Message
We have all been born into this increasingly interdependent world as part of one great human family. Each of us is just a human being like everyone else. We all desire happiness and do not want suffering. Therefore, human rights are of universal interest because it is the inherent nature of all human beings to yearn for freedom, equality and dignity, and we all have a right to achieve them.
If we accept that others have an equal right to peace and happiness as ourselves, do we not have responsibility to help those in need? The aspiration for democracy and respect for fundamental human rights is as important to the people of Asia and Africa as it is to those in Europe or the Americas. But of course it is just those people who are deprived of their human rights who are least able to speak up for themselves. The responsibility rests with those of us who do enjoy such freedoms.
People have a right not to be persecuted, even if their views differ from those who are in power. They have a right to be heard - if necessary in a court of law - and they have a right not to be tortured or to be subject to brutal, summary execution. I have a special sympathy for the families and supporters of those who lost their lives in the suppression of the peaceful protest in Tiananmen Square in June 1989, for such events have also taken place in Tibet over the last four decades. Approximately 1.2 million people have died as a direct result of the Chinese takeover of our homeland, leaving only pain for their grieving families. Therefore, there is no doubt in my mind that the Chinese and Tibetan people as a whole would benefit equally from a strengthening of human rights and the peaceful growth of democracy in China.
I understand that the Tiananmen Mothers have made the achievement of these goals the focus of their struggle, while at the same time providing each other practical and moral support. Their determination and goodwill is an example to us all. I am happy to offer them my support and to encourage others to do so in whatever way they can. I pray that the Tiananmen Mothers efforts may be blessed with success, creating an opportunity for everyone in China and the surrounding region to live in greater peace and dignity.
April 11, 2002
