Ban concerned over violent dispersal of protesters in Egypt

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is "seriously concerned" by the detentions and "violent" dispersal of protesters in Egypt, including reports of sexual assault. He urged the authorities to amend the relevant newly passed law that could lead to "serious breaches" of the right to peaceful assembly, Ban's press office said in a statement late Wednesday. "He stresses the importance of respect for peaceful protest and freedom of assembly, and a commitment to dialogue and non-violence," the statement said. Ban reiterated the concerns expressed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay that the new law that was passed could lead to serious breaches of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly. Like Pillay, Ban also urged Egyptian authorities to "consider amendments to the law," adding that an "atmosphere where there is free assembly and expression is a key element for Egypt to credibly hold its planned referendum on the constitution, followed by parliamentary and presidential elections." The statement recalled that as Egyptian authorities considered legislation to regulate protests, "the Secretary-General had encouraged them to make sure that any laws passed are in full conformity with international human rights standards