Robinson expresses concern over deteriorating human rights in Palestine

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson expressed deep concern on Wednesday over "The deteriorating" human rights situation affecting the whole population in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, said a statement.

"I join with Secretary General Kofi Annan in appealing to Israel to lift the "virtual house arrest" imposed on President Arafat, and I reiterate the strong appeal of Terje Roed-Larsen that urgent efforts be made to get back to the building of peace," the statement said.

She said "The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, has been present in Gaza since 1996, and has been engaged in supporting the Palestinian Authority in building democratic institutions" adding that "The current cycle of violence from both sides makes human rights work at once more urgent and more difficult to pursue."

"Such impediments are also contrary to the provisions of the 4th Geneva Convention and international human rights law," Robinson warned. "in light of the damage to the offices of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Gaza City, and injury of other United Nations staff during the recent bombing of the city, I remain extremely concerned about the safety of staff and the ability of the Office to carry out its work under the prevailing conditions." she said.