Human Rights and Democracy - Official Documents

focus on freedom of religion, which is of increasing concern given the violence
suffered by religious minorities over recent months, and the relationship between
trade and human rights. We will also look at challenges in specific countries,
including Afghanistan. These meetings will be complemented by the various subgroups
which will focus explicitly on torture prevention, freedom of expression and
the death penalty. I am determined to seek the views and advice of the members of
these groups, as well as that of other interested organisations, on other key issues
and events as they unfold, such as in response to events in Libya in February 2011.
I also made a commitment to increase the amount of online human rights reporting
by our diplomats. I would encourage you to visit the FCO’s website to read about
the latest developments and actions being reported by our embassies and high
commissions around the world. You can follow our latest work on
Twitter@fcohumanrights.
This Command Paper is also being posted online in a format that will enable nongovernment
organisations and others to host it more easily on independent websites.
The paper will also be viewable by section, so that you can quickly find the
information that most interests you. I hope that these features, as well as the
comprehensive nature of the content, will bring the report to as wide an audience as
possible, both in the UK and internationally.
As recent events have shown, 2011 may prove to be a historic year for democracy
and human rights. Throughout the months ahead, we will continue to support those
pursuing more open societies, political systems and universal values.
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