at italy's instigation, the un moratorium on the death penalty resolution was presented by the eu in partnership with eight co-author member states to the general assembly of the united nations, calling for general suspension (not abolition) of capital punishment throughout the world. it was twice affirmed: first, on 15 november 2007 by the third committee, and then subsequently reaffirmed on 18 december by the united nations general assembly resolution 62/149. new zealand played a central role facilitating agreement between the co-author group and other supporters.