Political Quotes

“I am totally sympathetic with the intent of the Senator's amendment. Clearly the entire history of the School of the America's, and particularly the period from 1982-1991, is shameful. It has left a legacy that is an ugly blemish on our country's credibility as an advocate of full respect for human rights and the rule of law in a region where human rights violations have occurred with impunity. Like Senator Durbin, I believe that the United States has a special obligation to promote democracy throughout the world, and most especially in our own hemisphere. Given the recent history of military rule in many countries in the region, it is particularly important that the United States strongly support the concept of civilian control over national military institutions. It also means highlighting the importance of respecting the human rights of all the peoples of the hemisphere. And, in particular, the obligation of military and security forces throughout the region that they do so. Finally it means stressing the principle that national military and security forces are accountable for acts that fall short of acceptable international human rights standards and practices.”