UN chief urges respect of peaceful protest right in Egypt

UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon has underlined the importance of respect peaceful protests and "freedom of assembly, and a commitment to dialogue and non-violence." "The Secretary-General is seriously concerned by the detentions and violent dispersal of protesters in Egypt, including reports of sexual assault," said spokesperson for the Secretary-General on Wednesday. The Secretary-General had encouraged them to make sure that any laws passed are in full conformity with international human rights standards. He reiterated "the concerns expressed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights that the new law that was passed could lead to serious breaches of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly." "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," he added.