OAS Split Over Cuba

<a href=www.voanews.com>VOA News 20 May 2003, 02:44 UTC

Deep divisions are again surfacing within the Organization of American States, as the 34-member group addresses Cuba's human rights record.

On Monday, Canada, Chile and Uruguay introduced a U.S.-backed statement condemning rights violations on the communist-run island. But, the measure was withdrawn after several member nations, including Brazil and Venezuela, failed to endorse it.

Later, 16 OAS members endorsed a revised text, which expressed deep concern about the sharp deterioration of the human rights situation on the island.

Monday's debate comes nearly one month after the OAS failed to agree on a resolution condemning rights violations in Cuba.

Nicaragua had presented that motion before the OAS Permanent Council, but the panel decided to shift discussion of the measure to its General Commission.

Representatives had questioned whether the OAS was authorized to issue a resolution on Cuba, which has not been a member for more than four decades.

The Cuba debate follows that government's recent prosecution of 75 pro-democracy dissidents for treason and subversion and the execution of three convicted ferry hijackers.