6th September 2011, Geneva; The Maldives today chaired the first meeting of a new intergovernmental gathering of countries dedicated to promoting human rights around the world. The "Article 4 Dialogue" brings together 23 progressive countries of the UN Human Rights Council with the aim of improving the performance of the body in line with its founding mandate - namely General Assembly Resolution 60/251.
Article 4 of Resolution 60/251 states: "The work of the Council shall be guided by the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity, constructive international dialogue and cooperation, with a view to enhancing the promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development".
The Article 4 Dialogue is an informal gathering designed to promote agreement between States and regions, and to further the cause of human rights globally. It will meet regularly in Geneva during and between Human Rights Council sessions, and comprises a range of countries from all geographic regions and representing different civilizations.
The first meeting took place in Chexbres by Lake Geneva ahead of the 18th Session of the UN Human Rights Council which will take place throughout September and will include, inter alia, a keynote speech by H.E. Mr. Mohamed Nasheed on peaceful protest, especially in the context of the Muslim Awakening.
ENDS