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At an impasse, situation in Angola could threaten peace in sub-region: Annan
11 October -- In a new report to the Security Council issued today, Secretary-General Kofi Annan expressed concern that the situation in Angola may be entering a new phase of political and military impasse which could threaten regional security.

"If the present trend continues, the situation in Angola could worsen the security and humanitarian problems especially in the border regions of the neighbouring countries, Namibia and Zambia and threaten further the peace and security of the subregion as a whole," Mr. Annan wrote. He repeated his previous assertion that the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) bears primary responsibility for the resumption of war in the country, where fighting is continuing with "devastating effects" on the population.

According to the report, 2.7 million Angolans have been forced to flee their homes, with millions of others affected by the war. The Secretary-General charges that "UNITA attacks on civilian targets have been systematic." He notes in particular an alleged UNITA attack on an orphanage which resulted in the murder of one child and the abduction of 21 minors. "There were numerous allegations of UNITA abduction of children, to use them as porters and eventually to force them into military service."

The report also points to alleged violations by the Angolan Armed Forces and the national police, which "often relate to individual actions outside existing law and disciplinary rules." According to the report, Angola's justice institutions do not have the capacity or territorial coverage to investigate and properly respond to violations. Mr. Annan welcomes a recent project, supported by the UN Office in Angola, to educate military trainers in human rights, international humanitarian law and the rule of law.

Mr. Annan stressed that the quest for national reconciliation should seek to overcome the mistrust which has been reinforced by hostility and violence. He said a genuine process of national reconciliation should involve developing the Government's institutional capacities for the promotion and protection of human rights, the provision of justice and security, and the improvement of the living conditions of the country's people.

Despite the absence of a "real breakthrough" and frustrations over the slow progress towards a peaceful resolution of the situation, Mr. Annan said the UN Office in Angola continues to play an essential role in assisting the Government in the area of human rights capacity-building, as well as in helping to mobilize humanitarian support from the international community. He recommends that the Security Council extend the mandate of the Office through 15 April 2001.