“We are very pleased by Mary Robinson’s decision to agree to accept a one-year extension in her term as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, subject to approval of the General Assembly; we are equally pleased by the Secretary General’s enthusiastic support for her.  In the last three and a half years, Mrs. Robinson has raised the profile of the office, and became a symbol of hope for people around the world.  Her great personal integrity, deep commitment to the issues, and willingness publicly to take on unpopular and difficult positions have consistently demonstrated her connection to individuals, and the basic human rights they share universally.  The extension of her term will enable her to continue work begun at the World Conference on Racism in September, and to further strengthen the UN’s internal capacity to address human rights issues.  It also will give the Secretary General the opportunity to recruit a successor with comparable stature and commitment.”