The fundamental importance and enduring relevance of the Convention and the Protocol is widely recognized. In 2001, States parties issued a Declaration reaffirming their commitment to the Convention and the 1967 Protocol, and they recognized in particular that the core principle of non-refoulement is embedded in customary international law. Moreover, the General Assembly has frequently called upon States to become parties to these instruments. Accession has also been recommended by various regional organizations, such as the Council of Europe, the African Union, and the Organization of American States. Today, there are 147 States Parties to one or both of these instruments.