WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chairman of the House Subcommittee that oversees global human rights and international operations, issued the following statement after a Senate resolution opposing US participation in the newly formed United National Human Rights Council was introduced:

"Despite my own disappointment with the weaknesses of the new Human Rights Council, the United States cannot isolate itself from international human rights mechanisms – no matter how flawed," said Smith. "We must now make every effort to influence the implementation of the Council in accordance with fundamental human rights principles, and prevent notorious rights violators from usurping the international human rights agenda."

"If the Council does not function as a protector of human rights, then establishment of an alternative mechanism with other like-minded democracies may become necessary," Smith said. "At the current time, however, I strongly encourage my colleagues in the Senate committed to promoting human rights to oppose Resolution 419."

Congressman Smith and Congressman Henry Hyde (R-IL), Chairman of the House International Relations Committee, sent a joint letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urging participation in elections for the new Human Rights Council. No decision has been announced as to whether the United States will present its candidacy. 

You may view the letter at: http://www.house.gov/chrissmith/letter.pdf