Statement on denial of NGO accreditation 



Madame Chairperson,

I am taking the floor with respect to the accreditation of the NGO ÝCanadian Council for Israel and Jewish AdvocacyÝ to the Prepcom of the Durban review conference on the implementation of 
the DDPA.

We have been informed that the NGO in question has withdrawn its application to be accredited to the PrepCom in view of the protracted debate and repeated requests for clarification on its status, purpose and objectives. In this regard we draw your attention to the letter from this NGO and the reasons for withdrawal stated therein.  

Madam Chairperson

We would like to make clear that the way in which the matter was handled does not constitute a precedent to block NGO participation. It is our understanding, based on the documentation available and the findings of the PrepCom Secretariat, that the Canadian Council for Israel and Jewish Advocacy satisfies all the requirements for accreditation as laid out in the rules of procedure for the accreditation of NGOs. It is unacceptable that the accreditation process be dominated by political considerations. We need to ensure that the process be fair, respectful and transparent.

In conclusion it is essential that civil society participates fully in the preparation of the Durban Review Conference. NGOs should be in a position to bring up all relevant concerns relating to the Durban process including countering anti-semitism which is an important element of the DDPA.

We call for intensified efforts to guarantee a transparent and effective accreditation process in the future.