Sierra Leone: Towards a future founded on human rights
Major political developments in Sierra Leone during 1996 - a return to civilian rule and progress towards a negotiated settlement to the internal armed conflict - have presented unique opportunities for ending human rights abuses. The new government has stated its commitment to protect and respect human rights. A draft peace agreement contains commitments by both parties to the conflict in Sierra Leone to adhere to international human rights standards. Clarifications about human rights abuses during the internal armed conflict and accountablility for them are essential components of a process of peace and reconciliation. Amnesty International is making concrete recommendations for moving forward with the commitments to protection of human rights made by both sides during negotiations towards a peace settlement.