| SAN MARINO Republic of San Marino Repubblica di San Marino Joined United Nations: 2 March 1992 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 12/29/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
San Marino
31,477 (July 2010 est.)
Antonella Mularoni
Secretary of State For Foreign and Political
Affairs since 03 December 2008
Secretary of State For Foreign and Political
Affairs since 03 December 2008
Co-chiefs of state (captains regent) elected by the Great and
General Council for a six-month term; election last held in 31
September 2010
Next scheduled election: 31 March 2011
General Council for a six-month term; election last held in 31
September 2010
Next scheduled election: 31 March 2011
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Secretary of state for foreign and political affairs elected by the
Great and General Council for a five-year term; election last
held 27 July 2006
Next scheduled election: 2011
Great and General Council for a five-year term; election last
held 27 July 2006
Next scheduled election: 2011
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Sammarinese, Italian
| RELIGIONS |
Roman Catholic
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Republic with 9 municipalities (castelli, singular - castello); Legal system is based on civil law system with Italian law influences; has not
accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: Co-chiefs of state (captains regent) elected by the Great and General Council for a six-month term; election last held in 30
September 2010 (next to be held in 30 March 2011); Secretary of state for foreign and political affairs elected by the Great and General
Council for a five-year term; election last held 27 July 2006 (next to be held by 2011)
Legislative: Unicameral Grand and General Council or Consiglio Grande e Generale (60 seats; members are elected by popular
vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: last held 9 November 2008 (next to be held by June 2013)
Judicial: Council of Twelve or Consiglio dei XII
accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: Co-chiefs of state (captains regent) elected by the Great and General Council for a six-month term; election last held in 30
September 2010 (next to be held in 30 March 2011); Secretary of state for foreign and political affairs elected by the Great and General
Council for a five-year term; election last held 27 July 2006 (next to be held by 2011)
Legislative: Unicameral Grand and General Council or Consiglio Grande e Generale (60 seats; members are elected by popular
vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: last held 9 November 2008 (next to be held by June 2013)
Judicial: Council of Twelve or Consiglio dei XII
| LANGUAGES |
Italian
| BRIEF HISTORY |
The history of San Marino is both very European and typical for the Italian Peninsula, and yet helps explain its unusual
characteristics as the sole remaining Italian city-state. San Marino, the world's fifth-smallest state, also claims to be the world's
oldest republic. According to tradition, San Marino was founded in AD 301 (alternative version about A.D. 350 ) when a Christian
stonemason named Marinus the Dalmatian, later venerated as Saint Marinus, after whom the country is named, fled from the
Dalmatian island of Arbe to escape the persecutions under Diocletian, and settled in Monte Titano to ply his stonecutting and spread
Christianity. Marinus hid on the peak of Mount Titano (the highest of San Marino's seven hills) and founded a small community
following Christian beliefs. The owner of the land, Felicissima, a sympathetic lady of Rimini, bequeathed it to the little Christian
community of mountaineers, recommending to them to remain always united. It is certain that the region had been inhabited since
prehistoric times, although evidence of existence on Mount Titano dates back only to the Middle Ages. That evidence comes from a
monk named Eugippio, who reports in several documents going back to 511 that another monk lived here. In memory of the
stonecutter, the land was renamed "Land of San Marino", and was finally changed to its present-day name, "Republic of San
Marino". Later papers from the 9th century report a well organized, opened and proud community: the writings report moreover
that the close bishop, already at the time, was ruling this territory. In the Lombard age, San Marino was a fief of the dukes of
Spoleto, but the free commune dates to the tenth century. In the tenth century the abbots of the monastery were under the civil
government, but they soon freed themselves and formed a free commune. The original government structure was composed of a
self-governed assembly known as the Arengo, which consisted of the heads of each family (as in the original Roman Senate, the
Patres). In 1243, the positions of Captains Regent (Capitani Reggenti) were established to be the joint heads of state. The state's
earliest statutes date back to 1263. The Holy See confirmed the ancient independence of San Marino in 1291. Because San
Marino decided not to engage in any war, it remained fairly peaceful. But to prevent other nations from attacking, it was seen as
necessary to construct the Three Towers of San Marino. For more information on the subject, see that article. In quick succession
the lords of Montefeltro, the Malatesta of Rimini, and the lords of Urbino attempted to conquer the little town, but without success.
The land area of San Marino consisted only of Mount Titano until 1463, at which time the republic entered into an alliance against
Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, Lord of Rimini, who was later defeated. As a result, Pope Pius II gave San Marino some castles
and the towns of Fiorentino, Montegiardino and Serravalle. Later that year, the town of Faetano joined the republic on its own
accord. Since then, the size of San Marino has remained unchanged. San Marino adopted its written constitution on October 8,
1600. San Marino still faced many potential threats. Thus a treaty of protection was signed in 1602 with the Pope, which came into
force in 1631. San Marino has been occupied by foreign militaries three times in its history, each for only a short period of time.
Two of these periods were in the feudal era. In 1503, Cesare Borgia occupied the republic until his death several months later. On
October 17, 1739, Cardinal Giulio Alberoni, legate (papal governor) of Ravenna who in 1739, aiding certain rebels, possibly
contrary to the orders of Pope Clement XII, used military force to occupy the country, imposed a new constitution, and endeavored
to force the Sanmarinesi to submit to the government of the Pontifical States. However, civil disobedience was used to protest this,
and clandestine notes sent to the Pope to obtain justice were answered by papal recognition of San Marino's rights, which restored
them to independence. The state was recognized by Napoleon by the Treaty of Tolentino, in 1797 and by the Congress of Vienna
in 1815. On 1825 and 1853 new attempts to submit it to the Papal States failed; and its wish to be left out of Garibaldi's Italian
unification in the mid-nineteenth century was granted, since it had offered a safe refuge to numerous supporters of unification in
earlier years. After the unification of the Kingdom of Italy a treaty of 1862 confirmed San Marino's independence. It was revised in
1872. The last occupation of the country was during 1944. San Marino stayed neutral. German forces used the country to retreat
through, and they were followed by Allied forces. The Allied armies only remained in occupation for as long as militarily necessary,
which turned out to be only a few weeks, although 60 people were killed. After the war, San Marino became the first country in
Western Europe to be ruled by a communist party (the San Marinese Communist Party, in coalition with the San Marinese Socialist
Party) through democratic elections. The coalition lasted from 1945 to 1957. San Marino is the only surviving Italian city-state. Like
Andorra, Liechtenstein and Monaco, it appears an anachronism, a reminder of the times when Europe — particularly Germany,
Italy and the Pyrenees — was made up of tiny political units, sometimes extending no further than a cannon could fire from a city’s
walls. Apart from the Vatican City (whose development followed a different course), it is the only one which is completely
surrounded by a single other country in Europe. Various treaties of friendship have been signed with Italy since the latter’s
unification, but San Marino proudly asserts its independence where possible. Women gained voting rights in 1960. Having joined
the Council of Europe as a full member in 1988, San Marino held the rotating chair of the organisation during the first half of 1990.
San Marino became a member of the United Nations in 1992. In 2002 it signed a treaty with the OECD, agreeing to greater
transparency in banking and taxation matters to help to combat tax evasion.
Source: Wikipedia: History of San Marino
characteristics as the sole remaining Italian city-state. San Marino, the world's fifth-smallest state, also claims to be the world's
oldest republic. According to tradition, San Marino was founded in AD 301 (alternative version about A.D. 350 ) when a Christian
stonemason named Marinus the Dalmatian, later venerated as Saint Marinus, after whom the country is named, fled from the
Dalmatian island of Arbe to escape the persecutions under Diocletian, and settled in Monte Titano to ply his stonecutting and spread
Christianity. Marinus hid on the peak of Mount Titano (the highest of San Marino's seven hills) and founded a small community
following Christian beliefs. The owner of the land, Felicissima, a sympathetic lady of Rimini, bequeathed it to the little Christian
community of mountaineers, recommending to them to remain always united. It is certain that the region had been inhabited since
prehistoric times, although evidence of existence on Mount Titano dates back only to the Middle Ages. That evidence comes from a
monk named Eugippio, who reports in several documents going back to 511 that another monk lived here. In memory of the
stonecutter, the land was renamed "Land of San Marino", and was finally changed to its present-day name, "Republic of San
Marino". Later papers from the 9th century report a well organized, opened and proud community: the writings report moreover
that the close bishop, already at the time, was ruling this territory. In the Lombard age, San Marino was a fief of the dukes of
Spoleto, but the free commune dates to the tenth century. In the tenth century the abbots of the monastery were under the civil
government, but they soon freed themselves and formed a free commune. The original government structure was composed of a
self-governed assembly known as the Arengo, which consisted of the heads of each family (as in the original Roman Senate, the
Patres). In 1243, the positions of Captains Regent (Capitani Reggenti) were established to be the joint heads of state. The state's
earliest statutes date back to 1263. The Holy See confirmed the ancient independence of San Marino in 1291. Because San
Marino decided not to engage in any war, it remained fairly peaceful. But to prevent other nations from attacking, it was seen as
necessary to construct the Three Towers of San Marino. For more information on the subject, see that article. In quick succession
the lords of Montefeltro, the Malatesta of Rimini, and the lords of Urbino attempted to conquer the little town, but without success.
The land area of San Marino consisted only of Mount Titano until 1463, at which time the republic entered into an alliance against
Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, Lord of Rimini, who was later defeated. As a result, Pope Pius II gave San Marino some castles
and the towns of Fiorentino, Montegiardino and Serravalle. Later that year, the town of Faetano joined the republic on its own
accord. Since then, the size of San Marino has remained unchanged. San Marino adopted its written constitution on October 8,
1600. San Marino still faced many potential threats. Thus a treaty of protection was signed in 1602 with the Pope, which came into
force in 1631. San Marino has been occupied by foreign militaries three times in its history, each for only a short period of time.
Two of these periods were in the feudal era. In 1503, Cesare Borgia occupied the republic until his death several months later. On
October 17, 1739, Cardinal Giulio Alberoni, legate (papal governor) of Ravenna who in 1739, aiding certain rebels, possibly
contrary to the orders of Pope Clement XII, used military force to occupy the country, imposed a new constitution, and endeavored
to force the Sanmarinesi to submit to the government of the Pontifical States. However, civil disobedience was used to protest this,
and clandestine notes sent to the Pope to obtain justice were answered by papal recognition of San Marino's rights, which restored
them to independence. The state was recognized by Napoleon by the Treaty of Tolentino, in 1797 and by the Congress of Vienna
in 1815. On 1825 and 1853 new attempts to submit it to the Papal States failed; and its wish to be left out of Garibaldi's Italian
unification in the mid-nineteenth century was granted, since it had offered a safe refuge to numerous supporters of unification in
earlier years. After the unification of the Kingdom of Italy a treaty of 1862 confirmed San Marino's independence. It was revised in
1872. The last occupation of the country was during 1944. San Marino stayed neutral. German forces used the country to retreat
through, and they were followed by Allied forces. The Allied armies only remained in occupation for as long as militarily necessary,
which turned out to be only a few weeks, although 60 people were killed. After the war, San Marino became the first country in
Western Europe to be ruled by a communist party (the San Marinese Communist Party, in coalition with the San Marinese Socialist
Party) through democratic elections. The coalition lasted from 1945 to 1957. San Marino is the only surviving Italian city-state. Like
Andorra, Liechtenstein and Monaco, it appears an anachronism, a reminder of the times when Europe — particularly Germany,
Italy and the Pyrenees — was made up of tiny political units, sometimes extending no further than a cannon could fire from a city’s
walls. Apart from the Vatican City (whose development followed a different course), it is the only one which is completely
surrounded by a single other country in Europe. Various treaties of friendship have been signed with Italy since the latter’s
unification, but San Marino proudly asserts its independence where possible. Women gained voting rights in 1960. Having joined
the Council of Europe as a full member in 1988, San Marino held the rotating chair of the organisation during the first half of 1990.
San Marino became a member of the United Nations in 1992. In 2002 it signed a treaty with the OECD, agreeing to greater
transparency in banking and taxation matters to help to combat tax evasion.
Source: Wikipedia: History of San Marino
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
San Marino's economy relies heavily on its tourism and banking industries, as well as on the manufacture and export of ceramics,
clothing, fabrics, furniture, paints, spirits, tiles, and wine. The per capita level of output and standard of living are comparable to
those of the most prosperous regions of Italy, which supplies much of its food. San Marino boasts the world's longest life
expectancy for men with 80 years. The economy benefits from foreign investment due to its relatively low corporate taxes and low
taxes on interest earnings. San Marino has recently faced increased international pressure to improve cooperation with foreign tax
authorities and transparency within its own banking sector, which generates about one-fifth of the country's tax revenues. Italy's
implementation in October 2009 of a tax amnesty to repatriate untaxed funds held abroad has resulted in financial outflows from
San Marino to Italy worth more than $4.5 billion. Such outflows, combined with a money-laundering scandal at San Marino's
largest financial institution and the recent global economic downturn, have contributed to a deep recession and growing budget
deficit. However, San Marino has no national debt, and an unemployment rate half the size of Italy's. The San Marino government
has adopted measures to counter the downturn, including subsidized credit to businesses. San Marino also continues to work
towards harmonizing its fiscal laws with EU members and international standards. In September 2009, the OECD removed San
Marino from its list of tax havens that have yet to fully implement global tax standards.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select San Marino)
clothing, fabrics, furniture, paints, spirits, tiles, and wine. The per capita level of output and standard of living are comparable to
those of the most prosperous regions of Italy, which supplies much of its food. San Marino boasts the world's longest life
expectancy for men with 80 years. The economy benefits from foreign investment due to its relatively low corporate taxes and low
taxes on interest earnings. San Marino has recently faced increased international pressure to improve cooperation with foreign tax
authorities and transparency within its own banking sector, which generates about one-fifth of the country's tax revenues. Italy's
implementation in October 2009 of a tax amnesty to repatriate untaxed funds held abroad has resulted in financial outflows from
San Marino to Italy worth more than $4.5 billion. Such outflows, combined with a money-laundering scandal at San Marino's
largest financial institution and the recent global economic downturn, have contributed to a deep recession and growing budget
deficit. However, San Marino has no national debt, and an unemployment rate half the size of Italy's. The San Marino government
has adopted measures to counter the downturn, including subsidized credit to businesses. San Marino also continues to work
towards harmonizing its fiscal laws with EU members and international standards. In September 2009, the OECD removed San
Marino from its list of tax havens that have yet to fully implement global tax standards.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select San Marino)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
The legislature of the republic is the Grand and General Council (Consiglio grande e generale). The Council is a unicameral
legislature which has 60 members with elections occurring every 5 years under a proportional representation system in all nine
administrative districts. These districts (townships) correspond to the old parishes of the republic. Citizens eighteen years or older
are eligible to vote. Besides general legislation, the Grand and General Council approves the budget and elects the Captains Regent,
the State Congress, the Council of Twelve, the Advising Commissions, and the Government Unions. The Council also has the
power to ratify treaties with other countries. The Council is divided into five different Advising Commissions consisting of 15
councilors which examine, propose, and discuss the implementation of new laws that are on their way to being presented on the
floor of the Council.
Every 6 months, the Council elects two Captains Regent to be the heads of state. The Regents are chosen from opposing parties so
there is a balance of power. They serve a 6-month term. The investiture of the Captains Regent takes place on April 1 and October
1 in every year. Once this term is over, citizens have 3 days in which to file complaints about the Captains' activities. If they warrant
it, judicial proceedings against the ex-head(s) of state can be initiated.
The practice of dual heads of state, as well as the frequent re-election of same, are derived directly from the customs of the Roman
Republic. The Council is equivalent to the Roman Senate; the Captains Regent, to the consuls of ancient Rome.
The main issues confronting the current government include economic and administrative problems related to San Marino's status as
a close financial and trading partner with Italy while at the same time remaining separated from the European Union (EU). The other
priority issue will be to increase the transparency and efficiency in parliament and in relations among parliament, cabinet, and the
Captains Regent.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of San Marino
legislature which has 60 members with elections occurring every 5 years under a proportional representation system in all nine
administrative districts. These districts (townships) correspond to the old parishes of the republic. Citizens eighteen years or older
are eligible to vote. Besides general legislation, the Grand and General Council approves the budget and elects the Captains Regent,
the State Congress, the Council of Twelve, the Advising Commissions, and the Government Unions. The Council also has the
power to ratify treaties with other countries. The Council is divided into five different Advising Commissions consisting of 15
councilors which examine, propose, and discuss the implementation of new laws that are on their way to being presented on the
floor of the Council.
Every 6 months, the Council elects two Captains Regent to be the heads of state. The Regents are chosen from opposing parties so
there is a balance of power. They serve a 6-month term. The investiture of the Captains Regent takes place on April 1 and October
1 in every year. Once this term is over, citizens have 3 days in which to file complaints about the Captains' activities. If they warrant
it, judicial proceedings against the ex-head(s) of state can be initiated.
The practice of dual heads of state, as well as the frequent re-election of same, are derived directly from the customs of the Roman
Republic. The Council is equivalent to the Roman Senate; the Captains Regent, to the consuls of ancient Rome.
The main issues confronting the current government include economic and administrative problems related to San Marino's status as
a close financial and trading partner with Italy while at the same time remaining separated from the European Union (EU). The other
priority issue will be to increase the transparency and efficiency in parliament and in relations among parliament, cabinet, and the
Captains Regent.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of San Marino
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
None reported.
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
None reported.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: San Marino
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Republic of San Marino, with a population of approximately 30,000, is a multiparty democracy. The popularly elected unicameral
Great and General Council (parliament) selects two of its members to serve as captains regent (cochiefs of state). They preside over
meetings of the Council and the Congress of State (cabinet), which has no more than 10 other members (secretaries of state) selected
by the council. Parliamentary elections, last held in November 2008, were considered free and fair. Civilian authorities generally
maintained effective control of the security forces.
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Republic of San Marino, with a population of approximately 30,000, is a multiparty democracy. The popularly elected unicameral
Great and General Council (parliament) selects two of its members to serve as captains regent (cochiefs of state). They preside over
meetings of the Council and the Congress of State (cabinet), which has no more than 10 other members (secretaries of state) selected
by the council. Parliamentary elections, last held in November 2008, were considered free and fair. Civilian authorities generally
maintained effective control of the security forces.
- There were some reports of violence against women.
31 July 2008
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE
Ninety-third session
Geneva, 7-25 July 2008
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 40 OF THE COVENANT
Concluding observations of the Human Rights Committee
REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the second periodic report of San Marino and the opportunity it presents to resume the
dialogue with the State party after 18 years. It is grateful to the State party for the written replies (CCPR/C/SMR/Q/2/Add.1 and Add.2)
provided in advance to the list of issues and for the additional information provided during the consideration of the report. It regrets,
however, the lack of sufficient information in the written materials on the practical implementation of the Covenant.
B. Positive aspects
3. The Committee welcomes the legislative and policy developments on various issues concerning disability, which enabled the State
party to ratify on 29 January 2008 the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol.
4. The Committee observes that the State party has resumed dialogue with a number of treaty-bodies and notes its efforts to submit its
overdue reports.
C. Principal subjects of concern and recommendations
5. While by virtue of Law No. 36 of 26 February 2002, “Regularly signed and implemented international agreements on the protection of
human rights and freedoms shall prevail over domestic legislation in case of conflict” (article 1, paragraph 1, Declaration of the Citizens’
Rights), the exact status of the Covenant and the Optional Protocol in domestic law remains unclear, in particular in contrast to the
status of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. Furthermore, the relationship
between the Covenant and the Declaration of the Citizens’ Rights and other parts of the constitutional order remains unclear (article 2).
The State party should clarify the exact status of the Covenant and the Optional Protocol in domestic law, as well as the relationship
between the Covenant and the Declaration of the Citizens’ Rights and other parts of the constitutional order, so as to ensure full
implementation of all Covenant rights in all circumstances. In particular, the State party should clarify whether a party to pending judicial
proceedings may turn to the Guarantors’ Panel on the constitutionality of rules and claim that a national law is in conflict with the
Covenant.
Click here to read more »
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE
Ninety-third session
Geneva, 7-25 July 2008
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 40 OF THE COVENANT
Concluding observations of the Human Rights Committee
REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the second periodic report of San Marino and the opportunity it presents to resume the
dialogue with the State party after 18 years. It is grateful to the State party for the written replies (CCPR/C/SMR/Q/2/Add.1 and Add.2)
provided in advance to the list of issues and for the additional information provided during the consideration of the report. It regrets,
however, the lack of sufficient information in the written materials on the practical implementation of the Covenant.
B. Positive aspects
3. The Committee welcomes the legislative and policy developments on various issues concerning disability, which enabled the State
party to ratify on 29 January 2008 the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol.
4. The Committee observes that the State party has resumed dialogue with a number of treaty-bodies and notes its efforts to submit its
overdue reports.
C. Principal subjects of concern and recommendations
5. While by virtue of Law No. 36 of 26 February 2002, “Regularly signed and implemented international agreements on the protection of
human rights and freedoms shall prevail over domestic legislation in case of conflict” (article 1, paragraph 1, Declaration of the Citizens’
Rights), the exact status of the Covenant and the Optional Protocol in domestic law remains unclear, in particular in contrast to the
status of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. Furthermore, the relationship
between the Covenant and the Declaration of the Citizens’ Rights and other parts of the constitutional order remains unclear (article 2).
The State party should clarify the exact status of the Covenant and the Optional Protocol in domestic law, as well as the relationship
between the Covenant and the Declaration of the Citizens’ Rights and other parts of the constitutional order, so as to ensure full
implementation of all Covenant rights in all circumstances. In particular, the State party should clarify whether a party to pending judicial
proceedings may turn to the Guarantors’ Panel on the constitutionality of rules and claim that a national law is in conflict with the
Covenant.
Click here to read more »
Freedom In The World 2010 Report
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Overview
In 2009, San Marino found itself embroiled in scandals, including a money laundering scheme that led to the arrests of five heads of the
nation’s top bank. However, in September San Marino was removed from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’
s “gray list” of tax havens.
In June 2008, the left-wing leading government coalition—consisting of the Party of Socialists and Democrats (PSD), the Popular
Alliance of Democrats (AP), the United Left (SU), and the new Democrats of the Center party (DdC)—collapsed when the AP withdrew
its delegates.The move forced the Grand and General Council, San Marino’s parliament, to call early elections for November, which put
the centre-right Pact for San Marino coalition—comprised of the San Marino Christian Democratic Party (PDCS), the AP, the Freedom
List, and the Sammarinese Union of Moderates—in power with 54 percent of the vote and 35 parliamentary seats.
In 2009, San Marino faced a series of scandals amid a faltering economy. In May, five top executives from San Marino’s largest bank,
Cassa di Risparmio della Repubblica di San Marino, were arrested and held in preventative custody on charges of money laundering. All
five were released six months later under the condition that they remain in Bologna where they had been held, with the exception of
Mario Fantini who was permitted to return to San Marino and live under house arrest for age reasons. Investigations were still under
way at the year’s end. Following the arrests, Italy placed the bank’s consumer finance group, Delta, under bankruptcy proceedings. Bids
to save to the group were still pending and the future of the group remained uncertain at the year’s end.
In July, the Italian economy minister announced a tax amnesty for Italians who repatriated offshore accounts. The amnesty ran from
September through December and drained San Marino of many of its Italian accounts, causing increased financial hardship for the
country. However, San Marino signed 14 tax-information accords with EU nations in September, which lifted secrecy between
signatories and assisted San Marino’s removal from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) “gray list”
of tax havens.
Reports surfaced at the end of 2009 that companies were registering in San Marino under fictitious residences, facilitating fiscal
advantages and black market trade. While false registration of residence was outlawed in 2003, the government currently lacks a body to
investigate companies’ claims of residency. An emergency census was arranged by the government in September to address the issue.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Overview
In 2009, San Marino found itself embroiled in scandals, including a money laundering scheme that led to the arrests of five heads of the
nation’s top bank. However, in September San Marino was removed from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’
s “gray list” of tax havens.
In June 2008, the left-wing leading government coalition—consisting of the Party of Socialists and Democrats (PSD), the Popular
Alliance of Democrats (AP), the United Left (SU), and the new Democrats of the Center party (DdC)—collapsed when the AP withdrew
its delegates.The move forced the Grand and General Council, San Marino’s parliament, to call early elections for November, which put
the centre-right Pact for San Marino coalition—comprised of the San Marino Christian Democratic Party (PDCS), the AP, the Freedom
List, and the Sammarinese Union of Moderates—in power with 54 percent of the vote and 35 parliamentary seats.
In 2009, San Marino faced a series of scandals amid a faltering economy. In May, five top executives from San Marino’s largest bank,
Cassa di Risparmio della Repubblica di San Marino, were arrested and held in preventative custody on charges of money laundering. All
five were released six months later under the condition that they remain in Bologna where they had been held, with the exception of
Mario Fantini who was permitted to return to San Marino and live under house arrest for age reasons. Investigations were still under
way at the year’s end. Following the arrests, Italy placed the bank’s consumer finance group, Delta, under bankruptcy proceedings. Bids
to save to the group were still pending and the future of the group remained uncertain at the year’s end.
In July, the Italian economy minister announced a tax amnesty for Italians who repatriated offshore accounts. The amnesty ran from
September through December and drained San Marino of many of its Italian accounts, causing increased financial hardship for the
country. However, San Marino signed 14 tax-information accords with EU nations in September, which lifted secrecy between
signatories and assisted San Marino’s removal from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) “gray list”
of tax havens.
Reports surfaced at the end of 2009 that companies were registering in San Marino under fictitious residences, facilitating fiscal
advantages and black market trade. While false registration of residence was outlawed in 2003, the government currently lacks a body to
investigate companies’ claims of residency. An emergency census was arranged by the government in September to address the issue.
Click here to read more »
Suggested recommendations to states considered in the seventh round of Universal Periodic Review, February 2010
1 December 2009
Recommendations to the government of San Marino
International Criminal Court and other human rights treaties
* To accede to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court and to implement it in national law;
* To accede to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and to implement it in
national law;
* To accede to the 1968 Convention on the non-applicability of statutory limitations to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Click here to read more »
1 December 2009
Recommendations to the government of San Marino
International Criminal Court and other human rights treaties
* To accede to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court and to implement it in national law;
* To accede to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and to implement it in
national law;
* To accede to the 1968 Convention on the non-applicability of statutory limitations to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Click here to read more »
International: Cluster Bomb Ban Takes Effect
Convention Becomes Binding International Law on August 1
July 29, 2010
(Washington, DC) - Countries that have not signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions should join without delay, Human Rights Watch
said today. The convention takes effect on August 1, 2010, becoming binding international law.
"August 1 is the start of the formal life of the treaty and the end of the legitimacy of this indiscriminate weapon that has caused so much
civilian suffering," said Steve Goose, Arms Division director at Human Rights Watch. "The stigma against cluster munitions is now so
strong that no nation should ever use them again."
The convention was negotiated in Dublin in May 2008 and opened for signature in Oslo in December 2008. To date, 107 governments
have signed the convention, of which 37 have ratified.
The Convention on Cluster Munitions completely prohibits the use, production, and trade of cluster munitions, requires destruction of
stockpiled cluster munitions within eight years, clearance of cluster munition-contaminated areas within ten years, and assistance to
affected communities and cluster munition survivors. On August 1, its provisions become fully and legally binding on all countries that
have both signed and ratified.
Ratification enables countries to participate as full states parties to the convention at its First Meeting of States Parties to be held in
Vientiane, Laos from November 8 to 12.
"Nations that remain outside this treaty are missing out on the most significant advance in disarmament of the past decade," Goose said.
"If governments care enough about humanitarian law and protecting civilians from the deadly effects of armed conflict, they will join
immediately."
Many former users, producers, and stockpilers of cluster munitions have joined the Convention on Cluster Munitions, as have many
contaminated countries. But several key countries still remain outside, including Brazil, China, India, Israel, Pakistan, South Korea,
Russia, and the United States.
The Bush administration did not participate in the development or negotiation of the convention. In July 2008, the Pentagon announced a
new policy stating that by the end of 2018, the US will no longer use cluster munitions that have a failure rate of more than one percent -
in essence banning all but a tiny fraction of the existing arsenal. The Obama administration has not reviewed US policy on cluster
munitions or the convention.
"The US has already acknowledged that cluster munitions cause unacceptable harm to civilians. It should not wait another eight years to
stop using cluster munitions; it should ban them now," Goose said.
Cluster munitions can be fired by artillery and rocket systems or dropped by aircraft, and typically explode in the air and send dozens,
even hundreds, of tiny bomblets indiscriminately over an area the size of a football field. Cluster submunitions often fail to explode on
initial impact, leaving duds that act like landmines and pose danger to civilians.
Human Rights Watch is a founding member of the international Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC) and serves as its co-chair.
Starting in Laos and New Zealand, campaigners in more than 50 countries are marking the entry into force of the convention with
celebratory "beat the drum to ban cluster bombs" events including drumming sessions, film screenings, panel discussions, football
games, photograph exhibitions, and other activities.
See the list of worldwide events: www.stopclustermunitions.org/august1
The 37 governments that have ratified the convention are: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Croatia, Denmark, Ecuador,
Fiji, France, Germany, Holy See, Ireland, Japan, Laos, Lesotho, Luxembourg, Macedonia FYR, Malawi, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Moldova,
Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Norway, Samoa, San Marino, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Spain, Seychelles, United Kingdom,
Uruguay, and Zambia.
Click here to read more »
Convention Becomes Binding International Law on August 1
July 29, 2010
(Washington, DC) - Countries that have not signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions should join without delay, Human Rights Watch
said today. The convention takes effect on August 1, 2010, becoming binding international law.
"August 1 is the start of the formal life of the treaty and the end of the legitimacy of this indiscriminate weapon that has caused so much
civilian suffering," said Steve Goose, Arms Division director at Human Rights Watch. "The stigma against cluster munitions is now so
strong that no nation should ever use them again."
The convention was negotiated in Dublin in May 2008 and opened for signature in Oslo in December 2008. To date, 107 governments
have signed the convention, of which 37 have ratified.
The Convention on Cluster Munitions completely prohibits the use, production, and trade of cluster munitions, requires destruction of
stockpiled cluster munitions within eight years, clearance of cluster munition-contaminated areas within ten years, and assistance to
affected communities and cluster munition survivors. On August 1, its provisions become fully and legally binding on all countries that
have both signed and ratified.
Ratification enables countries to participate as full states parties to the convention at its First Meeting of States Parties to be held in
Vientiane, Laos from November 8 to 12.
"Nations that remain outside this treaty are missing out on the most significant advance in disarmament of the past decade," Goose said.
"If governments care enough about humanitarian law and protecting civilians from the deadly effects of armed conflict, they will join
immediately."
Many former users, producers, and stockpilers of cluster munitions have joined the Convention on Cluster Munitions, as have many
contaminated countries. But several key countries still remain outside, including Brazil, China, India, Israel, Pakistan, South Korea,
Russia, and the United States.
The Bush administration did not participate in the development or negotiation of the convention. In July 2008, the Pentagon announced a
new policy stating that by the end of 2018, the US will no longer use cluster munitions that have a failure rate of more than one percent -
in essence banning all but a tiny fraction of the existing arsenal. The Obama administration has not reviewed US policy on cluster
munitions or the convention.
"The US has already acknowledged that cluster munitions cause unacceptable harm to civilians. It should not wait another eight years to
stop using cluster munitions; it should ban them now," Goose said.
Cluster munitions can be fired by artillery and rocket systems or dropped by aircraft, and typically explode in the air and send dozens,
even hundreds, of tiny bomblets indiscriminately over an area the size of a football field. Cluster submunitions often fail to explode on
initial impact, leaving duds that act like landmines and pose danger to civilians.
Human Rights Watch is a founding member of the international Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC) and serves as its co-chair.
Starting in Laos and New Zealand, campaigners in more than 50 countries are marking the entry into force of the convention with
celebratory "beat the drum to ban cluster bombs" events including drumming sessions, film screenings, panel discussions, football
games, photograph exhibitions, and other activities.
See the list of worldwide events: www.stopclustermunitions.org/august1
The 37 governments that have ratified the convention are: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Croatia, Denmark, Ecuador,
Fiji, France, Germany, Holy See, Ireland, Japan, Laos, Lesotho, Luxembourg, Macedonia FYR, Malawi, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Moldova,
Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Norway, Samoa, San Marino, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Spain, Seychelles, United Kingdom,
Uruguay, and Zambia.
Click here to read more »
ADDRESS BY RE. MS. ANTONELLA MULARONI MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AND POLITICAL AFFAIRS
WITH FUNCTIONS OF PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO
AT THE 65TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
New York, 27 September 2010
The San Marino Government expresses its satisfaction with Resolution AJRES/64/289 on the United Nations system-wide coherence,
unanimously adopted by the General Assembly on 2 July 2010. This Resolution, resulting from year-long negotiations, is a historic
achievement for the reform process of the United Nations, with particular reference to the strengthening of the entire system. Indeed,
it provides for a higher degree of coordination, efficiency and transparency, while avoiding fragmentation, waste, duplication of tasks
and effort.
A fundamental element of this Resolution is the establishment of a new entity to be known as UN Women, which will be operational
starting from 1 January 2011. The mandates of four already existing bodies committed to the promotion of women's rights will be
transferred to this new entity, which will strengthen, in terms of capability, efficiency and responsibility, the United Nations system in
the field of gender equality and the empowerment of women. The Republic of San Marino pays special attention to this theme and it has
promoted, over the last few years, several national initiatives, which have made the women in San Marino aware of their rights and of
the State protection mechanisms offered to them. At international level, San Marino has joined several campaigns aimed at raising public
awareness and that of national authorities on women's rights, such as the campaign "UNiTE to End Violence against Women", launched
by the Secretary General in 2008.
I would like to underline on this occasion the fundamental importance of the efforts made by the international community and of the
pressure exerted by the civil society to achieve higher standards of human rights protection. Moreover, we cannot forget that women
and children are always the most vulnerable section of the society in situations where rights and fundamental freedoms are violated. In
several countries, women have to face very difficult situations: many of their rights are often violated and the authors of the violations go
unpunished. The international community must spare no effort in order for dignity, rights and fundamental freedoms of all human beings
to be duly protected.
Moreover, San Marino believes that the international community should be responsible for working in the most possible efficient way to
combat trafficking in persons. Still today, this modern form of slavery affects millions of people, the majority of whom are, in this case
as well, women and children. The Republic of San Marino attaches the utmost importance to the adoption last Jelly of the resolution on
the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. The collective commitment to combat trafficking in persons
has led to the adoption of this Resolution, which is the result of long-lasting consultations and complex negotiations. San Marino
guarantees its support to this initiative and will cooperate with all member States with a view to implementing this Plan of Action.
Click here to read more »
WITH FUNCTIONS OF PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO
AT THE 65TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
New York, 27 September 2010
The San Marino Government expresses its satisfaction with Resolution AJRES/64/289 on the United Nations system-wide coherence,
unanimously adopted by the General Assembly on 2 July 2010. This Resolution, resulting from year-long negotiations, is a historic
achievement for the reform process of the United Nations, with particular reference to the strengthening of the entire system. Indeed,
it provides for a higher degree of coordination, efficiency and transparency, while avoiding fragmentation, waste, duplication of tasks
and effort.
A fundamental element of this Resolution is the establishment of a new entity to be known as UN Women, which will be operational
starting from 1 January 2011. The mandates of four already existing bodies committed to the promotion of women's rights will be
transferred to this new entity, which will strengthen, in terms of capability, efficiency and responsibility, the United Nations system in
the field of gender equality and the empowerment of women. The Republic of San Marino pays special attention to this theme and it has
promoted, over the last few years, several national initiatives, which have made the women in San Marino aware of their rights and of
the State protection mechanisms offered to them. At international level, San Marino has joined several campaigns aimed at raising public
awareness and that of national authorities on women's rights, such as the campaign "UNiTE to End Violence against Women", launched
by the Secretary General in 2008.
I would like to underline on this occasion the fundamental importance of the efforts made by the international community and of the
pressure exerted by the civil society to achieve higher standards of human rights protection. Moreover, we cannot forget that women
and children are always the most vulnerable section of the society in situations where rights and fundamental freedoms are violated. In
several countries, women have to face very difficult situations: many of their rights are often violated and the authors of the violations go
unpunished. The international community must spare no effort in order for dignity, rights and fundamental freedoms of all human beings
to be duly protected.
Moreover, San Marino believes that the international community should be responsible for working in the most possible efficient way to
combat trafficking in persons. Still today, this modern form of slavery affects millions of people, the majority of whom are, in this case
as well, women and children. The Republic of San Marino attaches the utmost importance to the adoption last Jelly of the resolution on
the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. The collective commitment to combat trafficking in persons
has led to the adoption of this Resolution, which is the result of long-lasting consultations and complex negotiations. San Marino
guarantees its support to this initiative and will cooperate with all member States with a view to implementing this Plan of Action.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM ITALIAN BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
HEAD OF DELEGATION OF REFERENCE OSCAR MINA
On the participation of the scope. ELENA Molaroni, Deputy Permanent Representative
THE REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO AT THE OSCE 9 ^ THE WINTER MEETING OF THE OSCE PA
(VIENNA, 18 to 19 February 2010)
Fellow Councillors,
I have the honor to inform the Council that the Great and General Amb. Elena Molaroni, Deputy Permanent Representative of the
Republic of San Marino to the OSCE, has followed the council at the request of the Delegation of San Marino at the OSCE Parliamentary
Assembly, the work of the 9 th Winter Meeting of the Organization, which took place in Vienna 18 and 19 February.
The intention of the delegation from the council - currently consists of me as a Councillor and Head of Delegation Alessandro Rossi - is
to be more active and involved, having regard to the commitment and the results already seen in this year's activities within the
organization. Although it impossible to attend the winter meeting, we have sent to our Representative in Vienna to relate during the work
on key issues on the agenda, so as to continuously carry out the work undertaken, especially in view of the Annual Session referred to
the Vienna meeting is the preparation phase.
At the opening session, the President of the Parliamentary Assembly Soares has summarized the recent activities carried out by the body,
with particular reference to the recent election observation mission in Ukraine. From here it is a debate over the tension found between
the Parliamentary Assembly and ODIHR (Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights) during the missions and the need for
greater collaboration in the field.
To this was followed by the intervention of the Vice President of the Parliamentary Assembly of Kazakhstan, which focused on the
priorities of Kazakhstan's OSCE Chairmanship for the year 2010. At 15 years after the birth of the OSCE and 20 years after the signing
of the Charter of Paris, Kazakhstan is committed in particular to strengthen the organization based on four pillars: faith, tradition,
openness and tolerance, to make a joint action plan to support of collective security.
During the joint session of the three Standing Committees, therefore wrote to the Assembly the President of the OSCE, Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, which reaffirmed the need for dialogue and cooperation between States, by the next Forum in its planned
Trans-Asian Kazakhstan in May and touched on issues of energy security, migration, trafficking in human beings.
The Standing Committee of Political Affairs and Security has introduced the issue of minorities in the OSCE and the role played by
education in this sense and the legislation to ensure that ethnic and religious diversity for the benefit of the national population.
The Rapporteur of the Commission ^ 1 - The Head of the Italian delegation Richard Best - then brought the issue to be debated and voted
at the Annual Session in Oslo, in anticipation of its resolution on transnational organized crime.
Starting from the reflection that the culture of legality is variable in the OSCE participating States and that the crime takes advantage of
the limitations in the legislation, said the UN Convention on the theme adopted in Palermo in 2000 and not yet ratified by all Member
States, quoting Kofi Annan's statement that if the crime crosses borders, so must the law.
The Permanent Commission for Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment has discussed the effects of the economic
crisis, an issue also discussed in the last Annual Session, and that the OSCE can provide answers to the phenomenon.
The Permanent Commission for Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs has finally analyzed the issue of child protection,
underlining the need to combat trafficking and sexual exploitation of children and to intervene effectively to protect children in natural
disasters such as Haiti. Another issue that has found great interest in members of the Commission was that relating to freedom of
expression, with reference to the independence of the media and the protection of journalists.
Click here to read more »
HEAD OF DELEGATION OF REFERENCE OSCAR MINA
On the participation of the scope. ELENA Molaroni, Deputy Permanent Representative
THE REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO AT THE OSCE 9 ^ THE WINTER MEETING OF THE OSCE PA
(VIENNA, 18 to 19 February 2010)
Fellow Councillors,
I have the honor to inform the Council that the Great and General Amb. Elena Molaroni, Deputy Permanent Representative of the
Republic of San Marino to the OSCE, has followed the council at the request of the Delegation of San Marino at the OSCE Parliamentary
Assembly, the work of the 9 th Winter Meeting of the Organization, which took place in Vienna 18 and 19 February.
The intention of the delegation from the council - currently consists of me as a Councillor and Head of Delegation Alessandro Rossi - is
to be more active and involved, having regard to the commitment and the results already seen in this year's activities within the
organization. Although it impossible to attend the winter meeting, we have sent to our Representative in Vienna to relate during the work
on key issues on the agenda, so as to continuously carry out the work undertaken, especially in view of the Annual Session referred to
the Vienna meeting is the preparation phase.
At the opening session, the President of the Parliamentary Assembly Soares has summarized the recent activities carried out by the body,
with particular reference to the recent election observation mission in Ukraine. From here it is a debate over the tension found between
the Parliamentary Assembly and ODIHR (Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights) during the missions and the need for
greater collaboration in the field.
To this was followed by the intervention of the Vice President of the Parliamentary Assembly of Kazakhstan, which focused on the
priorities of Kazakhstan's OSCE Chairmanship for the year 2010. At 15 years after the birth of the OSCE and 20 years after the signing
of the Charter of Paris, Kazakhstan is committed in particular to strengthen the organization based on four pillars: faith, tradition,
openness and tolerance, to make a joint action plan to support of collective security.
During the joint session of the three Standing Committees, therefore wrote to the Assembly the President of the OSCE, Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, which reaffirmed the need for dialogue and cooperation between States, by the next Forum in its planned
Trans-Asian Kazakhstan in May and touched on issues of energy security, migration, trafficking in human beings.
The Standing Committee of Political Affairs and Security has introduced the issue of minorities in the OSCE and the role played by
education in this sense and the legislation to ensure that ethnic and religious diversity for the benefit of the national population.
The Rapporteur of the Commission ^ 1 - The Head of the Italian delegation Richard Best - then brought the issue to be debated and voted
at the Annual Session in Oslo, in anticipation of its resolution on transnational organized crime.
Starting from the reflection that the culture of legality is variable in the OSCE participating States and that the crime takes advantage of
the limitations in the legislation, said the UN Convention on the theme adopted in Palermo in 2000 and not yet ratified by all Member
States, quoting Kofi Annan's statement that if the crime crosses borders, so must the law.
The Permanent Commission for Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment has discussed the effects of the economic
crisis, an issue also discussed in the last Annual Session, and that the OSCE can provide answers to the phenomenon.
The Permanent Commission for Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs has finally analyzed the issue of child protection,
underlining the need to combat trafficking and sexual exploitation of children and to intervene effectively to protect children in natural
disasters such as Haiti. Another issue that has found great interest in members of the Commission was that relating to freedom of
expression, with reference to the independence of the media and the protection of journalists.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM ITALIAN BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
May each of us is a human rights defender
(Ban Ki-moon *)
10 December 2010
The World Day for Human Rights of 10 December this year is dedicated to all defenders of the same. 'To be - said the UN secretary
general Ban Ki-moon - part of a civil society organization, or it can be a journalist or even a single citizen, spurred to action by the abuses
that closely affect . All have in common a commitment to report abuse, to protect the most vulnerable and to put an end to impunity.
They are people who play a vital role in the fight against discrimination, but too often their work involves great risk, they may become
even more if they are women. Member States therefore have the primary responsibility to protect the guardians of human rights "
The symbolic image of Modniale Human Rights Day this year constitute the foundation of freedom, peace, development and justice and
the heart of the United Nations in the world.
Laws to protect and support human rights are essential. However, very often, progress should be compared to people ... ... brave men
and women who fight to protect the rights, own and others' ... determined to make those rights real in people's lives. And supporters of
human rights that we dedicate a day of this year.
Rights defenders are a heterogeneous group. They can be part of a civil society organization, or it can be a journalist or even a single
citizen, spurred to action by the abuses that touch closely. All have in common a commitment to report abuse, to protect the most
vulnerable and to put an end to impunity. They take sides, speak openly - and now use social media - in the name of freedom and human
dignity. They play an essential role in the fight against discrimination. Investigate all forms of violation and help victims get justice and
support.
Too often their work involves great risk. Supporters of human rights, in fact, are persecuted, deprived of their jobs and wrongly
imprisoned. In many countries they are tortured, beaten and killed. Even their friends and members of their families are subjected to
persecution and intimidation. Women human rights advocates face additional risks and need, therefore, more support.
This Human Rights Day is an occasion to pay tribute to the courage and achievements throughout their defenders and commit ourselves
to do more to safeguard their work.
States have the primary responsibility to protect the guardians of human rights. I call on all States to ensure freedom of expression and
freedom of assembly, which sustain their activities. When the lives of the guardians of human rights are threatened, we are all less
secure. When their voices are silenced, justice itself is stifled.
In this Human Rights Day, then we draw inspiration from those who seek to make our world more just. And let us remember that
everyone - regardless of their training, the preparation or education - can be a champion of human rights.
So use that power. May each of us is a defender of human rights.
* Secretary General of the United Nations. Message delivered on the occasion of World Human Rights Day on December 10. Translation
and adaptation by Flavia Mandarins, coordinator of the Regional Information Centre United Nations Western Europe - Area of Italy, San
Marino, Malta and the Holy See.
By clicking here, is also available (in English) a document entitled Human Rights Defenders acting Against Discrimination, produced by
the Office of the High Commissariat for Human Rights of the UN, while at the World Human Rights Day on December 10.
Click here to read more>>
May each of us is a human rights defender
(Ban Ki-moon *)
10 December 2010
The World Day for Human Rights of 10 December this year is dedicated to all defenders of the same. 'To be - said the UN secretary
general Ban Ki-moon - part of a civil society organization, or it can be a journalist or even a single citizen, spurred to action by the abuses
that closely affect . All have in common a commitment to report abuse, to protect the most vulnerable and to put an end to impunity.
They are people who play a vital role in the fight against discrimination, but too often their work involves great risk, they may become
even more if they are women. Member States therefore have the primary responsibility to protect the guardians of human rights "
The symbolic image of Modniale Human Rights Day this year constitute the foundation of freedom, peace, development and justice and
the heart of the United Nations in the world.
Laws to protect and support human rights are essential. However, very often, progress should be compared to people ... ... brave men
and women who fight to protect the rights, own and others' ... determined to make those rights real in people's lives. And supporters of
human rights that we dedicate a day of this year.
Rights defenders are a heterogeneous group. They can be part of a civil society organization, or it can be a journalist or even a single
citizen, spurred to action by the abuses that touch closely. All have in common a commitment to report abuse, to protect the most
vulnerable and to put an end to impunity. They take sides, speak openly - and now use social media - in the name of freedom and human
dignity. They play an essential role in the fight against discrimination. Investigate all forms of violation and help victims get justice and
support.
Too often their work involves great risk. Supporters of human rights, in fact, are persecuted, deprived of their jobs and wrongly
imprisoned. In many countries they are tortured, beaten and killed. Even their friends and members of their families are subjected to
persecution and intimidation. Women human rights advocates face additional risks and need, therefore, more support.
This Human Rights Day is an occasion to pay tribute to the courage and achievements throughout their defenders and commit ourselves
to do more to safeguard their work.
States have the primary responsibility to protect the guardians of human rights. I call on all States to ensure freedom of expression and
freedom of assembly, which sustain their activities. When the lives of the guardians of human rights are threatened, we are all less
secure. When their voices are silenced, justice itself is stifled.
In this Human Rights Day, then we draw inspiration from those who seek to make our world more just. And let us remember that
everyone - regardless of their training, the preparation or education - can be a champion of human rights.
So use that power. May each of us is a defender of human rights.
* Secretary General of the United Nations. Message delivered on the occasion of World Human Rights Day on December 10. Translation
and adaptation by Flavia Mandarins, coordinator of the Regional Information Centre United Nations Western Europe - Area of Italy, San
Marino, Malta and the Holy See.
By clicking here, is also available (in English) a document entitled Human Rights Defenders acting Against Discrimination, produced by
the Office of the High Commissariat for Human Rights of the UN, while at the World Human Rights Day on December 10.
Click here to read more>>
| Click map for larger view |
| Click flag for Country Report |
Captain Regent Giovanni Francesco
Ugolini
Co-Chief of State since 1 October 2010
Ugolini
Co-Chief of State since 1 October 2010
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.
Captain Regent Andrea Zafferani
Co-Chief of State since 1 October 2010
Co-Chief of State since 1 October 2010
