UNANIMOUS VOTE OF UNO ASSEMBLY TO BAN GENOCIDE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22817, 11 December 1948, Page 6

UNANIMOUS VOTE OF UNO ASSEMBLY TO BAN GENOCIDE

PARIS, Dec. 9,

The United Nations General Assembly today unanimously approved the convention outlawing genocide, which is defined as the mass destruction of any group such as Hitler's action against Jews. Fifty-five nations voted for the convention, which the Assembly's president. Dr. H. V. Evatt, described as “an epoch-making event-” The assembly rejected by 39 votes to eight an attempt by the Soviet Union to eliminate any provision for an international tribunal. The Assembly also rejected tho Soviet-backed proposal to outlaw “cultural genocide.” The Assembly adopted by 43 votes to six a separate resolution calling on the International Law Commission to study the creation of an - international judical organ for the trial of genocide. International Bill of Rights

Western delegates claimed that legislation against genocidal crimes should be framed in the projected International Bill of Human Flights. Amid cheers the British delegate, Mr. G. Fifzmaurice, stated that although Britain earlier abstained in voting on the convention, she would now support it. “But we must insist that the convention does not detract from the traditional and inalienable rights of asylum.” he added. Mr. Alexander Morosov, in announcing the Russians’ surprise decision to vote for the convention, said that much of the sting had been taken out by the rejection of the Soviet suggestions.

During the debate today India firmly opposed a final attempt by Pakistan to persuade the United Nations to outlaw “cultural genocide.” Cultural genocide is defined as the destruction of the language, religion, or culture of a racial group. Pakistan Supports Soviet

Pakistan strongly supported the Soviet proposal that a comprehensive provision against cultural genocide be included in a Genocide treaty. India rejected the proposal, claiming that cultural genocide was not commensurate with physical genocide. At the conclusion of the voting, Dr. Evatt commented: In this field, which relates to the sacred right of the existence of human rights, we are proclaiming the supremacy of international law once and forever. Our approval of this convention marks a significant advance in the development of international criminal law." Dr. Evatt declared that the convention would formally be opened for signatures on Saturday.