Rule of law has a new forum - NGOWatch - non-governmental ogranzations - Brief Article

UN Chronicle, June-August, 2001 by Slavi Pachoyski

The United Nations benefits tremendously from the expertise and dedication of thousands of non-governmental organizations interested in its work. It is not so often though that top-flight lawyers from all over the world form a not-for-profit organization and offer to get involved in the everyday life of the Organization. The recently established Rule of Law Forum, which has its headquarters in New York, pledges to serve the diplomatic community.

Its first public event-a luncheon-discussion at the United Nations on 22 May 2001-gathered more than 75 ambassadors and high-level diplomats, including The Legal Counsel and Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs of the United Nations Hans Corell. New York City's mayor was represented by Linda Gras, Deputy Commissioner for the UN and International Business.

The invited speaker was Kenneth Starr, whose address was "The Rule of Law in Building Democratic Societies." The depth of his legal knowledge, his vivid mind and his readiness to engage himself in an open dialogue impressed the distinguished audience. Samuel Ericsson, President of the Board of the Rule of Law Forum, also took part in the discussion.

It is possible that the Forum will in the future become a recognized centre for debates that hold the interest of the diplomatic community. Its leadership is made up of individuals with proven records and impact in their fields. Mr. Ericsson, an immigrant from Sweden and a Harvard Law School graduate, is well known in the field of protection of religious freedom and human rights and for his participation in over fifty United States Supreme Court briefs on First Amendment and other issues. He is head of Advocates International, an organization engaged in more than 100 countries around the world. Vice-President of the Board is Wallace H. Cheney, part of the United States Department of Justice for 23 years and a recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal.

The Rule of Law Forum proclaimed its arrival loudly, and was heard. But the stormy waters of the United Nations have drawn many newcomers. There is no crystal ball to know the survivors; they are recognized only by their deeds.

Slavi Pachovski is Executive Director of the Rule of Law Forum and a former Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations (1992 to 1997). He is also adjunct professor in international law at Seton Hall School of Diplomacy and international Relations.