The United Nations’ human rights chief has urged the United States to establish stronger gun control measures.
Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein is the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. He says the current gun laws are too easy and, in his words, leave “little space between murderous impulses and actions that result in death.”
His comments were made in a statement on Tuesday.
The statement came two days after the largest mass shooting in U.S. history. Forty-nine people were killed in the attack early Sunday at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida.
The U.N. human rights chief knows the United States well. From 2007 to 2010, Zeid served as Jordan’s ambassador to the U.S. and Mexico.
In the statement, Zeid was critical of what he called “irresponsible pro-gun propaganda.” He asked how many more shootings the U.S. must experience before Congress takes action.
“Society — in particular its most vulnerable communities and minorities who are already facing widespread prejudice — pay a high price for the failure to stand up to the lobbyists and take the necessary measures to protect citizens from gun violence,” Zeid said.
He added that the families of those killed in mass shootings have the right to stronger gun controls.
Words in This Story
impulses – n. sudden strong desires to do something
prejudice – n. an unfair feeling of dislike for a person or group because of race, sex or religion
vulnerable – adj. easily hurt or harmed physically, mentally or emotionally
lobbyists – n. an organized group of people who work together to influence government decisions that relate to a particular industry or issue
gay – adj. sexually attracted to someone who is the same sex
nightclub – n. a place that is open at night, has music, dancing or a show and usually serves alcoholic drinks and food
irresponsible – adj. not having or showing maturity or good judgment