, Chairperson of the NACC and moderator of the Symposium. 4. The theme of the SympQSiUm was "Palestine - Protecting Lives Promoting Peace - Impact of the Gulf War". The programme of WQrk Symposium was CQmpOSed of two panels and 20 workshops, as follows: panel I: "Palestine the Gulf panelisti: Mr. Michel panel II: "Palestine: Bnelist: The workshops were organised - Protecting War": Lives and Promoting Ashrawi and for the of Peace - Impact Us. Hanah Mikhail Warshawski IIsrael); Responding Ms. Louise under (Palestinian)# to Current Cainkar general Developments'*: States of America). (United three sub-themes: Palestinian Palestinian "Special Protection Needs": women; Palestinians in the Middle East educational and cultural institutions: children; prisoners2 region; and Palestinian land, settlements and immigration: "Critical Issues for NGO Work": aid and imposing sanctions; ending Israeli occupation - suspending strategies for raising the Palestine question in the context of grassroots initiatives for a resolution of the Gulf War; delegations (short and long-term); twinn