Speech #1020143164

Unfortunately. despite the continued warmIng in United StatesSyrian relations. the dismal human rights situation In that country has not improved. The State Departments "Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 1991" describes "torture. arbitrary arrest and detention. lack of a fair trial in security cases. and the denial of freedom of speech. press. association. the right of citizens to change their government. and certain worker rights" as among Syrias "major human rights problems." Middle East Watch. the independent human rights organization. in its 1991 book "Syria Unmasked: The Suppression of Human Rights by the Asad Regime." reports that "Security forces operate with Impunity. censors insist on conformity. minorities face continued persecution and discrimination. torture is a standard feature of interrogation. and thousands languish as political prisoners." Syrian Jews in particular are subjected to widespread discrimination and restrictions of their movements and activities. The right to emigrate Is routinely denied and those who have attempted to leave without permission have been Imprisoned. In its description of the 4.000member Jewish community. Middle East Watch said. "No other community in Syria faces such heavy surveillance and none is made to feel so completely powerless In the face of the authorities." Mr.