14 October 1991

Doc. 6524

COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS

Declaration on Yugoslavia

(adopted by the Committee of Ministers on 8 October 1991

at the 463rd meeting of the Ministers' Deputies)

      The Committee of Ministers firmly condemns the seizure of the Presidency in Yugoslavia, the abuses of power, the violence and breaches of ceasefire agreements which are committed by all parties in the conflict, as well as the flagrant violations of human rights of which the civilian populations are victims.

      It recalls that no solution imposed by force can be accepted by the international community.

      The Committee of Ministers appeals urgently to all concerned parties for an immediate and effective ceasefire. It recalls that any solution to the crisis in Yugoslavia should be based on the rule of law as well as on the respect of fundamental rights and the rights of all those who live there.

      The Committee of Ministers supports the efforts of the European Community and welcomes with hope the negotiations of the Conference of The Hague with a view to a global and peaceful solution. In awaiting such a solution, it has decided to suspend its co-operation with the Yugoslav authorities, whilst recalling to all concerned bodies that, when the time comes, it maintains at their disposal its experience in the legal and constitutional fields, especially concerning minorities, and that it remains available if an assistance mechanism is created.