Rajiva Wijesinha

“ Countries are however different, and we believe that all countries are redeemable. We are here because we believe that there are universal values we all have in common, and governments that are accountable to their citizens will we hope abandon the raucous Beckmesser approach. We have found more generous souls like Hans Sachs than we can count, but the whole world could do with more, so we would appeal to all of you to change your ways and absorb something of the spirit Wagner’s music exemplifies. ”

“ We realise that some non-governmental organisations cannot take on such a positive role, because their bread and butter lies in the twice and thrice told tales we have to hear day after day, quarter after quarter, year after year. ”

“ We know that we have had problems and, as we have discussed with those Special Rapporteurs who have approached our problems without preconceptions, we believe we need to take measures to improve things. We will welcome assistance from those who are genuinely concerned about human rights, just as in Wagner’s opera those with less experience or capacity welcomed the support and advice of Hans Sachs. ”