THE foreign ministry has taken issue with an Observer story on the United Nations’ observance of its 58th anniversary, saying that the article misrepresented a statement by a UN official and could have given the impression that the Government “has failed to respect its obligations under the United Nations Charter”.

The ministry also accused the media of publishing a trend of negative reports that, it said, had “obfuscated” the administration’s attempts to reduce the number of extra-judicial killings carried out by the police as was highlighted in a UN report.

Following is the full text of the foreign ministry’s response.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade has taken note of comments made about Jamaica’s human rights record in Monday’s Daily Observer (27 October 2003) article entitled ‘UN holds birthday bash amid questions of its relevance’.

It is unfortunate that a general statement made by the highest-ranking United Nations official in Jamaica, to commemorate the 58th Anniversary of that body has been so misrepresented by the media. This article could have negative and far-reaching effects, as the impression may be given that Jamaica has failed to respect its obligations under the United Nations Charter.

Particular references were made to the “scathing report” of the Special Rapporteur on extra-judicial, summary or arbitrary executions, following her visit to Jamaica in February 2003 and the situation regarding eight Cuban asylum seekers, who were returned to Cuba. It is to these specific issues that we would wish to respond.

Having reviewed the Special Rapporteur’s report, we are of the view that the report is fairly balanced and is not “scathing” in any form or content. It highlights individual cases of alleged extra-judicial executions and actions taken in each regard, including the Braeton 7 incident which is highly publicised.

While the report refers to the “alarming” number of extra-judicial killings, it also draws attention to the number of police officers killed in the line of duty. In addition, the report has noted and commended the Government for its recognition of the problems and the political will to address the underlying issues. It has also noted measures that have been taken to improve the situation. These include training and recruitment of officers, the introduction of community policing and restorative justice approaches to crime management and the strengthening of investigative procedures, which has led to the establishment of the Police Public Complaints Authority (PPCA) and the Bureau of Special Investigations.

It is therefore regrettable that the various efforts made by the Government have been obfuscated by the trend of negative reports highlighted in the media recently.

The article’s claim that the United Nations High Commission on Refugees (UNHCR) has accused Jamaica of illegal treatment of the Cubans, is also of concern. We are not aware of any formal communication from that office, verifying that claim. The ministry continues to enjoy excellent relations with the UNHCR, including consultations on issues relating to refugees/asylum seekers.

The fact is that the eight Cubans who arrived in the country were interviewed by Immigration authorities and based on the information supplied, were determined to be economic migrants and therefore subject to deportation.

The Government of Jamaica wishes to reaffirm its belief in, support of and commitment to the fundamental principles mandated by the United Nations Charter, as well as its commitment to its obligations as signatory to key United Nations Instruments aimed at the promotion and protection of human rights, including the refugee convention and protocol.

Jamaica is proud of the excellent relationship that it has had with the international community and will continue to pursue every avenue of co-operation in order to ensure that the fundamental right of every citizen is respected and protected.

The Observer and the rest of the media have a critical role to play in ensuring the success of these ideals, by at least ensuring that their reportage/commentary is fair and accurate.