TALKING POINTS: press_room/press_releases/press_releases06/hrc.html"> HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

The Bush Administration is announcing today that it will not seek a seat on the UN Human Rights Council, opting instead for a "wait and see" approach. After promising to "work cooperatively with other Member States to make the Council as strong and effective as it can be," the Administration is choosing instead to walk away from a un_minute/minute_030706_human_rights_council.html"> vastly improved institution.

Use these talking points in speeches, meetings, articles, and other communications to stress the importance of a strong and effective United Nations.

• Don't stay on the sidelines, get in the game
  The Human Rights Council's first year will largely determine its trajectory for many years to come. If we're serious about shaping it, now is the time to participate.

• Abandoning core values and a tradition of leadership
  Under the guiding hand of Eleanor Roosevelt, the U.S. led the way in creating the first Commission on Human Rights in 1946. Human rights are central to American values. The Human Rights Council will shine a light in dark places to expose rights violations all over the world; the U.S. must support this valuable mission.

• The U.S. advertised a product that we no longer stock
  During negotiations, Ambassador Bolton expressed serious reservations to term limits and suggested that the Permanent Five members of the Security Council be granted seats automatically. Bolton made these proposals because, he said, continued U.S. participation would be key to the Council's success. Instead of withdrawing the value we promised, the Administration should help the Council fulfill its potential. 

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un_minute/minute_032306_management_reform.html"> THE LAST MINUTE - MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS REFORM:

• Annan's proposals will bring new blood and fresh ideas.

• The UN needs new tools to meet higher expectations.

• The U.S. must lead and be a team player.

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