More determination is needed to make human rights real
[26/01/12
09:30] “Europe must move with more determination from rhetoric to enforcement of human rights standards” stated the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Thomas Hammarberg, when presenting today the last
annual report of his mandate.
The report identifies fields in which stronger political action is required. One concern is the justice system which is dysfunctional in several member states. “Corruption, political interference and lack of resources erode the independence and credibility of the judiciary. Strengthening the rule of law is essential to rebuild public confidence in the justice system.”
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Discriminatory policies towards elderly people must stop [19/01/12
10:00] The privatisation of institutional care for older persons in Sweden has recently been marked by scandals. Media have revealed that a business company running a number of such institutions has prioritised profit making and bonuses for top managers over decent care for the residents.
Cases of urgent health conditions were mishandled as there were too few nursing personnel. Existing staff were asked to find ways to limit costs even on food, diapers and protective gloves. For instance, they were asked to weigh used diapers to assess whether they were full or could be used again. (more)
23-27/01/12 - Parliamentary Assembly Session with
presentation of CommHR Annual Activity Report for 2011 27/01/12 - Solemn Hearing for the official opening of
Court's judicial year