Brussels, 21/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - Arrangements for the formal political dialogue on human rights between South Africa and the European Union have been agreed. The Council of the EU gave its approval on Monday 19 November to the establishment of this structured dialogue which aims to increase cooperation between the two parties on issues relating to human rights and international humanitarian law as advanced through multilateral fora, such as the South African Development Community (SADC), the African Union, the European Union and the United Nations.
This dialogue will be held on an annual basis, alternating between the EU and South Africa, covering a very wide range of issues pertaining to (1) the promotion and protection of and respect for human rights, democratic principles, the rule of law, responsible governance and electoral processes; (2) attempts to find common positions and approaches to be argued in international fora; (3) the development of trilateral partnerships with third countries in order to strengthen democracy, democratic governance, the rule of law, good governance, responsible electoral processes and the practical enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The two parties agreed to engage in this formal political dialogue on human rights at the Fifth EU-South Africa Bilateral Summit, which was held in Brussels in September (see EUROPE 10691). (AN/transl.fl)