Rod Grams: “during the debate on reforming the United Nations to make it a more effective organization, there was little discussion…”

“during the debate on reforming the United Nations to make it a more effective organization, there was little discussion about the important work that the United Nations carries out. One good example which directly relates to my State is, the U.N.'s leading role in promoting and providing financial assistance to treatment centers for victims of torture around the world. The passage of my amendment to the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1997, which authorizes the United States to contribute $3 million in fiscal year 1998 and $3 million in fiscal year 1999 to the U.N. Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, ensures that treatment centers in more than 50 countries will continue to receive support. I would like to thank the junior Senator from Minnesota for cosponsoring my amendment, and joining me in being an advocate for helping victims of torture. My home State of Minnesota is fortunate to have the first and only comprehensive treatment center in the United States for victims of torture. The Center for Victims of Torture has treated over 500 patients since it was established in 1985, and has enabled them to become productive members of our communities by overcoming the atrocities suffered in their countries of origin. I have learned a great deal from visiting the Center and meeting its clients and staff.”