New York, US - UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Navi Pillay, Tuesday called on authorities in North Africa and the Middle East, going through political transition, to exercise restraint and to take steps to prevent acts of retribution or revenge.

'In situations of transition or unrest, restraint must be observed,” Pillay said in her opening statement at the 18th session of the UN Human Rights Council, which began in Geneva, Switzerland.

She called on all those 'in positions of authority to take steps to prevent the commission of crimes or acts of revenge and for other concerned parties to strongly refrain from undertaking any acts of retribution.'

According to her, 'Justice cannot be meted out summarily. Rather, it must be delivered, whether through national judicial mechanisms or international mechanisms, in accordance with human rights principles and the rule of law.'

Pillay also noted that leadership in human rights required a 'particular and sustained' focus on situations where the old governing guard had been challenged but not yet ousted or replaced.

On Libya, which has seen ongoing fighting between opposition forces and those loyal to Mouammar Khadafi, the High Commissioner said emerging reports of brutal violations, including mass summary executions and disappearances, were 'extremely alarming'.

She also voiced concern about the safety of migrants in Libya, in particular those from other African countries.

She also stressed that the protection of civilians must be at the centre of any UN response in the immediate future.

Pillay further noted that, 'in all transitioning countries, the primary responsibility for taking steps that can ensure a successful outcome rests with the transitioning authorities.

'But the international community should stand ready to support them in these efforts, she added, stating the readiness of her office to offer its considerable expertise, including in the field of transitional justice.

PANA reported that the UN Security Council is currently considering the deployment of a UN support mission for Libya.

Pana 14/09/2011