and that hostage-taking is a serious violation of fundamental rights and of the dignity of the human being. Considering that arbitrary detention of persons is an unquestionable violation of human rights. Alarmed by the number of cases of hostage-taking throughout the world, some of which have been going on for a long time, and by the odious practice they constitute. Expressing its distress at these unacceptable displays of violence towards innocent victims and at the anxiety and suffering of the families concerned, 1. Strongly condemns the taking of any person hostage, whoever is responsible and whatever the circumstances, whether or not the hostage is chosen at random and whatever his nationality; 2« Censures the actions of all persons responsible for taking hostages, whatever their motives, and demands that they should immediately release those they are holding; 3. Appeals for the humanitarian action of the International Committee of the Red Cross and its delegates to be respected in all circumstances; -97-4. Calls upon States to take any measures necessary to prevent and punish the taking of hostages and to put an immediate end to cases of abduction and unlawful restraint on their territory; 5. Reguests the Secretary-General, whenever so requested by a State, to employ all means at his disposal in order to secure the immediate release of persons held hostage; 6. Decides to remain seized of the question at its foifty-seventh session. 52nd meeting 6 March 1990 [Adopted without a vote. See chap. X.] 1990/37. Use of force by law enforcement officials The Commission on Human Rights. Gravely disturbed by repeated incidences of excessive use of force by law enforcement officials in different parts of the world, Sharing the views expressed by the Sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities in resolution 1989/33 of 1 September 1989, 1. Calls upon all Governments:
**Analysis**
This text appears to be a resolution or a declaration by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, addressing issues related to human rights, specifically the taking of hostages and excessive use of force by law enforcement officials. The language used is formal and diplomatic, with a focus on condemning certain actions and making appeals to governments and international organizations.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, Human rights