From the UN: How particular countries voted on the Chechnya resolution

A draft resolution on the situation of human rights in the Republic of Chechnya of the Russian Federation (E/CN.4/2003/L.13) was rejected by a roll-call vote of 21 against and 15 in favour, with 17 abstentions.

If the draft resolution had been adopted, the Commission would have, among other things, welcomed the efforts by the Government of the Russian Federation to ensure normal conditions of life for the civilian population and to re-establish infrastructure; called upon the Government to urgently take all necessary steps to stop and prevent violations of human rights and to ensure that all alleged violations were investigated systematically, fully, promptly, and sanctioned; and to adopt all necessary measures to ensure free, unimpeded and secure access to Chechnya of international organizations, non-governmental organizations and the media.

The results were as follows:

In favour (15): Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, France, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Poland, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States.

Against (21): Algeria, Armenia, Brazil, China, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, India, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Russian Federation, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Swaziland, Syrian Arab Republic, Togo, Uganda, Ukraine, Venezuela, Viet Nam, and Zimbabwe.

Abstentions(17): Argentina, Bahrain, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Guatemala, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Pakistan, Paraguay, Peru, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Thailand, and Uruguay.

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Comment: This time the West seems to distinguish itself somewhat better indeed! Perhaps a first beginning?? M.M.