EUHR Solana on Andizhan trial in Uzbekistan

Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy commented on the recent trial in Uzbekistan in connection with the events in Andizhan last May.

He voiced deep concern at the conduct of the trial of fifteen men in relation to the events in Andizhan on 12-13 May this year. Despite the close attention of the EU and others, the trial has, Mr Solana said, fallen well short of the international standards necessary for a free and fair judicial process.

The Uzbek authorities have repeatedly refused the calls of the EU and others for an investigation into the events in Andizhan arguing that the whole truth would be revealed in this trial. However, little attempt was made during these proceedings to directly address the substantial body of credible evidence pointing to the excessive and indiscriminate use of force by the Uzbek authorities. Sadly, Mr Solana said, we are still no closer to the truth and the need for an independent investigation remains.
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This statement is attributable to Cristina Gallach, Spokesperson of HR Solana

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• EU Presidency Statement - Human Rights in Uzbekistan (22/11/2005)
• EU Presidency Re-introduction Statement - Human Rights in Uzbekistan (22/11/2005)
• EU Presidency Declaration on Andijan Trial (18/11/2005)
• Uzbekistan - EU Council adopts restrictive measures (14/11/2005)
• EU Presidency Statement - Human Rights in Uzbekistan (9/11/2005)
• EU Council Conclusions on Uzbekistan (3/10/2005)
• GAERC Conclusions on Uzbekistan (18/7/2005)
• Commission expresses concern about Uzbek human rights activist (7/7/2005)