This year the resolution will even more strongly ask to approve a moratorium on executions for those countries that on the threshold of the year 2000 still retains the death penalty. The resolution will be presented by Italy that right now is gathering consensus from the countries that will sponsor it. This year's objective is to gain more votes in favor and more co-sponsors. The battle will be tougher than last year because with the new members of the Commission the abolitionist front loses three votes. But despite this fact the resolution will be adopted.
Key point is the explicit request for a moratorium on executions.
To strengthen the text the request not to execute juveniles and pregnant women has been added, something already established by international treaties but not respected by some countries. The last week of March and the first week of April will decide on the future of the death penalty in the world. The International community once again is called to take a stand on this issue and decide for the progress of human rights and towards the abolition of capital punishment. The Italian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs will also intervene and a delegation from the Italian Senate. From United States Dave Atwood with the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty and Speedy Rice with the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.