UN Official Studies Civilian Impact Of US Drones Use

Islamabad, March 17, IRNA -- Ben Emmerson, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms discussed impact of US drone strikes with Pakistani officials. The Foreign Ministry wrapped his three-day visit to Pakistan and a part of his work as the UN Special Rapporteur is to study the civilian impact of the use of drones, the Foreign Ministry said. Currently, he is working on his annual report to the General Assembly, which focuses on the civilian impact of the use of drones, a statement said. During the visit, the Special Rapporteur called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Advisor to the Prime Minister on Human Rights, the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defense and Defense Production, the Foreign Secretary, besides holding talks with senior government officials. In order to ascertain first hand information on drone strikes and its impact on civilians, the Special Rapporteur also met with tribal elders and victims of drone strikes in Islamabad. During interaction with the Special Rapporteur, Pakistan reiterated its known position that drone strikes are counter-productive, against international law and a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Emmerson will present his report on the issue of drones during the 68th session of the General Assembly in October 2013. Local media quoted the UN official as saying that the US attacks are violation of Pakistan’s autonomy. Pakistani officials told him that the drones have nearly killed 400 civilians./end