Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 21
By Sabina Ahmadova - Trend:
Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Thorbjorn Jagland raised concern over the recent violent events in the U.S. city of Ferguson, MO., after the shooting of an unarmed teenager.
His statement of concern was posted on the official website of the Council of Europe.
"I am particularly concerned by the reported use of excessive force by the police against peaceful protesters and their arrest, including journalists covering the events, as this undermines the full exercise of human rights, starting with the rights to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression," Jagland said.
He noted that these rights are cornerstones of democracy and any restriction should be lawful and proportionate.
"Both public authorities and protesters should show restraint and responsibility," Jagland stressed.
Jagland also underscored that he trusts that a proper investigation will be carried out into the killing of Michael Brown.
"When the U.S. became an observer state to the Council of Europe, it accepted to uphold the principles and values of our organization," Jagland said in conclusion.
A police officer shot 18-year-old African American teenager Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO., in the U.S. Aug. 9. The unrest following the incident continued in the city for several days.
Several people have been injured in clashes with police, which used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd