Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton on reports of the ill-treatment of detainees in Libya

BRUSSELS, Kingdom of Belgium, January 31, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, made today the following statement:

“The EU is deeply concerned at the reports of torture and ill treatment of detainees in Misurata. It is essential that the rights of all detainees throughout Libya are fully respected in accordance with international standards, that the authorities accelerate the process of bringing all places of detention under their control and that there is a thorough, impartial and effective investigation of allegations of violations of detainees' rights. Where abuses have occurred, those responsible for them should be brought to justice.

I therefore welcome the announcement made today by the Libyan authorities of steps to address many of these issues. I trust that the government will promptly implement the measures so as to guarantee the protection of these most vulnerable groups. The EU is ready to provide every assistance to the authorities in their efforts to ensure respect for human rights, democratic values and the rule of law.”