New York, N.Y., August 8, 2002 ... In a meeting with newly appointed United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights Sergio Vieira de Mello, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) voiced issues of concern to the global Jewish community, including anti-Semitism in Europe and excessive UN focus on Israel.

Following the meeting, Glen A. Tobias, ADL National Chairman, and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, said:

We applaud Mr. Vieira de Mello's acceptance of our invitation to meet as an outreach to our community.

We consider our meeting with Mr. Vieira de Mello the opening of a fresh chapter in relations between the United Nations and the American Jewish community regarding human rights. In recent years, the Jewish community has grown increasingly disenchanted with the United Nations and the Human Rights Commission over issues such as the anti-Semitic and anti-Israel spectacle of Durban, excessive UN focus on Israel and the silence in the wake of anti-Semitic attacks across Europe.

For many in the Jewish community, the Commission, which was established to do much good, has become highly politicized and ineffectual to the detriment of those most needing its assistance.

We also welcome his expressed commitment to openness, fairness and cooperation. We do not expect to always agree with the new High Commissioner. However, we look forward to maintaining an open dialogue on issues of concern. We wish him great success in his new appointment.

Mr.de Mello assumes his position on September 12.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.