[child-rights] Children have right to safe education, UN expert says in condemning Beslan hostage-taking

UNITED NATIONS
Press release
7 September 2004

The following statement was issued today by the Special Rapporteur on the
right to education of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights,
Vernor Muņoz Villalobos:

In my capacity as Special Rapporteur on the right to education appointed
by the Commission on Human Rights, I wish to join in the expression of
condolences, sadness and solidarity to the people of North Ossetia for the
tragic loss of human life and serious injuries as a result of the
hostage-taking in Middle School No.1 in Beslan.

I express my profound condemnation of the targeting of schools and
hostage-taking of children, teachers and other innocent civilians for any
cause. No cause, political or otherwise, can justify the suffering of
hostages and their families, or the loss of life of, particularly, young
pupils.

The fundamental human right to education includes the right to a safe
education. Children have the right to safety in school establishments,
conducive to a positive learning environment. The right to education is
essential for future generations to prosper.

I join my voice to those condemning unequivocally terrorism in all its
forms. A response to terrorism firmly grounded on human rights and
fundamental freedoms will further isolate those who commit such acts and
contribute to better security for all.



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