Subject: Release:
Ask the Lebanese about Hizbullah
Montreal, December 10th, 2002:
It is interesting that in the debate about banning Hizbullah in Canada, few have inquired about the opinion of Canadian-Lebanese.

RCPL (http://rcplonline.org), a Canadian registered non-profit organization promoting human rights and democratic values in Lebanon, widely supported in the Lebanese community, would like to present the common opinion on this matter.

Most Lebanese came to Canada because of the war in Lebanon, looking for a better life in a peaceful and democratic country that respects human rights. The Canadians of Lebanese origin would like to transpose their acquired values to their home country. Since Israel withdrew from south Lebanon in May 2000, most Lebanese want all armed non-governmental movements, including the Palestinian militants, Amal, Islamic fundamentalist, Iranian Revolutionary guards, Hizbullah, and all other armed groups, to disarm and let the state exert its authority over the entire Lebanese territory, protect Lebanese borders, and maintain internal security conforming to the Universal declaration of Human Rights especially article 3[1] and article 7[2]. It’s commonly known that the presence of such armed groups constitutes a serious threat to the establishment of a strong healthy state and a democratic transparent system as well as to the security of Lebanese citizens. Unfortunately, the Lebanese authorities have not fulfilled any of the aforementioned elements to support their claim that Lebanon is free, independent and sovereign. The Lebanese hope that foreign pressure will help turn armed Lebanese groups into purely socio-political movements that operate within the law of the state.

Reference: RCPL http://rcplonline.org

[1] Article 3: Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person

[2] Article7: All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination in violation of this Declaration and against any incitement to such discrimination