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Statements


DateTitill
Nov 07, 2024Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse on the lifecycle of online violence from childhood to adulthood<span></span> <p><span>The undersigned country members of the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse (Global Partnership) call attention to the critical need to protect children from technology-facilitated violence, exploitation and abuse. We also call attention to the need to recognise that early experience and exposure to violence may increase the likelihood of victimization in adults or violent behaviours, perpetuating a cycle of abuse that spans generations and discouraging young people from engaging fully in public life. We must take an intersectional, life-cycle approach to address all forms of online violence against children (VAC) and technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV).&nbsp; </span></p> <p><span>Today, children at increasingly younger ages are growing up immersed in the digital world. There are many benefits of digital technologies and online platforms and services. However, their design, management and misuse can enable frequent exposure to harmful content and behaviours. It is crucial that the technology sector prioritise a Safety-by-Design approach and combat technology-facilitated violence, exploitation and abuse as a matter of urgency. </span></p> <p><span>The sexual abuse and exploitation of children continues to rise year on year, with perpetrators harnessing new ways to use technology to harm children.</span><span> </span><span>Each year an estimated 300 million children are victims of online sexual abuse and exploitation, with men being the primary offenders, and with girls appearing in more sexual abuse material than boys.</span><span> </span><span>The use of new technologies to create child sexual abuse material, such as generative artificial intelligence, demonstrates how rapidly the threat landscape is evolving.&nbsp; </span></p> <p><span>Exposure to violence is greater for children from marginalised populations, including children with disabilities, LGBTQI+ children, Indigenous children, and unaccompanied children. The specific types of violence these children face may differ from their peers as a result of the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination they experience. </span></p> <p><span>Further, whilst all children can experience violence, there are distinct gendered differences in the nature, frequency, severity and drivers of such violence. &nbsp;It is important to recognise that boys and girls face different and unique vulnerabilities to sexual exploitation and abuse online. Data show recent rises in distinct gendered forms of abuse, including an increase in boys’ experience of financial sextortion involving demands for money to prevent the sharing of sexual images, as opposed to sextortion that involves demands for additional sexual images, engaging in sexual acts or returning or staying in a romantic relationship, with girls historically more likely than boys to be impacted. Boys are at a greater risk of being radicalized to violence through exposure to gender-based hate online and gendered disinformation campaigns that contribute to normalising dehumanizing beliefs and behaviours related to violent misogyny. </span></p> <p><span>Technology-facilitated VAC and TFGBV share some common risk factors, including a lack of responsive institutions and ineffective legal actions against violence. Harmful social norms contribute to an ecosystem that condones violence. These are amplified in digital spaces that promote violent discipline, amplify harmful forms of masculinity, prioritize family reputation and privacy over victims’ safety and wellbeing and blame victims and survivors. </span></p> <p><span>This is a crisis that transcends borders and generations, which demands a collective global and multistakeholder effort to address. At the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, we welcome the recognition of the need to make the Internet and technology safer for children.</span></p> <p><span>We call upon states to take action and support evidence-based solutions that protect children and prevent and mitigate the pathways to adult victimization and violence, including through integrating online and technology-facilitated risks into broader violence prevention strategies. We urge the technology sector and other private companies to take appropriate action to respond to these risks, including a commitment to a Safety-by-Design approach to the development and deployment of platforms and technologies and greater investment in Trust and Safety capacities. We ask states and all stakeholders to respect human rights and put in place additional, gender-responsive safety and privacy protections for children, women, girls, and LGBTQI+ persons.</span></p> <p><span>The governments of Canada, Chile, Denmark, Iceland, New Zealand, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia's eSafety Commissioner gave this joint statement.</span></p> <div> <div id="ftn5"> </div> </div>
Oct 08, 2024HRC57 - NB8 statement - Ukraine - Oral update<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council ‒ 57th session<br /> </span></strong><strong><span>Item 10: Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine<br /> </span></strong><strong><span>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states<br /> </span></strong><strong><span>8 October 2024</span></strong></p> <p><span>Thank you, Mr. President,</span></p> <p><span>I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p><span>In recent months, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has reached unprecedented levels, including deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure.</span></p> <p><span>We highlight three important steps to ensure accountability:</span></p> <p><span>The first is human rights monitoring, evidence gathering and investigations, carried out by Ukrainian authorities, other states and international organisations. These include the Commission of Inquiry and the International Criminal Court, among others.</span></p> <p><span>Secondly, we welcome steps taken </span><span>to establish an international compensation mechanism for the damage that Russia’s aggression has caused. We also welcome that the Register of Damage is now operating and</span><span> </span><span>support the ongoing talks on a Claims Commission.</span></p> <p><span>Thirdly, </span><span>we must continue to uphold international law and the UN Charter and denounce aggression. We welcome the establishment and operation of the International Center for Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. We should act decisively to establish a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.</span></p> <p><span>Those responsible in Russia must and will be held accountable.</span><span> Accountability and justice are matters of global importance. </span><span>We appreciate the High Commissioner’s relentless work in this area.</span></p> <p><span>Thank you.</span></p>
Sep 26, 2024EU Statement on “Responding to Kremlin-Supported Media Organizations’ Covert Activities” (Current Issue to be raised by the US)<span><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Vienna/pcdel1127%20eu%201489pc.pdf" target="_blank">EU Statement on “Responding to Kremlin-Supported Media Organizations’ Covert Activities” (Current Issue to be raised by the US) - OSCE Permanent Council No. 1489 Vienna, 26 September 2024.</a></span>
Sep 26, 2024EU Statement on the Russian Federation’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine<span><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Vienna/pcdel1125%20eu%201489pc.pdf" target="_blank">EU Statement on the Russian Federation’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine - OSCE Permanent Council No. 1489 Vienna, 26 September 2024.</a></span>
Sep 19, 2024EU Statement on the Russian Federation’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine<span><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Vienna/pcdel1088%20eu%201488pc.pdf" target="_blank">EU Statement on the Russian Federation’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine -&nbsp;<span>OSCE Permanent Council No. 1488 Vienna, 19 September 2024.</span></a></span>
Aug 20, 2024Joint Statement for World Humanitarian Day - August 19, 2024 <span>On this World Humanitarian Day, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States would like to recognize the extraordinary efforts of humanitarian workers around the globe. Whether in response to conflicts, political violence, natural disasters, climate shocks — local and international humanitarian workers are among the first responders working to keep people safe, healthy, and fed often at great risk to themselves. These brave individuals take risks in the service of humanity.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> &nbsp;<br /> We are deeply concerned by incidents of violence, threats, intimidation, misinformation and kidnapping targeting humanitarian workers around the world. Last year was the most dangerous on record, as hundreds of humanitarian aid workers tragically lost their lives while serving the most vulnerable. Their loss is felt deeply by their families and loved ones, and we express our profound gratitude for their service and sacrifice.&nbsp;<br /> &nbsp;<br /> We emphasize the importance of safe and unhindered humanitarian access to deliver aid to those in urgent need. We call upon all parties to conflicts around the world to ensure the protection of humanitarian workers and to respect International Humanitarian Law. It is imperative that all parties to conflict enable and preserve the space for humanitarian organizations to operate in accordance with the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.&nbsp;<br /> &nbsp;<br /> As we honor the unwavering commitment and bravery of humanitarian workers today, we stress that protecting them and ensuring their ability to perform their vital work is a collective responsibility. Today and every day, we must all stand together to safeguard those who selflessly serve humanity.</span>
Jul 12, 2024Joint Statements during the 56th session of the Human Rights Council<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement, derived from the statements of the recent co-chairs of the Arab/OIC-European Contact Group Meetings, on behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Norway, and a group of states. </p> <p>We stress the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire including an end to attacks on Rafah, the release of hostages, and ending the war in Gaza. We emphasize respect and compliance with international law and express our utmost concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We welcome the UN Security Council Resolution 2735 and stress the urgency of ending the Gaza crisis and all unlawful actions in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We underline the significance of transitioning the conflict to a political track to reach a final and speedy resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and strongly support taking irreversible steps to implement the two-state solution, in line with international law and agreed upon parameters, including United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.</p> <p>We urge taking concrete steps towards the realization of a Palestinian State in the context of the two-state solution, with particular attention to empowering and enabling the Palestinian Authority and Palestinian reforms, and we underline that mutual recognition will promote moderation and peace in the region, at the expense of violence and extremism.</p> <p>We stress the urgent need for political and financial support to the Palestinian Government and we highlight the significance of having a unified Palestinian Government for the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza.</p> <p>In conclusion, we call upon the international community to join us in these efforts to secure peace, security and cooperation in the region and beyond. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the Chile on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Chile presents this joint statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries. </p> <p>We express profound concern regarding the harrowing situation unfolding in Gaza. </p> <p>Respect for international law is essential to safeguard a rules-based order, peace and security. Its disregard threatens its effectiveness and ability to protect all persons equally. </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>All UN members have undertaken to comply with the decisions of the ICJ, in any case to which they are party, including provisional measures. The ICJ’s provisional measures of 24 May ordered Israel to” immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian groupo in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part. Nevertheless, military operations persist. Once more, we urge the full implementation of all provisional measures. </p> <p>In our collective endeavour to ensure accountability, we also call on all States to cooperate with the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court, and to ensure that all officials of the Court can work with full independence and impartiality, free from any threats and sanctions.</p> <p>We call for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages and the unhindered provision of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza, and urge all parties to engage in a constructive dialogue that leads to lasting peace by enabling the two-state solution, in line with relevant UN resolutions.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup> </sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on SOGI</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the SOGI Group of Friends </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The members of SOGI group of Friends would like to thank the Independent Expert for this report. </p> <p>While we welcome the inclusion of positive developments, including steps to protect against hate speech, violence and discrimination based on SOGI and the passage of non-discrimination laws addressing SOGI around expression, assembly and association; the report documents a discernible trend in all regions of the world of laws, policies and practices that restrict the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, including in the digital space.</p> <p>We are extremely concerned about the finding at least 60 Members State have laws that restrict the right to freedom of expression, and at least 59 States have laws that restrict, or could be used to restrict, the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, based on sexual orientation and gender identity.</p> <p>We welcome the recommendations made by the Expert in this report, that align with HRC Resolution 50/10 which renewed this mandate, that stresses States’ responsibility to create and maintain a safe and enabling environment in which civil society, including civil society working SOGI issues, can operate free from hindrance and insecurity, both online and offline. </p> <p>The work of this mandate is pivotal to support initiatives to ensure LGBT and gender-diverse people live free from inequality, including when it comes to access to civic space. In this regard, we would like to ask what role we can play to support the development laws, policies and practices aimed at fulfilling the rights of all to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, including in the digital space?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the United States of America on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>At the 56th session of the Human Rights Council, we come together as a collective voice to address the pervasive and harrowing issue of gender-based violence in conflict zones. The United States, alongside a cross-regional group of over 60 countries, reaffirms their unwavering commitment to ending these violations and abuses and supporting victims, survivors and witnesses.</p> <p>We recognize that conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence remains a devastating tactic used in times of war by state and non-state actors, particularly against all women and girls. This violence not only causes immediate and long-lasting physical and mental trauma to survivors and their communities but also undermines human rights, peace, security, and development in affected regions, as recognized by UN Security Council resolution 1820 and additional related resolutions.</p> <p>We stress the paramount importance of strengthening prevention measures, and believing survivors and first-hand accounts by witnesses. Their testimonies are crucial in shedding light on these heinous acts and holding perpetrators accountable. Survivors often face stigmatization and disbelief, which further exacerbates their suffering and hinders their access to justice.</p> <p>As an international community, we must strengthen our efforts in taking a survivor-centered and trauma-informed approach to investigate allegations of conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence in conflict, facilitate access to justice and accountability for victims and survivors, and provide comprehensive support to survivors, including sexual and reproductive health services, psycho-social support, and legal assistance. In this regard, we emphasize the need for focused direct engagement from special procedures mandate holders and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to promote prevention and response efforts, encourage the provision of needed support for survivors, and address the increased prevalence of conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence and other practices that further compound survivors’ suffering.</p> <p>We call on all member states to join us in this urgent endeavor. Let us work together to create a world free from conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence as a tactic of war, and where victims and survivors are heard, believed, and empowered. By doing so, we uphold the principles of justice and human rights, which are the foundation of the Human Rights Council.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the United States of America on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I make this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries. </p> <p>We stand together today to address the urgent and growing threat of transnational repression. When states reach beyond their borders to silence or coerce dissidents, journalists, human rights defenders, and others, national sovereignty, democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms are undermined. </p> <p>Transnational repression takes many forms: physical acts of aggression and harassment, forced return of individuals, pressure on relatives in-country, misuse of international law enforcement systems or institutions to facilitate repression, and digital threats such as the misuse of intrusive surveillance software, including commercial spyware.</p> <p>Transnational repression creates an atmosphere of fear and imperils civil and political liberties, the global rules-based order, and mutual respect among states. </p> <p>We reaffirm our condemnation of transnational repression and resolve to: </p> <p>• Support human rights defenders, journalists, diaspora communities, and others who may be targets;</p> <p>• Strengthen information sharing and coordinating action against acts of transnational repression; and</p> <p>• Increase the cost to and holding accountable those who engage in these acts. We call upon all member states to join us in standing against transnational repression in all its forms. </p> <p>Let us enhance our collective vigilance, strengthen protections for those at risk, and hold accountable the perpetrators. United in this cause, we will advance the promotion and protection of human rights for all and uphold the sovereignty of every nation.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on freedom of peaceful assembly and of association</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Lithuania on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of a group of 35 countries and my own, Lithuania. </p> <p>We echo the concern expressed by the High Commissioner in his global update regarding recent developments in Georgia, and particularly the adoption of the so-called “transparency of foreign influence” law. This law poses a serious threat to civil society, human rights and the rule of law in Georgia. </p> <p>The law is intended to have a chilling effect on the work of media outlets, human rights defenders, and civil society organisations, with the aim of silencing their voices. </p> <p>The law was passed in disregard for concerns of large parts of the Georgian people and despite repeated calls to refrain from advancing the legislation from the international community, including the Venice Commission’s detailed legal arguments. </p> <p>We urge the Georgian government to revoke the “transparency of foreign influence” law, to end the campaign of intimidation against those objecting to the law and protect freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. </p> <p>Civil society is the backbone of democracies, helping to ensure accountability, genuine transparency and resilience to malign influences. </p> <p>We urge the Georgian Government to fully cease and transparently investigate all acts of the use of force against peaceful protesters who oppose the law, take appropriate action to ensure the safety of protestors, civil society or opposition activists, journalists and other media workers and refrain from rhetoric which could further fuel the extreme polarization in the country. An orchestrated campaign of defamation, intimidation, and physical violence against civil society leaders and others is unacceptable and must be halted. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Algeria on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of Algeria and Australia and a cross-regional group of states. </p> <p>We stand together in our commitment to women’s and girl’s homen rights, and express our regret at the lack of progress on SDG5. </p> <p>Next year we mark the 30<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the 25<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Women, Peace and Security agenda. And we will be five years out from delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals. We must counter regression and accelerate progress on achieving gender equality. </p> <p>The empowerment of all women and girls is central to human rights, sustainable development, peace and security, as well as the resilience and prosperity of our communities and countries. </p> <p>In delivering on our longstanding commitment to gender equality we must continue to take action to eliminate all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, strengthen women’s public and political participation, ensure access to essential health and social services, and invest in women’s and girls’ education, employment, and entrepreneurship. </p> <p>By working inclusively and collaboratively, we can protect and promote the human rights of all women and girls, everywhere. We welcome cooperation across the global community in resisting regression in favour of societies that are safe, secure and supportive of every person, today and for future generations. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the Kingdom of the Netherlands on behalf of Benelux and a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of 70 countries. </p> <p>Human rights defenders are leaders of positive change. Their work is crucial in promoting and protecting human rights and democracy worldwide. Their grassroot views inform decision-making and enable UN entities to effectively implement their mandates. </p> <p>An enabling environment for human rights defenders that guarantees the fulfilment of the freedoms of peaceful assembly, association, opinion and expression is essential in driving positive change. In practice, however, HRDs face numerous challenges and their work is too often neglected, ignored or willfully obstructed. Their progress and achievements are too rarely honored properly. </p> <p>This statement is meant to pay tribute to the many successes and milestones achieved by all human rights defenders. </p> <p>Through their persistent peaceful advocacy and engagement, HRDs have shed light on human rights violations, amplified the voices of persons in vulnerable situations, and fostered greater accountability and transparency worldwide. Their work has led to positive legislative changes, the release of those arbitrarily detained, and protected the environment. </p> <p>The voices of HRDs must be heard. Emphasizing their positive impact and honoring their successes is essential in supporting them. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how do you envision to include the effective promotion and protection of human rights defenders within your mandate?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual discussion on women’s rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Kyrgyzstan on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>This joint statement is on behalf of a group of states. </p> <p>Gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girl are enshrined in several human rights treaties and are key to progress towards implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. </p> <p>Yet economic empowerment remains a distant goal for millions of women and girls around the world. One in ten women live in extreme poverty, and more than 2.7 billion women face legal restrictions that prevent them from accessing the same job opportunities as men. In addition, many countries still have laws constraining women’s decision to work. </p> <p>For women to have full agency, power and autonomy, and enjoy human rights fully without discrimination of any kind, states should ensure that women have equal access to, control over and ownership of resources. It is also essential to address the structural and non-structural barriers that limit women’s economic empowerment. </p> <p>As a priority, we should:</p> <ol> <li>Address and eliminate institutional and structural discrimination against women and girls.</li> <li>Remove all barriers that prevent or limit the full, equal and meaningful participation of all women and girls in society. </li> <li>Address harmful social norms and legal constraints that limit women’s agency in the public and private spheres and their economic independence. </li> </ol> <p>We are committed to making further progress on women’s economic empowerment and to achieve gender equality by 2030. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Costa Rica on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries. </p> <p>The ocean is one single interconnected body of water, which unites, sustains, connects and is essential for the survival of ecosystems, people and communities. </p> <p>We acknowledge that a healthy ocean is instrumental for the full enjoyment of a variety of human rights, including the rights to life, health, work, food and housing. Many Indigenous Peoples, as well as local communities, have cultural practices and traditions that are deeply connected to the ocean. </p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the current and projected adverse effects of climate change on the marine environment and ecosystems and emphasize the urgency of addressing these to protect the human rights of all those impacted.</p> <p>We call on this Council to advocate for the implementation, with due consideration for all human rights, of the UNFCCC, the Paris Agreement, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and relevant decisions of the conferences of the Parties, particularly in actions related to the ocean. </p> <p>Madame Special Rapporteur, </p> <p>We believe your mandate has a lot to offer to highlight the links between ocean health, climate change, and human rights, and to educate governments, civil society, and the private sector, on the human rights implications of ocean degradation and climate change. Could you please share any of your plans in this respect?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the United Nations Commission of Inquiry on Syria</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>This statement is on behalf of 54 countries. </p> <p>We commend the Commission of Inquiry’s continued work in shining light on large-scale, systematic, and arbitrary or unjust detentions and related violences and abuses. This, together with the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism, is crucial for ensuring accountability.</p> <p>We deplore the fact that tens of thousands of Syrians are estimated to have been subjected to arbitrary and incommunicado detention. Torture and other ill-treatment, including sexual and gender-based violence, have been reported on an alarming scale, and continue to this day. We strongly condemn all deaths, torture and abuse of detainees in detention facilities, particularly in Syrian government facilities. We recall the Commission’s clear assessment that the rights of detained persons have not been respected throughout the conflict. </p> <p>Tens of thousands of families continue to live with the anguish caused by not knowing the whereabouts of their loved ones. Cooperation, by all parties to the conflict, with the newly created Independent Institution on Missing Persons is also essential. </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>The Syrian regime and all parties must cease such practices; release unjustly detained Syrians; clarify the fate of the missing; ensure appropriate access for independent and humanitarian monitoring organizations and hold those responsible to account. </p> <p>Finally, we reiterate our call for a sustainable and comprehensive political solution for Syria in line with the Security Council Resolution 2254. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on oral presentation of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and interim report of the Secretary General on human rights in Crimea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Denmark on behalf of the GoF AAU</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the 'Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine'.</p> <p>We condemn Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, including the latest wave of strikes destroying hospitals, killing dozens of civilians. A war that causes immense human suffering and violates international law, including the UN Charter. </p> <p>Russia’s depravity in its treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war is well-documented in the OHCHR’s latest report. We are appalled by the report’s evidence of Russia’s use of torture, including sexual and gender-based violence, against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees. We call on all parties to ensure that survivors receive assistance, including in the form of psychosocial support, rehabilitation measures and reparations. </p> <p>We call for the immediate and unconditional release of the Ukrainian OSCE Special Monitoring staff who Russia has been unjustly detaining for more than 800 days, despite repeated calls for their release.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Russia shows no intention of holding perpetrators to account. On March 23<sup>rd</sup>, President Putin signed into force a new law expanding the exemption from criminal accountability for members of Russia’s armed forces, creating a climate of impunity. Dignity and justice must be restored for the countless victims of Russia’s aggression and those responsible must be held to account</p> <p>We welcome the work of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, the reporting of the Commission of Inquiry, and UN Special Procedures mandate holders, the investigations by the International Criminal Court, the operationalization of both the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression and the Register of Damage for Ukraine, and the work of the Core Group towards a tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine.&nbsp; </p> <p>High Commissioner, what can we do to support the investigation and documentation of cases of transferred or deported children and torture against POWs and civilian prisoners, to help ensure future accountability for its perpetrators?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the European Union on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this joint statement on behalf of the 27 EU Member States, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America.</p> <p>We are reacting to the statement on behalf of the Russian Federation delivered by a representative of the so-called administration in the territory of Ukraine temporarily controlled by Russia<em>.</em></p> <p>We recall the relevant UNGA resolution(s) [A/RES/76/179, A/RES/77/229 /A/RES/78/221/ A/RES/ES-11/4] which recognise(s) the status of this territory as an integral part of Ukraine.</p> <p>We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters. We reiterate our strongest condemnation of Russia’s aggression and its attempts to acquire Ukraine’s&nbsp; territory by force in flagrant violation of international law, including the UN Charter. We firmly and unequivocally reject, do not and will never recognize the attempted illegal annexation by Russia of Ukraine's regions of Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.</p> <p>We therefore urge Russia to refrain from letting any representative of the so-called administration in the territories of Ukraine temporarily controlled by Russia intervene on its behalf within the Human Rights Council, or in any other international fora.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 1: Decisions and conclusions</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Bangladesh on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We acknowledge the commitment and support the efforts of many States to improve the efficiency of this Council. When we are more efficient, we can achieve more with less. We can be more inclusive; all States, particularly small island developing states and least developed countries, can engage and have a voice. Greater efficiency creates spaces to allow states to work outside their regional groupings and to identify issues that unite rather than divide. </p> <p>In a Presidential statement last year, all member states agreed that to avoid duplication and inefficiency, and to limit the number of meetings held during each session, states must consult each other and relevant core groups and seek technical support of the Secretariat when drafting resolutions [A/HRC/PRST/OS/17/1].</p> <p>All member states also agreed that to further support efficiency efforts, the Secretariat should be encouraged to provide briefings on rules of procedure and on best practice in drafting of resolutions and on using the voluntary calendar ahead of each session [A/HRC/PRST/OS/17/1].</p> <p>We recommit to these actions on efficiency and striving for best practice in the Council. Let us turn these words into actions and allow the OHCHR to direct its limited resources towards supporting states to better implement UPR, Treaty Body and Special Procedures recommendations, and comply with their international human rights obligations. </p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jul 10, 2024National and Nordic-Baltic Statements during the 56th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 June 2024</strong></p> <p>High Commissioner,</p> <p>Thank you for this update.</p> <p>We, the Nordic-Baltic States, remain deeply disturbed by the frequent and credible reports of serious violations and abuses of human rights and international law in Myanmar.</p> <p>From across the country, we hear about military attacks causing civilian fatalities, including women, children and persons belonging to ethnic minorities. Aerial attacks and shelling of homes, schools, places of worship and hospitals. Mass killings, persecution, torture and sexual and gender-based violence. The forced and prolonged recruitment of conscripts, including forced recruitment of children, exacerbates the civil war and disrupts society at every level and fuels identity-based violence.</p> <p>We call for an immediate end to all violations and abuses against civilians, the provision of full and unhindered humanitarian access, the release of all political prisoners, and an inclusive dialogue with meaningful participation of all stakeholders.</p> <p>Myanmar must comply with the International Court of Justice’s provisional measures order.</p> <p>High Commissioner, what actions should external actors prioritize in the face of rising communal tensions, including in Rakhine?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report, which gives impartial information and contributes to accountability.</p> <p>The de facto authorities’ institutionalized system of discrimination, segregation and exclusion of women and girls in Afghanistan is increasingly alarming. It has severe social and economic consequences, causes trauma, suicide and loss of life. It may affect security beyond the country’s borders. This institutionalised system of gender oppression may amount to gender persecution. Afghanistan remains a party to several international conventions.</p> <p>Despite severe limitations, you, women and girls of Afghanistan, with immense courage and determination, contribute as active agents to the wellbeing of the Afghan society and families. This deserves the full recognition of the international community.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can the international community work to support full, equal and meaningful participation of women in deliberations about Afghanistan’s future?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on oral update of the Fact-Finding Mission on the Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>On behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, we thank the Fact-Finding Mission for its presentation and regret that the mission is still hampered by the UN liquidity crisis.</p> <p>Sudan’s civil war has caused one of the world’s worst humanitarian and human rights catastrophes, with unimaginable suffering, including for women, children, and other civilians. More than ten million people are displaced, and millions are on the verge of famine.</p> <p>Reports of ethnically motivated violence, conflict-related sexual-and gender-based violence and disappeared or detained human rights defenders, are extremely concerning. We welcome the recent Security Council resolution and the ICC.</p> <p>We welcome the recent investigation into allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity and condemn all attacks on civilians and civilian objects, including the recent attacks on MSF’s Hospital in El Fasher.</p> <p>This must stop. Violations and abuses of IHL and International Human Rights Law must have consequences. The cycle of impunity must be broken.</p> <p>We urge the parties to agree to a sustained ceasefire and adhere to their international humanitarian law obligations, protect civilians, and ensure humanitarian access.</p> <p>We encourage all parties to cooperate with the FFM and allow access.</p> <p>How can regional actors, including the AU and IGAD, contribute to your work?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and in Israel</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states.</p> <p>Our countries have condemned Hamas’ terror attacks of October 7. We reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.</p> <p>We thank the IICoI for its reporting, and note with concern reports of violations of international law, including IHL, and massive human rights violations in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. We stress the need to cooperate with relevant HRC mechanisms and to fully respect their mandate and independence. The IICoI should be granted access [to all areas].</p> <p>We welcome the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2735, with a roadmap leading to an enduring ceasefire, release of hostages and a surge of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. We urge both parties to fully implement it without delay. The fighting and suffering must end now.</p> <p>There is a need to ensure accountability for violations of international law by all parties. We reiterate our support for the work and independence of the international judicial institutions, including the ICC and the ICJ, and urge all sides to respect international law, including IHL. We further stress Israel’s obligation to comply with the provisional measures issued by the ICJ.</p> <p>It is crucial to restore hope of a two-state solution based on internationally recognized borders and international law, including the right to self-determination. Israelis and Palestinians have a right to live in peace, dignity and security.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for his sobering account.</p> <p>The number and severity of crises in the High Commissioner’s update is a stark warning that human rights are under attack and that no country is immune from regression.</p> <p>It is also a stark reminder that unless grievances and drivers of tension, violence and conflict are addressed at the micro and macro level, we must anticipate proliferation of armed conflicts, both international and non-international.</p> <p>Collective failure of ensuring universal respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law comes at a hefty price; measurable through human suffering and death, and in financial terms.</p> <p>The fallacy that the enjoyment of human rights of some is a threat to others must be countered. We agree that we must embrace inclusivity and challenge harmful narratives. Any form of hate speech is dangerous for social cohesion and a harbinger of worse to come, to quote the High Commissioner.</p> <p>We are dismayed by the continued corrosion of the multilateral and rules-based international system. The increase in attacks, threats and reprisals, both online and offline, against international institutions, judiciaries and mechanisms is not only unacceptable, but also precarious.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Looking towards the future, we must recognize that full respect and enjoyment of human rights is indispensable, and this Council must do its part.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>High-level informal presidential discussion: “The link between climate change, food security and health security, and their impact on the enjoyment of human rights”</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am honoured to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Lithuania.</p> <p>I would like to begin by thanking you, Mr. President, for organizing this important discussion during the Human Rights Council session, focusing on the intersectionality of climate change, food security, health security, and human rights.</p> <p>Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a fundamental threat to human rights. It exacerbates global hunger and malnutrition, impacting over 333 million people facing acute food insecurity. In the last twelve months, we have seen record levels of ocean heat, sea level rise, glacier retreat, and wildfires. Intense rainfall, floods, and tropical cyclones have left a trail of destruction, death, and huge economic losses. Our planet is at breaking point.</p> <p>These alarming realities underscore the urgent need for integrated solutions. Only with concerted, rapid, and comprehensive action, we can still avert the most devastating consequences of climate change.</p> <p>The Nordic Baltic states are committed to addressing these interlinked challenges through a human rights-based approach. We emphasize the importance of integrating climate resilience into food and health systems, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare.</p> <p>With the triple planetary crisis hitting persons in the most vulnerable situations the hardest, climate action must be inclusive, ensuring the participation of all stakeholders, particularly those who are disproportionately affected, including women, children, Indigenous Peoples, and LGBTQI+ persons. We must uphold the principles of justice and equity, ensuring that climate policies do not exacerbate existing inequalities but rather promote the full enjoyment of human rights for all.</p> <p>In conclusion, addressing climate change, food security, and health security is imperative for safeguarding human rights. The Nordic Baltic states reaffirm our commitment to this cause and call on the international community to intensify efforts to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts, ensuring a sustainable future.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council&nbsp;</strong>‒&nbsp;<strong>56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Eritrea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.</p> <p>We welcome Eritrea’s participation in UPR and note efforts on certain social rights such as education and health. Eritrea is, however, marked by systematic violations of civil and political rights, including the continued absence of rule of law, lack of access to justice, the stifling of civic engagement, and severe curtailment of freedom of expression, association and assembly.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned by reports of continued Eritrean involvement in human rights violations in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. We urge the Government to immediately cease such practise, withdraw any remaining Eritrean forces and investigate all alleged breaches of international law.</p> <p>We call on the Eritrean Government to release all those arbitrarily detained, to end the practice of arbitrary detention, and to develop independent rule-of-law institutions to protect human rights. We condemn violations of human rights in the context of the national service.</p> <p>Once again, we call on Eritrea to fully co-operate with the Council’s mechanisms, including by granting the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access to the country.</p> <p>How can Eritrean human rights defenders and civil society organizations best be supported in their efforts to advocate for human rights in Eritrea?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We reiterate our unwavering support for the work of the Independent Expert and this critical mandate.</p> <p>Legislation that limits the human rights to freedom of opinion and expression, association, and peaceful assembly due to sexual orientation and gender identity is nothing new. However, recent years have seen an escalation in the number and breadth of constrictive laws. Such laws and practices are in violation of states’ international human rights obligations and have a chilling effect on civil society and the vital work of human rights defenders advocating for the full and equal enjoyment of human rights of LGBTQI+ persons.</p> <p>Discriminatory restrictions include criminalizing public displays of same-sex affection, adopting policies against comprehensive sexuality education, and refusing to register organizations that work on sexual orientation or gender identity. The proliferation of such policies, which goes hand in hand with a pushback on the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in UN fora, must be countered.</p> <p>What should states, tech companies and civil society do to ensure online safety for LGBTQI+ persons, in order to safeguard their human rights and protect persons from digital violence and hate speech?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries thank the Special Rapporteur for her strong engagement for IDPs and for her latest report.</p> <p>In order to prevent displacement due to climate change, we need to enhance our efforts on climate adaptation, resilience building and disaster prevention. However, in exceptional situations, relocations become inevitable. To lay the foundation for durable solutions, governments must ensure that relocations are well planned, consistent with human rights standards and based on an integrated approach.</p> <p>Measures must be taken to protect groups with a special dependency on their lands. Potential barriers and conflicts over land tenure and scarce resources in relocation areas must be addressed. A conducive environment for an inclusive and sustainable livelihood for the relocated population must also be established. Planned relocations might particularly have negative impact on Indigenous Peoples, and specific attention is needed to ensure their rights and cultural identity. Likewise, gender-responsive approaches and recognition of specific vulnerabilities are essential.</p> <p class="SingleTxtG">We need to better prioritise support to these situations within existing funding mechanisms.</p> <p>How can best practice be shared to ensure that relocations are conducted without discrimination and in line with human rights safeguards and principles?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, its causes and consequences</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>Women in prostitution risk facing multiple forms of violence from clients, procurers, and traffickers. Often coupled with many intersecting forms of discrimination and inequalities. The prevalent impunity in many countries is a serious concern. We are also concerned about the new ways created by digital technologies to exploit women and girls sexually. Further cooperation with tech companies is necessary to address all forms of technology-facilitated gender-based violence.</p> <p>Prostitution poses a major obstacle to social equality, gender equality and achieving the goals of Agenda 2030. In this context, children – in particular girls, transgender women, indigenous women, women with disabilities and LGBTQI women may be in a particularly vulnerable situation. Change is necessary. By taking a transformative approach to address the root causes of gender inequalities we can create societies where the human rights of women and girls are fully protected, respected, and fulfilled. We need to dismantle discriminating societal structures so that women and girls in all their diversity can live their lives free from coercion and violence. And have the power to decide over their own bodies.</p> <p>In your view, how can states effectively address and tackle human rights violations and abuses faced by women in prostitution to empower and enhance their agency?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to physical and mental health</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by H.E. Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania Norway, Sweden and Iceland</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her comprehensive report on the right to health and the intersection between drug policies, human rights and public health. Her in-depth analysis of drug laws and policies and the related outcomes that adversely impact the enjoyment of the right to health are an important contribution to the growing discourse on harm reduction.&nbsp;</p> <p>Drug use remains a significant public health concern that poses a threat to the health and wellbeing of diverse populations globally.</p> <p>Its stigmatization exacerbates inequalities, hinders access to essential health services and serves to perpetuate<em></em>cycles of discrimination and negative coping mechanisms that disproportionately affect persons in vulnerable situations. We note with concern that criminalization of HIV transmission impedes appropriate health services.</p> <p>The prevalence of drug use and its negative implications underscore the need for enhanced collective efforts for the development of evidence-based, comprehensive and gender-responsive drug policies informed by disaggregated data.</p> <p>These policies must take a human rights-based approach, ensuring inclusion and equitable access to health and social services for all persons in line with the AAAQ Framework.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, in your view, what are the key obstacles to a human rights-based approach to drug policies?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by H.E. Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Iceland&nbsp;</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his comprehensive report calling for the development of human rights-based guiding principles to bridge the gap between different levels of protections for dead persons under international law.</p> <p>The dignity of persons and the respect owed to their bodies do not cease with death. Disruptions of the processes by which individuals and societies across cultures and religions honour and mourn the deceased harm both individuals and societies and can serve to undermine or impede victims’ rights to truth, justice and reparation in cases of unlawful death.</p> <p>With the proliferation of armed conflicts, migration, climate change and the recurrence of natural disasters, the need to ensure the effective protection of the dead becomes more urgent than ever.</p> <p>This requires a multi-stakeholder approach, rooted in human rights. The idea to establish universally applicable guiding principles that ensure the comprehensive protection of the memory of the deceased and respect to their bodies merits further discussion.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, in your view, how can the Council and its mechanisms contribute to enhancing the protection of the dead, including the individual recording of casualties?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council&nbsp;</strong><strong>‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her latest report and the valuable recommendations.&nbsp;</p> <p>Threats to media freedom are growing by the day across the world, and hundreds of journalists go into exile every year, due to the increase in armed conflicts and the rise of authoritarianism and political repressions in their home countries. Freedom of media and journalism must be protected - States must uphold their international obligations and guarantee the right to freedom of expression, including the rights of journalists to work freely and safely in their home country or elsewhere.</p> <p>We are alarmed by the surge in weaponization of digital tools by States and non-state actors to intimidate, attack and silence journalists in exile, particularly women journalists. We call on all States to strengthen the protection of journalists, including exiled journalists, from digital, physical or legal threats – all acts of repression must be fully investigated and prosecuted.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how to best strengthen States’ responses to specific needs of journalists in exile?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</p> <p>We thank the members of the Working Group for their crucial work.</p> <p>We regret that despite progress in a number of countries, the backlash against the rights of women and girls and gender equality is escalating in all parts of the world. Women and girls in all their diversity are continuously facing labour discrimination, disproportionate share of unpaid care work, lack of sexual and reproductive health and rights, sidelining in peace processes and harassment and violence, offline and online, to name a few. Many women and girls experience multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. Even when legal and policy advancements are achieved, implementation gaps often remain.</p> <p>We welcome the working group`s focus on achieving substantive and transformative gender equality.</p> <p>In the digital world we need to ensure that<strong></strong>technology responds to the needs of women and girls and that gender stereotypes and discriminatory social norms will not be reinforced through biased digital platforms and algorithmic tools.</p> <p>What knowledge would be most important for pursuing an intentionally gender-responsive approach in the design and implementation of digital technology, including the development of artificial intelligence?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of assembly and of association</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordica Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his hard work during his mandate and welcome his final report. We warmly welcome the new Special Rapporteur, Ms.&nbsp;Romero, and wish success in her new role.</p> <p>Throughout history, peaceful protests have driven some of the most powerful social movements, exposing injustice, fighting discrimination, and demanding accountability. However, current trends are unsettling: increasing severe stigmatization, attacks against civil society, the militarization of police and disproportionate use of force at protests, and rising authoritarianism globally.</p> <p>We are especially alarmed by the report’s findings on the increasing use of restrictive measures such as "foreign agent" laws, internet shutdowns, and digital surveillance to suppress civil society and dissent. Additionally, the misused technology, including AI and biometrics, aggravates these issues due to inadequate regulations and oversight.</p> <p>We call on states to refrain from actions that undermine freedom of peaceful assembly and association. We must counter hostile narratives, ensure adherence to international obligations, and enable meaningful public participation for all. We emphasize the importance of robust and timely accountability for violations of the right to peaceful assembly and association.</p> <p>Madame Special Rapporteur, how can international bodies discourage countries from implementing restrictive "foreign agent" laws that target civil society organizations and independent media?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women:</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel 1: Economic violence as a form of gender-based violence against women and girls</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.</p> <p>Women and girls – in all their diversity – face multiple and intersecting forms of sexual and gender-based violence. Today’s discussion reminds us that sexual and gender-based violence can take the form of economic violence and that economic violence can take many forms, including domestic and intimate partner violence.</p> <p>Economic violence is rooted in gender inequality and reinforced by gender stereotypes and negative social norms. It creates an obstacle for economic independence for many women and girls around the world. Their access to education, services, the labor market or financial resources such as credit, funds, property, land or inheritance is controlled, limited or fully denied. Economic dependency can perpetuate other forms of violence and retain women in abusive relationships.&nbsp;</p> <p>States have the obligation to ensure that all women and girls can enjoy a life free from violence. States must ensure women’s and girls’ access to financial services, quality education, sexual and reproductive health services and decent work.</p> <p>Esteemed panelists, what legal reforms and measures to tackle deeply entrenched social norms should be prioritized in order to address economic violence?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women:</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel 2: Human rights economy and human rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>This year marks a troubling milestone with global inequality increasing for the first time in 25 years. This setback is particularly gendered, with women and girls disproportionately affected, especially those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>Women encounter economic disparities that are often overlooked by economic systems. Although frequently perceived as gender-neutral, macroeconomic policies can perpetuate discrimination within societies where women encounter structural inequalities and barriers.</p> <p>In pursuit of a global economy guided by human rights norms and standards, states must, through concerted efforts, strive to reform the international financial architecture and end all discriminatory and rights-violating practices that hinder gender equality.</p> <p>In line with the Sustainable Development Goals and international efforts towards a more equitable world, we must eliminate all discriminatory practices that limit women’s economic rights.</p> <p>To eradicate all forms of gender-based discrimination and to mitigate further proliferation of global inequalities, states must cultivate an enabling economic environment that embraces women in all their diversity, advances their rights and allows them to reach their fullest potential.</p> <p>Esteemed panelists, given the alarming rise in global inequality, what legislative changes should be prioritized to effectively address structural inequalities that hinder gender equality?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR mapping-report on new and emerging digital technologies</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am honored to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states.</p> <p>We thank OHCHR for the report, outlining existing work and providing recommendation on human rights and new and emerging digital technologies. We see it as an important step towards a more coordinated and effective approach to the Council’s work in ensuring technology as a human rights enabler.</p> <p>The report states that the UN-human rights system has already reached an “astounding level of technology-related outputs”, including 135 reports of special procedures. We are encouraged that the system is so active in its response to the new challenges. This is especially important as the work relates to crucial emerging human rights issues, including&nbsp;<em>inter alia</em>: internet access, content moderation and shut-downs, surveillance and AI, discrimination and biases, and the role of the private sector.</p> <p>However, the report also states that “the intersectionality of topics inevitably leads to some overlap”, which risks compromising the efficiency of a system that is already over-burdened.</p> <p>Going forward, how do you recommend the Council to deal with these matters in an efficient way, minimizing overlaps while respecting the importance and intersectionality of the topics?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am honoured to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states.</p> <p>I would like to welcome Prof. Morgera as new mandate holder. The Nordic Baltic states strongly support the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and stand ready to assist her in its implementation.</p> <p>Climate change and development are undeniably linked. Climate change is one of the greatest threats to human rights in our time. It disproportionately impacts women and children, and vulnerable groups already at risk, including Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQI+ persons and persons with disabilities.</p> <p>In addressing the impacts of climate change, it is crucial that we adopt a human rights-based approach. As such, the design and implementation of climate policies must be built upon the promotion and protection of human rights.</p> <p>Climate policies must advance gender equality and intersectionality and not exacerbate existing inequalities, but build on inclusive action to ensure participation and protection of those most at risk.</p> <p>The Nordic Baltic states welcome the newest report and would ask how this Council can support its recommendations on systematically advancing intersectionality in climate actions?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his latest report and continued work on this important issue.</p> <p>As the Special Rapporteur highlights, putting the focus on well-targeted social inequality-reducing policies, such as investing in public goods, transport, health and education, and boosting overall wellbeing, is crucial for eradicating poverty. A human rights based approach is key. There is a need to expand our toolbox in the fight against poverty in order to reduce inequality and ensure social inclusion.</p> <p>We strongly believe that investments in quality education are crucial to reduce poverty and inequalities and to counteract child labour or early child marriage.</p> <p>We firmly believe that gender inequality hinders poverty eradication. Empowering women in all their diversity to enjoy their right to participate in economic life, without discrimination, is vital to end the eradication of multidimensional poverty in our societies.</p> <p>Special rapporteur, how do you intend to conduct the consultations for the proposed road map for the transformation to post-growth approach to poverty?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>As your tenure is ending, allow me to extend our sincere gratitude for your tireless efforts to work with persisting human rights violations in Belarus and to support the Belarusian civil society.</p> <p>As indicated in your latest assessment, human rights situation in Belarus continues to deteriorate and repressions have reached unprecedented levels.</p> <p>Some of the violations committed in Belarus may amount to crimes against humanity.</p> <p>There are at least 1400 political prisoners in Belarus, many held incommunicado, in inhuman conditions, exposed to torture, with serious health issues, in some cases even leading to deaths.</p> <p>More international attention to this issue and increased pressure on Belarusian side is necessary.</p> <p>Belarus must fulfil its obligations under international human rights law. We must hold Belarusian authorities accountable for human rights violations, as well as for complicity in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Impunity only emboldens them to continue their wrongdoings. We should also actively counter disinformation disseminated by the authorities and state-sponsored media.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, we strongly support your mandate and expect that mission to be further continued.</p> <p>We would also appreciate your overview on what were the most problematic aspects when implementing your mandate throughout these years, and where we – as the UN Human Rights Council or individual members – could better support the future Special Rapporteur.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on oral update of the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement&nbsp;</strong><strong>by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We strongly support the essential work of the Commission of Inquiry.</p> <p>The conflict in Syria continues to cause immense suffering to civilians. Hundreds of thousands have lost their lives or disappeared. Discrimination against women and girls has intensified.</p> <p>The humanitarian situation deteriorates, with a record high number of people in need. Safe, full, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access is imperative.</p> <p>We are alarmed by the persistence of torture, ill-treatment and deaths of detainees despite the ICJ provisional measures of 16 November 2023. As reported by the Commission, nearly 30.000 children remain unlawfully detained in camps or other facilities. We demand an end to violations of international human rights and humanitarian law by all parties, particularly by the regime and its allies.</p> <p>We welcome the commencement of work of the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic and continue to support the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism.</p> <p>Distinguished Commissioners, persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected by the conflict. Which measures do you recommend to address this issue?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the progress oral report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation in Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am honored to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states.</p> <p>We express our extreme concern about the situation in Myanmar, which - as stated in the High Commissioner’s recent report - is in “freefall, with the total absence of human rights protections and civilian rule of law”.</p> <p>We witness a multifaceted crisis with reports of severe human rights violations and abuses including torture, enforced disappearances, severe threats to the safety and physical integrity of children, sexual and gender-based violence, and forced recruitment, not least in Rakhine state.</p> <p>We are also deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation and the safety of civilians and children currently residing in IDP camps.</p> <p>We welcome the appointment of Julie Bishop as Special Envoy. Her leadership will be crucial in addressing the complex challenges in Myanmar.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, on May 23, you warned that “thousands of innocent lives will be lost if the international community fails to respond to ominous signs of another Rohingya bloodbath in Rakhine State“.</p> <p>Which actions do you recommend States to take to contain the situation?</p> <p>How can States best contribute to protecting civilians, particularly children, in the short-term?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement&nbsp;</strong><strong>by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Iceland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for this update and his dedicated work. We call for the Government of Burundi to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur, and provide all necessary information to fulfil his mandate.</p> <p>Firstly, we express our concern about human rights violations against LGBTQI+ persons in Burundi.</p> <p>Ahead of the legislative and local elections in 2025, we express our serious concern on the restrictions on civil and political rights in Burundi. We are alarmed by the reports of repression of political opponents, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture and extrajudicial killings. We call for effective investigations of human rights violations and abuses and holding perpetrators to account. Fostering a civic space where political parties, civil society organizations, human rights defenders and journalists and other media workers can work freely, without fear of reprisals, is paramount.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, what would be the most pressing measures to ensure free and fair legislative and local elections in 2025?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report.</p> <p>We are deeply alarmed by the rise in hate crimes and incitement to violence against ethnic, racial and religious minorities around the world.</p> <p>These not only threaten the safety and wellbeing of individuals but undermine social cohesion, the stability of societies and the fundamental principles of equality and human dignity.</p> <p>Resurgence and glorification of Nazism and neo-Nazism represent a significant regression in human rights, perpetuating grave historical injustices and deepening divisions within communities.</p> <p>Combating Nazism and neo-Nazism should not be politicized or misappropriated by States as a pretext for other ulterior motives. We strongly believe such misuse undermines the genuine fight against these heinous ideologies, and we categorically reject any use of false narratives in this regard.</p> <p>To eradicate racial injustice, robust measures must be adopted, within and among countries, that comprehensively address all forms of racism, including Nazism and neo-Nazism.</p> <p>Through education and awareness campaigns and strengthened legal frameworks, the international community must work collectively towards combating racism and upholding universal human rights standards, leaving no one behind.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR report on technical assistance in Libya</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>Human rights violations and abuses remain pervasive in Libya. Human rights defenders and migrants are particularly affected.&nbsp;</p> <p>We acknowledge positive efforts towards development of a national human rights action plan, legislative reforms in the criminal justice system, and attempts to strengthen civil society and community capacities for transitional justice and reconciliation.</p> <p>However, we remain deeply concerned by reports of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, deprivation of liberty and attacks on civic space. These actions erode the rule of law and deepen the accountability deficit across the country.</p> <p>It is regrettable that OHCHR, UNSMIL and international humanitarian and human rights organisations continue to have restricted access to Libya.</p> <p>We call on the Libyan authorities to immediately cease all human rights violations and abuses, cooperate fully with OHCHR and UNSMIL, and to foster transitional justice, reconciliation and respect for human rights. Comprehensive and targeted effort are not only crucial for promoting accountability and justice in Libya, but a necessary precondition for sustainable peace.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for his dedicated efforts.</p> <p>Though progress has been made on the institutional and legislative front, we remain deeply concerned by the increasing disregard for international humanitarian law and human rights in the Central African Republic. The scale and severity of violations and abuses, including abductions, detention and ill-treatment, remain alarming.</p> <p>We reiterate our call for the Government to ensure that all perpetrators of atrocities are held accountable, regardless of their political status, rank, affiliation or nationality.</p> <p>We deplore the widespread sexual and gender-based violence, and violations and abuses committed against children in the country – increased effort must be made to prevent these serious violations and to ensure protection of civilians.</p> <p>Mr Agbetse, how can the international community facilitate strengthening of the accountability mechanisms in the Central African Republic?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Annual thematic panel discussion on technical cooperation and capacity-building</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>The Universal Periodic Review is a cornerstone of the Human Rights Council’s work and serves as a crucial peer-to-peer instrument that can contribute significantly to the promotion and protection of human rights in countries.</p> <p>Technical cooperation and capacity-building to support states in effectively implementing recommendations, improving their human rights practices, and fulfilling their international obligations are essential to the UPR process.</p> <p>Robust implementation and follow-up of UPR recommendations hinges on a holistic and rights-based approach on the ground, one that is fostered through inclusion of all relevant stakeholders.</p> <p>Coordination and cooperation between states, United Nations Agencies, Funds and Programmes, civil society, and other key stakeholders must be enhanced to optimize the use of limited resources and to meet growing demands for technical assistance and capacity-building.</p> <p>The UPR Voluntary Fund for Implementation, which has seen a regrettable drop in contributions during the last few years, is one important measure to contribute to successful implementation of UPR recommendations at the national level.</p> <p>Distinguished panelists, in addition to the fund, what other measures to support implementation does the panel recommend?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral update on the situation of human rights in Ukraine and the interim report of the Secretary General on the situation of human rights in Crimea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>Since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 and full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine since 2022, Russia has committed atrocities that may amount to war crimes and perpetrated grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.</p> <p>The weaponisation of sexual and gender-based violence and unlawful deportation and transfer of children are among the most appalling crimes. Russia must ensure safe and unhindered access for human rights monitoring mechanisms to all temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, including to prisoners of war.</p> <p>Persecution of journalists and representatives of civil society, politically motivated sentencing, arbitrary detentions, torture, forced conscription, unlawful transfer and deportation of children and civilians, including Crimean Tatars – an unacceptable reality faced by the people of the occupied Ukrainian peninsula. Russia’s ongoing efforts to eradicate Ukrainian language, identity and cultural heritage through indoctrination and assimilation further expose the imperial nature of its war of aggression.&nbsp;</p> <p>It is imperative that Russia is held fully accountable and perpetrators of human rights violations are brought to justice.</p> <p>High Commissioner,</p> <p>During the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, nearly 100 nations called on Russia to return all deported and unlawfully displaced children and civilians, as well as release all prisoners of war. What instruments do we have to add to this purpose and further mobilise the international community to bring Ukrainian people home?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup></sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner’s report on technical cooperation and capacity-building in the field of human rights in Colombia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>10 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for his latest report and the valuable recommendations. We would also like to commend Colombia in for its openness in recognizing the urgent need for a comprehensive and integral implementation of the peace agreement from 2016, and its efforts towards peace.</p> <p>The grave security situation faced by former combatants, human rights defenders and social leaders represents a threat to the peace agreement. We concur with the High Commissioner’s recommendation that the government should adopt a public policy of guarantees for the work of defense of human rights and that the implementation is overseen by the national and regional roundtables for guarantees.</p> <p>In line with the report, we urge Colombia’s Attorney General’s Office to advance towards ensuring accountability for human rights violations and abuses.</p> <p>We also share the view that reinforcing the presence of the state in rural areas requires intergovernmental coordination at all levels.</p> <p>High Commissioner, in your view, what concrete steps could Colombia take to strengthen such coordination and thereby also strengthen implementation of the key policies mentioned in the report?</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jul 09, 2024Statement by Iceland on Technical Cooperation and Capacity-Building<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup> </sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Annual thematic panel discussion on technical cooperation and capacity-building</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries. </p> <p>The Universal Periodic Review is a cornerstone of the Human Rights Council’s work and serves as a crucial peer-to-peer instrument that can contribute significantly to the promotion and protection of human rights in countries.</p> <p>Technical cooperation and capacity-building to support states in effectively implementing recommendations, improving their human rights practices, and fulfilling their international obligations are essential to the UPR process.</p> <p>Robust implementation and follow-up of UPR recommendations hinges on a holistic and rights-based approach on the ground, one that is fostered through inclusion of all relevant stakeholders. </p> <p>Coordination and cooperation between states, United Nations Agencies, Funds and Programmes, civil society, and other key stakeholders must be enhanced to optimize the use of limited resources and to meet growing demands for technical assistance and capacity-building. </p> <p>The UPR Voluntary Fund for Implementation, which has seen a regrettable drop in contributions during the last few years, is one important measure to contribute to successful implementation of UPR recommendations at the national level. </p> <p>Distinguished panelists, in addition to the funds, what other measures to support implementation does the panel recommend? </p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jul 09, 2024Statement by Iceland on Technical Assistance in Libya<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup> </sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR report on technical assistance in Libya </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>Human rights violations and abuses remain pervasive in Libya. Human rights defenders and migrants are particularly affected.&nbsp; </p> <p>We acknowledge positive efforts towards development of a national human rights action plan, legislative reforms in the criminal justice system, and attempts to strengthen civil society and community capacities for transitional justice and reconciliation.</p> <p>However, we remain deeply concerned by reports of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, deprivation of liberty and attacks on civic space. These actions erode the rule of law and deepen the accountability deficit across the country. </p> <p>It is regrettable that OHCHR, UNSMIL and international humanitarian and human rights organisations continue to have restricted access to Libya. </p> <p>We call on the Libyan authorities to immediately cease all human rights violations and abuses, cooperate fully with OHCHR and UNSMIL, and to foster transitional justice, reconciliation and respect for human rights. Comprehensive and targeted effort are not only crucial for promoting accountability and justice in Libya, but a necessary precondition for sustainable peace. </p> <p>I thank you. </p>
Jul 09, 2024Joint Statement on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples and members of the United Nations Treaty<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) – 17th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 5: United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: Interactive dialogue with UNPFII, the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples and members of the United Nations Treaty Bodies </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by Denmark on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Chair,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of countries and my own, Denmark together with Greenland.</p> <p>We reaffirm our full and firm commitment to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.&nbsp; </p> <p>We would like to raise our concern with the use of the term Indigenous Peoples in conflation with local communities in international instruments concerning in particular the environment, biodiversity and climate change. We are concerned that when these terms are grouped together, it risks conflating the terms and risks a perception that these terms are synonymous – which they are not.&nbsp; </p> <p>Indigenous Peoples have affirmed their identity as Indigenous Peoples, which States have subsequently recognized in international law and incorporated into international instruments. The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples embodies a fundamental international instrument that outlines the inherent collective rights of Indigenous Peoples and affirms their identity as Peoples equal to all other peoples.&nbsp; Unduly linking of Indigenous Peoples with local communities and other terms contains the risk - intentionally or not - of blurring the concept of Indigenous Peoples.</p> <p>We convey our support to the efforts of the Permanent Forum, the Expert Mechanism, and the Special Rapporteur on addressing this issue and we encourage “all United Nations entities and States parties to treaties concerning the environment, biodiversity and climate to refrain from the use of the term “local communities” in conjunction with Indigenous Peoples, and to distinguish between the terms, in ongoing processes, policies and new international agreements at all levels. This includes engaging directly with Indigenous Peoples to resolve this issue.”</p> <p>Esteemed experts, what do you see as the biggest challenges to remedy the conflation of Indigenous Peoples with local communities?</p>
Jul 08, 2024Statement by Iceland on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerances<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th<sup> </sup>session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 July 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report.</p> <p>We are deeply alarmed by the rise in hate crimes and incitement to violence against ethnic, racial and religious minorities around the world.</p> <p>These not only threaten the safety and wellbeing of individuals but undermine social cohesion, the stability of societies and the fundamental principles of equality and human dignity. </p> <p>Resurgence and glorification of Nazism and neo-Nazism represent a significant regression in human rights, perpetuating grave historical injustices and deepening divisions within communities.</p> <p>Combating Nazism and neo-Nazism should not be politicized or misappropriated by States as a pretext for other ulterior motives. We strongly believe such misuse undermines the genuine fight against these heinous ideologies, and we categorically reject any use of false narratives in this regard. </p> <p>To eradicate racial injustice, robust measures must be adopted, within and among countries, that comprehensively address all forms of racism, including Nazism and neo-Nazism.</p> <p>Through education and awareness campaigns and strengthened legal frameworks, the international community must work collectively towards combating racism and upholding universal human rights standards, leaving no one behind.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jul 04, 2024Statement by Iceland on the Situation of Human Rights in Burundi<p class="default" style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Human Rights Council – 56th session</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Statement&nbsp;by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">4 July 2024</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Iceland.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">We thank the Special Rapporteur for this update and his dedicated work. We call for the Government of Burundi to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur, and provide all necessary information to fulfil his mandate.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Firstly, we express our concern about human rights violations against LGBTQI+ persons in Burundi.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Ahead of the legislative and local elections in 2025, we express our serious concern on the restrictions on civil and political rights in Burundi. We are alarmed by the reports of repression of political opponents, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture and extrajudicial killings. We call for effective investigations of human rights violations and abuses and holding perpetrators to account. Fostering a civic space where political parties, civil society organizations, human rights defenders and journalists and other media workers can work freely, without fear of reprisals, is paramount.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Special Rapporteur, what would be the most pressing measures to ensure free and fair legislative and local elections in 2025?</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I thank you.</span></p>
Jul 02, 2024Statement by Iceland on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in the Context of Climate Change<span></span> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56th session</strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change</strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>2 July 2024</strong></p> <p style="background: white;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="background: white;">I am honoured to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states.</p> <p style="background: white;">I would like to welcome Prof. Morgera as new mandate holder. The Nordic Baltic states strongly support the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and stand ready to assist her in its implementation.</p> <p style="background: white;">Climate change and development are undeniably linked. Climate change is one of the greatest threats to human rights in our time. It disproportionately impacts women and children, and vulnerable groups already at risk, including Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQI+ persons and persons with disabilities.</p> <p style="background: white;">In addressing the impacts of climate change, it is crucial that we adopt a human rights-based approach. As such, the design and implementation of climate policies must be built upon the promotion and protection of human rights.</p> <p style="background: white;">Climate policies must advance gender equality and intersectionality and not exacerbate existing inequalities, but build on inclusive action to ensure participation and protection of those most at risk.</p> <p style="background: white;">The Nordic Baltic states welcome the newest report and would ask how this Council can support its recommendations on systematically advancing intersectionality in climate actions?</p> <p style="background: white;">I thank you.</p>
Jun 28, 2024Statement by Iceland on Human Rights Economy and Human Rights<span></span> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women:</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Panel 2: Human rights economy and human rights</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">28 June 2024</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">This year marks a troubling milestone with global inequality increasing for the first time in 25 years. This setback is particularly gendered, with women and girls disproportionately affected, especially those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Women encounter economic disparities that are often overlooked by economic systems. Although frequently perceived as gender-neutral, macroeconomic policies can perpetuate discrimination within societies where women encounter structural inequalities and barriers.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">In pursuit of a global economy guided by human rights norms and standards, states must, through concerted efforts, strive to reform the international financial architecture and end all discriminatory and rights-violating practices that hinder gender equality.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">In line with the Sustainable Development Goals and international efforts towards a more equitable world, we must eliminate all discriminatory practices that limit women’s economic rights.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">To eradicate all forms of gender-based discrimination and to mitigate further proliferation of global inequalities, states must cultivate an enabling economic environment that embraces women in all their diversity, advances their rights and allows them to reach their fullest potential.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Esteemed panelists, given the alarming rise in global inequality, what legislative changes should be prioritized to effectively address structural inequalities that hinder gender equality?</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I thank you.</span></p>
Jun 26, 2024Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on Extrajudicial, Summary or Arbitrary Executions<span></span> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">Statement by H.E. Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">26 June 2024</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">We thank the Special Rapporteur for his comprehensive report calling for the development of human rights-based guiding principles to bridge the gap between different levels of protections for dead persons under international law.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">The dignity of persons and the respect owed to their bodies do not cease with death. Disruptions of the processes by which individuals and societies across cultures and religions honour and mourn the deceased harm both individuals and societies and can serve to undermine or impede victims’ rights to truth, justice and reparation in cases of unlawful death.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">With the proliferation of armed conflicts, migration, climate change and the recurrence of natural disasters, the need to ensure the effective protection of the dead becomes more urgent than ever.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">This requires a multi-stakeholder approach, rooted in human rights. The idea to establish universally applicable guiding principles that ensure the comprehensive protection of the memory of the deceased and respect to their bodies merits further discussion.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">Special Rapporteur, in your view, how can the Council and its mechanisms contribute to enhancing the protection of the dead, including the individual recording of casualties?</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans', sans-serif;">I thank you.</span></p>
Jun 24, 2024Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on the Right to Physical and Mental Health<span></span> <p style="margin-top:0cm;margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:7.5pt; margin-left:0cm;text-align:center;line-height:18.75pt;background:white;"><strong>Human Rights Council ‒ 56th session</strong></p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to physical and mental health</strong></p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by H.E. Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania Norway, Sweden and Iceland</strong></p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: center;"><strong>24 June 2024</strong></p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">We thank the Special Rapporteur for her comprehensive report on the right to health and the intersection between drug policies, human rights and public health. Her in-depth analysis of drug laws and policies and the related outcomes that adversely impact the enjoyment of the right to health are an important contribution to the growing discourse on harm reduction.</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">Drug use remains a significant public health concern that poses a threat to the health and wellbeing of diverse populations globally.</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">Its stigmatization exacerbates inequalities, hinders access to essential health services and serves to perpetuatecycles of discrimination and negative coping mechanisms that disproportionately affect persons in vulnerable situations. We note with concern that criminalization of HIV transmission impedes appropriate health services.</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">The prevalence of drug use and its negative implications underscore the need for enhanced collective efforts for the development of evidence-based, comprehensive and gender-responsive drug policies informed by disaggregated data.</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">These policies must take a human rights-based approach, ensuring inclusion and equitable access to health and social services for all persons in line with the AAAQ Framework.</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: start;">Special Rapporteur, in your view, what are the key obstacles to a human rights-based approach to drug policies?</p> <p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; text-align: justify;">I thank you.</p>
Jun 21, 2024Statement by Iceland on Violence against Women and Girls, its Causes and Consequences<span></span> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Human Rights Council – 56th session</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, its causes and consequences</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">21 June 2024</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Women in prostitution risk facing multiple forms of violence from clients, procurers, and traffickers. Often coupled with many intersecting forms of discrimination and inequalities. The prevalent impunity in many countries is a serious concern. We are also concerned about the new ways created by digital technologies to exploit women and girls sexually. Further cooperation with tech companies is necessary to address all forms of technology-facilitated gender-based violence.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Prostitution poses a major obstacle to social equality, gender equality and achieving the goals of Agenda 2030. In this context, children – in particular girls, transgender women, indigenous women, women with disabilities and LGBTQI women may be in a particularly vulnerable situation. Change is necessary. By taking a transformative approach to address the root causes of gender inequalities we can create societies where the human rights of women and girls are fully protected, respected, and fulfilled. We need to dismantle discriminating societal structures so that women and girls in all their diversity can live their lives free from coercion and violence. And have the power to decide over their own bodies.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">In your view, how can states effectively address and tackle human rights violations and abuses faced by women in prostitution to empower and enhance their agency?</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I thank you.</span></p>
Jun 20, 2024Statement by Iceland on Protection against Violence and Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity<p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Human Rights Council – 56thsession</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">20 June 2024</span></strong></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">We reiterate our unwavering support for the work of the Independent Expert and this critical mandate.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Legislation that limits the human rights to freedom of opinion and expression, association, and peaceful assembly due to sexual orientation and gender identity is nothing new. However, recent years have seen an escalation in the number and breadth of constrictive laws. Such laws and practices are in violation of states’ international human rights obligations and have a chilling effect on civil society and the vital work of human rights defenders advocating for the full and equal enjoyment of human rights of LGBTQI+ persons.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">Discriminatory restrictions include criminalizing public displays of same-sex affection, adopting policies against comprehensive sexuality education, and refusing to register organizations that work on sexual orientation or gender identity. The proliferation of such policies, which goes hand in hand with a pushback on the human rights of LGBTIQ persons in UN fora, must be countered.</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">What should states, tech companies and civil society do to ensure online safety for LGBTQI+ persons, in order to safeguard their human rights and protect persons from digital violence and hate speech?</span></p> <p style="background: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a;">I thank you.</span></p>
Jun 20, 2024Statement by Iceland on the Annual Report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights<p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 56thsession</strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights</strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2024</strong></p> <p style="background: white;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="background: white;">We thank the High Commissioner for his sobering account.</p> <p style="background: white;">The number and severity of crises in the High Commissioner’s update is a stark warning that human rights are under attack and that no country is immune from regression.</p> <p style="background: white;">It is also a stark reminder that unless grievances and drivers of tension, violence and conflict are addressed at the micro and macro level, we must anticipate proliferation of armed conflicts, both international and non-international.</p> <p style="background: white;">Collective failure of ensuring universal respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law comes at a hefty price; measurable through human suffering and death, and in financial terms.</p> <p style="background: white;">The fallacy that the enjoyment of human rights of some is a threat to others must be countered. We agree that we must embrace inclusivity and challenge harmful narratives. Any form of hate speech is dangerous for social cohesion and a harbinger of worse to come, to quote the High Commissioner.</p> <p style="background: white;">We are dismayed by the continued corrosion of the multilateral and rules-based international system. The increase in attacks, threats and reprisals, both online and offline, against international institutions, judiciaries and mechanisms is not only unacceptable, but also precarious.</p> <p style="background: white;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="background: white;">Looking towards the future, we must recognize that full respect and enjoyment of human rights is indispensable, and this Council must do its part.</p> <p style="background: white;">I thank you.</p>
Apr 15, 2024Joint Statements during the 55th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p class="Heading" style="text-align: center;"><span><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>High Level Side Event: 10 years of Russia’s assault on human rights and fundamental freedoms in Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the Marshall Islands on behalf of the Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 February 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the ‘Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine,’ a cross-regional group consisting of 47 States and the European Union. </p> <p>As we gather today in the comfort of the Palais des Nations our Ukrainian friends are facing another day of untold suffering at the hands of Russia. For those in Crimea and in parts of the Donbas, it’s been ten years. </p> <p>The humanitarian needs of civilians in Ukraine are constantly rising. </p> <p>For more than two years no, since the launch of Russia’s full-scale, unprovoked and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, children have learned to sleep and study on underground subway platforms, as they shelter from continuous attacks. On those days children are not sheltering underground from Russian bombs, parents have lived in fear not knowing whether their children would come home. </p> <p>Chair, for two years now, this has been the grim reality for all Ukrainians. While for ten years Ukrainians in Crimea and parts of the Donbas have been forced to live this way. </p> <p>Report after report from independent mechanisms such as the Commission of Inquiry and the HRMMU, has concluded that the war against Ukraine is marked by war crimes, grave human rights violations, violations of international human rights law, and that certain actions by the Russian Federation may constitute crimes against humanity. </p> <p>Dignity and justice must be restored for the countless victims of this war and those responsible must be held to account. </p> <p>We welcome the initiatives to ensure full accountability for the most serious crimes under international law committed in Ukraine, including the work of Ukraine’s authorities, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court,&nbsp; the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine the establishment of the Register of Damage for Ukraine, and the work of the Core Group on options for the establishment of a tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine. We further commend the independent investigations under the OSCE Moscow Mechanism, ODIHR’s Ukraine Monitoring Initiative, the Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, mandated by the UN Human Rights Council, for independently presenting the world with evidence of Russia’s violations of international law, including international humanitarian law.</p> <p>Finally, we would like to acknowledge the important and courageous work of the manifold Ukrainian organisations who tirelessly continue to monitor and document violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in their country. Their testimonies are crucial contributions to victim-centered accountability efforts.</p> <p>Our nations will remain steadfast in our support of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in their tireless fight for freedom and dignity.</p> <p>Minister Kuleba, we&nbsp; stand with you, shoulder to shoulder, as you walk along the path towards justice, accountability, and peace for your country and all victims of this aggression.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Annual High-Level Mainstreaming Panel: Disability Inclusion: Mainstreaming within the UN System</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Mexico on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 February 2024</strong> </p> <p><strong>Mr. President, </strong></p> <p><strong>Mexico is </strong>honored to deliver this joint statement on behalf of a large cross-regional group of countries.</p> <p>We stress the importance of protecting and promoting the human rights of persons with disabilities, recognizing their agency and the imperative of fostering support systems that enable their inclusion and active participation.</p> <p>Persons with disabilities possess unique perspectives and talents. They can be agents for the positive transformation of our societies and institutions.</p> <p>In this sense, mainstreaming disability rights within the UN is not only a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for the advancement of human rights and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.</p> <p>We reaffirm our support for the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS) as a crucial framework guiding our efforts. The effective implementation of the UNDIS, and the socialization of its outcomes, are central to making disability inclusion a reality within the UN and throughout its work.</p> <p>Progress has been made in this regard, as recognized by the UN Secretary-General in his 2022 annual system-wide report, but there is more to be done. It is incumbent upon us to renew our commitment to UNDIS and work collaboratively to overcome challenges, including in the areas of resource mobilization, knowledge-sharing and capacity-building, The inclusion and effective participation and leadership of persons with disabilities in these efforts is essential.</p> <p>To advance programmatic mainstreaming of disability rights across different sectors, UN Member States can also play a pivotal role. At the international level, we need to incorporate a disability-inclusive perspective in all multilateral processes. At the national level, we need to enact and enforce legislation that protects and promotes the human rights of persons with disabilities; adopt inclusive and comprehensive support systems that enable their social inclusion; and adopt the necessary measures to guarantee that persons with disabilities can meaningfully lead and participate in all decisions affecting them.</p> <p>In conclusion, we call for stronger global commitment to implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as global support for the implementation of the UNDIS within the UN, consistent with the obligation to respect, protect and fulfill the enjoyment of all human rights by persons with disabilities.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: The death of Alexei Navalny and the situation of the political opposition </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the European Union on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the unabated systematic crackdown on civil society and the repressions of political opposition and critical voices throughout the Russian Federation and active outside the country. </p> <p>The events of 16 February are yet another example of the continued systematic crackdown by the Russian authorities, and their disregard for the human rights of their own citizens.</p> <p>We are outraged by the death of the Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny, for which the ultimate responsibility lies with President Putin and the Russian authorities. Russia must allow an independent and transparent international investigation into circumstances of his sudden death. Mr Navalny’s unexpected and shocking death is yet another sign of the accelerating and systematic repression in Russia. </p> <p>We strongly call on Russia to immediately and unconditionally release all other political prisoners, including Yuri Dmitriev, Vladimir Kara-Murza, Ilya Yashin, Alexei Gorinov, Lilia Chanysheva, Ksenia Fadeeva, Alexandra Skochilenko and Ivan Safronov as well as human rights defenders, journalists and anti-war activists arbitrarily detained for peacefully exercising their human rights and opposing Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. We express concern over their detention conditions and recall that the prohibition of torture is absolute under international law.</p> <p>We call on the Russian Federation to end this climate of impunity and create a safe environment for political opposition and critical voices including journalists and<s> other</s> media workers, human rights defenders and civic activists as enshrined in its domestic and international obligations. We call on Russia to abolish its oppressive legislation and end political misuse of the judiciary.</p> <p>Around the world people have gathered to pay tribute to the memory of Alexei Navalny. In Russia, the authorities tried to prevent the same in a number of places and several hundred people have been detained. Russia’s political leadership and authorities must be held to account. Navalny’s courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the cause of justice, freedom and democracy will never be forgotten.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Item 3: ID with Special Rapporteur on the Right to Adequate Housing</em> </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Bangladesh on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 March 2024</strong></p> <p><em>Mr. President, </em></p> <p><em>Bangladesh has the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of countries. </em></p> <p>The right to adequate housing is yet to be realized for many and millions still live in substandard housing, or are experiencing homelessness. Furthermore, climate change, natural disasters and environmental degradation have been accentuating displacements and homelessness. Homelessness is also a process of disassociation ensued from complex interplay of poverty, lack of gainful employment, and access to infrastructure, as well as other socio-economic issues that may constitute a loss of family, community, and a sense of belonging and dignity. </p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We urge States to integrate affected communities and individuals in designing, evaluating and implementing policies, programmes and strategies for their housing; </p> <p>We call for enhanced international collaboration and partnership for implementation of inclusive, technologically advanced, climate and environmental degradation resilient public housing programmes;</p> <p>We encourage States to continue to enable all persons with disabilities and in vulnerable situations to access adequate housing by constructing, maintaining and managing housing programmes at affordable prices and costs, with subsidies where required; </p> <p>We<em> </em>encourage<em> </em>States to ensure that evictions are compliant with the provisions of international humanitarian and human rights laws and to avoid use of force; and</p> <p>We request the<em> </em>Member States to take concerted action to seek long-term sustainable solutions to homelessness and to address legal, administrative, social, economic, cultural and digital barriers that hinder the realization of the right to an adequate standard of living, including housing.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council </strong>– <strong>55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: International Women’s Day</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Afghanistan on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>As the women and girls of Afghanistan continue to display unparalleled courage while standing for their human rights in the face of the gravest adversity, on this International Women’s Day, we express our deep concern about their dire situation which calls for a concerted response by the entire international community. </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>The Taliban’s promises to respect human rights remain unfulfilled. From their constellation of decrees and edicts to declarations and directives, women and girls remain unable to exercise their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, in contravention of international law. </p> <p>Gender-based violence has increased drastically, while access to support services, safe spaces, and shelters continues to diminish. Denied freedom of movement, women and girls describe feeling unsafe leaving their homes. Following a recent pattern of arbitrary detentions, women and girls are being held in overcrowded police stations, subjected to threats, violence and intimidation, with no access to justice. They are also facing public lashings.</p> <p>Girls are prevented from entering secondary schools or universities, leaving them exposed to violence, poverty and exploitation and harming the country’s prospects for progress, durable peace and sustainable development.</p> <p>The ban on women from working for the UN and national and international NGOs, violates the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, interfering with the delivery of essential services to the persons in the most vulnerable situations.</p> <p>As recognised by the Committee on Elimination of Discrimination against Women, “progressive and deliberate restrictions on women and girls’ rights,” resulted in their “marginalisation and exclusion” from social, political, public and economic life. It was further concluded by the Committee that due to their widespread and systemic nature, these acts may amount to gender persecution - a crime against humanity under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. Moreover, the institutionalised regime of systematic oppression and domination, with the intention of maintaining that regime, has been described by some, including the Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan, as “gender apartheid.<sup>”</sup> </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>This situation demands nothing less than full accountability. </p> <p>First, we urge all relevant special procedures mandate-holders and treaty bodies to closely monitor the situation, ensuring coherent coordination and cooperation. </p> <p>Second, we call upon States Parties to the Rome Statute to ensure full and effective cooperation with the International Criminal Court’s Office of the Prosecutor with respect to its investigation into the situation in Afghanistan. We also welcome the statement of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, made during the launch of a new policy on gender-based crimes, and recall the policy on the crime of gender persecution.</p> <p>Third, we call upon States to ensure that, during any engagement with the Taliban <em>de facto</em> authorities, they emphasise the State of Afghanistan’s obligations to respect human rights, especially those of women and girls. States should also ensure the active involvement of stakeholders of Afghanistan, including women, in dialogues concerning the future of the country.</p> <p>Fourth, we urge States to support the decision on the commencement of negotiations on a Crimes Against Humanity Convention based on the ILC draft articles this year. We call upon States to work towards an adequate reflection of systematic gender persecution.</p> <p>Finally, we call for immediate accountability for human rights abuses in Afghanistan, commensurate with the gravity of the situation on the ground. </p> <p>As systematic discrimination persists worldwide, SDG 5 remains yet to be achieved. While the road ahead may seem challenging, let us act decisively today, guided by our shared commitment to universal human rights, including women’s and girls’ rights. Together, we can take one step closer to realising a world where women and girls can participate fully, equally, and meaningfully in all spheres of public life and be safe from violence of any kind. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: International Women’s Day</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Finland on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,&nbsp; </p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of Mexico, my country Finland and a group of States. </p> <p>On this International Women’s Day, we look at our world and see conflicts, inequalities, hunger, poverty, a triple planetary crisis. We are far from reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. To overcome these challenges, it is imperative to build safe, stable, inclusive, prosperous and peaceful societies.</p> <p>In times of conflicts and crisis, we often hear that so-called “hard security” must be prioritized and so-called “softer security” issues can wait. Gender equality and women’s and girls’ rights are often placed in the latter category. However, history has shown that this approach is inadequate. Women must be included in all matters related to peace and security. Women’s, young women’s and girls’ rights cannot and should not wait, even less in times of crisis. This concerns especially women and girls facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. </p> <p>We need a more comprehensive approach to security. Evidence from decades of research shows that gender equality strengthens the stability of societies. Inclusive peace agreements that adopt a gender perspective are more likely to last. Ensuring women’s and girls’ rights is a powerful tool for building security and vice versa: eroding these rights can have negative security effects. </p> <p>We must ensure the full, equal and meaningful participation of all women, young women and girls, without discrimination of any kind, in all areas of society, including in the public and private sector, company boardrooms, political decision-making, peace processes, activism and advocacy. We must also recognise the full diversity of all women and girls in their circumstances and experiences and adopt intersectional approaches to responding to the needs of women and girls with different backgrounds.</p> <p>Let us elevate women and women’s rights organisations and movements that are already making a difference. Let us support women’s and girls’ autonomy, including their right to bodily autonomy and the realization of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Let us strengthen our efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence in all circumstances, to send a clear and coherent message condemning violent attacks against women and girls – whether at home or in public spaces, offline or in digital spaces, nationally or internationally, in conflict or at peace. Addressing the root causes of conflict means investing in the human rights of women and girls everywhere. </p> <p>In times like these, we must not put women’s and girls’ rights and gender equality aside, something to deal with later. On the contrary, now is the time to bring women’s and girls’ rights to the forefront, to the center of solutions towards stability and peace.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Inclusive participation in elections in 2024 in the world</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by Romania on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March </strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of 59 countries, with diverse electoral systems.</p> <p>1. Globally, more voters than ever will be called to the polls this year, in countries representing about 49% of the people in the world. Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines that the will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures. </p> <p>2. Elections are an important moment to reaffirm our countries’ commitment to human rights and democracy and to ensure the right of everyone to participate in public affairs. Effective participation through elections by all members of society contributes to the attainment of SDG targets.</p> <p>3. We reiterate the importance of holding elections in a secure and peaceful environment in which rule of law is respected and everyone is safe to exercise freely their rights and freedoms without discrimination of any kind and without unlawful or arbitrary restrictions. </p> <p>4. It is important to ensure that the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, free movement and the right to participate in public affairs are fully respected. </p> <p>5. These elections take place in the era of widely available digital technologies and artificial intelligence and we must address the risks of disinformation. We have to protect citizens’ rights to freedom of expression so they can access information and debate openly and freely, while taking measures to counter hate speech, both online and offline. </p> <p>6. Recognizing the role of youth in electoral processes, the UN Human Rights Council and the General Assembly have consistently highlighted the need for their full, effective and meaningful participation in decision-making. </p> <p>7. We call on all States to encourage youth, women, persons with disabilities and representatives of persons belonging to minorities<strong> </strong>to stand for elections. Inclusive political participation is crucial to building stable and peaceful societies and developing responsive policies. </p> <p>8. We reiterate the fundamental importance of<strong> </strong>human rights education and training in contributing to the promotion, protection and effective realization of all human rights, and raising generations of young people able to participate effectively in public life in their societies. </p> <p>9. We conclude by encouraging OHCHR to continue its work, within its mandate, to ensure that elections meet international human rights standards and that they are held in an environment in which everyone can exercise their rights.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with SRSG for children in armed conflict</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by Uruguay on behalf of a group of states from the Group of Friends on CAAC </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I am honoured to take the floor on behalf of a group of States that have endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration and committed to implementing the Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use. </p> <p>Dear Madam Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, </p> <p>We thank you for your report and note with deep concern that attacks on schools, students and education personnel remain extremely high and that the military use of schools has increased in 2023. We strongly condemn such actions as they undermine the right to education and recall that all human rights must be respected, protected and fulfilled also in times of conflict. Attacks on schools and their military use place children, in particular girls and children with disabilities, at particular risk of harm, making them more vulnerable to other grave violations, with boys, girls and children with disabilities suffering in often different and deeply problematic ways.</p> <p>We welcome your recommendation that States should endorse the Safe Schools Declaration. 2025 will coincide with the 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Safe Schools Declaration, already endorsed by 119 states, and the year of the Fifth International Conference on the Declaration. We urge all States to accelerate efforts towards universal endorsement and full implementation of this crucial tool. As the Declaration states, “education is fundamental to development and to the full enjoyment of human rights and freedoms”. We encourage the SRSG to continue with her efforts to promote these principles.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Joint Statement on the Interactive Dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran (HRC res. S-35/1)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Costa Rica on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am delivering this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of 54 countries. </p> <p>We thank the Fact-Finding Mission for carrying out their invaluable work to investigate the alleged human rights violations that took place after the tragic death in custody of Mahsa Jina Amini and subsequent nationwide protests.</p> <p>The FFM has recorded patterns of serious violations of human rights including the use of excessive and lethal force against protesters. The report also finds that violence against women and children was widespread throughout the security forces’ response to the protests. </p> <p>To suppress dissent, authorities resorted to disproportionate use of force, arbitrary arrests and detention, sexual and gender-based violence, torture of detainees, harassment of victim’s families, unfair trials and the execution of protesters. The report concludes that some of these acts may amount to crimes against humanity, including the crime against humanity of gender persecution. Perpetrators of these crimes must be held to account.</p> <p>Mr President, the human rights situation in Iran has worsened. We remain deeply concerned about the rights of women and girls. Women human rights defenders and journalists continue to be persecuted and silenced.&nbsp; If adopted, the "Bill to Support the Family by Promoting the Culture of Chastity and Hijab" will restrict women’s rights further; a breach of the mandatory hijab will carry punishment of up to ten years in prison in addition to flogging, crushing fines, travel restrictions and deprivation of online access. </p> <p>We urge the Iranian authorities to take steps to eliminate this and all other forms of gender-based discrimination, end the cycle of violence, cease the suppression of protests, open civic space both online and offline to allow for dissenting voices, and allow journalists, lawyers and human rights defenders to carry out their work freely. </p> <p>Impunity cannot continue, calls for justice cannot remain unanswered, accountability must prevail. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Australia on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>On behalf of 53 co-sponsor States of the HRC DPRK resolution, I thank the Special Rapporteur for her sobering update and reiterate our support for her mandate.</p> <p>Ten years ago, the Commission of Inquiry established by this Council concluded that the DPRK committed systematic and widespread human rights violations that amounted to crimes against humanity.</p> <p>Today, tragically, the Special Rapporteur’s report shows there has been little to no progress in the human rights situation, or towards accountability.</p> <p>The Special Rapporteur continues to report systemic and gross human rights violations and abuses, ranging from torture, abductions, arbitrary detention in prison camps and inter-generational punishment, as well as the implementation of new laws restricting freedom of expression and other fundamental freedoms.</p> <p>We remain disturbed by the Special Rapporteur’s findings with regard to widespread violations and abuses of the human rights of women and girls, including gender-based violence by the state. </p> <p>We call on the DPRK to cooperate with the Special Rapporteur and allow the return of UN agencies, other international organisations and the diplomatic community.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, we welcome your insights from consultations with victims/survivors on what accountability would look like to them to inform a more effective international response. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the Netherlands on behalf of the Group of Friends</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024 </strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the 'Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine'.</p> <p>Damian Omelianenko, Mykola Maslii, Iryna Horobtsova.</p> <p>These are just three of the thousands of Ukrainian civilians, yes civilians, who according to credible reports, have been unlawfully detained by Russian authorities.</p> <p>As found by the Commission of Inquiry, the unlawful confinement of civilians, is a violation of their rights to liberty and security of person and is a war crime. But their detention is often only the first in a harrowing series of violations and crimes civilian detainees are subjected to at the hands of Russian authorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>Torture, sexual and gender-based violence, unlawful transfers and deportations, including of children. The list goes on.</p> <p>Mr. Chair,</p> <p>Dignity and justice must be restored for the countless victims of Russia’s aggression and those responsible must be held to account. </p> <p>We, therefore, welcome the detailed reporting of the CoI, as well as the work of the HRMMU, the investigation by the ICC, the operationalization of the ICPCA, the establishment of the Register of Damage for Ukraine, and the work of the Core Group towards a tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine.&nbsp; </p> <p>Mr. Chair,</p> <p>What more can the international community do to support Damian Omelianenko, Mykola Maslii, and Iryna Horobtsova, and the identification, release and the reunification of all other Ukrainian civilians who are unlawfully detained by Russia? </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: ICJ Syria Provisional Measures</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Canada on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries. </p> <p>For thirteen years, the international community has called out Syria for its flagrant breaches of international human rights law. Regrettably, Syria has denied wrongdoing and continues to violate international law with impunity. </p> <p>These circumstances led the Netherlands and Canada to invoke the responsibility of Syria for breaches of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and eventually to institute proceedings against Syria before the ICJ. The ongoing human rights and international humanitarian law violations in Syria cannot remain without consequences and a lasting political solution in Syria is possible only if the perpetrators are held to account and victims obtain justice.</p> <p>We welcome the ICJ’s provisional measures, requiring Syria to prevent acts of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment and ensure no one under its control commits such acts, and to take effective measures to ensure the preservation of evidence&nbsp; The provisional measures are a first step towards much needed accountability and justice for the people of Syria. </p> <p>We strongly condemn reports of sexual and gender-based violence, affecting the lives of millions of women, girls, and boys across the country. We further condemn Syria’s continued obstruction of families’ efforts to ascertain the fate of their detained loved ones and relatives. </p> <p>Distinguished Commissioners, the question remains, how can we better co-operate with partners and Syrian civil society to identify ongoing violations, including torture and detention in Syria?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Humanitarian access in Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the United Kingdom of Great Britain on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>This statement is on behalf of the Troika for Sudan – USA, Norway and the UK– and supported by a group of other countries.</p> <p>We welcome the organisation of a humanitarian conference for Sudan and neighbouring countries next month in Paris, exactly one year since the beginning of a conflict that has had catastrophic humanitarian consequences for the Sudanese people.</p> <p>Nearly 18 million people are suffering crisis levels of food insecurity.&nbsp; Humanitarian workers are blocked from reaching the people in need.&nbsp; The longer this conflict lasts, and the further fighting spreads, the greater that need will become.&nbsp; We call on all parties to accept a Ramadan ceasefire, in line with Security Council Resolution 2274.</p> <p>The Sudanese Armed Forces’ withdrawal of permission for aid deliveries through the major crossing points from Chad into Darfur is indefensible. It has exacerbated the suffering in Darfur, where civilians are already in dire need after suffering relentless atrocities by the Rapid Support Forces. </p> <p>We call on the SAF to uphold fully their commitments to facilitate cross-line and cross-border operations, re-open fully the vital Adre crossing point, and refrain from any measures that prevent life-saving aid reaching those in need.&nbsp; </p> <p>The vital work of local responders, UN agencies, and international partners must be allowed to proceed. The warring parties must ensure the security of humanitarian actors and refrain from diverting life-saving supplies for themselves – and hold their personnel accountable when they go against these principles.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>The death toll in Sudan is likely far greater than the 14,000 verified to date.&nbsp; Every day humanitarian assistance is prevented from reaching those in need, that number will rise, and the Sudanese people move further toward catastrophic levels of food insecurity.</p> <p>We call on all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and the Jeddah Declaration, and to allow full, rapid, safe, and unhindered cross-border and cross-line humanitarian access, so that we can, collectively, protect Sudan’s people from even more suffering and death.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 7: General debate</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Chile on behalf of a group of countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>Chile is honored to present this joint statement on behalf a group of countries. </p> <p>We remain profoundly alarmed by the dire humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The conflict has inflicted immense suffering upon civilians, particularly women and children, who bear the brunt. </p> <p>We call on all parties to adhere to international law, including protecting civilians and ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access. Targeting civilians and healthcare facilities, including denying essential services and forcibly displacing civilians, is unacceptable and unlawful. We urge the full implementation of the Provisional Measures ordered by the ICJ in the case concerning the Genocide Convention. by Israel.</p> <p>Israel must refrain from actions in violation of international law leading to harm to civilians and forced displacement, especially in Rafah. At the same time, we demand the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and express our solidarity with them and their families. </p> <p>Urgent action must be taken. An immediate ceasefire is essential to enable the delivery of life-saving aid and restore essential services. </p> <p>In this context, we emphasize the irreplaceable role of UNRWA in terms of delivering lifesaving humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and its stabilizing role across the region call for its sustained funding. We support a thorough investigation into the allegations against some staff members allegedly involved in the October 7 terrorist attacks, which must be swiftly completed, and those responsible must be held accountable.&nbsp; UNRWA must be able to continue its vital response, which must be fully funded.</p> <p>We urge all parties to engage in constructive dialogue that leads to a lasting peace by enabling the two-state solution, in line with relevant UN resolutions. The international community must remain vigilant and hold all parties accountable for violations of international law.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 8: “Elections” for president of the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied or controlled territories of Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>This statement is delivered on behalf of 43 states. </p> <p>Article 3 of the Vienna Declaration states: “Effective international measures to guarantee and monitor the implementation of human rights standards should be taken in respect of people under foreign occupation, and effective legal protection against the violation of their human rights should be provided, in accordance with human rights norms and international law, particularly the Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, of 14 August 1949, and other applicable norms of humanitarian law”. </p> <p>In resolution 78/221, the General Assembly condemned the ongoing temporary control or occupation by the Russian Federation of part of the territory of Ukraine, including the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol and certain areas of the Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and reaffirmed the non-recognition of its annexation.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We condemn in the strongest terms the holding by the Russian Federation of so-called “elections” on Ukraine’s sovereign territory on 15-17 March in the temporarily occupied or controlled territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, as well as in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. They have no legitimacy nor validity under international law and cannot and do not alter the status of these regions of Ukraine.</p> <p>This is just another futile effort by the Russian Federation to legitimize or formalize its illegal attempted annexation of parts of Ukraine.</p> <p>We reiterate our support for the territorial integrity, unity, and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders as well as for Ukraine’s political independence - which the Russian Federation continues to violate.</p> <p>We fully support a Ukraine-driven peace process and the principles set forth in President Zelenskyy’s Peace Formula and look forward to continued cooperation to develop this initiative with a view to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine and security to the whole world.</p> <p>We stand firmly with the people of Ukraine as they bravely face Russia’s aggression and express our solidarity with those in Ukraine’s territories under Russia’s temporary control who continue to speak up at great personal risk against Russia`s full-scale invasion. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 8: Indigenous People’s knowledge and science, climate change, and human rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by Canada on behalf of a group of countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries.</p> <p>The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action recognized the unique contribution of Indigenous Peoples to the development and plurality of societies. It reaffirmed our commitment to ensure their enjoyment of all rights and freedoms, and to respect the value and diversity of their cultures and identities. </p> <p>Importantly, the VDPA urged States to ensure the full and free participation of Indigenous Peoples in <em>all</em> aspects of society, particularly in matters that affect them.</p> <p>As we take stock of the implementation of the VDPA, we note that much work remains for us to fully realize these commitments. </p> <p>And as we look to make further progress, we are mindful that the adverse effects of climate change stand as a main threat to the promotion and protection of Indigenous rights.</p> <p>While the impacts of climate change affect all of us, we recognise that Indigenous Peoples are disproportionately affected. Moreover, Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and experiences are critical to developing the solutions to address it. </p> <p>In the fight against climate change, it is imperative that we use the best available knowledge and science humankind can offer. This means being able to incorporate and share information to bridge, braid, and weave all scientific knowledge, including Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and science.</p> <p>For generations, Indigenous Peoples have developed their own knowledge based on observation, hypothesis, and analysis in their territories. In a modern context, this knowledge remains vital to environmental stewardship, wildlife protection, managing species at risk, adaption and mitigation of climate change, and prevention of natural emergencies.</p> <p>Following the leadership of Indigenous Peoples on climate adaptation, innovative clean energy, and resource monitoring will better prepare us to meet global targets, including the SDGs, and to adapt to the impacts we are facing. As rights holders, Indigenous Peoples, including Indigenous women and girls, have the right to participate alongside States to share their knowledge, and to take a leading role in decision-making at all levels. </p> <p>A more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world cannot be achieved without the full, effective, and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: Joint Statement on the territorial integrity of Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by the European Union on behalf of a group of states</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this joint statement on behalf of the 27 EU Member States, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America.</p> <p>We are reacting to the statement on behalf of the Russian Federation delivered by a&nbsp;representative of the so-called administration in the territory of Ukraine temporarily controlled by Russia<em>.</em></p> <p>We recall the relevant UNGA resolutions which recognise the status of this territory as an integral part of Ukraine.</p> <p>We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters. We reiterate our strongest condemnation of Russia’s aggression and its attempts to acquire Ukraine’s territory by force in flagrant violation of international law, including the UN Charter. We firmly and unequivocally reject, do not and will never recognize the attempted illegal annexation by Russia of Ukraine's regions of Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.</p> <p>We therefore urge Russia to refrain from letting any representative of the so-called&nbsp;administration in the territories of Ukraine temporarily controlled by Russia intervene on its behalf within the Human Rights Council, or in any other international fora.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: General debate</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the Maldives on behalf of the HRC Membership Contact Group</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 April 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>This statement is on behalf of the contact group on Council membership. The list of members will be made public on the extranet. </p> <p>We believe that membership of the Human Rights Council should reflect the diversity of the UN as a whole, and that all countries, irrespective of their size, wealth or power should have an equal opportunity to serve as members of the Council. </p> <p>Since 2017 the number of States that have never held a seat on the Council has fallen from 95 to 69 today.</p> <p>While this is important progress, at the most recent Council election, only one country was elected that had not been a member before. So more work clearly remains to be done to broaden the Council’s membership to other states. </p> <p>Most of the countries that have never been members of the Council are small States, especially Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). </p> <p>We have seen from recent years that Small States often offer new perspectives and strengthen the Council’s universality. Indeed, LDCs and SIDs have made significant contributions to the Council through leading resolutions on important new topics, by serving as members of the Bureau and even by being elected as Council President. We therefore express our firm support for the important work of the LDCs/SIDs voluntary trust fund in supporting greater participation at the HRC. We hope that this will build capacity&nbsp; to allow a greater number of states to stand for membership.&nbsp; </p> <p>As GA resolution 60/251 that established this Council makes clear, membership of the Council comes with responsibility. All States must respect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, and members elected to the Council shall uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights and fully cooperate with the Council.</p> <p>Our contact group encourages States with a demonstrable commitment to human rights and democracy, especially Small States, to strengthen their participation and engagement with the body and its mechanisms and, eventually, to consider standing for election. We are ready to engage with such states and to support them in this endeavour.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Transitional justice and accountability in Ethiopia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint statement by the European Union on behalf of a group of states </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 April 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I am making this statement on behalf of a group of 44 countries.</p> <p>During the 54<sup>th</sup> session of the Human Rights Council, the Government of Ethiopia committed to bring forward a solid transitional justice policy framework by November 2023.</p> <p>Meanwhile, we have taken note of Ethiopia’s strong pledge on the occasion of the 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the UDHR in December 2023; the report published by the Ethiopian Transitional Justice Expert Group mid-January; and the recent validation workshops.</p> <p>We welcome the Government’s stated commitment, and urge the Government to swiftly establish a policy framework, based on the recommendations by the expert group, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and the OHCHR.</p> <p>Ethiopia’s victims and survivors deserve justice. Credible transitional justice and accountability processes are crucial to ensuring lasting peace and reconciliation. The policy framework should be consistent with regional and international human rights law, include an international component and ensure genuine accountability, truth-seeking, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence.</p> <p>Participation of victims and prioritizing their needs and rights is equally essential. This includes providing strong victim and witness protection, psychosocial assistance, health services, and socioeconomic support.</p> <p>Robust independent, impartial and transparent mechanisms are needed to implement the policy, preserve evidence, conduct investigations into all allegations of human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law and, as appropriate, prosecute those responsible. Detailed information on how each mechanism will be created and what the next steps are is key for the success of the policy framework. We encourage introducing implementing legislation promptly.</p> <p>If the proposal is to go farther back in time, we recommend prioritizing recent events, including in northern Ethiopia. </p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We welcome the continued commitment of the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray Interim Regional Administration to consolidate the peace process and implement the outstanding provisions of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. At the same time, we remain seriously concerned about on-going violence and reports of human rights violations and abuses in the Amhara and Oromia regions. The extension of the State of Emergency in Amhara is also cause for concern.</p> <p>We call on all parties to pursue peace through dialogue as well as to participate in what must be a credible and inclusive National Dialogue process.</p> <p>Lastly, we invite the High Commissioner to keep the Council updated on the human rights situation in Ethiopia, the assistance his Office is providing and the implementation of the recommendations of the Joint Investigative Team and the ICHREE.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>We encourage Ethiopia to continue to engage OHCHR and international experts on its path of transitional justice, lasting peace, and prosperity.</span></p>
Apr 05, 2024National and Nordic-Baltic Statements during the 55th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p class="paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span><strong><span>Human Rights Council </span></strong></span>–<strong> 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 1: Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Theme: Harnessing multilateral efforts to embed, amplify and realize the rights of persons with disabilities, with a focus on full and effective participation and inclusion in society</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 February 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Lithuania.</p> <p>As we approach the five-year mark since the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy was set in motion, it is crucial to assess the progress and the challenges in its implementation. This Strategy provides a foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion across all UN pillars, it reaffirms that the realization of human rights of all persons with disabilities is an indivisible part of all human rights. </p> <p>We appreciate the Strategy's twin-track approach, which integrates disability-sensitive measures across all policies while also providing specific initiatives for the empowerment of persons with disabilities. Ensuring the rights of persons with disabilities is key to our commitment to equality in the Nordic-Baltic states. We focus on empowering them by improving disability assessment, enhancing their seamless integration into the open labour market, providing specific and targeted support and services. We seek to ensure that public information is easy to read and accessible to all, using sign language, Braille, and other alternative forms.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic States remain committed to further improving disability inclusion within the UN system and beyond, especially in the context of our shared commitments under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.</p> <p>Distinguished Panellists, how can we ensure that the multiple crises we are facing do not hinder the implementation of the Strategy? How can we leverage multilateralism to ensure persons with disabilities enjoy the full spectrum of human rights within the UN framework?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the obligation to ensure accountability and justice</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 February 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland.&nbsp; </p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for his important reporting. We strongly support the independent work of his Office. </p> <p>The suffering of civilians in Gaza is horrific. There are no safe places. People lack the necessities to survive. This conflict severly traumatizes an entire generation on both sides, especially children. </p> <p>We condemn the brutal terrorist attacks by Hamas against civilians. Hamas must release all remaining hostages immediately and without any preconditions and stop the practice of using civilians as human shields. Israel has the right to defend itself in line with international law.</p> <p>For the sake of civilians in Gaza, we strongly echo the calls of the High Commissioner. We reiterate the importance of ensuring the protection of all civilians at all times in line with international humanitarian law and to respect the legally binding order of the International Court of Justice. We ask the Israeli Government not to take military action in Rafah that would worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian situation. </p> <p>The Nordic and Baltic States support all efforts for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire for life-saving aid to reach Gazans, accountability for violations by all parties and a credible and irreversible path towards a negotiated two-state solution. Both Israelis and Palestinians have the right to live in safety, dignity and peace. </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>29 February 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf on the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Latvia. We thank the Group of Experts for the latest report on the human rights situation in Nicaragua.</p> <p>We remain gravely concerned about the continuous dismantling of the civic space and increasing and systematic human rights violations in Nicaragua, including attacks against human rights defenders, political and indigenous leaders, members of religious and academic institutions, journalists and other media workers for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.</p> <p>We are seriously concerned about the recent legislative reforms in Nicaragua that have led to the arbitrary removal of hundreds of justice system officials, the rise in arbitrary detentions and deprivation of the Nicaraguan nationality of hundreds of political opponents. </p> <p>We strongly urge the Nicaraguan authorities to resume cooperation with international and regional human rights mechanisms, including OHCHR, and to return to the rule of law and full respect of all human rights and fundamental freedoms. There can be no justice for Nicaraguans without full accountability for gross human rights violations and abuses in the country.</p> <p>Mr Simon, what steps can be taken to foster accountability for human rights violations in Nicaragua?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>29 February 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>The Nordic Baltic countries commend the Special Rapporteur for his resolute efforts for Human Rights in Afghanistan. Not only is documentation a prerequisite for accountability; it also serves as an important foundation for Member States as they raise human rights with the de facto authorities and interact with civil society.</p> <p>We condemn the severe restrictions on women and girls, which may amount to gender persecution. The restrictions serve to exclude them from work, education, healthcare, and to a large degree from public life. We admire the resilience of Afghan women and girls in the face of oppression.</p> <p>Furthermore, we are deeply troubled that the report documents that numerous human rights defenders, journalists and other media workers have been imprisoned in Afghanistan. And we remain concerned about the violation of the human rights of persons belonging to minorities.</p> <p>We urge the de facto authorities to continue their cooperation with the Special Rapporteur, including granting him full and unhindered access to the country.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can the international community help to improve the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan, and make sure their voices are heard, both nationally and internationally?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner oral update on Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>1 March 2024</strong></p> <p>High Commissioner,</p> <p>Thank you for this update.</p> <p>We, the Nordic-Baltic States, remain deeply disturbed by the worsening human rights situation in Myanmar.</p> <p>Increased violence and massive new internal displacement and refugee movements affect the civil population, including children, in devastating ways. We receive frequent reports of violations and abuses of human rights and international law. In Rakhine state, the resumed fighting worsens the already dire conditions of the vulnerable Rohingya population, for whom access to humanitarian assistance remains severely limited.</p> <p>We condemn in the strongest terms any indiscriminate use of force by the military.</p> <p>We call for an immediate end to all violence and abuses against civilians. We also call for the provision of full and unhindered humanitarian access, and an inclusive dialogue with the meaningful participation of all stakeholders, including ethnic and religious minorities. </p> <p>The UN must be enabled to coordinate and conduct humanitarian diplomacy, including on access. </p> <p>High Commissioner, in the current environment, what actions should external actors prioritize in the short and medium term to improve the human rights situation in Myanmar?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council </strong><strong>–</strong><strong> 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights on advancing the human rights in South Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>1 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honor of speaking on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the Commission for its report and align ourselves with its conclusions. We also thank the Government of South Sudan for its continued co-operation with the Commission. </p> <p>Political violence and insecurity remain fundamental challenges to the human rights situation in South Sudan. Sexual and gender-based violence and abductions of women and children continue with impunity. We urge South Sudan to fulfill all its obligations according to international human rights law. </p> <p>The steps that must be taken to hold peaceful and credible elections in December 2024 are clear. Democratic space must be guaranteed. The Necessary Unified Forces must be fully deployed, and civilians protected. Electoral institutions must be operationalized and operate independently.&nbsp; </p> <p>The transitional government can demonstrate its alignment with values of democracy and human rights through transparent use of public revenue to fund public needs and protect its population from violence.</p> <p>Until the institutions of Chapter 5 of the Revitalized agreement are established, the Commission on Human Rights plays a vital and unique role in ensuring independent monitoring and investigation. Its mandate must be extended. We urge South Sudan’s continued cooperation with the Commission. </p> <p>Few steps have been taken towards developing functional justice processes and institutions in South Sudan. What is needed, in your opinion, to improve this situation?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the Sudan with assistance of designated Expert</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>1 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic Countries. </p> <p>We would like to commend the High Commissioner for the comprehensive report on the human rights situation in Sudan. We fully endorse the conclusions of the report. </p> <p>The conflict in Sudan is now in its 11th month and the human rights situation is of outmost concern. The reports of alleged violations and abuse committed by both parties to the armed conflict are deeply disturbing. </p> <p>We urge all parties to fulfil their obligations according to international humanitarian law and human rights law, including the protection of civilians. We encourage all parties to cooperate with the Expert and the Fact-Finding-Mission to conduct independent monitoring and investigation. </p> <p>The humanitarian situation in Sudan is catastrophic and risks deteriorating even further. The responsibility for the disastrous situation lays with the belligerents of this armed conflict. All parties must adhere to international humanitarian law and secure unhindered humanitarian access to all of Sudan. </p> <p>High Commissioner, the situation for human rights defenders is of great concern. How can they be supported so they can continue their human rights work?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Iceland thanks the High Commissioner for his oral update.</p> <p>On Gaza, Iceland deplores the unacceptable death toll and the immense suffering inflicted on civilians. We call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to deliver life-saving assistance to the people of Gaza. At the same time, Hamas must immediately release all remaining hostages without conditions. Iceland continues to support all efforts towards a long term sustainable two-state solution, based on international law and mutual recognition. </p> <p>On Sudan, we fully condemn gross violations and abuses committed by the warring parties, which demand investigation and accountability. We call on all parties to agree to return to peace without delay. </p> <p>On Ethiopia, we reiterate our serious concern regarding alleged violations and abuses of human rights. Only a peaceful solution will bring a sustainable end to the conflict. Transitional justice and accountability through independent, transparent and impartial investigations must be ensured. </p> <p>On Myanmar, we fully condemn the military regime’s ongoing atrocities and human rights violations, such as sexual and gender-based violence, and the restriction of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. We reiterate our call to the military to immediately cease violence against civilians, release all unjustly detained political prisoners and allow full humanitarian access.</p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements on the situation in Afghanistan, oPT, Nicaragua, Myanmar, Sudan and South-Sudan in respective Interactive Dialogues. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur</strong> <strong>on the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting her latest report and the valuable recommendations for States and other stakeholders on protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation in the entertainment industry.&nbsp; </p> <p>We express great concern about increasing abuse of technologies and online space, thus jeopardizing children’s safety and privacy – a global emergency that requires an urgent efficient and coordinated response at national, regional and international levels. In this context, effective preventive and protective measures and access to justice and accountability are of utmost importance.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries remain strongly committed to a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse and exploitation of children, and recognize that children affected by conflict, violence and forced displacement are particularly vulnerable. We urge States to strengthen legal frameworks, and we call on all stakeholders to foster cooperation to prevent and address the harmful effects of children’s sexual abuse and exploitation and to provide support to child victims and survivors, and their families. </p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, what further steps could be taken to strengthen monitoring and reporting mechanisms at the international level to address sexual abuse and exploitation of children on social media and online entertainment platforms?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Adequate Housing</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his timely report on resettlement. </p> <p>The number of persons displaced around the world continues to grow due to disasters, conflict, climate change and other drivers. We agree on the need to acknowledge poor resettlement as a global human rights issue.</p> <p>Poorly executed resettlement can have long-lasting negative impacts on multiple generations. It often disproportionately affects women, minorities, Indigenous Peoples as well as persons in vulnerable situations, including persons with disabilities. Violations of the right to adequate housing affect the realization of other rights, including the rights to education, work and health.</p> <p>The Special Rapporteur demonstrates that human-rights based resettlement is a planned and voluntary process. Meaningful consultation with and participation of affected persons, from the outset, is key.</p> <p>We welcome the initiative to develop human-rights based guidelines on resettlement. Inclusive resettlement can facilitate political participation and self-determination and mitigate conflict. </p> <p>Distinguished Special Rapporteur, how can we better ensure that the human rights of Indigenous Peoples are protected in resettlement processes? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for the comprehensive overview of the human rights framework on hatred based on religion or belief.</p> <p>In many parts of the world, including in our own countries people continue to experience hate and discrimination because of their opinion, or religion or belief. It is deeply concerning that religious or belief-based hatred often is facilitated and exacerbated through online platforms, which can rapidly escalate tensions.</p> <p>We must stand united in condemning all acts of hatred, discrimination or violence against individuals on the basis of religion or belief and in combatting hate, discrimination and violence while upholding the right to freedom of opinion and expression. More speech, not less, is the key means to address hate speech.</p> <p>Fortunately, as your report shows, we have a robust framework to combat hate speech and standards on the prohibition of advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility and violence. We recall our full commitment to these standards and to our collective efforts to promote them in countering hatred.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can we best make use of existing tools to tackle online and offline expressions of religious hatred?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: </strong><strong>Interactive Dialogue&nbsp;with the Independent Expert on Albinism</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank Mme Miti-Drummond for her report on the right to education for persons with albinism. </p> <p>The right to education is a fundamental human right for all. Persons with albinism must have equal access to education without discrimination, and they should be provided with reasonable accommodations in order to uphold their rights at all stages of lifelong learning. </p> <p>We welcome the Independent Expert’s call on States to counter barriers to the right to education without discrimination, including combatting stigma, discrimination and bullying. We acknowledge the importance of awareness raising about albinism, as well as promoting timely and reasonable accommodations for the specific needs of persons with albinism. Moreover, we recognise the important role of non-governmental stakeholders in advocating and developing best practices for learners with albinism. </p> <p>Mme Miti-Drummond, you note in your report that lack of understanding is the leading cause for the failure to ensure reasonable accommodations for learners with albinism. </p> <p>In your view, what concrete staps should States take to fill the gaps in the provision of reasonable accommodations?</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the issue of human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report titled “Business, planetary boundaries, and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment” and a comprehensive list of recommendations for States. The Nordic-Baltic countries welcome your report which reiterates the pressing need for systemic and transformative changes to achieve a just and sustainable future, protect human rights from harm caused by businesses.</p> <p>Every alarm bell is ringing, alerting us on how humanity is exceeding planetary boundaries. Our well-being relies on a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment which is necessary for the full enjoyment of human rights, including the rights to life, health, food, water and sanitation. Moreover, we must safeguard our planet for future generations, recognizing that the adverse effects of climate change must be addressed in the context of human rights.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, what measures should we take to enhance responsible business conduct, ensuring that human rights and environmental policies are integrated in business operations and in their supply chains?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Theme: How law enforcement officials can protect human rights in the context of peaceful protests</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his dedicated work and the latest report containing the useful and practical Model Protocol for Law Enforcement Officials to Promote and Protect Human Rights in the Context of Peaceful Protests.&nbsp; </p> <p>We express our deep concern at the shrinking space for freedom of peaceful assembly. The right of peaceful assembly is a human right that states are not only obliged to respect and protect but also promote and facilitate. It is fundamental for enabling the full enjoyment and realization of the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. Law enforcement should in no circumstances hamper the right to peaceful assembly and association by imposing undue restrictions or interfering in peaceful assemblies. </p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, we share your view and reprimand any use of digital technologies in the context of peaceful protests that does not enable the exercise of this right and is incompatible with international human rights law. Measures must be taken by states to ensure that domestic law enforcement fully follows the international human rights law and standards.</p> <p>The right of peaceful assembly and to peaceful protests, both online and offline, is essential for any society to thrive, and a priority for our states.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can Member States and this Council contribute to the implementation of the recommendations in your report? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council 55<sup>th</sup> Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue on the report of Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>7 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Rapporteur for an informative report and his work on this important topic.</p> <p>Climate change poses a severe threat to the marine ecosystem which has profound implications for human rights. We appreciate Mr. Fakhri’s focus on overfishing, the responsible management of marine resources and that States fulfil their human rights obligations despite the climate challenges facing the marine ecosystem.</p> <p>Sustainable management of fisheries is not a choice, but a fundamental prerequisite to the right to food. Overfishing and the depletion of fishing stocks needs to be addressed in a collective manner through international agreements, such as the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. We need further targeted measures to realize the full potential of blue foods to help end malnutrition and build equitable and resilient food systems so we can fulfil the right to food for all. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, in your view, what are the most prominent challenges that hinder efforts to minimize overfishing and promote a human-rights based approach in the global sustainable management of fisheries? Which measures are the most crucial for overcoming these barriers?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>7 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mdm Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>I have the honour of speaking on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank you for your tireless efforts in the fight against torture. As we celebrate the 40<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Convention, it is more important than ever to ensure a strong and sustained response to torture around the globe. </p> <p>All prisoners&nbsp; shall&nbsp; be&nbsp; treated&nbsp; with&nbsp; respect&nbsp; due&nbsp; to&nbsp; their&nbsp; inherent dignity as human beings. Unfortunately, around the world we see that prisoners, are particularly exposed to the risk of torture, including political prisoners and human rights defenders. We commend your efforts to shed light on the current issues and good practices relating to prison management worldwide.&nbsp; </p> <p>As you note in your report, internationally agreed standards for the protection of all persons deprived of liberty exist albeit having gaps and implementation issues. To name a few: the Bangkok Rules on women prisoners, the Havana Rules on juveniles, and the Nelson Mandela Rules, which are used in many countries as the “blueprint” for national prison rules and in others, as the only rules directly regulating the treatment of prisoners. </p> <p>Dr Edwards, in light of these standards’ recognition and their undeniable impact on prison management, what opportunities do you see for your recommendations to feed into a possible revision process of these instruments?</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Panel on countering religious hatred constituting incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf on the Nordic-Baltic countries Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland.</p> <p>We strongly condemn any advocacy of national, racial, or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility, or violence and reject acts by individuals that only aim to provoke and divide our societies. </p> <p>Much effort has been put into reaching a common understanding on the interpretation of article 20 of ICCPR, and its relation to freedom of expression. The Rabat six-part threshold test provides a useful tool for guidance.</p> <p>We recall resolution 16/18 and the implementation of its eight action points. It provides a road map to address root causes to religious intolerance, through promoting the interrelated and mutually reinforcing rights to freedom of expression, freedom of religion or belief, and non-discrimination. </p> <p>We need to revitalize the Istanbul process and exchange best practices and experiences from the Faith for Rights initiative.&nbsp; </p> <p>We all need to work preventively to adopt and implement action plans and initiatives to counter national, racial, or religious hatred and to provide full protection of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities in all countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>Broad coalition building and an open, constructive, and respectful dialogue is indispensable for progress.&nbsp; </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council ­– ­55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>11 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States – Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Finland.</p> <p>We welcome the Special Rapporteur’s report on the achievements of the mandate over the last decade and her vision for its continuation.&nbsp; The previous mandate holders have promoted the participation of persons with disabilities in political and public life, and made them more visible in situations of armed conflict and humanitarian crises. All this has strengthened the rights-based approach to disability.</p> <p>Yet much remains to be done. Limited implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development particularly affects persons with disabilities. The promising start of the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy needs to be expanded. Persons with disabilities need to have a say on global challenges, such as climate change and digital transformation. We welcome the Special Rapporteur’s intention to focus on these themes and to consolidate the work already undertaken.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can States best support you in your “push forward” for the full realization of the rights of persons with disabilities?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour of speaking on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states. </p> <p>We welcome the report of the Special Rapporteur on the challenges and achievements of children and youth who defend human rights. </p> <p>Her findings, that young human rights defenders are met with deliberate efforts to hinder and sanction them for carrying out human rights work, are deeply concerning. Not least the gendered threats and reprisals faced by young women and girl human rights defenders, particularly those defending sexual and reproductive health and rights. As well as defenders advocating against discrimination of, and for equal rights for, LGBT+ persons. </p> <p>We echo the call on States in the report to encourage and protect peaceful activism and public participation by children and youth, as it is their right. The report is a reminder of the value of human rights education and the need for strengthening it. </p> <p>Madame Special Rapporteur, states must uphold their commitment to creating a safe and enabling environment for children and youth to stand up for human rights. </p> <p>What measures can the Human Rights Council take to further your recommendations to States and the UN? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Privacy</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting her latest report to the Council.</p> <p>Our countries attach great importance to the full respect and protection of fundamental rights and freedoms, including person’s rights to privacy and personal data protection, that should not be diminished by the rapid developments in the digital age. </p> <p>We concur with the Special Rapporteur that States’ direct positive role in and appropriate legal frameworks for the effective protection of the rights to personal data protection and privacy – the essential aspects of human dignity - are of utmost importance. Moreover, in light of growing use of information technologies and their possible adverse effects on the fundamental rights and freedoms, it is essential for States to establish appropriate and accessible administrative and judicial remedies for reparation and restitution for victims of violations of their rights. </p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, what further steps should be taken to foster human rights education in the area of personal data protection and privacy at the state level?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council 55<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Violence Against Children – Najat Maalla M’jid</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Representative for her report and commend her for her unwavering commitment to address this grave issue. </p> <p>Every child has the right to be protected from violence, regardless of their circumstances. Escalating factors such as conflict, climate change and socioeconomic disparities render children increasingly vulnerable to violence and demand a firm response, both on the national and international levels. </p> <p>As violence against children in all its forms and settings continues to increase, the need to prevent and respond effectively to all forms of violence against children is more urgent now than ever. We in particular appreciate Dr. M’jid’s focus on the investment case for ending violence against children and her continued engagement to demonstrate the benefit of integrated approaches to tackle violence against children, highlighting the high returns on investment in proven cost-effective cross-sectoral services.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>Special Representative, given the alarming rise in violence against children globally, what specific measures should be prioritized to continue to push for concrete, integrated and sustainable solutions that leave no child behind? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour of speaking on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the Special Representative for her report and valuable recommendations.</p> <p>We support her in encouraging the Human Rights Council to maintain the practice of including recommendations on the protection of children affected by armed conflict when considering or adopting resolutions on country-specific situations or thematic issues. The same applies for the Universal Periodic Review. Particular attention should be paid to the implementation of such recommendations. </p> <p>We also support her in encouraging the Council to continue to include references to child rights violations in its resolutions establishing or renewing the mandates of special procedures, commissions of inquiry, fact-finding missions, and investigations, and to foresee in those resolutions dedicated expertise on child rights. We encourage Member States on their side, to ensure that child protection resources and capacity are allocated in relevant budgetary provisions.</p> <p>Madam Special Representative, which concrete measures should be prioritized to ensure dedicated expertise on child rights and child protection in special procedures, commissions of inquiry, fact-finding missions, and investigations?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual Full-Day meeting on the Rights of the Child</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel discussion 2: Child rights mainstreaming in the United Nations</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic Baltic States</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>Every year we discuss most pertinent issues that children face around the world. These discussions are even more valuable when we make an effort to include child participants and take their opinions into account. </p> <p>The international community has an obligation to provide a safe and prosperous future for the next generation. The only way forward is for the United Nations system and states to effectively implement policy framework on strengthening a child rights-based approach.</p> <p>We believe that investment in child rights expertise, capacity building programs, and human rights education are crucial elements for child’s development and overall advancement of human rights and freedoms. </p> <p>Children are not just dependent on adults - they are active members of society, often taking a role as human rights defenders, and their voices, ideas and participation in public life and decision-making are just as important as those of adults.</p> <p>However, children often face great personal risk, repressions and legal, administrative and practical barriers to participate in civic activities. It is an alarming trend that all of us should take into account.</p> <p>Dear Panelists, in your view, how can states more efficiently accelerate implementation of child rights-based approach among international organizations?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his valuable report and his longstanding commitment to the people of Iran.</p> <p>Systemic discrimination against women and girls in the Islamic Republic of Iran intensifies. We are profoundly concerned by the pending bill imposing even stricter punishments for defying compulsory veiling laws. Meanwhile, women are continuously persecuted and physically assaulted. Reports of the use of sexual and gender-based violence to suppress dissent are shocking.&nbsp; </p> <p>Like the Special Rapporteur, we are deeply alarmed by the sharp spike in executions and violations of due process. Iran must impose an immediate moratorium on executions and pursue a consistent policy towards the abolition of the death penalty.</p> <p>Crackdown on civic space persists, affecting human rights defenders, persons belonging to ethnic and religious minorities, civil society organisations, journalists and lawyers, among others. Authorities continue to shut down avenues of freedom of expression, online and offline.&nbsp; We urge Iran to cease harassment of human rights defenders and to release all unjustly or arbitrarily detained, including foreign citizens and dual nationals.</p> <p>Finally, we urge the Iranian authorities to fully cooperate with the Council’s mechanisms.</p> <p>Distinguished Special Rapporteur, how can we better support civil society in Iran?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding mission on Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, Madam Chair,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.</p> <p>We thank the Fact-Finding mission for the report and express our strong support to the renewal of its mandate.</p> <p>The report indicates widespread repressions following the 2022 protests, which particularly impacted women and girls and members of ethnic and religious minorities. We are deeply concerned about the many serious human rights violations outlined in the report, including murder, imprisonment, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence, persecution and enforced disappearance.&nbsp; The report states that many of the serious human rights violations that have been committed against women and girls may amount to the crime against humanity of gender persecution.</p> <p>We are also deeply concerned about the unprecedented spike in executions. We oppose the use of the death penalty under all circumstances, including as a means to spread fear throughout society and chill dissent in the wake of the peaceful protests.</p> <p>It seems clear from the report that use of lethal force and other illegal means by the security forces against protesters, including sexual and gender-based violence, is facilitated by an environment of sustained and systematic impunity for gross violations of human rights and an absence of accountability. </p> <p>We admire, support and stand in solidarity with the people of Iran, particularly survivors and families of victims seeking justice, as well as women and girls, who show immense resilience and speak up against these violations. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the DPRK</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We commend the efforts of the Special Rapporteur and the OHCHR Seoul Office in monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation in the DPRK. We remain deeply concerned about the serious systematic, widespread and gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity in the country. </p> <p>The government’s intensifying repressions, restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms, and worsening isolation have led to devastating consequences for the North Korean people. We concur with the Special Rapporteur that collaborative joint efforts involving all regional actors must be taken to ensure accountability for the human rights violations in the DPRK. </p> <p>We urge the DPRK to take meaningful steps to implement fundamental rights and freedoms in the country and to cooperate fully with the UN human rights mechanisms - the next Universal Periodic Review of the country in November provides an opportunity for re-engagement and for confidence-building.</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, how can we best support the UN human rights mechanisms to advance accountability for human rights violations in the DPRK? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States. </p> <p>We express our firm support for the work of the Commission of Inquiry and commend its efforts to document evidence to ensure that the Russian authorities are held accountable for violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law, as well as associated international crimes, including war crimes, in the context of Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. </p> <p>Your latest report provides, once again, unambiguous evidence of indiscriminate attacks and deliberate killings of Ukrainian civilians, as attacks on Ukrainian homes, hospitals, schools, childcare facilities and critical and civilian infrastructure continue. </p> <p>Russia’s documented and widespread illegal detentions and systematic use of torture against both civilians and prisoners of war are horrific. Furthermore, the Russian authorities’ unlawful deportation and forced transfer of children from Ukraine to Russia, within occupied territories, and to Belarus, may constitute war crimes. We strongly condemn the separation of children from families and legal guardians, and any change of children’s personal status, illegal adoption or placement in foster families, and efforts to indoctrinate them. </p> <p>We must ensure that Russia is held accountable for its violations of international law. The investigations must continue until full accountability and justice are ensured. </p> <p>Mr. Møse, what more can we collectively do to ensure comprehensive accountability for all atrocity crimes?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We express our firm support for the essential work of the Commission of Inquiry. With deep regret, we note the Commission’s assessment that the violence is spiralling and the mounting and devastating effects of the massive human rights violations and abuses committed in Syria over thirteen years are only becoming more dramatic and serious year by year, continuing to wreck the lives of millions of Syrians. </p> <p>We are very concerned about reports of alarming level of poverty and economic decline throughout Syria. </p> <p>Since the ICJ issued its ruling to stop torture, enforced disappearances and deaths in Syria’s detention facilities, there have been new reports on killings of Syrians by torture and arbitrary arrests by the Syrian regime. </p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the continued patterns of alleged war crimes, and violations and abuses of international human rights law as well as violations of humanitarian law in this protracted armed conflict, particularly by the Syrian regime and its allies. Once again, civilians, especially women and girls, are disproportionately affected by the repeated cycles of violence. We stress the vital importance of ensuring accountability for mass atrocities and violations. </p> <p>Mr Commissioner, what more can we do to ensure accountability on the basis of your findings?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>55th session of the Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights situation in Myanmar </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur, for his update and the attention he draws to the ongoing serious human rights crisis in Myanmar.</p> <p>Three years have passed since the military coup in Myanmar, and the situation continues to deteriorate, with devastating consequences for human rights and humanitarian conditions in the country. The Nordic-Baltic countries strongly condemn the violent actions of the military. We reiterate our call on the regime to end all forms of violence against civilians, including sexual and gender-based violence, aerial attacks, mass killings and persecution of civilians. All conflict parties must abide by international law.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the imposition of mandatory military service as it risks exacerbating an already fragile situation and risks further undermining the enjoyment of human rights of the people.</p> <p>The Nordic Baltic countries jointly underline the urgent need to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need while supporting those actors committed to a democratic transition process that affirms human rights, transparency, and accountability.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, what is your view on how the international community could best work with regional and local partners to ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in most need? </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue on the report</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>The deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus has never been worse. </p> <p>Since the crackdown on peaceful protests in 2020, we have witnessed a relentless, politically motived campaign against ordinary citizens, with over 1400 political prisoners to date.</p> <p>A brutal crackdown against civil society: teachers, lawyers, journalists, factory workers, writers, human rights defenders, and others. </p> <p>The unprecedented level of repression and intimidation to discourage any participation in democratic processes makes it clear that conditions for free and fair elections were not met on 25 February. </p> <p>We are strongly concerned by the report by the High Commissioner that some of the violations committed in Belarus may amount to crimes against humanity. </p> <p>We condemn the politically motivated sentences and call for the immediate and unconditional release and rehabilitation of&nbsp;all political prisoners. </p> <p>We reiterate the need for accountability, to achieve justice for the victims and&nbsp; prevent further crimes. We urge the Belarusian authorities to fulfil their obligations under international human rights law.</p> <p>High Commissioner, how can the international community support&nbsp; political prisoners in Belarus?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>Iceland expresses grave concern over the mounting evidence of war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine, including systematic use of torture, rape, and wilful killing. We remain deeply alarmed by the ongoing civilian suffering caused by gross violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the unprecedented level of human rights violations in Belarus and restrictions to political participation resulting in failure to meet conditions for fair and legitimate elections on 25 February. We condemn ill-treatment of political prisoners and politically motivated sentencing.</p> <p>In Gaza, we are gravely concerned about imminent famine and reiterate our call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. We condemn the terrorist attacks of 7 October, call for the release of all hostages, and reiterate that the two-state solution is the only sustainable way forward.</p> <p>In Afghanistan, we deplore the Taliban’s draconian restrictions on the human rights of women and girls. Systematic and institutionalised gender-based discrimination and violence must end. The situation merits a discussion about the application of gender to the definition of apartheid.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about human rights violations of ethnic and religious minorities in China. We urge China to abide by its international human rights obligations and to immediately implement OHCHR’s recommendations.</p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements on the situation in DPRK, Iran, Myanmar and Syria in respective interactive dialogues. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 8: Commemoration of International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination (GA res. 78/234)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries <br /> 27 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>We remain resolute in our commitment to combat all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, both at home and abroad.</p> <p>Racial discrimination not only perpetuates systemic inequalities and social divisions where they exist, but also undermines the principle of human dignity. </p> <p>While significant strides have been made to combat racial discrimination and intolerance, both remain a concern, including in our own countries. We must enhance our efforts to dismantle all forms of discrimination and intolerance and ardently pursue equality and justice for all.</p> <p>We must recognize the experiences of those who face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and develop and implement targeted policy measures that address injustice through an intersectional and participatory approach. </p> <p>There is strength in diversity; it enriches societies, promotes understanding, and facilitates innovation. </p> <p>We must undertake concerted and collective efforts to ensure that future generations have equal opportunities to realize their utmost and fullest potential. </p> <p>Together, we must strive towards a global society in which the human rights of every person are ensured and one in which we recognize that diversity is a cornerstone of progress and prosperity.&nbsp; </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on Mali</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for his important report. </p> <p>We are alarmed by the worsened human rights situation in Mali following the rapidly deteriorating security situation in all regions of the country, exacerbated by the departure of MINUSMA and the intensified conflict in the north of Mali. We are deeply concerned by the systematic targeting of civilians by extremist armed groups, including the use of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as by continued reports of grave violations committed by national forces and foreign security personnel. </p> <p>We urge the Government of Mali to ensure full accountability for violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law committed by all parties, including through credible and independent investigations. </p> <p>We note with concern the continued shrinking civic space, including attacks on and arbitrary detentions of human rights defenders, journalists and civil society representatives. </p> <p>Mr Independent Expert, how should the international community help strengthen access to justice and increase accountability in Mali, taking into consideration the growing difficulty facing human rights advocacy in the country and the unwillingness of Malian authorities to cooperate with you during your mission? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner’s oral report on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic Baltic States</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States. </p> <p>We appreciate and firmly support the decade’s work of the Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine to monitor and report on human rights situation in the country and bring evidence of violations committed by Russia, and thank the High Commissioner for the oral update. </p> <p>We also commend the OHCHR’s consistent technical assistance and capacity building to Ukraine.</p> <p>Once again, we condemn in the strongest terms Russia’s temporary occupation of Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia regions of Ukraine, as well as the unlawful imposition of Russian citizenship, legal and administrative systems, and the holding of the so-called “elections”.</p> <p>Russian armed forces demonstrate unimaginable cruelty by killing, torturing, and committing acts of sexual violence, thus inflicting serious and enduring harm to people and their culture, especially targeting Crimean Tatars, and suppressing Ukrainian identity among children. We condemn the illegal conscription of residents of Crimea and other temporarily occupied areas of Ukraine into the Russian armed forces. </p> <p>Unfortunately, many violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law go unreported, as Russia continues to hinder access of international monitoring mechanisms to the territories it controls in Ukraine. </p> <p>The Nordic and Baltic States reiterate our unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.</p> <p>High Commissioner, what more can we collectively do to ensure effective investigation and full accountability for all violations that Russia committed in Crimea and other temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: High-level dialogue on the Central African Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis of protecting human rights and accountability in the Central African Republic fueled by a history of prevalent impunity. </p> <p>We are alarmed by recurrent armed clashes that perpetuate a vicious cycle of human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law. The perpetrators are diverse, including the Central African armed forces and its Russian allies. All must be held accountable. </p> <p>The challenging human rights, security and humanitarian situation has been exacerbated by the crisis in neighboring Sudan. </p> <p>We deplore the widespread prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, trafficking in persons, child recruitment, and the use of children in armed conflict and call on all armed actors to abide by international human rights and humanitarian law. </p> <p>Acknowledging constraints, we urge the Government to break the cycle of violence and address grievances.</p> <p>The path to durable peace requires a firm commitment to justice and accountability, respect for human rights, inclusive dialogue and good governance.</p> <p>Mr. President, how can we as the international community help strengthen access to justice and increase accountability in CAR?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive Dialogue with International Expert on human rights situation in Colombia </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 April 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the International Expert for her dedicated efforts.</p> <p>We commend Colombia for its efforts towards peace – and for its openness to recognize the country’s human rights challenges and the obstacles facing the full implementation of the peace agreement. </p> <p>The situation for human rights defenders, as well as for signatories to the Peace Agreement in Colombia, remains deeply worrying. While we recognise recent efforts to improve security in rural areas, we encourage the Colombian government to continue strengthening the National Protection Unit (UNP) and reconvene the National Round Table for Security Guarantees with representatives at the highest level.&nbsp; </p> <p>We also urge Colombia’s Attorney General’s Office to advance towards ensuring accountability for human rights violations and abuses. </p> <p>In line with the report of the Independent Expert, we call for efforts to accelerate the implementation of the 2016-peace agreement, with a specific focus on human rights, transitional justice and steps that address more effectively the root causes of violence and armed conflict.</p> <p>According to your findings, what would be your main recommendation to accelerate the implementation of the Peace Agreement? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 55th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Interactive Dialogue&nbsp;with the High Commissioner on Haiti (with participation of the independent expert)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 April 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner and the Independent Expert for the latest report and reiterate our support for their work. </p> <p>We remain gravely concerned by the dire human rights and humanitarian crisis in Haiti, which has only deteriorated further amid the unrelenting gang violence causing alarming forced displacement and widespread shortage of basic necessities and medical care. </p> <p>Support to assist Haiti in restoring security and the rule of law is critically needed and we fully back efforts to ensure a multinational security support mission is deployed without further delay. The widespread violence, illicit arms flows, and grave human rights abuses undermine the stability and security of Haiti and the wider region. We are particularly concerned by the violations and abuses committed against children and the widespread use of sexual and gender-based violence, including as a weapon by gangs to spread fear. </p> <p>We welcome the establishment of a transitional presidential council, with the aim of preparing a peaceful transition of power and free and fair elections. An inclusive, Haitian-led political transition is necessary to re-establish democratic structures, promote the rule of law and safeguard the human rights of the population. We support the continuing efforts to ensure this and commend CARICOM’s efforts towards making the political agreement possible. </p> <p>High Commissioner, how can the international community best engage with the political transition process in Haiti and relevant stakeholders to ensure follow up to your work?</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 55th Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of High Commissioner on the Democratic Republic of Congo</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2 April 2024</strong></p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I make this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. Thank you, High Commissioner, and the Team of International Experts for your report. </p> <p>The escalation of armed violence in eastern DRC, and related violations of human rights and of international humanitarian law, including attacks against civilians and conflict related sexual violence, is of serious concern. The situation, caused primarily by the armed group M23, as well as other armed groups, severely impacts the human rights of individuals in the DRC. These groups must cease all hostilities, withdraw from the areas they occupy and disarm. All states should stop any support to these armed groups.</p> <p>We are closely following the appeal trial of the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp in Kasaï Central in 2017, as well as the investigation into the disappearance of their four Congolese companions. The legal process remains vital and has our full support. We encourage the continued cooperation between the Congolese authorities and the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism. </p> <p>The lifting of the moratorium regarding death penalty as announced by the Congolese government on 3 March 2024, is very worrying. We strongly oppose the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, without exception.&nbsp; </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you.</span></p>
Mar 26, 2024OECD: Media Freedom Coalition Statement on the OECD Development Assistance Committee’s Media and Information Principles<p>The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition welcome the adoption by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Development Assistance Committee (OECD DAC) of&nbsp;<a href="chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://one.oecd.org/document/DCD/DAC(2024)15/FINAL/en/pdf" rel="noopener">new Development Co-operation Principles for Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment</a>on 22 March.</p> <p>Independent media around the world face unprecedented threats. Rising disinformation and polarisation, attacks on journalists, censorship, challenging and evolving business environments, media capture and declining trust in journalism are combining to pose an existential threat to free and independent media, information integrity and to democracy itself. In this context, additional and more flexible funding and other capacity support to the media are sorely needed.</p> <p>The Media Freedom Coalition, through its Media Development Working Group, has responded to this challenge by helping to develop new principles, which set out how donors can improve both the quality and quantity of their financial and other assistance to the media sector. We are delighted that these principles, substantiated by a global consultation process led by the Global Forum for Media Development and the Consultative Network of media freedom NGOs, have now been further developed and adopted by the OECD DAC. The members of the Media Freedom Coalition are in an excellent position to strongly support the implementation of these principles. Collective implementation of the principles offers the prospect that independent media will be safeguarded and global information integrity preserved.</p> <p>Signed:</p> <p>Argentina<br /> Australia<br /> Austria<br /> Belize<br /> Botswana<br /> Bulgaria<br /> Canada<br /> Chile<br /> Costa Rica<br /> Croatia<br /> Cyprus<br /> Czechia<br /> Denmark<br /> Estonia<br /> Finland<br /> France<br /> Germany<br /> Ghana<br /> Greece<br /> Guyana<br /> Honduras<br /> Iceland<br /> Ireland<br /> Italy<br /> Japan<br /> Kosovo<br /> Latvia<br /> Lebanon<br /> Lithuania<br /> Luxembourg<br /> Maldives<br /> Montenegro<br /> New Zealand<br /> North Macedonia<br /> Norway<br /> Portugal<br /> Republic of Korea<br /> Serbia<br /> Seychelles<br /> Sierra Leone<br /> Slovakia<br /> Slovenia<br /> Spain<br /> Sweden<br /> Switzerland<br /> Ukraine<br /> Uruguay<br /> the Netherlands<br /> the United Kingdom<br /> the United States</p>
Mar 08, 2024Media Freedom Coalition statement on International Women’s Day 2024<p><span>On this International Women’s Day, with the theme Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress, the undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition call attention to the continued underrepresentation of, and lack of investment in and safety of women in media – as sources, experts, journalists, editors, photographers and every other role.</span></p> <p><span>Gender pay gaps, women’s limited access to training and pathways to promotion, bias, online harassment and abuse, and disinformation and misinformation, combine to distort the public discourse because the voices, messages, images and issues do not reflect the diversity of our societies.</span></p> <p><span>We recognise the powerful role that a diverse and pluralistic media environment can have in ensuring the right to freedom of expression for all. Media reporting informs, educates, and influences—shaping public perceptions and opinions, official narratives, and decision-making. Fair and inclusive coverage of conflicts, challenges, and lives demands an increase in women’s participation, voices, decision-making and leadership.&nbsp; Respectful representations of women and girls, in all their diversity, can help dismantle gender-based discrimination and inspire action to achieve gender equality in the media.</span></p> <p><span>All journalists should be able to cover different views and experiences – this would assist in ending the dominant depiction of women and girls as victims and instead represent the full, complex lives and roles that women and girls play at every level of society. Women journalists can participate in witnessing, recording and ensuring the different voices, bodies and stories of a variety of people are heard and seen.<br /> <br /> We also call attention to the heightened safety risks to women journalists covering conflicts. Despite protections under international humanitarian law, journalists experience deliberate attacks. Sexism, power imbalances, and gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated violence, are exacerbated during times of conflict. Safety equipment is designed for the male body and media safety protocols often disregard the threats that women face.</span></p> <p><span>Women journalists are subjected to explicit images and are threatened with rape, violence and death. Attempts to discredit, intimidate and silence women journalists endanger their lives and livelihoods.</span></p> <p><span>On International Women’s Day, we call on the international community to invest in women across all media to ensure equal access by and participation of women in the media and ensure the safety of women journalists. Diverse women reporters, sources, and media decision-makers, as well as the multiplicity of issues covered, are needed to support the pursuit of equality, peace, and security.</span></p> <p><strong>Signed:&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>Argentina<br /> Australia<br /> Austria<br /> Belize<br /> Botswana<br /> Bulgaria<br /> Canada<br /> Chile<br /> Costa Rica<br /> Croatia<br /> Cyprus<br /> Czechia<br /> Denmark<br /> Estonia<br /> Finland<br /> France<br /> Germany<br /> Ghana<br /> Greece<br /> Guyana<br /> Honduras<br /> Iceland<br /> Ireland<br /> Italy<br /> Japan<br /> Kosovo<br /> Latvia<br /> Lebanon<br /> Lithuania<br /> Luxembourg<br /> Maldives<br /> Montenegro<br /> New Zealand<br /> North Macedonia<br /> Norway<br /> Portugal<br /> Republic of Korea<br /> Serbia<br /> Seychelles<br /> Sierra Leone<br /> Slovakia<br /> Slovenia<br /> Spain<br /> Sweden<br /> Switzerland<br /> Ukraine<br /> Uruguay<br /> the Netherlands<br /> the United Kingdom<br /> the United States</p>
Dec 14, 2023Global Refugee Forum, Geneva 13-15 December 2023<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Global Refugee Forum, Geneva 13-15 December 2023</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF ICELAND</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>H.E. Ms. Bryndís Hlöðversdóttir</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. Chair, Mr. High Commissioner, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen.</p> <p>We value the opportunity to take stock and look ahead, as conflict, violence and disasters continue to drive displacement around the world.</p> <p>Since 2019, Iceland has strengthened the reception system, to better coordinate support and social integration of a rising number of refugees.&nbsp; </p> <p>We have worked to enhance the self-reliance and social integration of refugees with disabilities, including through Icelandic sign language training for hearing-impaired refugees, who make up 20% of the hard-of-hearing society in Iceland. </p> <p>Iceland has launched a pilot project to better respond to the needs of unaccompanied minors. By assigning individual case managers and providing tailored support plans we hope to ensure appropriate services for all unaccompanied minors seeking protection in Iceland. </p> <p>I am pleased to confirm that we have now successfully received all those accepted for resettlement before COVID-19.</p> <p>Mr. Chair,</p> <p>Since the emergency evacuation of Kabul in 2021, Iceland has promoted complimentary pathways for Afghans through family reunification. </p> <p>Iceland stands by its goal to continue reception of resettlement refugees, focusing on individuals and families in vulnerable situations.</p> <p>Iceland has taken on responsibilities in the EU Solidarity project, receiving groups of refugees from Afghanistan and Syria, and has pledged to assist with the relocation of Ukrainian refugees with special medical needs.</p> <p>Mr. Chair,<strong> </strong></p> <p>Iceland will continue to provide quality funding to UNHCR to ensure much-needed operational flexibility. I am pleased to announce that Iceland will soon enter into its third multi-year framework agreement with UNHCR, committing to predictable core contributions over the next five years.</p> <p>Furthermore, we will continue to support refugee and host communities in Northern Uganda through comprehensive WASH interventions in schools and health facilities, in partnership with UNICEF. </p> <p>The task is enormous, but now is not the time to lose hope. A strong international community committed to burden and responsibility sharing is part of the solution. </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>
Nov 16, 2023Informal briefing by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk following his visit to the Middle East<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Informal briefing by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk following his visit to the Middle East</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of Norway and Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>16 November 2023</strong></p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of Iceland and my own country Norway.&nbsp;</p> <p>We commend High Commissioner Türk for going to the region and for taking a clear stance in favour of international humanitarian law and protection of civilians, and for giving voice to all those affected by the disastrous impact of this conflict.</p> <p>We also commend UN staff on the ground, working under near impossible circumstances.</p> <p>First, Norway and Iceland have condemned Hamas’ heinous terrorist attacks in the strongest possible terms and called for the immediate release of all hostages.&nbsp;</p> <p>Second, we also express our grave concern for the situation of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The lack of food, electricity, water and health care is nothing short of a disaster. Humanitarian access must be dramatically improved. We have called for a humanitarian ceasefire to make such access possible.</p> <p>We find it difficult to draw any other conclusion than that the parties to this conflict are not doing enough to comply with their international humanitarian law obligations. Rules apply, also during war. We appreciate, High Commissioner, that you spoke with clarity on this point.</p> <p>There is no other solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict than a political one. Stability in the Middle East cannot be reached without the Palestinian question being addressed.&nbsp;</p> <p>The war between Israel and Hamas is driving polarization and division. I&nbsp;agree with the High Commissioner - this is a trap, and in no-one’s interest. All lives have equal value. We all have to contribute to mutual respect and tolerance, and keep in mind that there will be a day after where we need to focus on the way forward, a two-state solution.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
Oct 18, 202354th session of the Human Rights Council Geneva, 11 September – 13 October 2023<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate on the High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong><strong> </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I thank the High Commissioner for his update.</p> <p>The Human Rights Council draws strength from its diversity and respect for different backgrounds. That being said, there is no denying that this Council is increasingly struggling to find consensus.</p> <p>We are reminded of these differences when the rights of women and girls are on the Council’s agenda, and the polarization increases exponentially when the rights of LGBTI persons are discussed. </p> <p>Similarly, when the right to freedom of religion or belief and the right to freedom of opinion and expression are up for discussion, this Council finds itself in what some have referred to as a “clash” of civilizations.</p> <p>Let us be cognizant that behind these debates there are individuals. Individuals who face discrimination and persecution. Individuals who fear for their lives. Individuals who are not granted the same recognition and rights as those of us sitting in this very room.</p> <p>No society is perfect, and we all represent our respective governments. However, when emotions are running high, let us be mindful that this Council has a precious mandate. Individuals count on us. Their lives may depend on our work.</p> <p>The advancement of human rights is inherently an ongoing process. We as humans continue to learn from past mistakes. Policies and practices that were seen as acceptable are now recognized as human rights violations.</p> <p>Irrespective of our governments’ national positions, let us not forget that lives are at stake.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Iceland reiterates its condemnation, in the strongest possible terms, of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine with mounting evidence of war crimes and other violations of international human rights and humanitarian law resulting in atrocious human suffering and loss of life.</p> <p>In Russia, the widespread and systematic curtailment of human rights and crackdown on civic space is of serious concern. We continue to condemn the severe limitation on freedom of opinion and expression, crackdown on independent media and all types of opposition.</p> <p>In Belarus, we are gravely concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation, including continuous systemic repression and politically motivated sentencing of civil society, including human rights defenders, and political opponents for exercising their right to freedom of expression.</p> <p>In Afghanistan, we condemn the Taliban for their systematic discrimination against women and girls which may amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity.</p> <p>Iceland reiterates its concern about the serious human rights situation in China, including in Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and Tibet. We urge China to abide by its obligations under international human rights law, especially the right to freedom of expression and the rights of persons belonging to minorities.</p> <p>In Iran, we are deeply concerned about reports of authorities reinforcing actions to quell dissent, including through surveillance technology, and the exacerbating punitive measures against those exercising their fundamental rights. We urge the authorities to repeal the new Chastity and Hijab Bill and to eliminate, in law and in practice, the systemic discrimination against women and girls in public and private life.</p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements made in the interactive dialogues under item 4, including on Russia, Syria, Belarus and Myanmar.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue on report of Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar</strong> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>11 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We fully support the work of the IIMM. We welcome its increased cooperation with civil society and initiatives regarding the well-being of both witnesses and staff members. Furthermore, we welcome the financial investigations on issues that have had a direct impact on victim communities.</p> <p>The report tells of sexual and gender-based violence, torture, extrajudicial killings, enlisting children, burning and destroying civilian objects and other crimes, some of which may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. We fully condemn all human rights violations and abuses in Myanmar and call for an immediate end to brutal attacks on civilians, including the Rohingya. </p> <p>Despite lack of cooperation from the junta, first hand testimonials in the IIMM repository have increased. We will not turn our back on the brave survivors and witnesses, but keep on calling for accountability.</p> <p>We urge the junta to fully cooperate with the IIMM, respect human rights and uphold the rule of law, and fully implement the ASEAN’s Five Point Consensus. </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the report of OHCHR on promoting reconciliation, accountability, and human rights in Sri Lanka</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>11 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden and my own country Norway.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for this update. We welcome Sri Lanka’s efforts to release long-term detainees. Efforts to ensure devolution should include the timely holding of elections at all levels.</p> <p>We welcome the government’s efforts to set up a truth-seeking mechanism but stress the need for such a mechanism to be inclusive and responsive to the needs of victims and their families. Ensuring accountability for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law is important.</p> <p>We urge Sri Lankan authorities to protect freedom of expression and assembly for everyone in Sri Lanka, including persons belonging to minorities, and stress that any replacement of the Prevention of Terrorism Act should meet international human rights norms. We remain concerned by arrests of peaceful protesters and arrests carried out under the national ICCPR International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Act.</p> <p>We support the recommendations of the High Commissioner’s report and call upon Sri Lanka to cooperate fully with the Office in line with resolution 51/1.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan (oral update)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>11 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We commend the Special Rapporteur for his steadfast commitment to the Afghan people and his sobering advice to the de facto authorities and the international community.&nbsp; </p> <p>Grim does not even begin to capture the lived realities of Afghan women and girls. </p> <p>In little over two years, the Taliban have undone hard-won gender equality gains through draconian, oppressive and misogynistic directives.&nbsp; </p> <p>Their systematic discrimination against Afghan women and girls may amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity.</p> <p>The exclusion of half of Afghanistan’s population, from most spheres of life, severely limits the country’s economic recovery, with detrimental consequences for the entire Afghan society. </p> <p>We applaud Afghan women and girls, who continue to show immense resilience and defiance. Without them, Afghanistan will never achieve peace, prosperity and stability. </p> <p>What scope does the Special Rapporteur see for promoting opportunities for Afghan women and girls to make their voices heard and influence their own future?</p> <p>I thank you.&nbsp; </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner’s report on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr High Commissioner,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the High Commissioner for his latest report on the human rights situation in Nicaragua. </p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in Nicaragua, including arbitrary detentions, violations of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, and consistent attacks against human rights defenders, journalists and other media workers, political opposition, religious and academic institutions, and civil society leaders.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned by the Nicaraguan Government’s decision to confiscate all assets of the Central American University and the detention of three students. We urge the Nicaraguan Government to respect its obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.</p> <p>We call on the Nicaraguan Government to ensure the full enjoyment of human rights, including civil and political rights, and to immediately and unconditionally free all political prisoners. Impunity for human rights violations must end. </p> <p>Mr High Commissioner,</p> <p>In light of the latest development in Nicaragua, what concrete steps can the international community take to urge Nicaragua to ensure academic freedom and freedom of expression?</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: </strong><strong>Interactive ialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral update on the Sudan</strong> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p><strong>We thank the High Commissioner for his update.</strong></p> <p>The human rights and humanitarian situation in Sudan has deteriorated even further since his last update to the Human Rights Council in June. Every week there are new allegations of grave human rights violations and abuses, as well as violations of international humanitarian law, by both parties to the conflict. We are alarmed by reports of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict. </p> <p>Humanitarian needs are enormous. We once again call on all parties to the conflict to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law and to facilitate full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. 19 aid workers have been killed in Sudan this year alone.</p> <p>The violence has to stop now. All parties to the conflict must agree and adhere to an immediate ceasefire and civilians need to be protected.</p> <p>High Commissioner, given the dire situation and the lack of access to Sudan, what tools do we have at our disposal to best protect the human rights of people in Sudan? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur </strong><a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/special-procedures/sr-truth-justice-reparation-and-non-recurrence" target="_blank"><strong>on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>delivered by </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Martin Eyjólfsson </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his detailed report on international legal standards underpinning the five pillars of transitional justice.</p> <p>We concur that respect for and compliance with international human rights law and humanitarian law are the parameters for implementing and measuring transitional justice processes. Due consideration must be given to principles of non-discrimination with the aim of addressing root causes of serious human rights violations. Full compliance with human rights is vital to generate truth, justice, peace and security. </p> <p>The international human rights obligations of States are applicable to transitional justice processes. States have the obligation to address serious violations of human rights and humanitarian law and ensure that perpetrators are held to account. As emphasized in the report, impunity in transitional processes is of great concern. Failure to close the impunity gap emboldens perpetrators and encourages re-occurrence. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can States ensure a comprehensive approach combining the elements of each pillar in a mutually reinforcing manner? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>delivered by</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Martin Eyjólfsson</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report that emphasizes the importance of restoring the good condition of the aquatic ecosystems that supply water to ensure the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation. </p> <p>We concur that equal access to drinking water and sanitation goes hand in hand with the importance of climate change adaptation strategies to counter the increasing risks of drought and floods caused by climate change. </p> <p>The overexploitation and pollution of aquatic ecosystems as well as mismanagement of rivers, lakes, wetlands and aquifers and their impact on the realization of the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation is of great concern. These impacts are disproportionate in territories of those who suffer marginalization and discrimination.</p> <p>It is clear that democratic water governance based on a human rights approach, is needed, paving the way to a new environmental regeneration model based on sustainability. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur Indigenous Peoples have effectively protected aquatic ecosystems through their worldviews, practices and knowledge. How can we take this better into account?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council, 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue on OHCHR report on economic, social and cultural rights, and COVID-19 recovery</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for the Office’s important work to advance economic, social and cultural rights, and for this report. The global increase in extreme poverty following the COVID pandemic and ongoing conflicts poses serious human rights concerns. </p> <p>OHCHR’s support to national institutions in implementing their human right obligations is very valuable. Disaggregated data is indeed critical in ensuring gender equality and non-discrimination in the fulfilment of economic, social and cultural rights. </p> <p>COVID-19 recovery must be rooted in human rights and individual rights holders at its centre. The independence of the work of OHCHR needs to be ensured, without question. </p> <p>Civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights all build on each other. They are indivisible and interdependent. Our joint efforts are required to build a safer and more just world that is based on the rule of law and the universality of human rights.</p> <p>Mr. High Commissioner, how are individual rights holders and human rights defenders, including those in vulnerable situations, involved in your office’s work to promote and protect economic, social and cultural rights?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>18 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf on the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Latvia.</p> <p>We commend the Working Group’s efforts to prevent and to end the practice of arbitrary detention, and thank the Group for presenting the report on its activities in 2022. We welcome the extension of the mandate of the Working Group for a further period of three years. We support the call of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to end arbitrary detention and to release those who have been arbitrary detained.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries note with grave concern the continuous rise in the arbitrary detention of human rights defenders, journalists, political opponents or activists for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly.&nbsp; Moreover, we condemn the criminalization of the work of environmental human rights defenders, including women and Indigenous Peoples, in a range of countries. We agree with the Working Group’s recommendations in this regard and call on States to take all necessary measures to protect and empower environmental human rights defenders. </p> <p>Madam Chair-Rapporteur, in this respect, what further steps should be taken in the implementation of the Human Rights Council resolution 40/11 and upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania, on behalf of Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We thank the Working Group for its tireless work to shed light on enforced disappearances and to respond to calls for help by victims’ families. Thousands of people disappear due to their civil or political activities. They experience torture and executions, while their relatives live in despair. </p> <p>It is deeply regrettable that new digital technologies are used to suppress civil society and facilitate enforced disappearance, for example Internet shutdowns, cyberattacks, and mass surveillance, to name some. We must ensure that digital technologies are developed, regulated and used ethically, responsibly, and in accordance with human rights.</p> <p>We are deeply troubled that some States use enforced disappearances as a tool to intimidate and silence civil society, including human rights defenders, political dissidents, lawyers, journalists and other media workers. As the report states, these human rights violations often increase before, during and after elections, undermining crucial democratic processes. </p> <p>It is a common responsibility of all States to ensure justice for victims, properly investigate enforced disappearances and hold perpetrators accountable. We encourage countries to accept visit requests from the Working Group and to fully cooperate.</p> <p>Dear Panellists,</p> <p>What most effective mechanisms can international community use to hold States accountable for practicing enforced disappearances?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on right to development</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania, on behalf of Nordic-Baltic countries</strong><strong> </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>The right to development is rooted in the universality, indivisibility, interrelation, and interdependence of all human rights. </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries firmly believe that without human rights, rule of law and good governance, inclusive and sustainable development cannot be achieved. We welcome your proposed strong focus on gender equality and active, free and meaningful participation of all people in development efforts. </p> <p>We are coming to the mid-point of the 2030 Agenda and yet less than 20 percent of Sustainable Development Goal targets are on track. Each day climate change, multiple crises and conflicts persist, affecting people and countries in vulnerable situations the hardest. As states bear the primary responsibility for the full realisation of human rights for all, we urge all states to ensure that no one is left behind and to abstain from actions that violate human rights.&nbsp; </p> <p>Mr Special Rapporteur, could you please share your views on how we, as states, could enhance the implementation of the 2030 Agenda without losing focus of ensuring that all human rights are equally protected? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Commission for the update and reiterate our strong support for its work.</p> <p>We welcome the steps already taken by the Government of Ethiopia in implementing the Pretoria and Nairobi Agreements of November 2022.&nbsp; </p> <p>However, we are deeply concerned by the worrying report of the Commission, in particular its findings identifying grave and systematic violations of international law and crimes committed in Tigray, Amhara, Afar and Oromia. We are especially concerned by the appalling level of conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence&nbsp;and we call for immediate cessation of all violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law.</p> <p>We encourage the Government of Ethiopia to continue taking concrete steps to advance accountability and transitional justice, in accordance with international human rights' norms and standards and supported by an international component, such as the OHCHR. An active, constructive and effective cooperation with national and international human rights mechanisms is important going forward.</p> <p>Commissioners, how can we best engage with the Government of Ethiopia and all stakeholders to ensure follow up to your work? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Russian Federation</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, H.E. Elina Valtonen on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of Nordic and Baltic States: Estonia, Denmark, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland. We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report. We strongly support the mandate’s continuation.&nbsp; </p> <p>The grim human rights situation in Russia, our neighbouring country, is of deep concern to us. For years, Russian authorities have systematically stripped people of their fundamental freedoms, including free expression and peaceful assembly. </p> <p>Russia’s unlawful war of aggression against Ukraine has amplified internal repression. </p> <p>The government brutally silences political opponents, human rights and democracy defenders, lawyers, journalists, independent media and others who dare to have differing opinions or make anti-war statements. </p> <p>Indigenous Peoples and various minorities are repressed. The so-called anti-gay propaganda law violates the dignity and human rights of LGBTI-persons. </p> <p>Repressive legislation, targeted intimidation and politically motivated, harsh sentences of critics have closed off any democratic space. The avenues for debate or protest are closed, also online. </p> <p>We urge Russia to cooperate with the Special Rapporteur and to abide by its international human rights obligations, including by releasing and rehabilitating all political prisoners. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can we support efforts to secure room for civic space? </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Enquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Estonia. </p> <p>We express our firm support for the work of the Commission of Inquiry, and share its serious concern that grave violations of human rights and humanitarian law continue across the country. </p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the continued patterns of alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed by the Syrian regime. We welcome the establishment of the independent institution on missing persons.</p> <p>We reiterate the need to cease all indiscriminate and direct attacks on civilians as well as to end torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. </p> <p>We deplore the expiration of the cross-border mechanism, and in particular, the veto cast by a P5 member in July, further exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation in northwest Syria.</p> <p>The Syrian people have suffered enough. There must be a comprehensive ceasefire, and there must be a political solution in line with UNSCR2254.</p> <p>Mr Chairperson: What more can we do to help the Syrian people?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his dedicated efforts.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about continued human rights violations and abuses in Burundi, including impunity for extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, torture and sexual violence. We worry about human rights defenders, journalists, opposition, and civil society that are punished for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.</p> <p>We urge the Burundian government to thoroughly investigate all incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.</p> <p>The government of Burundi is responsible for protecting the human rights of all citizens of Burundi. We strongly urge the government to fully take on that responsibility. And to that end, cooperate with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Burundi by allowing full and unhindered access to the country and by providing all information needed to fulfil its mandate.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, in your report you underline the need for an inclusive inter-Burundian dialogue. In the current situation marked by political stalemate, do you see room for such a dialogue?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights in Belarus </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, H.E. Mr. Margus Tsahkna on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Estonia.</p> <p>The human rights situation in Belarus is catastrophic. The Belarusian authorities’ violations against civil society actors, human rights defenders, lawyers, journalists and media workers, anti-war protesters and opponents of the Belarusian authorities are increasingly massive and systematic and some of these violations may amount to crimes against humanity. The entire Belarusian society lives in fear of intimidation, harassment, prosecution, arbitrary arrests and detention. </p> <p>Moreover, the decision by Belarusian authorities to ban citizens from renewing their passports abroad further intensifies repressions against Belarus people. Those in exile also face sham in absentia trials and can be deprived of their citizenship. We call upon Belarusian authorities for immediate and unconditional release of all arbitrarily detained persons, while the international community has a collective responsibility to ensure accountability for the violations of international human rights law and to continue fighting against impunity. </p> <p>We reiterate our call to introduce a moratorium on all executions with a view to abolishing the death penalty.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We will also continue our international efforts to hold Belarusian authorities accountable for the violations of international law committed in relation to Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.</p> <p>Finally, we take note of recent reports that indicate systematic and large-scale actions by Belarusian authorities to deport Ukrainian children to Belarus. These actions include indoctrination and training aimed at erasing the children's Ukrainian identity and may constitute severe violations of the rights of the child and international law.</p> <p>High Commissioner, how can the international community help ensure the safe return of Ukrainian children to Ukraine?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 5: Annual discussion on integration of a gender perspective (HRC res. 6/30)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>25 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.</p> <p>Gender equality is at the heart of human rights. Among other things, equal gender representation in treaty bodies, special procedures and other human rights mechanisms is a fundamental part of combatting gender discrimination in the work of the United Nations system.</p> <p>Gender parity contributes to integration of gender perspectives throughout the United Nations human rights mechanisms. It is important for the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Council and its mechanisms. </p> <p>It is also necessary to ensure that gender perspectives are reflected in recommendations and other actions taken.</p> <p>We are still far away from the target of equal representation in the human rights organs and mechanisms. We must nominate more women as member of the treaty bodies, and vote for them. And more women should be appointed as mandate holders.</p> <p>Gender parity is about equal representation.&nbsp; Bodies and mechanisms established to protect the rights of women and girls, tend to be overrepresented by women. We would encourage member states to consider gender parity as well as diversity in their appointments to these bodies and mechanisms. </p> <p>Dear panellists,</p> <p>What measures would you recommend to effectively ensure gender parity in the human rights mechanisms of the United Nations? </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by </strong><strong>Minister for Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, H. E. Mr. Gabrielius Landsbergis on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>25 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>For nineteen months Russian armed forces continue to indiscriminately and deliberately kill, torture, commit acts of sexual and gender-based violence against Ukrainian civilians and destroy vital infrastructure in clear violation of international humanitarian law. </p> <p>Furthermore, the Russian authorities’ unlawful deportation and transfer of children from Ukraine to Russia, occupied territories, and Belarus, and their illegal adoption there, may constitute war crimes. We condemn these practices in the strongest possible terms. The ICC’s decision to issue arrest warrants for Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and Children’s Rights Commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova is an important step towards accountability. We must ensure the safe return of Ukrainian children and accountability of the perpetrators.</p> <p>There must be no impunity for Russia’s violations of international law. The investigations must continue until full accountability and justice are ensured. Therefore, we strongly support the work of this Commission of Inquiry. </p> <p>We also support the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine established under the auspices of the Council of Europe. Russia must pay for the damages caused by its war. </p> <p>Mr. Erik Møse, after your last visit to Ukraine, how could efforts be strengthened to ensure justice for all victims, including comprehensive reparations programs? </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual half-day panel on the rights of indigenous peoples:</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>The impact of certain development projects on the rights of Indigenous Peoples, in particular the impact on Indigenous women</em></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Chairperson, Distinguished Panellists, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Estonia, Denmark together with Greenland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland. </p> <p>We applaud the focus of this panel on the rights of Indigenous women.</p> <p>In the context of development, discrimination against Indigenous Peoples, particularly Indigenous women, hinders equal access to lands, resources and to participation in decision-making. This in turn leads to loss of their scientific and technical knowledge which is urgently needed as we are facing a climate and biodiversity crisis. Such discrimination only intensifies when there is intersection with characteristics such as disability or sexual orientation and gender identity.</p> <p>For development projects to be truly sustainable, governments and other stakeholders need to fully commit to the UNDRIP and respect the right to self-determination. Policies which ensure a seat and a say at the table for Indigenous women in development processes are necessary. </p> <p>Today we have discussed <span style="text-decoration: underline;">participation </span>- ensuring Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination and their right to be consulted to obtain their free, prior and informed consent when impacted by development projects. </p> <p>Guided by these principles, we should look around us, too. Drawing on the recommendations of the landmark workshop held last November, the Human Rights Council has the opportunity to take concrete measures and lead the way in enabling Indigenous Peoples’ representatives and institutions to participate under their own status at this Council in discussions on issues affecting them. </p> <p>Esteemed panellists, how can we ensure participation of Indigenous women in decision-making on development projects? </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54th Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 &amp; 5:</strong> <strong>Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Indigenous Peoples</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark together with Greenland, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own Iceland.</p> <p>We welcome the report presented by the Special Rapporteur on green financing, which provides insight to this important topic. </p> <p>Indigenous Peoples globally are the most affected by environmental harms. In the Arctic the temperatures continue to rise at three times the global annual average. Climate change threatens nature, and the livelihood of Indigenous Peoples. </p> <p>When developing green financed projects, two central concepts are human rights-based approach and sustainability. Additionally, it is crucial that politicians and authorities have knowledge of Indigenous Peoples’ culture and traditional ways of living. When projects are planned and developed authorities are obliged to consult with affected Indigenous Peoples. </p> <p>Consultations with the Indigenous Peoples concerned, including Indigenous women, imply that a real effort should be made with the aim to reach agreement on the proposed measures. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur: Why are consultations with Indigenous Peoples particularly important in the context of green financing?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 5: Interactive dialogue on the Secretary-General's report on reprisals</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia om behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Latvia.</p> <p>We thank the Secretary-General for presenting the fourteenth report on intimidation and reprisals and commend the United Nations’ strengthened efforts to prevent and address intimidation and reprisals. </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries remain strongly committed to protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms and eliminating any act of intimidation and reprisal. </p> <p>We are profoundly concerned about the continuously high number of reprisals, in particular repeated incidents of reprisals against human rights defenders and civil society actors, including women and Indigenous Peoples. The reported increase in online and offline surveillance and restrictive regulations against civil society actors are especially alarming.&nbsp; </p> <p>We reiterate our call on all State and non-State actors to promote and support a safe and enabling environment for human rights defenders, journalists and other media workers, and show zero tolerance for reprisals.</p> <p>Ms Brands Kehris, what further steps could the Member States take to meaningfully integrate a gender and youth perspective in their work to prevent and address reprisals? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: Enhanced interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner and the International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for this important report. Participation of persons of African descent in public affairs is key for achieving racial justice. Without tackling racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, we cannot reach equal societies where human rights of all are respected, protected and fulfilled. </p> <p>The report shows that despite many positive examples, we still have a long way to go, to considerably improve participation of persons of African descent and other underrepresented groups.&nbsp; Ending multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination should be our goal for all persons of African descent, including women, children, persons with disabilities and LGBTQI persons. Attacks, both online and offline, against academics, human rights defenders and others, who bring injustices to light, must be confronted.</p> <p>High Commissioner and members of the EMLER, how can we better address multiple and intersecting forms of racism, so that participation of all persons of African descent in public life can be improved? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights on drivers, root causes and human rights impacts of religious hatred constituting incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for the oral update.</p> <p>The Nordic Baltic countries strongly condemn all acts of discrimination, hostility, or violence on the basis of religion or belief against individuals, including against persons belonging to religious communities and minorities around the world and against their places of worship. We will continue to stand up for the right to freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. These are mutually reinforcing and interdependent. We continue combatting all forms of intolerance and discrimination against individuals of any religious or belief affiliation with equal determination.</p> <p>In accordance with Article 20 of the ICCPR, all states must prohibit advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence. In this regard, we emphasize existing international framework to draw from, including the Istanbul process framework and the Rabat Plan of Action. </p> <p>High Commissioner,</p> <p>In this context, how can your office make use of existing framework and standards in implementing the HRC resolution 53/1?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 October 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>High Comissioner,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is a war of destruction: Russia attempts to destroy; not only Ukrainian cities, livelihoods and cultural heritage, but also the Ukrainian population’s resilience and perseverence. And in the most brutal way, in direct violation of international law, including international humanitarian law. Russia weaponises food and thus exacerbates the global food crisis.</p> <p>According to numerous reports, Russia subjects civilians to summary executions, torture, enforced disappearances, sexual violence and filtration. Russia deports Ukrainian children to Russia and Belarus or forcibly transfers them to Russia-controlled territory. Russia systematically destroys Ukrainian cities by deliberately attacking civilian, energy and critical infrastructure. On 5 October, Russia once again demonstrated its ruthlessness by attacking a store full of innocent civilians in Hroza. At least 51 people were killed. Intentional attacks on civilians constitutes a war crime.</p> <p>The victims of these horrendous crimes, perpetrated by Russian authorities, deserve justice. We will continue to advocate for full accountability for the crimes committed as part of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, including for the crime of aggression. We welcome the reporting of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine and the work of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, the investigation by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, and the operationalisation of the International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. We also encourage states to support the work of the Core Group for the establishment of a tribunal for the crime of aggression in Ukraine. Furthermore, we welcome the establishment of the Council of Europe’s Register of Damage and encourage other states to join the Register. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 54<sup>th</sup> Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: </strong><strong>Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner and Experts</strong><strong> on the Democratic Republic of Congo</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 October 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and my own country Sweden.</p> <p>Thank you, High Commissioner, for your report and to the Team of International Experts for their final report.</p> <p>The increase in armed violence in eastern DRC and related human rights violations and abuses, as well as violations of international humanitarian law, including attacks against civilians and conflict related sexual violence, are of serious concern. The deteriorating security and humanitarian situation, caused primarily by the armed group M23, as well as other armed groups, severely impacts the rights of the Congolese population. The violence also jeopardises the safe conduct of the coming general elections, and elections may not be held in three territories due to insecurity. We also note that the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri remains.</p> <p>Accountability and the rule of law must be ensured. We are closely following the developments in the appeal trial of the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp in Kasaï Central in 2017. We are also following the continuation of the investigation into the disappearance of their four Congolese companions. The legal process remains vital and has our full support. We encourage the continued cooperation between the Congolese authorities and the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism for the DRC.</p> <p>High Commissioner, we would appreciate if you could elaborate on the impact that the ongoing violence may have on the safe conduct of the coming elections?</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>10 October 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway. </p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for his dedicated efforts. </p> <p>We would also like to commend the Government of the Central African Republic for cooperating with the Independent Expert. </p> <p>The Independent Expert’s report shows that the civilian population suffers from persistent and widespread violence, grave human rights violations and abuses, and lack of access to basic services. We are particularly worried about the precarious situation for the country’s nearly 3 million children. </p> <p>The report highlights low school enrolment rate and lack of vocational training. These are aggravating factors in the recruitment of children by armed groups, the trafficking of children as well as child marriages. </p> <p>Education and lifelong learning are key to fostering peacebuilding and sustainable development. We would appreciate if you could elaborate on what measures are undertaken by the government to ensure children and youth quality education, free from fear, violence and threats.</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 54<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on interim report on Haiti</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>10 October 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic States are deeply troubled by the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in Haiti. Due to organized crime and gang violence, close to 200.000 people are currently displaced. </p> <p>Support to help Haiti restore security and the rule of law is much needed and we back efforts to ensure a multinational security support mission is urgently deployed. The increasing violence, illicit arms flows, and human rights abuses undermine the stability and security of Haiti and the region. The widespread use of sexual and gender-based violence is of particular concern.</p> <p>Weak accountability combined with large-scale corruption has resulted in state institutions that are not able to protect human rights. Efficient judicial institutions are needed to strengthen the fight against impunity. We urge the Government to continue to address these aspects of governance.</p> <p>Any comprehensive resolution requires a Haitian led political solution. We call on all political actors to continue to meaningfully engage in restoring Haiti’s democratic institutions and create a safe and secure environment.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The High Commissioner has stated that measures to re-establish security will need to focus on accountability, prevention, and protection. What progress has been made in this regard?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you.</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></p>
Sep 28, 2023Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples<span></span> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council - 54th Session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3:</strong> <strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Indigenous Peoples</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark together with Greenland, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own Iceland.</p> <p>We welcome the report presented by the Special Rapporteur on green financing, which provides insight to this important topic. </p> <p>Indigenous Peoples globally are the most affected by environmental harms. In the Arctic the temperatures continue to rise at three times the global annual average. Climate change threatens nature, and the livelihood of Indigenous Peoples. </p> <p>When developing green financed projects, two central concepts are human rights-based approach and sustainability. Additionally, it is crucial that politicians and authorities have knowledge of Indigenous Peoples’ culture and traditional ways of living. When projects are planned and developed authorities are obliged to consult with affected Indigenous Peoples. </p> <p>Consultations with the Indigenous Peoples concerned, including Indigenous women, imply that a real effort should be made with the aim to reach agreement on the proposed measures. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Special Rapporteur: Why are consultations with Indigenous Peoples particularly important in the context of green financing?</span></p>
Sep 26, 2023General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention<span></span> <p class="paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 54th session</span></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Iceland reiterates its condemnation, in the strongest possible terms, of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine with mounting evidence of war crimes and other violations of international human rights and humanitarian law resulting in atrocious human suffering and loss of life.</p> <p>In Russia, the widespread and systematic curtailment of human rights and crackdown on civic space is of serious concern. We continue to condemn the severe limitation on freedom of opinion and expression, crackdown on independent media and all types of opposition.</p> <p>In Belarus, we are gravely concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation, including continuous systemic repression and politically motivated sentencing of civil society, including human rights defenders, and political opponents for exercising their right to freedom of expression.</p> <p>In Afghanistan, we condemn the Taliban for their systematic discrimination against women and girls which may amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity.</p> <p>Iceland reiterates its concern about the serious human rights situation in China, including in Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and Tibet. We urge China to abide by its obligations under international human rights law, especially the right to freedom of expression and the rights of persons belonging to minorities.</p> <p>In Iran, we are deeply concerned about reports of authorities reinforcing actions to quell dissent, including through surveillance technology, and the exacerbating punitive measures against those exercising their fundamental rights. We urge the authorities to repeal the new Chastity and Hijab Bill and to eliminate, in law and in practice, the systemic discrimination against women and girls in public and private life.</p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements made in the interactive dialogues under item 4, including on Russia, Syria, Belarus and Myanmar.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Sep 14, 2023Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>delivered by</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Martin Eyjólfsson</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report that emphasizes the importance of restoring the good condition of the aquatic ecosystems that supply water to ensure the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation. </p> <p>We concur that equal access to drinking water and sanitation goes hand in hand with the importance of climate change adaptation strategies to counter the increasing risks of drought and floods caused by climate change. </p> <p>The overexploitation and pollution of aquatic ecosystems as well as mismanagement of rivers, lakes, wetlands and aquifers and their impact on the realization of the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation is of great concern. These impacts are disproportionate in territories of those who suffer marginalization and discrimination.</p> <p>It is clear that democratic water governance based on a human rights approach, is needed, paving the way to a new environmental regeneration model based on sustainability. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur Indigenous Peoples have effectively protected aquatic ecosystems through their worldviews, practices and knowledge. How can we take this better into account?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you.</span></p>
Sep 13, 2023Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><strong><span>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur </span></strong></span><strong>on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>delivered by </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Martin Eyjólfsson </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his detailed report on international legal standards underpinning the five pillars of transitional justice.</p> <p>We concur that respect for and compliance with international human rights law and humanitarian law are the parameters for implementing and measuring transitional justice processes. Due consideration must be given to principles of non-discrimination with the aim of addressing root causes of serious human rights violations. Full compliance with human rights is vital to generate truth, justice, peace and security. </p> <p>The international human rights obligations of States are applicable to transitional justice processes. States have the obligation to address serious violations of human rights and humanitarian law and ensure that perpetrators are held to account. As emphasized in the report, impunity in transitional processes is of great concern. Failure to close the impunity gap emboldens perpetrators and encourages re-occurrence. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can States ensure a comprehensive approach combining the elements of each pillar in a mutually reinforcing manner? </p> <p><span>I thank you.</span></p>
Sep 13, 2023Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate on the High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong><strong> </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I thank the High Commissioner for his update.</p> <p>The Human Rights Council draws strength from its diversity and respect for different backgrounds. That being said, there is no denying that this Council is increasingly struggling to find consensus.</p> <p>We are reminded of these differences when the rights of women and girls are on the Council’s agenda, and the polarization increases exponentially when the rights of LGBTI persons are discussed. </p> <p>Similarly, when the right to freedom of religion or belief and the right to freedom of opinion and expression are up for discussion, this Council finds itself in what some have referred to as a “clash” of civilizations.</p> <p>Let us be cognizant that behind these debates there are individuals. Individuals who face discrimination and persecution. Individuals who fear for their lives. Individuals who are not granted the same recognition and rights as those of us sitting in this very room.</p> <p>No society is perfect, and we all represent our respective governments. However, when emotions are running high, let us be mindful that this Council has a precious mandate. Individuals count on us. Their lives may depend on our work.</p> <p>The advancement of human rights is inherently an ongoing process. We as humans continue to learn from past mistakes. Policies and practices that were seen as acceptable are now recognized as human rights violations.</p> <p>Irrespective of our governments’ national positions, let us not forget that lives are at stake.</p> <p class="paragraph" style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you.</span></p>
Sep 12, 2023Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral update on the Sudan <span></span> <p style="background: white; text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 2: </span></strong><strong>Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral update on the Sudan</strong> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p><strong>We thank the High Commissioner for his update.</strong></p> <p>The human rights and humanitarian situation in Sudan has deteriorated even further since his last update to the Human Rights Council in June. Every week there are new allegations of grave human rights violations and abuses, as well as violations of international humanitarian law, by both parties to the conflict. We are alarmed by reports of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict. </p> <p>Humanitarian needs are enormous. We once again call on all parties to the conflict to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law and to facilitate full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. 19 aid workers have been killed in Sudan this year alone.</p> <p>The violence has to stop now. All parties to the conflict must agree and adhere to an immediate ceasefire and civilians need to be protected.</p> <p>High Commissioner, given the dire situation and the lack of access to Sudan, what tools do we have at our disposal to best protect the human rights of people in Sudan? </p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you.</span></p>
Sep 11, 2023Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan <span></span> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan (oral update)</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>11 September 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We commend the Special Rapporteur for his steadfast commitment to the Afghan people and his sobering advice to the de facto authorities and the international community.&nbsp; </p> <p>Grim does not even begin to capture the lived realities of Afghan women and girls. </p> <p>In little over two years, the Taliban have undone hard-won gender equality gains through draconian, oppressive and misogynistic directives.&nbsp; </p> <p>Their systematic discrimination against Afghan women and girls may amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity.</p> <p>The exclusion of half of Afghanistan’s population, from most spheres of life, severely limits the country’s economic recovery, with detrimental consequences for the entire Afghan society. </p> <p>We applaud Afghan women and girls, who continue to show immense resilience and defiance. Without them, Afghanistan will never achieve peace, prosperity and stability. </p> <p>What scope does the Special Rapporteur see for promoting opportunities for Afghan women and girls to make their voices heard and influence their own future?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you. </span></p>
Jul 17, 2023Joint statements during the 53rd session of the Human Rights Council<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan and the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls, on a report on the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by the EU on behalf of 57 Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We are gravely concerned by the increasing and systematic erosion of respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan by the de facto authorities, in particular women and girls’ lack of equal access to education, economic opportunities, including access to work, participation in public life, freedom of movement, justice, and basic services, the absence of which make peace, stability, and prosperity in the country unattainable</p> <p>Banning women from working for the United Nations, and national and international NGOs, is yet another alarming violation of Afghan women’s rights. These restrictions also undermine humanitarian principles, and severely impact the delivery of life-saving assistance and basic services to those most in need.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>The realization of women’s and girls’ rights is indispensable for achieving sustainable development, in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, in peace-building, and in the humanitarian response. </p> <p>We jointly call on de facto authorities to revisit their discriminatory policies. Women and girls have the right to live free from all forms of violence, to exercise all rights in accordance with international human rights law, and to contribute to the social and economic development of the Afghan society. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by Australia on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of more than 37 countries. </p> <p>As we celebrate the 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights this year, we reaffirm our commitment to the universality of human rights: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”. </p> <p>We also look ahead toward the 30<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the International Day of Families. </p> <p>Families, in all their diversity, play a fundamental role in society. They can be critical in helping people, especially children, to realise their full potential, and bear most of the burden of care work. Supporting families is therefore an important element in promoting and protecting human rights. In turn, ensuring the respect, protection and fulfillment of the human rights of all creates an enabling environment where families can thrive.&nbsp; </p> <p>There is great diversity in families all around the world, and so this support must be inclusive of all family compositions, including multigenerational and extended families, single parent households, LGBTIQ+ families and Indigenous kinship groups. </p> <p>We recognise however, that families can also be the context in which human rights abuses occur, including intimate partner violence, non-partner family violence, violence against children, and elder abuse, amongst others. Gender inequalities and unequal power relations are among the root causes of this violence.&nbsp; In 2020, 58 per cent of women and girls killed, died at the hands of an intimate partner or family member. For this reason, it is critical we support families to be safe spaces for all, in which individuals’ human rights are respected.</p> <p>We are committed to supporting families, and call on States, the OHCHR and UN bodies to continue to apply an inclusive lens to families, and to ensure that equality, non-discrimination, and the universality of human rights remains at the centre of engagement in supporting families.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on cultural preservation delivered by the United States of America on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr High Commissioner, we deliver this statement on behalf of a group of states.</p> <p>We begin by recalling the grievous history of destruction of diverse forms of indigenous and local cultures in many parts of the world, policies that have harmed these populations by denying them their beliefs, their history, and their dignity, while impoverishing humankind as a whole.</p> <p>International law prohibits discrimination, including that based on religious or ethnic identity, and protects minorities in the enjoyment of their culture, the professing of their religion, and the use of their language.</p> <p>Despite these clear obligations, in some parts of the world deplorable human rights violations are being committed against persons belonging to religious, linguistic, national, and ethnic minorities, often with the stated aim of mitigating a perceived security threat.&nbsp; Government laws and policies specifically restrict and suppress practices that are part of the identity and cultural life of persons belonging to minorities:&nbsp; authorities destroy cultural heritage sites, cemeteries and places of worship; suppress languages; forcibly assimilate children through the educational system; place severe restrictions on movement; and restrict access to livelihoods, education, and healthcare. </p> <p>Mr High Commissioner, we reiterate the importance of promoting universal respect for human rights.&nbsp; We call on all governments around the world, including our own government, to uphold their duties and respect the rights of persons belonging to minorities – to allow the culture of ethnic and religious minorities to flourish, and to respect the ability of everyone to worship as they please, to speak the language of their parents, as well as to use their traditional knowledge and to participate in the social institutions of their choice.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement delivered by Argentina on behalf of the SOGI Group of Friends</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>As members of the SOGI Group of Friends, we strongly support the promotion and defence of the universal human rights system, emphasizing that human rights are indivisible, interdependent, mutually reinforcing, and, by their very nature, universal. </p> <p>In this sense, we reaffirm the importance of the work of this Council and the Independent Expert, for the protection of LGBTIQ+ persons against violence and discrimination in all regions, as well as for the progressive development of international human rights norms and standards. Globally, the LGBTIQ+ community still faces discrimination, violence and marginalization, and we need urgent actions to address these issues. This is why we celebrated the renewal of the mandate last year as a fundamental milestone for this topic.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>On this occasion, we wish to highlight and thank the exceptional work of Víctor Madrigal in his role as Independent Expert during his mandate, which is coming to an end. With commitment and responsibility, he managed to foster dialogue with stakeholders from all regions of the world, build consensus and move the international agenda on inclusion and diversity forward.</p> <p>We conclude by highlighting once again the commitment of our countries to the fight against all forms of violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and the importance to continue promoting the respect, protection, and realization of the human rights of LGBTIQ+ persons in the universal system of human rights, and reaffirming our commitment to the consolidation of the issue on the agenda of this Council.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on Femicides and Human Rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Cyprus on behalf of 69 Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of 69 countries.</p> <p>Sexual and Gender-based violence against women and girls has alarmingly increased worldwide, amplified during the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2021, over 5 women and girls were killed by someone in their family, every hour.</p> <p>The gender-related killing of women and girls, also known as femicide or feminicide, constitutes the most extreme and brutal manifestation of violence against all women and girls and is prevalent in all regions and countries worldwide. A major problem is the difficulty of identifying the occurrence of femicide given the absence of data collection strategies and systems.</p> <p>The former Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women produced a landmark report in 2016, where she proposed the establishment of different levels of a “femicide watch” and observatories on violence against women and girls. The centrality of data collection and monitoring in State efforts to combat femicides was recognized by her, UN Women, and by the CEDAW Committee in recent years.</p> <p>Therefore, we encourage all States to acknowledge its existence, define gender-related killings in national legal frameworks, and develop prevention strategies to address it, including through education, to strengthen response systems through training service providers, law enforcement authorities, judicial officials, educators, health system workers, and other relevant stakeholders so they can recognize it and prevent its occurrence. Moreover, we need to develop, in advance, systems for collecting disaggregated data that specify the type of gender-based crime committed, the relationship between victim and perpetrator and the response regarding accountability and reparations. In this regard, we welcome UN Women and UNODC efforts to improve data collection through the Statistical Framework for measuring the gender-related killing of women and girls. </p> <p>This will allow us to take appropriate and effective action towards eradicating this heinous crime. We owe it to the victims and their families.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement delivered by Belgium on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of 35 countries, in order to express our deep collective concern about the findings published by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights last month. The report states that in March 2022 over 500 civilians were killed in the village of Moura, in central Mali, by elements of the Malian armed forces, with support from, and, I quote, “foreign military personnel”. Hidden behind this label lies the Wagner Group, whose presence in Mali is well-known and has been confirmed by Russian authorities, and which has contributed to continued instability and a rise in human rights violations both in Mali and in other areas of conflict.</p> <p>Mr President, this report provides harrowing details of summary executions, sexual and gender-based violence, torture and other ill-treatment, backed up by extensive evidence. This is despite the Malian authorities’ refusal to allow UN access to the site of the most serious reported atrocity committed in Mali in a decade. &nbsp;The report concluded that these acts could amount to war crimes and, depending on the circumstances, crimes against humanity. These cannot go unanswered and perpetrators must be held to account.&nbsp; The Malian authorities must investigate these allegations and all other reports of human rights violations and abuses regardless of the actors allegedly involved, fully, transparently, impartially and independently, and urgently implement the recommendations of this report to ensure, that both their own forces and foreign military personnel fully comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We call on the UN High Commissioner and the international community to continue to raise this matter with the Malian authorities, and for Malian authorities to ensure full protection of witnesses and human rights defenders.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on the issue of human rights and transnational corporations and other business enterprises</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on the tobacco industry and human rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Panama on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of countries.</p> <p>By virtue of the UNGP on Business and Human Rights, the tobacco industry has the responsibility to respect human rights across its supply chain. Yet, it continues to assert undue corporate influence in the implementation of tobacco control policies and regulations.</p> <p>Tobacco remains the leading cause of global preventable diseases, resulting in more than 8 million deaths annually, and it negatively affects the enjoyment of human rights throughout its whole life cycle, in particular the right to life and the right to health.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about reports of persons at risk of trafficking for forced labour, child labour, exploitation and exposure to hazardous conditions while working in tobacco fields.</p> <p>This year marks the 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the adoption of the WHO FCTC, which provides an international legal safeguard against corporate capture. We invite States that have not yet ratified it, to consider doing so. </p> <p>We wish to take this opportunity to encourage the Working Group to address the adverse impacts on human rights, health and the environment related to the tobacco industry, including on the grounds of,<em> inter alia</em>, age, gender, race, ethnicity and disability, as well as States’ obligations to respect, protect and fulfil human rights and their commitment to the SDGs and target 3.a, and to collaborate with the WHO FCTC Secretariat in this regard.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Education</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on safe learning environment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Kazakhstan on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a Group of Countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her timely report.</p> <p>We concur that fundamental human right to education includes the right to be safe in education.</p> <p>Children should get the best possible start in life and have access to education in which every child, including adolescents, have ample opportunity to develop their individual capacities in a space where they feel safe, respected and valued. It is crucial for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.</p> <p>We are committed to implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in its entirety, especially the SDGs and targets aimed at ending abuse and all forms of violence against and torture of children, and creating child-friendly learning environments where every child feels safe and encouraged to learn.</p> <p>Recognizing State’s responsibility to ensure every child’s protection and care, we also acknowledge the distinct and important roles that parents, legal guardians, schools and all other institutions of society can play in contributing to providing safe and inclusive learning environment.</p> <p>We believe that all forms of violence and abuse in schools <em>can </em>and <em>must </em>be prevented. It is important to foster culture of open communication and trust between children, parents, and educators. Educational programs and materials that fully reflect the promotion and protection of all human rights, as well as the values of peace, tolerance and gender equality, can make a significant contribution to their prevention.</p> <p>Children should feel comfortable speaking up about any concerns or issues they may have, and parents should be encouraged to be involved in their child’s education and well-being.</p> <p>Ending violence in and around schools and ensuring safe and inclusive learning environments for children requires joint work and multifaceted approach of governments and other stakeholders.</p> <p>By prioritizing the safety and well-being of our children, we can help them to thrive and reach their full potential.<br clear="all" /> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Education</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement </strong><strong>delivered by Qatar on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of 57 countries. </p> <p>Education is a basic human right that should be enjoyed by everyone without discrimination of any kind. It is a key right the access to which impacts the enjoyment of all other human rights.</p> <p>Education benefits both individuals and society. It promotes the knowledge, skills and values that are fundamental for human, social, and economic development, thus helps achieving lasting peace and sustainable development.</p> <p>By ratifying international human rights treaties, states assume responsibilities to respect, protect and fulfil the right to education.</p> <p>The obligation to protect education includes protecting education and educational facilities from attacks through all appropriate and feasible measures and safeguards.</p> <p>Unfortunately, attack against education has continued unabatedly over the last years. Records in this regard are very alarming. According to the GCPEA, in 2020 and 2021, there were more than 5,000 reported attacks on education and incidents of military use of schools and universities, harming more than 9,000 students and educators in at least 85 countries.</p> <p>While attacks on education have a devastating impact on all students and teachers, they can have a particular horrific suffering for girls and women.</p> <p>Female students and educators are particularly targeted during attacks on education. They face all kinds of conflict related violations committed against women and girls that can have long-lasting consequences on their future.</p> <p>We urge States and all conflicting parties to refrain from using schools for military purposes. We encourage States to endorse and implement the Safe Schools Declaration so that schools shall always remain safe havens.</p> <p>We also invite the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Special Procedures mandate holders and treaty bodies to address this issue within their respective mandates.<br clear="all" /> </p> <p><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on the Role of Access to Clean and Affordable Energy in Eradication of Extreme Poverty</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by India on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I am delivering this joint statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries, on the critical role of access to clean and affordable energy in the eradication of extreme poverty. </p> <p>Clean and affordable energy is a critical input to primary developmental goals and basic human rights of providing adequate food, housing, water, sanitation, healthcare, education, and access to information including digital media and entertainment. Availability of energy plays a fundamental role in improving living standards, enhancing productivity, and unlocking development opportunities for individuals and communities. Unfortunately, a significant part of the global population still lacks access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy, perpetuating their entrapment in the vicious cycle of poverty and gravely hindering their social and economic progress.</p> <p>Reliable energy supply facilitates education through lighting for schools and power for electronic learning devices like tablets, computers, and projectors; improves availability of water, sanitation, and good hygiene practices. Clean cooking fuel reduces the burden of disease and drudgery, particularly for women. Access to energy enables productive economic activities, including agriculture and small and cottage industry, which directly contributes to poverty reduction. </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>Without ensuring access to energy for all, it would be impossible to achieve the SDGs of reducing poverty, broadening the education base, and improving public health.&nbsp;Therefore, access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy is not only fundamental to the eradication of extreme poverty, but for enjoyment of human rights by all.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>International Day of Women in Diplomacy</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel 1: Gender-based violence against women and girls in public and political life</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by Mexico and Costa Rica on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on the International Day of Women in Diplomacy on behalf of México, Costa Rica and a Group of States.</p> <p>Last year the General Assembly adopted the resolution 76/269 marking this International Day, to celebrate and highlight the significant contributions that women have made and continue to make in shaping the course of our global affairs. </p> <p>We acknowledge the significant progress of recent years, recognize there are still challenges to be addressed, and reaffirm our commitment to promoting women's full, equal and meaningful participation at all levels of decision-making, as an essential measure for achieving sustainable development, peace, and effectively protecting human rights.</p> <p>Women's participation in diplomacy is an indispensable pillar of a well-rounded foreign policy. It has a transformative effect on the way we design, implement, and promote initiatives in bilateral engagements and multilateral fora. Women ´s contributions have been essential in finding adequate, just, and comprehensive avenues to address global challenges.</p> <p>We need to further accelerate efforts to mainstream a gender perspective throughout the Human Rights Council work and mechanisms, and advocate for increased representation of women. We also need to reflect more profoundly on the challenges of a work-life balance which impacts disproportionately on women, including women in diplomacy and can be an inhibiting factor in the choice of a career.</p> <p>This year’s commemoration coincides with the 75<sup>th</sup> Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 30<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action.&nbsp; In this regard, we recall that the VDPA also affirms that “the human rights of women should form an integral part of the United Nations human rights activities”.</p> <p>Let us mark this day as an opportunity to reflect on the measures that should be taken to enable full and equal participation of women in all diplomatic spheres.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel 1: Gender-based violence against women and girls in public and political life</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by South Africa, Bolivia and Belgium</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this joint statement on behalf of a Group of Countries. </p> <p>Today, women represent only one in four members of parliament around the world. If we look at female ministers, the situation is even worse. While progress has been made, we are still far from achieving full, equal and meaningful political participation, and a lot of obstacles remain. </p> <p>Women's and girls’ participation in political and public life is linked to the organization of society as a whole: it depends heavily on social, cultural and economic factors. It is related to education, economic position, the division of household chores, persistent stereotypes, the role of the media during elections, intolerance and discrimination, election systems and many other elements. But above all, it is impeded by widespread patterns of misogyny, intimidation and violence faced by women leaders today. Around the world, women leaders are subject to sexist hate speech and misinformation – very often online – which not only have a detrimental effect on women's right to political participation, but also pose a challenge to democracy itself. </p> <p>By targeting, intimidating and silencing women, gender-based violence has a particularly negative impact on women's freedom of expression. It pushes them to self-censor and withdrawing from public spaces online and offline. And it sends the message that women and girls in general have no place in public life.</p> <p>We call on all States, but also on private actors, to step up and take bold actions to end gender-based violence against women and girls in public and political life, while looking forward to the CEDAW’s Committee upcoming General Recommendation that will explore this issue. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue on the Secretary General report on climate change</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on importance of civil society access to and participation in international climate discussions</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by the EU on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>The European Union has the honour to deliver this Joint Statement on behalf of a group of countries.</p> <p>We welcome today’s discussion, and the increased awareness and engagement shown by this Council on the interdependence between human rights, and combatting climate change.</p> <p>A crucial element to advance this agenda must be to ensure transparent, inclusive, safe and meaningful participation and leadership both online and offline by civil society in international climate discussions.</p> <p>We welcome the UAE’s commitment, as also expressed during the recent UPR, “to ensure that the COP28 is inclusive for all, especially those at the frontlines of climate change, including civil society, Indigenous Peoples, and youth”. We are convinced that the meaningful participation of climate activists, human rights defenders and other members of civil society, especially women, youth and marginalized groups, in an enabling environment free of intimidation, harassment, including sexual harassment, arbitrary surveillance and reprisal, is an indispensable element for the success of the Conference.</p> <p>The climate crisis requires immediate accelerated action and strengthened ambition, including to deliver on global commitments and fully integrate human rights into our response. Nobody knows this better than those already in vulnerable situations. Let’s ensure their voices can resound strong and free; and contribute to all international climate discussions.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Panel discussion on the role of digital, media and information literacy in the promotion and enjoyment of the right to freedom of opinion and expression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement delivered by the EU on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>The European Union has the honour to deliver this Statement on behalf of a Group of Countries.</p> <p>Access to the Internet is an indispensable enabler of a broad range of human rights. An open, free, global, interoperable, reliable and secure Internet for all facilitates individuals’ enjoyment of their rights, including freedoms of expression, opinion, and peaceful assembly, the rights to education and to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health. It allows access to objective information and public services. </p> <p>Internet shutdowns are a growing concern worldwide, as some governments take measures to disrupt access to Internet and telecommunications, often in the context of political protests, electoral processes, crises, or armed conflicts. </p> <p>Shutdowns and network disruptions negatively affect the ability of journalists, media workers, and civil society, including human rights defenders, to operate. Internet shutdowns also undermine access to critical support and protection, including for women and girls, and hamper humanitarian assistance.</p> <p>Furthermore, Internet shutdowns severely hinder the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, while deepening digital divides. Internet shutdowns hamper businesses and customers, disrupt trade, investment, financial transactions, and the delivery of services and remittances. </p> <p>The signatories of this Joint Statement call on States to foster an open Internet and not to impose shutdowns, restricting civic space online.</p> <p>We emphasise that the private sector, in particular telecommunication companies and social media platforms, also plays an important role in sharing information on shutdowns and taking measures to prevent those that they have been requested or forced to implement. </p> <p>We will continue to promote meaningful connectivity for all, including those in marginalised and vulnerable situations.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement on the Commemoration of the 75<sup>th</sup> Anniversary of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Armenia on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a Group of Countries.</p> <p>We welcome Special Adviser Nderitu, and reiterate our continuous support to the Office of the Special Advisors of the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide and on the Responsibility to Protect. </p> <p>This year marks the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. It was the first human rights treaty adopted by the General Assembly, one day before the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Together, these documents outline a vision of a world where genocide and other mass atrocities are prevented and punished.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>This anniversary offers an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to this objective and to reflect on best practices and challenges with regard to the Convention’s implementation. </p> <p>Genocide never happens suddenly. It is typically preceded by discriminatory practices against a national, ethnic, racial or religious group, and patterns of human rights violations and abuses. </p> <p>We vow to mobilise the political will to prevent genocide and other atrocity crimes, notably by using the Secretary-General’s Framework of Analysis for Atrocity Crimes. There is no excuse for the failure to properly address situations where genocide is at risk of occurring.</p> <p>We emphasize the role of the UN human rights system, including this Council, the OHCHR, and relevant special procedures, and treaty bodies to collate information on violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law that may lead to genocide. </p> <p>Drawing the world’s attention to situations at risk of atrocity crimes requires follow-up actions and coordinated efforts in order truly to make prevention work.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement delivered by Costa Rica on behalf of a Group of Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 July 2023</strong></p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of Costa Rica and a cross-regional group of countries.</p> <p>We would like to thank the Fact-Finding Mission for their update. </p> <p>We are particularly concerned by the reports of the ongoing surge of executions in Iran and the authorities’ use of the death penalty as a tool to chill dissent.&nbsp;</p> <p>Iran has been carrying out death sentences at an alarming pace, with over 300 executions reported since the beginning of 2023, and 582 last year compared to 333 in 2021. </p> <p>Many of these executions are for alleged offences that do not meet the threshold of “the most serious crimes” under the ICCPR, including drug offenses. Seven were in connection to the protest movement following the death in custody of Jina Mahsa Amini.</p> <p>We strongly condemn the execution of three alleged child offenders in 2022 and are deeply concerned that dozens of alleged child offenders remain on death row, at risk of execution.&nbsp;</p> <p>Persons belonging to ethnic and religious minorities are being executed at disproportionately high rates; one-third of those executed in 2022 belonged to the Baloch minority.</p> <p>We remain deeply troubled by reports that death sentences are often imposed following unfair trials procedures, without due process, and based on forced confessions obtained through torture and other inhuman treatment.</p> <p>We urge Iran to immediately cease its violations, respect human dignity and cooperate with UN human rights mechanisms. We note calls by the Secretary-General, the High Commissioner for Human Rights and Special Procedures for Iran to “establish an immediate moratorium on executions with a view to abolishing the death penalty”.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on oral presentation of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and interim report of the Secretary-General on human rights in Crimea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement by the Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President, Mr High Commissioner,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the 'Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine'. </p> <p>763 men, 94 women, and 7 boys unlawfully detained, 72 men and 5 women summarily executed.</p> <p>These numbers, presented in your reports, paint a clear picture of the serious violations of international humanitarian law and egregious human rights violations and abuses perpetrated since the launch of Russia’s full-scale, unprovoked and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. They depict the blatant disregard of the Russian authorities for their obligations under international law. But they only form the tip of the iceberg of human suffering as the OHCHR has recorded 25,170 civilian casualties since 24<sup>th</sup> February 2022.</p> <p>Behind these numbers, there are individuals, their families and loved ones who suffer. This we must never forget. Especially not here, at this Council, which seeks to uphold the inherent dignity of every person. </p> <p>Human dignity that has been denied time and time again by Russia. As shown by your report more than 91 per cent of civilian detainees held by Russia have been subjected to torture and ill-treatment, including through sexual violence.</p> <p>These alarming findings from your report reinforce the need to ensure accountability for the serious crimes under international law committed on the territory of Ukraine, and ensure justice for all victims and the prevention of future crimes. </p> <p>We, therefore, welcome the reporting of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine,&nbsp; work by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the investigation into the Ukraine situation by the International Criminal Court, the operationalization of the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, the establishment of the Council of Europe’s Register of Damage, and the work of the Core Group towards a tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine. We call for work to continue on the path towards full accountability.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>End of Session Statement by members of the Group of Friends of the SOGI Mandate</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>This statement is delivered on behalf of members of the Group of Friends of the Mandate of the Independent Expert on Protection Against Violence and Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.</p> <p>We regret the initiative of a group of states to disregard the agenda items set in the Programme of Work of the Human Rights Council and to deliver a statement regarding a report that was presented earlier in this session and that had a full interactive dialogue dedicated to it, with opportunities for Members and Observers to engage in dialogue with the mandate holder. </p> <p>The Human Rights Council should foster respectful and constructive dialogue. We believe that to present a statement about a Special Procedure report without the presence of the mandate holder and therefore not providing them with the opportunity to reply is not a constructive approach and should not be a practice taken by Members and Observers of the Human Rights Council.</p> <p>We take this opportunity to reiterate our strong support for the mandate of the IE SOGI and for the work carried out by the current mandate holder. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Jul 17, 2023National and Nordic-Baltic Statements during the 51st session of the Human Rights Council<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>High Commissioner for Human Rights farewell speech at the Organizational Meeting of the&nbsp;</strong><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 August 2022</strong></p> <p>Your Excellency,</p> <p>On behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries, allow me to express our deepest appreciation for your service as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. It has been a great pleasure to work with you. We will remember your dedication to support human rights globally and strengthen the multilateral system.</p> <p>Your Excellency, you have always been ready to discuss various human rights concerns and dedicated to broaden our horizons. In particular, we note the significant progress in this Council in addressing the human rights implications of climate change. We reiterate our support to the efforts of Your Office’s work to address both civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights and ensure that everyone, everywhere, can fully enjoy them.</p> <p>Your term coincided with some unpredicted crises. The Covid 19 pandemic had an effect on the respect and protection of human rights globally. These included shrinking civic space and disproportionate consequences for persons in vulnerable situations, women’s and girls’ enjoyment of all human rights, the elderly, the disabled and others. Your guidance has been most valuable in ensuring that our work continues and new challenges to the global constituency of human rights are addressed. We thank you for this.</p> <p>We will continue to support the independent mandate of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and that of its Office. We remain concerned about the severe lack of funding to human rights pillar in the United Nations. We all have a responsibility to ensure that the human rights pillar, as one of the three foundational pillars of the United Nations, can function properly in advancing the enjoyment of Human Rights globally.</p> <p>Your Excellency, we wish you success in your future endeavours. May they bring you fulfilment and happiness. Even if our paths are now diverging, we hope we can continue to contribute to the global dialogue on human rights and gender equality together.&nbsp;</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 – Enhanced ID on human rights situation of women and girls in Afghanistan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Sweden</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, including the continuous human rights violations and abuses, the lack of political inclusion and the growing humanitarian needs.</p> <p>Promises made by the Taliban to respect human rights have not been fulfilled. This is particularly true when it comes to women and girls, whose lives have changed dramatically to the worse.</p> <p>We strongly condemn the imposition of restrictive measures for women and girls, excluding them from work, education, politics, and public life. Afghanistan will never find peace and stability if half the population is left out.</p> <p>We urge the Taliban to take immediate steps to ensure women’s and girls’ full and equal enjoyment of all human rights, including freedom of movement, freedom of expression and access to education and work.</p> <p>It is time the Taliban back their words with concrete action.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 – Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We welcome your report. We are deeply concerned about the continued deterioration in the human rights situation in Afghanistan. We are alarmed by the speed and scale of the deprivation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of Afghan women and girls, such as the rights to work, education, freedom of movement, expression and peaceful assembly. We strongly call on the Taliban to ensure full respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all people, including women and girls.&nbsp;</p> <p>We are concerned by the reports of arbitrary detention, intimidation and discrimination of media workers and human rights defenders. We call on the Taliban to secure the safety of media workers, human rights defenders and to respect the right to access to information.</p> <p>The crisis in Afghanistan is also humanitarian. Half the population is in need of humanitarian assistance and many are on the brink of starvation. The restrictions on human rights and fundamental freedoms and the shrinking space for NGO’s and civil society remain a primary concern.</p> <p>We welcome your recent successful trip to Afghanistan. How does the Special Rapporteur envisage to engage the Taliban to ensure the implementation of the recommendations in the report?</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 - Interactive dialogue on the report of OHCHR on promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland.</p> <p>We thank the Deputy High Commissioner for this update. We acknowledge the difficult circumstances Sri Lanka finds itself in. However, such circumstances should also be viewed as an opportunity to undertake much-needed reforms, ensuring inclusiveness.</p> <p>We are concerned by the lack of progress in the areas of transitional justice, accountability, and reconciliation, and encourage the new government to demonstrate progress. Establishing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission would be a welcome start to an inclusive process, where impunity for past violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law are addressed.</p> <p>We are deeply dismayed at the use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act against student activists despite an alleged moratorium. We urge Sri Lankan authorities to repeal the PTA, and in the interim, stop its use.</p> <p>We urge Sri Lankan authorities to protect the freedom of expression and assembly for all, including persons belonging to minorities, and to stop arbitrary arrests of persons engaging in peaceful protests.</p> <p>We support the recommendations of the OHCHR report and call upon Sri Lanka to cooperate fully with the Office in line with resolution 46/1 and any new resolution.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 - Interactive dialogue on the report of Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland.</p> <p>We welcome the report of the IIMM and reiterate our support for its mandate. We strongly condemn the human rights violations and abuses in Myanmar, which the IIMM indicates amount to systematic crimes against humanity, as well as the recent execution of pro- democracy leaders. The reporting on systematic sexual and gender based violence and crimes against and affecting children is especially appalling.</p> <p>Since the military takeover in February 2021, the human rights situation in Myanmar has only deteriorated, especially for persons belonging to religious and other minorities. Over one million Rohingyas are displaced. This underlines the importance of a well-functioning accountability Mechanism. The three million information items in the IIMM repository send a clear message: perpetrators must be held accountable. We call on all partners of the international community, to cooperate fully with the Mechanism, so it can deliver and victims can get justice.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 - Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President. </p> <p>Iceland thanks the Acting High Commissioner for her oral update.</p> <p>We would like to raise concerns of the sharply deteriorating human rights situation in the Russian Federation after its war of aggression against Ukraine. The persecution of human rights defenders, silencing of journalists, the ban against independent media and peaceful protests, and the attack against civil society is alarming. </p> <p>Iceland also strongly condemns Russia’s expansion and harsh enforcement of its “foreign agents’ law” which is systematically used to silence dissenting and opposition voices. Formal scrutiny of the human rights situation in Russia is urgently needed. </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>In Afghanistan, we remain greatly alarmed by the sharp deterioration of human rights, in particular women and girls, and ethnic and religious minorities. We reiterate our call on Taliban to respect women’s and girls’ rights and accept diversity and different views. The Taliban must close the gap between their words and their deeds, as they continue to be judged by the latter.</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>We thank the OHCHR for the assessment report of human rights concerns in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region which is sound, and its credibility cannot be refuted. </p> <p>Iceland is gravely concerned by accounts of systematic, widespread, and targeted human rights violations and abuses against Uyghurs and other minorities that may amount to crimes against humanity. Accountability must be ensured. We urge China to abide by its international human rights obligations and to immediately implement the report’s recommendations. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 - Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Sweden</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>Madame Acting High Commissioner,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the High Commissioner for her latest report on the human rights situation in Nicaragua.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in Nicaragua, including arbitrary detentions, violations of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, and consistent attacks against human rights defenders, journalists and other media workers, political opposition, religious institutions, and civil society leaders.</p> <p>We strongly condemn the Nicaraguan Government’s latest assault on the freedoms of association and religion and the arbitrary and unlawful imprisonment of Catholic clerics. We demand that the regime immediately release those imprisoned and cease its harassment against human rights defenders, journalists, clergymen, political opponents and persons considered as such.</p> <p>We urge Nicaragua to ensure the full enjoyment of human rights, including civil and political rights, and to free all political prisoners. Impunity for human rights violations must end. We call on Nicaragua to cooperate fully with international and regional human rights mechanisms, including the OHCHR.</p> <p>Madame Acting High Commissioner,</p> <p>What concrete steps can be taken to urge Nicaragua to stop arbitrary detentions, and to release political prisoners?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2 - Interactive dialogue on the UN High Commissioner’s comprehensive report on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Sweden</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2022 </strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I make this intervention on behalf of a group of countries.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner and her Office for her new comprehensive report, which showcases the self-isolation of the authorities of Nicaragua from cooperation with human rights mechanisms. This attitude constitutes more evidence of the lack of responsibility and accountability from Nicaragua’s international human rights obligations, resulting in the continued and progressive deterioration of human rights in the country.</p> <p>Nicaragua has continued to suppress the right to freedom of assembly and association; this year alone, it has cancelled the legal personality of 1112 human rights, development and other organizations, professional associations, including medical associations, and others. Twelve universities have also had their legal personality cancelled, impacting the right to education. The enjoyment of the freedom of opinion and expression also worsened, with more journalists being forced into exile, and by the recent closure of 12 radio and television media outlets of the Catholic Church, especially in Matagalpa.</p> <p>Without delay Nicaragua should reinstitute the national dialogue. Furthermore, in view of the upcoming November municipal elections, it is particularly concerning that recommendations by the OHCHR to reform Nicaragua’s electoral body have not been undertaken.</p> <p>We once again urge the authorities of Nicaragua to collaborate openly with human rights mechanisms, restore civic space, release all political prisoners, guarantee judicial independence, end politically motivated detentions and the repression of independent media, as well as of minorities, cooperate with the OHCHR, and implement its recommendations.</p> <p>We reiterate our commitment to and solidarity with the Nicaraguan people and call on this Council to continue to take concrete measures to promote and protect their human rights.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - ID with SR on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.</p> <p>We firmly belief that safe drinking water and sanitation is not only a human right; it is also central to living a life in dignity.</p> <p>Lack of access to quality water and sanitation disproportionately affects women and girls; and indigenous women and girls are no exception. Discriminatory norms and structures, gender stereotypes, and stigma and taboos related to menstruation and child birth seriously affect the realization of the right to water and sanitation. The multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination that indigenous women and girls face need to be taken into account.</p> <p>With growing global water scarcity and contamination, indigenous women and girls are increasingly forced to walk longer distances to fetch water. With this, the risk of sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination and exploitation and lack of autonomy increases.</p> <p>Despite indigenous women’ and girls’ irrefutable live-saving water role, they remain under-represented in consultative processes and decision-making about water management. The vast majority of water-related laws and programmes fail to include their knowledge. Essentially, their effective participation is not guaranteed. This must change.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, what more can be done to guarantee indigenous women’s and girls’ seat at the table?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.</p> <p>We welcome the report from the Special Rapporteur focusing on contemporary forms of slavery particularly affecting persons belonging to ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities. Persons belonging to minority groups are in some countries still suffering from deep-rooted intersecting discrimination. In some cases, the discrimination is State-sponsored and institutionalized in the national legislation.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about the continued existence of different forms of contemporary forms of slavery, such as chattel slavery, forced and bonded labour, child labour, child and forced marriage, domestic servitude and sexual slavery in all regions of the world. Several of these are linked to discrimination based on gender and descent. Migrant workers globally face a disproportionate risk of being subjected to forced labour.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, in your report you also outline some positive developments in protecting minorities from contemporary forms of slavery, highlighting new legislative measures and requirements of human rights due diligence in supply chains. We would like to ask you to further explore what have been the driving forces for the positive changes that have taken place in certain countries?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to development </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>The right to development is rooted in the universality, indivisibility, interrelation, and interdependence of all human rights.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries are convinced that human rights and good governance are key to the achievement of inclusive and sustainable development.</p> <p>The COVID-19 pandemic marked a major setback in implementation of the 2030 Agenda.</p> <p>The impacts of the pandemic are further exacerbated by the current food and energy crises, as well as by climate change. And of course, nothing violates the right to development so directly and devastatingly as an outright military aggression. These crises are likely to further increase poverty, and inequalities, which hit people and countries in vulnerable situations the hardest.</p> <p>It is critical that recovery plans and policies put emphasis on individuals as central actors, drivers, and beneficiaries of development processes and include the most vulnerable. </p> <p>As States bear the primary responsibility for the full realisation of human rights, we call on all governments to ensure participatory approaches that leave no one behind and to refrain from actions that put human rights, at risk.</p> <p>Mr Special Rapporteur, could you please share your views on how to best mitigate the negative impact of the current crises on human rights?</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive dialogue on the report of OHCHR on the right to privacy in the digital age</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>16 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>Use of digital technologies, be it by governments or private companies, should be regulated by safeguards that are up to date and comply with international human rights law. We need more collaboration with, inter alia, academia and technology experts, to help anticipate development and deployment of digital technologies that risk resulting in human rights violations and abuses, identify gaps in regulation, and create solid due diligence processes.</p> <p>It is crucial to understand how human rights can be violated by the use of digital technologies. The failure to regulate the use of digital technologies in institutions that are either not aware of or not incentivized to accommodate human rights can result in substantial harm to democracy and the realization of human rights.</p> <p>Lastly, we need more informed, public debate about this topic. Knowledge about the risks to the right to privacy is key.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive Dialogue with special rapporteur on truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Estonia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>16 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Estonia.</p> <p>We would like to thank you for your detailed report on the role and responsibilities of non-State actors in transitional justice processes. We concur with you that international humanitarian law; international human rights standards and international criminal law are applicable to non-State armed groups.</p> <p>It is important that in addition to the individual accountability also non-State armed groups can effectively be held organizationally responsible for serious breaches of humanitarian or human rights law. Blanket amnesties for serious breaches of humanitarian or human rights law are unacceptable as this practice further endorses a culture of impunity, leading to the recurrence of new violations.</p> <p>Memorialization must aim at building a democratic, pluralistic, inclusive and peaceful society where non-State armed groups could engage in dialogue with the State and civil society organizations. We believe that online and archived forums for such interventions, systematically tracked, can help to create a meaningful soul-searching platform as well as effectively encounter disinformation. In addition, all transitional (justice) processes should be victims-centered and gender-transformative.</p> <p>Mr Rapporteur,</p> <p>We would welcome your advice to governments on how to better ensure victims´ rights in the transitional justice processes, including through their positive engagement, and how to better mediate memorialization dialogue between victims and non-State armed groups?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on arbitrary detention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Estonia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Latvia.</p> <p>We thank the Working Group for presenting the report on its activities in 2021, and welcome the resumption of country visits.</p> <p>We note with concern the low response rate under the Working Group’s regular communications procedure and the decrease in the response rate under the follow-up procedure. The Nordic-Baltic countries concur with the Working Group’s recommendation in this regard and encourage all States to fully cooperate and engage with all UN special procedures, including this Working Group.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries condemn all acts of torture and other ill-treatment and call for universal eradication of torture and for holding all those responsible for acts of torture accountable. Admissibility in courts of evidence obtained by torture can lead to situations of arbitrary detention due to the denial of the fair trial guarantees. In this regard, we welcome the launch of the Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering, and urge all States to provide for their effective implementation by law enforcement authorities.</p> <p>Madam Chair-Rapporteur, how can effective implementation of the Méndez Principles safeguard against arbitrary arrest and detention?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We thank the Working Group for the report and its addendums.</p> <p>As this year marks the 30<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Declaration on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, we regret to acknowledge that enforced disappearance continues to be an alarming reality. As stipulated by the article 7 of the Declaration, no circumstances whatsoever, whether a threat of war, a state of war, internal political instability or any other public emergency, may be invoked to justify enforced disappearances.</p> <p>Continued reports of reprisals faced by families of victims and the human rights defenders, as well as increasing numbers of enforced disappearance of journalists and media workers are particularly alarming.</p> <p>We urge all States to immediately stop and prevent enforced disappearances, initiate impartial and independent investigations and protect the rights of the victims and their families. We also reiterate our call to countries concerned to engage and cooperate with the Working Group in order to facilitate their important work.</p> <p>What additional measures could this Council take to improve the implementation of the Declaration?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: General debate on the promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden and Lithuania.</p> <p>We welcome the comprehensive report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the implications for civil society in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p> <p>The pandemic proved to everyone that active involvement in public affairs is of paramount importance, especially in times of crisis. Volunteers and other civil society actors stayed on the frontlines providing health care, food, shelter and other essentials to those in need, despite the risks to their own safety.</p> <p>Human rights defenders, journalists and other media workers significantly contributed by promoting vaccination campaigns and disseminating reliable information, as well as playing a monitoring role, ensuring that any imposed restrictions were justified, proportional and temporary.</p> <p>A significant number of civil society initiatives started around the world, thus boosting active public engagement.</p> <p>However, the report regrettably concludes that despite being essential to combating the pandemic, civil society was frequently excluded from critical processes, such as decision-making, often due to the lack of digital infrastructure and digital literacy. In particular, women, youth and other groups of society were significantly under-represented in Covid-19 management and decision-making, or even disregarded, thus undermining global efforts to overcome and sustainably recover after the pandemic.</p> <p>It is particularly alarming that journalists and other media workers faced increased surveillance, smear campaigns, restrictions on reporting and other repressions against them, both online and offline.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We want to emphasize that crisis situations must never become an excuse for undue restrictions on democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.</p> <p>Rather than fearing, dismissing or repressing, we call on governments to engage with civil society and ensure ways for its meaningful participation in decision-making at all levels, especially in times of crisis.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar (oral progress report)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Sweden</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</p> <p>Thank you, Special Rapporteur, for your update and tireless efforts.</p> <p>Since the military coup last year, a complete human rights catastrophe has unfolded in Myanmar.</p> <p>We continue to condemn the coup in the strongest of terms and call for an immediate end to all forms of violence, including mass killings, torture, including of children, and sexual and gender-based violence. The systematic persecution must stop.</p> <p>We condemn the politically motivated executions of four persons and call on the military to reinstate the de facto moratorium on the death penalty. All those arbitrarily detained, including political prisoners, including children and minors, must be immediately and unconditionally released.</p> <p>It is of utmost importance to ensure justice for victims and accountability for past and ongoing serious international crimes, including for the atrocities committed against the Rohingya.&nbsp;</p> <p>Since the coup, the country has plunged into a humanitarian crisis that threatens the lives and wellbeing of millions. Full, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access must be ensured.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>At this stage, what measures can the international community, including regional actors and the UN, take to prevent the military from continuing its violence against its own people?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive dialogue on OHCHR report on Myanmar </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We highly value the work of the Office of the High Commissioner and appreciate its latest report.</p> <p>Attacks directed against the Myanmar people continue, as the perpetrators remain unpunished.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries condemn in the strongest possible terms the military coup and the military’s actions since, leading Myanmar towards a deep and multidimensional crisis.</p> <p>We reiterate our call on military and security forces to immediately cease all violence and attacks against the people of Myanmar, release all those arbitrarily detained, discontinue politically motivated prosecutions and permanently halt the imposition of the death penalty.</p> <p>We echo the recommendations of the OHCHR and the repeated calls of the people of Myanmar to isolate the military authorities and implement effective targeted sanctions, including on those arms transfers that enable them to continue perpetrating the crimes.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic states remain in full solidarity with the Myanmar people not least those who continue to protest and oppose the regime despite enormous threats to their lives.</p> <p>What measures could be taken to enhance regional cooperation helping to prevent violence and ensure accountability?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Norway </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for this update and for the dedicated efforts to follow up on his mandate.</p> <p>We have seen some positive developments on freedom of expression after the new administration came into power in 2020. However, we still raise considerable concern about the structural human rights violations in Burundi.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about continued human rights violations committed by security forces and Imbonerakure against members of the opposition, human rights defenders, civil society, and journalists.</p> <p>The Government has a responsibility to protect human rights and ensure that state and non-state actors cannot act with impunity. The role and the actions of the Imbonerakure are of particular concern.</p> <p>We urge the Government to ensure that human rights violations and abuses are efficiently investigated, and perpetrators brought to justice; and to enhance human rights and political freedoms. This includes encouraging the voluntary return of refugees and exiles. National human rights institutions must be strengthened, including the National Human Rights Commission.</p> <p>We urge the Government to cooperate with the UN Human Rights system and give the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We express our firm support for the work of the Commission of Inquiry and its mandate and appreciate its latest comprehensive report.</p> <p>The human rights and humanitarian situation in the Syrian Arab Republic remain dire for the twelfth year of this protracted conflict.</p> <p>It is exacerbated by attacks by the Syrian regime and its allies, such as the Russian Federation, on civilian objects indispensable to the survival of the population, including water stations, fuel depots, and farms.</p> <p>Damage to the water system caused shortages of water, which have recently led to the outbreak of cholera in Aleppo and Deir Al-Zour provinces.</p> <p>Risk of hunger in Syria remains high due to global food insecurity resulting from draught and Russia‘s military aggression against Ukraine. Future of cross-border aid through the Bab al-Hawa corridor is uncertain.</p> <p>We join the Commission of Inquiry in urging all relevant actors to refrain from providing military support and funds to the government forces and other parties to the conflict continuously committing war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law.</p> <p>We fully support the international monitoring and accountability mechanisms, including the IIIM. Accountability for crimes committed against the Syrian people must be ensured.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive dialogue with the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Denmark.</p> <p>We thank the Commission for its update and the initial report. We welcome the efforts of the Commission, which is an important complement to national efforts to ensure accountability. Comprehensive, transparent and independent investigations are central to ensuring a credible accountability process without which there will be no sustainable peace or justice for victims.</p> <p>We welcome previous commitments by the Federal Ethiopian Government as well as the recent announcement by Tigray authorities to an immediate cessation of hostilities and to commit to an AU-led peace process without preconditions.</p> <p>However, we remain deeply concerned about human rights violations and abuses by all parties to the conflict in northern Ethiopia. We call for all parties to end hostilities immediately and urge them to seek a negotiated political peace settlement, ensure unhindered humanitarian access and respect the human rights, security and safety of civilians.</p> <p>Commissioners,</p> <p>could you share your thoughts on how you will pursue cooperation with relevant stakeholders going forward, including the Government of Ethiopia, regional State governments and the Government of Eritrea?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>23 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We thank the acting High Commissioner for her oral update.</p> <p>The Belarusian authorities continue to seriously infringe on the fundamental rights of their own people. The relentless attack on civil society and independent voices, and the widespread use of disinformation is appalling. Today, over one thousand three hundred political prisoners remain detained in Belarus. Moreover, the repression by the Belarusian regime of persons belonging to minorities, such as the Polish minority, is gravely concerning.</p> <p>Despite this grave situation, Belarusian activists continue to show great courage in their fight for the public’s enjoyment of their fundamental human rights. The recent harsh sentencing of Belarusian journalist Katsiaryna Andreyeva and Belarusian activists Maria (Marfa) Rabkova and Andrey Chapiuk are a stark reminder of the risks they take.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We call on Belarus to adhere to its international commitments and obligations under human rights law. We request an immediate and unconditional release of political prisoners and other arbitrarily detained persons. The rights of persons belonging to minorities likewise need to be respected, including their right to foster their ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and religious identity.</p> <p>The international community must send a strong message that we stand united for a democratic Belarus. Iceland certainly does so.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>23 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We thank the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine for the oral update.</p> <p>We continue to witness systematic violations and abuses of international humanitarian law and human rights law by Russia in Ukraine. Russia´s complete disregard for human lives is appalling, confirmed by sickening reports of mass graves and atrocities in areas recaptured by the Ukrainian armed forces.</p> <p>Evidence of filtration camps in Russian occupied territory in Ukraine are extremely disturbing and bring back painful memories of Europe´s past. Reports of forced transfers of unaccompanied Ukrainian children to Russia are likewise chilling. These cannot and will not be tolerated.</p> <p>Along with the immediate damage and destruction, where civilians and civilian infrastructure, are the primary victims, Russia’s war will have devastating long-term consequences on the Ukrainian population, not least young people and future generations. Scars caused by war take long to heal.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>Iceland strongly condemns Russia´s plans for "referendums". They are a clear violation of international law and their outcomes can never be respected.</p> <p>We once again call on Russia to respect international humanitarian law and human rights law.</p> <p>Iceland stands in full unity with the people of Ukraine and demands the withdrawal of all Russian military personnel and equipment from Ukraine.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of OHCHR on the situation of human rights in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Estonia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>23 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Estonia.</p> <p>We thank the OHCHR for the oral update on Belarus.</p> <p>The human rights situation in Belarus is appalling. As we speak, the authorities continue imprisoning and torturing persons for exercising their human rights, including their right to freedom of expression. There are currently more than 1300 political prisoners behind bars. Foreign diplomats are systematically harassed for attempting to attend sham trials of political prisoners. This month the&nbsp;Chargé d'affaires of the EU Delegation to Minsk was detained in a blatant violation of international law.</p> <p>The authorities have developed a widespread system of repression. We support all international initiatives to hold perpetrators of human rights violations to account. We urge the Belarusian authorities to release immediately and unconditionally all arbitrarily detained persons, including political prisoners, journalists and media workers.</p> <p>Since the falsified elections 2 years ago, we observe in Belarus a steady departure from the rule of law. We are deeply worried by the widened scope of application of capital punishment, and we repeat the call to promptly introduce a moratorium on all executions with a view to abolishing the death penalty.</p> <p>We strongly condemn Belarus’ illegal involvement in Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine and the human rights violations against Ukrainian people.</p> <p>Madam Acting High Commissioner,</p> <p>Which steps should we take to improve the exchange of information when human rights are violated evermore vigorously?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - ID with Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine (oral update)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>23 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Chairperson,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Commission of Inquiry for the important update.</p> <p>The reported international law violations escape any reasoning. Indiscriminate attacks affecting civilians, deliberate attacks on schools, forced deportations and rapes are not only a source of deep concern. These violations may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.</p> <p>The mass graves discovered in Izyum are deeply shocking. Reports of trials of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians in filtration camps are alarming.</p> <p>We need to investigate. We strongly support the mandate’s crucial contribution on ensuring accountability for violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.</p> <p>We need to hold Russia accountable. Its warfare against civilians is not collateral damage. Russia must immediately end its aggression.</p> <p>We are gravely concerned on the disproportionate impact on children, women, elderly and persons with disabilities.</p> <p>Russia must grant full and safe access for humanitarian actors and allow safe passage for civilians who wish to leave.</p> <p>Our support to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity remains firm.</p> <p>Chair, how can the Commission collaborate with other ongoing investigative efforts, including the ICC?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: General Debate on Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>Iceland remains gravely concerned about steps <strong>Russia </strong>has taken to further restrict fundamental freedoms inside Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. We urge Russia to respect freedoms of opinion, expression and peaceful assembly, and welcome steps underway to bring the human rights situation inside Russia to Council’s attention.</p> <p>In Ethiopia, we are alarmed by reports of extrajudicial killings, sexual and gender based violence and starvation, as a method of warfare. We urge all parties to immediately cease&nbsp; hostilities, and take steps towards reachin<em>g</em>&nbsp;a political solution. Redress for past violations and abuses, some of which may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, must be ensured.</p> <p>We are deeply alarmed by accounts of systematic human rights violations and abuses against Uyghurs and other minorities in <strong>China </strong>that may amount to crimes against humanity, including mass arbitrary detention, cultural and religious persecution, forced labor and sterilization. Accountability must be ensured.</p> <p>In Iran, we condemn the violent enforcement of the discriminatory compulsory veiling law. We urge the authorities to ensure that fundamental human rights of its citizens, including those of women and girls, are respected and that those under any form of detention are not subject to any form of mistreatment. Violence directed against peaceful protesters and human rights defenders must stop.</p> <p>In Egypt, we remain concerned about widespread and systematic violations and abuses of human rights, including freedom of opinion and expression and freedom of assembly and association.</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>In Myanmar, we deplore the relentless attacks on children and call for an immediate end to all forms of violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, mass killings, torture, airstrikes and arson. Ensuring accountability for past and ongoing international crimes is vital.</p> <p>Finally, Iceland raised its concerns about the human rights situation in Belarus and Ukraine stemming from Russia’s aggression elsewhere under item 4.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 - Annual Discussion on Integration of a Gender Perspective</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>The right to freedom of opinion and expression for all people, irrespective of their sex or gender identity, are characteristic of true democracies. They are crucial for maintaining peace and achieving sustainable development. Despite the impressive and inspirational gains made by women and girls, as well as people with diverse gender identities, expression and opinion are still not equally free and protected for all of us.</p> <p>Cultural norms, gender stereotypes and ensuing discrimination online and offline continue to suppress, censor and mute women and girls’ voices. Unfortunately, women activists, politicians, human rights defenders, journalists and media workers are disproportionately targeted by State and non-State actors, including hate speech, bullying and acts of violence.</p> <p>Discriminatory laws, policies and practises continue enabling additional challenges for women and girls and people with diverse gender identities, disregarding their particular needs. Lack of gender perspective hinders meaningful participation of half of the population in decision making and creation of sustainable future, adding additional obstacles to an already demanding path towards gender equality.</p> <p>Mr. President, we would like to ask the panellists, how State and private actors could provide the necessary support for freedom of opinion and expression for all genders and an integrated gender perspective throughout the work of the Human Rights Council?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel Discussion on the future of the right to work in connection with climate change actions, responses and impacts in the context of sustainable and inclusive economies</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>The negative impact of climate change on work environment is a worrisome reality. It is our common responsibility to implement human rights-based policies on climate change while ensuring effective enjoyment of the right to work. Special emphasis must be placed on promoting decent work for those most affected by climate change– women, indigenous peoples and communities in rural areas.</p> <p>We thank the panellists for their insights on these issues and especially the ILO for comprehensive information and reports that highlight the urgency to reform and transit to green, sustainable and inclusive economies.</p> <p>We note with concern that by 2030, 80 million jobs including key workers and essential services might be lost due to rising temperatures. This has to be taken into account and adaptation to new reality should start immediately to minimize the negative consequences and ensure the right to work.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries continue to ensure access to adequate social protection, decent work, education and training opportunities for all through national programmes. It is particularly important to ensure the inclusion of women, as they often have less access to resources and tend to work in informal settings.&nbsp;</p> <p>Distinguished panellists, as today's discussion is dedicated to explore practical examples of inclusive economies, how can we improve the inclusion of women in decision-making processes?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Annual half-day panel discussion on the rights of indigenous peoples.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Theme: “Impact of social and economic recovery plans in the COVID-19 context on indigenous peoples, with a special focus on food security"</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Sweden</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>Esteemed panellists,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.</p> <p>COVID-19 has exacerbated pre-existing inequalities and has had a disproportionate negative impact on indigenous peoples, not least regarding the right to food and the protection against food insecurity due to the loss of jobs and livelihoods, lands and natural resources. Additionally, the situation for many indigenous women and girls, indigenous LGBTIQ persons and indigenous persons with disabilities is further exposed as they face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about reports of threats, violence and attacks on indigenous human rights defenders standing up to protect their livelihoods, lands and the natural environment, not least indigenous women human rights defenders. We all have an obligation to protect human rights defenders and to hold perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses to account.</p> <p>To achieve truly successful COVID-19 responses and recovery measures it is crucial that indigenous peoples, are included and can participate in the development of those measures in a meaningful way, also taking in to account their traditional cultural practices and knowledge.</p> <p>How can we make sure that the lessons learned from the panel discussion today can be included in the future responses to support and improve the realization the rights of indigenous peoples?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Denmark together with Greenland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.</p> <p>The protection of Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge, including their science and technologies, languages and practices is inextricably linked to the rights to self-determination, autonomy, lands and resources.</p> <p>The scientific and technical knowledge of Indigenous women has a key role to play in managing the risks and impacts of climate change, protecting biodiversity and achieving sustainable development. Generation after generation, Indigenous women pass on their knowledge, which is a precious inheritance. Not just to indigenous peoples, but to all of us.</p> <p>Yet, despite Indigenous women’s irrefutable life-saving knowledge, they face unique challenges in retaining and revitalizing their role as knowledge keepers. Indigenous women are disproportionally affected by the loss of lands, territories and resources owing to climate change. Furthermore, they are still under-represented in consultative processes and political decision-making. This must change.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, what do you see as the most pressing steps to protect the scientific and technical knowledge of Indigenous women?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3&amp;5 - Interactive dialogue with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark together with Greenland, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland.</p> <p>We welcome the annual report of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.</p> <p>We applaud EMRIP for its leadership in discussions on enhanced participation of Indigenous Peoples at the Human Rights Council. We will engage actively in the forthcoming workshop in November and look forward to taking concrete next steps.</p> <p>We reiterate your call to guarantee indigenous human rights defenders a safe living and working environment, without discrimination, fear of reprisals, intimidation or threats of any kind. The additional risks faced by indigenous women human rights defenders must be addressed.</p> <p>We strongly condemn the increase in cases of harassment against Indigenous Peoples’ representatives, particularly women leaders, attending UN meetings. This simply must stop.</p> <p>Members of the EMRIP, what are your expectations from us Member States at the forthcoming workshop?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 5 - Interactive Dialogue on the Secretary-General's report on cooperation with the United Nations, its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Latvia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and Latvia.</p> <p>We thank the Assistant Secretary-General for presenting the annual report on intimidation and reprisals.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries strongly condemn all acts of intimidation, harassment and reprisals. The continuously high number of reprisals reported is alarming, as is the fact that many of the countries cited in the report are members of or candidate States to this Council.</p> <p>Often these acts are indicative of a broader practice of shutting down civic space, including by imposing disproportionate requirements on CSO funding and reporting, and using counter-terrorism or national security legislation to restrict legitimate activities of CSOs, activists and journalists.</p> <p>We call on all States and non-State actors to ensure an open, secure and safe environment for civil society and human rights defenders, free from all acts of intimidation, harassment and reprisals.</p> <p>Women are most at risk of intimidation and reprisals. The Nordic-Baltic countries are committed to protecting women from all acts of intimidation and reprisals and ensuring that their voices continue to be heard and they are able to safely and meaningfully engage with this Council and all other UN bodies and mechanisms.</p> <p>Assistant Secretary-General, what concrete actions can this Council take to address acts of intimidation and reprisals in a gender-transformative manner?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 8 - Follow-up to and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 September 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Denmark.</p> <p>We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s illegal sham “referenda” in Ukraine and announced illegal annexation of four Ukrainian regions. We reiterate our unwavering support to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. We will never recognize the so-called results and claimed consequences of the sham “referenda”. All states have an obligation under international law to not recognize the illegal annexation.</p> <p>We underline that there can be no such thing as legitimate “referenda” reflecting the will of the people amidst widespread and systematic human rights violations and abuses conducted by Russia and its illegitimately appointed authorities in Ukraine. Voting at gunpoint does not constitute a referendum.</p> <p>Russia’s faulted attempts at legalizing acts of aggression and human rights violations are blatantly violating the very foundations of the UN Charter. In this regard, we are deeply concerned by the atrocities committed by Russia in Ukraine, with recent discovery of several mass burial sites in Izyum giving special rise to alarm.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9 - Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner and the report of the International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland.</p> <p>The law enforcement has the duty to ensure national legislation is respected. Situations where law enforcement acts against those it has sworn to protect, especially persons in vulnerable situations, are always serious. These must be dealt with accordingly.</p> <p>We are not yet free from racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances. Better, disaggregated data, both quantitative and qualitative research as well as analysis are crucial to understanding how racism and racial discrimination can affect the behaviour and decision-making processes of the law enforcement. Furthermore, better data can shed more light on the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination that people of African descent can face. The work done in this field by civil society organizations, researchers, academia and human rights institutions are especially valuable.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries are committed to the fight against racism and racial discrimination in all spheres of our societies.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>Iceland reiterates its unwavering commitment to the independence, sovereignty and respect for the territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.</p> <p>We condemn in the strongest possible terms Putin’s illegal sham “referenda” in Ukraine and the illegal annexation of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzia regions of Ukraine. The annexation is a fundamental violation of the Principles of the UN Charter and international law.</p> <p>Relately, we are sickened by Russia´s systematic use of filtration camps which are integral to Russia´s annexation and “Russification”.</p> <p>We continue to witness grave violations and abuses of international humanitarian law and human rights in Ukraine. Russia´s disregard for human lives is harrowing, confirmed by sickening reports of mass graves and atrocities in areas recaptured by Ukrainian armed forces.</p> <p>We welcome the launch of the Fact-Finding Mission regarding the 29 July incident at Olenivka and look forward to the report to the Secretary General.</p> <p>We are deeply alarmed by the severe repercussions of Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine on global food security, which particularly affects developing countries and persons in vulnerable situations.&nbsp;</p> <p>Iceland stands in full unity with the people of Ukraine and demands the withdrawal of all Russian military personnel and equipment from Ukraine.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive dialogue on the oral update of OHCHR on technical assistance and capacity-building for South Sudan </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>Human rights violations and abuses and human suffering remain pervasive in South Sudan. Extrajudicial, summary and arbitrary executions, sexual and gender-based violence are sadly only some of the ongoing violations and abuses. These must stop.</p> <p>We urge the Government – that has the primary responsibility to protect its population – to take long-awaited steps to improve the security situation in the country. This must include investigating and holding those responsible of human rights violations and abuses to account.</p> <p>With the recent two-year extension of the Peace Agreement and the Government’s own Roadmap, we call for a renewed push for the implementation of Chapter V on transitional justice. The technical assistance provided by the Office of the High Commissioner is fundamental to ensure this. Building capacity in national courts to investigate and prosecute alleged crimes is imperative.</p> <p>The support of the Office of the High Commissioner can only translate to progress with the full cooperation of the Government. We urge the Government to make use of the support provided, to take active measures to reduce the level of violence and ensure that those responsible are held to account.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Joint Statement, Delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>October 4 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I am delivering this statement on behalf of the 46 member states of the Group of Friends of Accountability Following the Aggression against Ukraine.</p> <p>We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s illegal sham “referenda” in Ukraine and the announced illegal, attempted annexation of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions of Ukraine. We urge the international community to condemn the attempted annexation and to join us in support of Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. We reaffirm that any annexation of a State’s territory by another State resulting from the threat or use of force is a violation of the UN Charter and international law and without legal effect under international law. &nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We are equally devastated by the discoveries of mass graves in the formerly Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine, recently in Izyum, and the increasing number of civilian casualties across the country. We remain deeply alarmed about the continuing and widespread reports of human rights abuses and violations and violations of international humanitarian law in Ukraine, including those stemming from Russia’s reported filtration policy.</p> <p>This filtration policy is designed to intimidate and harass local populations, identify individuals whom Russia deems insufficiently compliant or opposed to its aggression and temporary control, suppress Ukrainian identity, and lay the groundwork for the continued “Russification” and attempted, illegal annexation of parts of a sovereign Ukraine.</p> <p>The filtration operations are reported to include practices of torture of civilians and military forces, as well as the separation of families,&nbsp;including forced adoption of Ukrainian children, confiscation of Ukrainian passports, issuance of Russian passports, and surveillance.</p> <p>Evidence is mounting that Russian authorities are also reportedly detaining or making disappear thousands of Ukrainian civilians during the filtration processes, with reports that some civilians have been summarily executed.</p> <p>We call on Russia to immediately halt its pervasive filtration operations, arbitrary detentions, and forced deportations and disappearances and to promptly release those arbitrarily detained, and&nbsp;allow all citizens, particularly children to promptly and safely return home.&nbsp;</p> <p>We recall obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law prohibiting torture and inhuman treatment of detainees and strongly condemn all reported cases of torture and ill-treatment.</p> <p>We furthermore express deep concern about the grave effects of Russia’s war against Ukraine on global food and energy security, which particularly affects developing countries and persons in vulnerable situations. </p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We reaffirm our full solidarity with Ukraine and its courageous people in their defence of their country and of the UN Charter. And we express our unwavering commitment to the independence, sovereignty and respect for the territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Estonia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>Estonia fully aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union. We thank the Acting High Commissioner for the update.</p> <p>Russia´s brutal war of aggression in Ukraine has lasted 7 months. Russia bears full responsibility for the war and for the immense suffering its aggression is bringing upon the Ukrainian people.</p> <p>Russia´s continued mass displacement of Ukrainians enables the exploitation of the vulnerable, allowing systemic and barbaric sexual and gender-based violence and trafficking of women and girls. Russia tramples on Ukrainian children. Overwhelming evidence of forced transfers of unaccompanied children to Russia, granting them Russian citizenship to facilitate their adoption in Russia, is a gross violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.</p> <p>In Crimea, after calls for mobilization, Russians hunt for Crimean Tatars to cowardly send them to fight in their war.</p> <p>As we heard from the International Commission of Inquiry earlier during this session – Russian forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine. The future is clear. All atrocities by Russian forces will be investigated, all perpetrators held accountable.</p> <p>To conclude, we will never recognize Russia’s illegal sham “referenda” in Ukraine’s occupied territories and do not and will never recognize the attempt of the annexation.</p> <p>Madam Acting High Commissioner, what more can the international community do to help to monitor and document the gross and massive human rights violations committed by the Russia in Ukraine?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - EID on the report of the High Commissioner on the human rights situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and on the final report of the team of international experts on the situation in Kasai</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I make this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.</p> <p>Thank you, Deputy High Commissioner, [for your report] and to the Team of International Experts for their final report.</p> <p>The increase in ethnic tensions, attacks against civilians and other human rights violations and abuses in eastern DRC is of serious concern. We note that the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri introduced in 2021, remains. The volatile security situation and the challenges regarding good governance constitute major obstacles to legal proceedings. We also note the dependence on military courts and the limited judicial accessibility outside of urban areas.</p> <p>Accountability and the rule of law must be ensured. We note the verdict regarding the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp. It is of utmost importance that the upcoming appeals process takes all evidence into consideration. The ongoing investigation to shed full light on these heinous crimes, which is conducted in close cooperation with the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism, remains important and enjoys our full support.&nbsp;</p> <p>Deputy High Commissioner, we would appreciate if you could elaborate on the consequences of the state of siege and the following extensive use of military courts rather than civilian courts?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>We would like to express our deep appreciation for the invaluable work of the Office of the High Commissioner and the Resident Coordinator together with the Government to achieve a first of its kind framework in the UN Joint Programme.</p> <p>As Iceland had been a vocal critic of the Philippine’s human rights record it is important that the Joint Programme addresses the issues raised in the previous High Commissioner’s report and resolution 45/33 jointly submitted by the Philippines and Iceland.</p> <p>The briefing today underlines that important steps and progress have been made since the Programme came into effect, as well as further steps that we trust will be taken to fully implement the Joint Programme.</p> <p>We emphasize the importance of its&nbsp;full&nbsp;implementation and particularly note the recommendations made by the Office of the High Commissioner and the Resident Coordinator in this regard. We encourage the Government to take them onboard.</p> <p>We particularly welcome the recommendation for OHCHR to produce a follow-up report to evaluate the impact of the Programme and look forward to the Government and Resident Coordinator continuing to keep the Council up to date on the Programme’s implementation.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries welcome the report and thank the Acting High Commissioner and the Resident Coordinator for their updates.</p> <p>Resolution 45/33 importantly requested technical assistance and capacity building through the implementation of a multi-year UN Joint Programme in the Philippines. We are pleased that the Programme is based on this request of the Council with corresponding focus areas.</p> <p>We express concern over the lack of progress made on the accountability agenda. This is a key component of the program and justice is needed, both for the victims of human rights violations and to prevent new ones from occurring. In addition, we would like to highlight the importance of broad civil society participation across all components of the Programme. &nbsp;</p> <p>We believe the Programme, if implemented to the letter, is an important tool in institutionalizing human rights in law enforcement.</p> <p>The Programme has generated some important outputs over the past fourteen months. Now we need to see the outcomes. Anything less than genuine intentions of all stakeholders to use the Programme to improve the human rights situation in the Philippines will constitute a failure.</p> <p>We look forward to the Government and the Resident Coordinator continuing to keep the Council abreast of the implementation of the Programme at future sessions.<br clear="all" /> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Finland.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur Dr. Muntarbhorn for his second report and welcome Cambodia’s cooperation with Special Procedures.</p> <p>We welcome also the efforts of Cambodia in strengthening the social protection system while combatting Covid-19, and in upholding an advanced positioning towards LGBTQI rights.</p> <p>In spite of achieved progress, we are deeply concerned about repressions regarding civil and political rights as well as the further shrinking civic space. We are disturbed by the systematic detentions, intimidation, harassment and politically motivated trials of members of political opposition, journalists and media workers, human rights defenders and other civil society actors. Independent and impartial judiciary must be ensured.</p> <p>We urge Cambodia to fully implement the recommendations as well as other benchmarks the Special Rapporteur has identified in his report and which are also supported by the Treaty Bodies. Respect to political and civil rights as well as social and economic rights is essential for a functioning society. It is crucial to form an enabling environment for all actors to ensure free and fair national elections in 2023.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can we collaborate with Cambodia best to strengthen its implementation of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all?&nbsp;</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Denmark.</p> <p>We welcome the successful completion of the electoral process and peaceful transition of power in Somalia. However, many serious challenges remain, including with regard to human rights.&nbsp;</p> <p>We are deeply concerned with the increasing number of internally displaced persons due to drought and conflict. People on the move, particularly women, girls and children, are especially vulnerable to human rights violations and abuse, not least sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p>We remain seriously concerned about the increase in violence against women and girls and encourage the Government of Somalia to adopt and implement sexual offenses legislation in line with international standards. It is key that women are supported and perpetrators held to account. In this regard, we reiterate our call on the Government of Somalia to ratify CEDAW.</p> <p>Lastly, we underscore the importance of adopting a constitution in line with Somalia’s human rights obligations and ensure that the human rights of all Somalis are respected, protected and fulfilled.</p> <p>Ms. Dyfan; how can we best support you in your mandate?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement, delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 October 2022</strong></p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.</p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for his dedicated efforts.</p> <p>The Independent Expert’s report highlights human rights violations and abuses that are overwhelming in scope and character: large scale killings targeting civilians, recruitment and use of child soldiers, sexual and gender based violence against women and children, torture, arbitrary arrests.</p> <p>The armed groups are not the only perpetrators. It is shocking to learn that the armed forces of the Central African Republic and its Russian allies, are responsible for a large part of the violations. We call on the government of the Central African Republic to investigate all incidents, hold the perpetrators accountable, and ensure that their Russian allies do not impede MINUSCA human rights investigations.</p> <p>Those who are most vulnerable usually suffer the most in conflicts. Efforts must increase&nbsp; to protect civilians, in particular children, persons with disabilities, and those at risk of sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p>We urge the government of the Central African Republic to take specific measures to enact the Child Protection Code provisions to prevent and punish the recruitment and use of children in hostilities, early marriages, and trafficking of persons.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Jul 17, 2023National and Nordic-Baltic Statements during the 53rd session of the Human Rights Council<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan and the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls, on a report on the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Finland. We welcome the joint report. </p> <p>We commend the Special Rapporteur’s valuable work and appreciate his access to the country.</p> <p>Afghanistan has the duty to comply with various international human rights conventions, including CEDAW, and conventions prohibiting torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment.</p> <p>Supporting human rights defenders and civil society space remains our priority. </p> <p>We strongly condemn the systematic discrimination against women and girls in Afghanistan, which may amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity. This systematic crackdown on women’s and girls’ rights damages the entire Afghan society, also boys and men. </p> <p>Without access to education at all levels, girls and women of Afghanistan lose the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Female professionals are crucial for the delivery of basic services not least healthcare and perinatal care. Education is key for protecting girls and women from violence, poverty and exploitation.</p> <p>The use of cruel, inhuman and degrading punishments is deeply concerning.&nbsp; </p> <p>The severe lack of respect for international obligations by the de facto authorities only further isolates Afghanistan from the international community.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue on a comprehensive report on the situation of human rights in the Sudan, with the High Commissioner, the designated Expert on Human Rights in the Sudan, and other stakeholders</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for the update and echo the grave concern over the crisis in Sudan. Reported cases of unlawful killings, including of children, arbitrary detentions, sexual and gender-based violence continue to be worrisome. We are concerned over the increasing numbers of refugees, internally displaced persons and millions of Sudanese in need of humanitarian aid and protection. We strongly condemn all violations and abuses of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and the decision to expel the Head of UNITAMS, Mr. Volker Perthes.</p> <p>We call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease violence and put the interests and safety of the people in Sudan first. We urge the belligerents to engage in an African-led political process under the auspices of the African Union in order to find an immediate, peaceful and sustainable solution to the conflict. </p> <p>We firmly believe that the cessation of hostilities, protection of human rights and accountability for all violations and abuses committed should remain central and contribute to the resolution of crisis in Sudan. Ultimately, a return to an inclusive political process, where women are included, is where the future for Sudan lies.</p> <p>Mr. High Commissioner, how can the international community best support the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons in Sudan? </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President.</p> <p>I would like to thank the High Commissioner - and his Office – for their tireless work in promoting and protecting human rights around the world. </p> <p>As the High Commissioner highlighted, the human rights pillar remains chronically underfunded. Meanwhile, the need for a well-resourced and effective international human rights framework continues to increase. </p> <p>In your remarks, Mr High Commissioner, you paid tribute to countries that engage constructively with OHCHR and international human rights bodies. </p> <p>Iceland is a stern supporter of Special Procedures and Treaty Bodies. Cooperating and engaging with all mechanisms should be the norm and we urge all countries to do so unconditionally. No one is above scrutiny. </p> <p>The 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights presents a valuable opportunity to both look inwards as well as outwards – to take stock of opportunities and challenges and commit to improving and enhancing our respective national frameworks in line with international human rights obligations, and to collectively re-commit to respecting, protecting and fulfilling the human rights of all. </p> <p>Let us continue to work together to ensure that the vision of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is fully realised for all persons, everywhere, in all their diversity. </p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries thank the Special Rapporteur for his report<em>.</em></p> <p>Again, we must express our concern over the persistent human rights violations in Eritrea, including indefinite national service, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances and widespread sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p>We welcome progress made in the sphere of social rights as concerns education and health, and the withdrawal of Eritrean forces from several towns in Northern Ethiopia. Yet, we remain deeply concerned by reports of continued Eritrean involvement in Ethiopia and condemn earlier deployments of child soldiers and the forced conscription of Eritrean refugees. We urge the Government to immediately seize such practises, withdraw any remaining Eritrean forces from Ethiopia and investigate all alleged breaches of international law by Eritrean actors. </p> <p>We call on the Eritrean Government to release all those arbitrarily detained, to end the practices of prolonged, incommunicado and arbitrary detention, and to develop independent rule-of-law institutions to protect human rights. We condemn the severe restrictions on the rights to freedoms of expression, religion or belief and on civil organisations.</p> <p>Yet again, we call on Eritrea to fully co-operate with the Council’s mechanisms, including by granting the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access to the country.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Panel discussion on the measures necessary to find durable solutions to the Rohingya crisis and to end all forms of human rights violations and abuses against Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 June 2023</strong></p> <p>High Commissioner and panelists, </p> <p>Thank you for these insights. The Nordic-Baltic States remain deeply disturbed by the human rights situation in Myanmar. </p> <p>Daily, we hear reports of military action against civilians amounting to serious violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law.</p> <p>The consequences are increased human suffering and regression in all areas of human rights, including for the Rohingya and other minorities. </p> <p>We condemn the military’s indiscriminate use of force against civilians, including women and children.</p> <p>We call for an immediate end to all violence against civilians, for perpetrators to be brought to justice and the provision of full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.</p> <p>We urge Myanmar to endorse and implement the Safe School Declaration.</p> <p>This is not the first time we discuss durable solutions for Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar. As we are witnessing a prolonged crisis, we need to adopt our recommendations to the current developments.</p> <p>In this regard, we are concerned about the planned repatriation pilot of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar. </p> <p>The refugees need an environment that allows for voluntary, safe, and dignified return. Even before the cyclone Mocha hit Rakhine State, the conditions were not conducive to their sustainable return, according to UNHCR. </p> <p>In the last two years, intercommunal dialogue and a shared plight has seemingly fostered a greater understanding amongst some ethnic groups and democratic forces in Myanmar. </p> <p>High Commissioner and panelists, what actions should be prioritized by external actors in the short and medium term to make sure this moment does not become a missed opportunity?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We reiterate our unwavering support for the work of the Independent Expert and this critical mandate. </p> <p>The right to freedom of religion or belief and the right to live free from violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity are not at odds and states are bound to uphold these rights together. </p> <p>However, as the report highlights, some states use religious narratives and invoke freedom of religion to excuse, condone or justify discrimination and violence against LGBT and other gender diverse persons. </p> <p>Criminalisation of consensual same-sex conduct is one of the most severe manifestations of state-led discrimination and repression of persons of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity. Justifications range from dogmatic interpretations of faith-based scriptures to colonial-era legislation that has morphed into norms invoking religion. </p> <p>We urge states that have not done so yet to decriminalise consensual same-sex conduct, in line with their obligations under international human rights law.</p> <p>The full realisation of all human rights of LGBT and other gender diverse persons hinges on states respecting, fulfilling and upholding the rights and fundamental freedoms of all their citizens, in all their diversity. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries.</p> <p>Women and girls – in all their diversity – play a crucial role in promoting positive change and inclusive sustainable development and peace. However, multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination against women and girls is still widespread across the globe, gendered socioeconomic inequality and poverty being some of the consequences. </p> <p>To this day, there is no country in the world that has achieved full and substantial gender equality. The persistence of the discriminatory and negative social norms and gender stereotypes affect women and girls across every area of life, from families to communities, in businesses and in all branches of the public sector, and contribute to maintaining and deepening socioeconomic inequalities. </p> <p>Women and girls continue to experience structural gender discrimination in both formal and informal employment on the grounds of gender, pregnancy and caring responsibilities. As highlighted in the report, the unequal and inadequate remuneration, precarious employment, lack of union representation, and violence and harassment in the workplace are all factors that increase sex- and gender-based inequalities and entrench poverty for women and girls. </p> <p>In your report, you describe how women‘s poverty and inequality is directly linked to economic policy choices at the global, regional and national levels. What can we do on multilateral level and in UN fora to advance the economic policies so that women and girls – everywhere and in all their diversity – can enjoy the full range of human rights? </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls </strong><strong>Statement by Norway, on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and my own country Norway.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for highlighting the concern about the pattern of ignoring intimate partner violence against women in determining child custody cases.&nbsp; </p> <p>It is particularly worrisome that there are cases where protection systems fail in their duty to protect children and women, and children are compelled to return to abusive and life-threatening situations.&nbsp; All violations of the rights of the child and the principle of the best interest of the child are to be fully respected.&nbsp; </p> <p>To address these challenges, we must ensure that judges and other experts have adequate training.&nbsp; Allegations of domestic violence must be properly investigated and women experiencing such violence must be ensured with all necessary protection and services.&nbsp; </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries are committed to protecting women and children against domestic violence and ensuring that gender stereotypes do not affect decisions in child custody cases.&nbsp; </p> <p>Ms. Asalem, what would be your advice to national authorities to ensure proper processes in child custody cases?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>23 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting her latest report.</p> <p>Freedom of expression and access to information are integral to achieving sustainable development that leaves no one behind. Human rights defenders, journalists and media workers have a vital role in advancing sustainable development, and restricting their actions and suppressing their voices hinders global efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda goals.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, as you mention in your report, a harrowing 97 per cent of the world’s population today is estimated to be living in countries where civic space is either closed, severely repressed, obstructed or has narrowed.</p> <p>Nordic-Baltic countries condemn all threats, attacks and killings of human rights defenders, journalists and media workers. It is the duty of all States to ensure that they can carry out their work free from attacks, harassment, intimidation and reprisals both online and offline.</p> <p>With less than halfway to 2030 we are far from achieving the SDGs, including strengthening information, media and digital literacy, breaching digital divides, and ensuring connectivity for all humans to a free, secure and open Internet, which promotes inclusion and participation in societies. What we see instead is more censorship and internet shutdowns.</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, what can we do to strengthen a multi-stakeholder approach that can help support meaningful participation of women and Indigenous Peoples in decision-making and development processes?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>26 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries; Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report highlighting the severe issue of deaths in prison and express our full support for the renewal of his mandate this session.</p> <p>States assume direct responsibility for the lives of individuals deprived of liberty. The relatively high rate of deaths in custody is a grim reminder that States have not been able to uphold the right to life for all. However, positive reforms from across the globe, presented in the report, show that change is possible.&nbsp; </p> <p>Preventing deaths is key. Ways to reduce the amount of prisoners, for example by applying non-custodial measures, could be explored. Women should not be imprisoned for exercising their reproductive rights.</p> <p>We call for investigating every death in custody and observing the Minnesota Protocol in investigations. Prisoners should be treated with dignity, including after their death.</p> <p>We highlight the need to ratify the OPCAT (Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment).&nbsp; Could the Special Rapporteur elaborate why it is so important for States to ratify this protocol?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries:&nbsp; Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report and its two addendums. </p> <p>Advancing accountability and ending impunity for human rights violations, including those related to the exercise of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, both online and offline, is a priority for our states.&nbsp; </p> <p>We recognize the digital sphere as a unique space for assembly and association. However, we are concerned about the growing trend of imposing restrictions, including internet shutdowns and digital surveillance.</p> <p>It is alarming that civil society activists, including human rights defenders, journalists and media workers, are facing increasing repression, criminalization and judicial harassment. They are often depicted as a threat to national security or public order, instead of enabling and protecting their rights. </p> <p>We call on states to refrain from actions that undermine the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association and to ensure robust and timely accountability for serious crimes committed against activists and protesters. Also, as the report points out, it is particularly incumbent on the international community to respond to serious human rights violations, in order to ensure accountability and deter further violations. </p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, how could the cooperation between national, regional and international mechanisms be strengthened in order to advance accountability? </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland, on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries; Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland. </p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report and his work in promoting the full realization of the right to work as a way of tackling poverty. </p> <p>Unemployment can have far-reaching effects on individuals and on society as a whole. Full and productive employment and decent work for all contribute to the realization of human rights, including the right to work by reducing poverty and discrimination. </p> <p>The labour market is not equal for all. We need to better integrate persons in vulnerable situations, including persons with disabilities, into the labour market and ensure social protection for those who are excluded from it. Innovative solutions are necessary to tackle poverty globally as is also ensuring that the greening of the economy is fair and inclusive. </p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>How can we make sure that the just transition to a green economy is human rights-based and inclusive of persons with disabilities and others in vulnerable situations?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel 1: Gender-based violence against women and girls in public and political life</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr<strong>. </strong>&nbsp;President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>Over the past few decades, there has been significant normative progress towards eliminating violence against women and girls and sexual and gender-based violence. However, more often than not this has not translated in tangible results. Every day, women and girls around the world continue to experience sexual and gender-based violence in public spaces, including sexual harassment, rape, domestic violence, and femicide. This has a significant negative effect on the ability of women and girls to exercise their rights and participate in school, work, and public life, and negatively impacts their health, including their sexual and reproductive health and rights, and well-being. This particularly concerns armed conflicts.</p> <p>International human rights law guarantees the right of women and girls – in all their diversity – to participate in political and public life. It is the obligation of States to remove all structural barriers preventing their participation, including the disproportionate share of unpaid care work, gender stereotypes, negative social norms and sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p>Girls face particular challenges due to misconceptions about children’s right to participation in political and public life, restrictions on their autonomy, disregard for their best interests, and paternalistic control, among others.</p> <p>Dear panellists, can you share some of the best practices in empowering girls to participate in public and political life and addressing the challenges to girls’ participation, including violence against women and girls?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel 2: Social protection: women’s participation and leadership</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 June 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Iceland, Norway, Latvia, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>Gender stereotypes, harmful and discriminatory social norms continue to impact women and girls’ rights across the world.&nbsp; In addition to the increased negative impact on women and girls of armed conflicts, pandemics and climate crises, women and girls – in all their diversity – continue to experience structural gender-based discrimination in education, formal and informal employment due to pregnancy and caring responsibilities. </p> <p>The position of women in the labour market is still less favourable than that of men. They continue to face gender pay gaps, precarious employment, sexual and gender-based violence, and sexual harassment in the workplace. It accumulates gender discrimination throughout their life-course, makes it harder for women to access contributory social security, and feminizes poverty. </p> <p>Full, equal, inclusive, and meaningful participation and leadership of all women and girls, including women with disabilities and women in vulnerable situations, in decision-making is crucial for their full enjoyment of all human rights. Empowering women and girls and closing the gender gap in the world of work is also key to achieving the 2030 Agenda. However, this is not possible without increased efforts in reforming social protection policies, such as ensuring sexual and reproductive health and rights, accessible childcare services, parental leave, and work life balance. </p> <p>Dear panellists, how would you recommend expanding and strengthening social protection to make it gender transformative?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Annual Panel on Adverse Impacts of Climate Change</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries -Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner and distinguished panellists for providing valuable insight on the negative impact of climate change on the right to food, especially on its physical and economical accessibility, availability, adequacy, and sustainability, as well as on how we should respond to these challenges.</p> <p>Climate change continues to increase pressure on food production, particularly in already vulnerable regions. Climate-induced disasters and wars reduce food availability and quality, impact food prices, especially harming persons in vulnerable situations. People at the frontline of climate change, including women, children, and Indigenous Peoples, are especially at risk. </p> <p>Furthermore, in many parts of the world, farmers and agricultural workers increasingly face highly unfavourable conditions ranging from conflicts and weather shocks, such as desertification in dry areas, floodings, and salinization in low-lying coastal areas.</p> <p>Distinguished panellists, how would you recommend to increase the participation of vulnerable groups, including women, youth and Indigenous Peoples in transforming food systems to promote everyone‘s full realization of the right to food and build climate resilience?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue on the report of the Secretary-General on climate change and the right to food</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Denmark.</p> <p>This decade represents a closing window of opportunity for us to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. We must act together to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. </p> <p>Increasingly, we witness the negative impacts of climate change. From extreme drought and flooding to more frequent and severe natural disasters destroying the ability of entire regions to feed themselves. </p> <p>Climate induced events like these, whether they hit suddenly or arrives slowly, have an impact not only on the right to food, but on the full realization of all human rights all over the world. Persons at the frontline of climate change, including women, children, Indigenous Peoples, and LGBTQI+, are especially at risk, and action needs to be inclusive and ensure their participation. </p> <p>We welcome the report of the Secretary-General, and we would welcome the thoughts of the Office on how we could further bring forward the report and the topics it touches upon in the work of the Council?&nbsp; </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Panel discussion on the role of digital, media and information literacy in the promotion and enjoyment of the right to freedom of opinion and expression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic- Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr, President, esteemed panellists, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We are living in an era marked by digital technologies that are causing unprecedented challenges as well as opportunities. </p> <p>In this new era, digital, media and information literacy are necessary tools to protect the respect and enjoyment of human rights. It empowers people and builds their resilience against disinformation and misinformation. </p> <p>The role of civil society and media is crucial in identifying, uncovering and debunking false information, as well as identifying and raising awareness on practices of internet shutdowns, unlawful surveillance and other malicious cyber activities.</p> <p>Protecting freedom of expression online and offline are key components in our efforts to defend and promote democracy and human rights. To be able to seek, evaluate, use and create information online and offline is crucial in this regard.</p> <p>Our firm belief is that we should leave no one behind. For this cause, we must close the gender digital divide and make sure to address the needs of women, girls and persons in vulnerable or disadvantaged situations. </p> <p>Esteemed panellists, what role do you see for the OHCHR in taking the important work on the topic of this panel forward?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We congratulate the Special Rapporteur on her appointment and we thank her for the report, detailing her vision and thematic priorities.</p> <p>We support the approach presented, building on the efforts made by her predecessors and momentum created by the High-Level panel on Internal Displacement, the Secretary General’s Action Agenda and the appointment of the Special Adviser on Solutions. </p> <p>We also support the focus on a rights-based approach in the implementation of the mandate, recognizing IDPs as rights holders. Likewise, integration of a perspective that considers gender in all its diversity and recognition of specific vulnerabilities among IDPs is essential.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>The recent steep increase and record numbers of IDPs resulting from armed conflicts, human rights violations, adverse effects of climate change and natural disasters are of grave concern. The trend must be addressed.; The efforts by the Special Rapporteur are important for preventing growing numbers of IDPs, as well as improving the protection of and respect for their human rights. </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries strongly support the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and stand ready to assist her in its implementation.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>4 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Denmark. </p> <p>We reaffirm our firm commitment to atrocity prevention and our full support to the Joint Office on Genocide Prevention and R2P. </p> <p>We thank you for the new report on the role of technological advances in the prevention and perpetration of genocide. We will study the report carefully to further the implementation of its recommendations. </p> <p>In addition to thematic reports, we call on the Joint Office to share country-specific updates on warning signs and recommendations on atrocity prevention. These will provide Member States with concrete advice on how to better implement R2P and genocide prevention. This is especially meaningful in the context of the prevention mandate of the Human Rights Council.</p> <p>Madam Special Advisor, how often do you share your country analysis on atrocity risks with the OHCHR and special procedures under the Human Rights Council? And how does your office interact with and follow up on treaty body recommendations?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>Iceland thanks the Experts of the Fact-Finding Mission for their valuable update and reiterates its unwavering support for the mandate. </p> <p>We welcome the FFM’s interpretation of the mandate, and their carefully crafted approach to collecting, consolidating, analysing and preserving information and evidence of violations by taking a victim-centred and intersectional approach, and by examining how multiple forms of discrimination affect victims of human rights violations. </p> <p>Iceland is also strongly supportive of the FFM analysing patterns of impunity and identification of individuals and entities responsible for alleged violations and the establishment of facts regarding their responsibility.&nbsp; </p> <p>We look forward to the FFM’s findings in HRC 55 and recommendations including on measures for prevention, protection, and reparation and accountability. </p> <p>We urge the Iranian authorities to reconsider their initial rejection of the mechanism and to heed the Secretary-General’s and the High Commissioners call for full cooperation with the FFM and to accept their request for a country visit.</p> <p>History has shown that addressing grievances and ensuring accountability is key to justice and reconciliation. </p> <p>In closing, Madam Chair how can we best support the work of the FFM going forward?</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>Madam Rapporteur, we thank you for the report and highly appreciate your work.</p> <p>The human rights situation in Belarus is appalling. Since 2020, there have been hundreds of raids on media offices and private homes of journalists and media workers, who face serious legal consequences and prison sentences. Over 600 professionals have been arrested and more than 100.000 Belarusians have been forced into exile. </p> <p>By allowing and enabling Russia to use the territory of Belarus for Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, the leadership of Belarus is responsible for the act of the aggression. Those responsible must be held accountable for violations of international law. Since February 2022, over 1500 people have been detained and persecuted for their opposition to government, including for anti-war statements and for supporting Ukraine. New amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code allow trials <em>in absentia</em> on extremism charges.</p> <p>We call upon Belarus for immediate and unconditional release of all arbitrarily detained persons and for the charges against them to be dropped, including political prisoners, journalists and media workers. We also reiterate our call to introduce a moratorium on all executions with a view to abolishing the death penalty.</p> <p>Disregarding the rights of the child, Belarus has started the militarization and politicization of school programs. Hundreds of Ukrainian children have also been allegedly forcibly transferred to Belarus, which implies that Lukashenko may be considered directly responsible for such a despicable war crime.</p> <p>Madam Rapporteur, how can the international community ensure accountability for the persecution by the Belarusian authorities of journalists, human rights defenders and civil society organizations? </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries. We thank the Fact-Finding Mission for the valuable update and reiterate our support to the mandate.</p> <p>People of Iran persistently demand respect for their rights, including an end to systemic discrimination against women and girls. Yet, the repression intensifies in law and in practice. We are alarmed by the draft bill regarding the enforcement of compulsory veiling laws and the draft Penal Code provisions, further criminalizing non-compliance. </p> <p>We echo the profound concern of the High Commissioner on the wave of executions, including in the context of the protests. Iran must immediately halt the executions and introduce a moratorium on death penalty.</p> <p>Civic freedoms, especially freedom of expression and assembly, continue to be severely curtailed, both online and offline. We call on the authorities to cease arbitrary detention, killings, torture and inhuman treatment, and sexual and gender-based violence, and to release all those unjustly detained.</p> <p>Finally, we expect Iran to fully cooperate with the Council’s mechanisms. </p> <p>Distinguished Chairperson, could you elaborate on the challenges you experience or foresee in investigating sexual and gender-based violence as part of your mandate?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 July 2023 </strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland. </p> <p>We express our firm support for the work of the Commission of Inquiry. We are gravely concerned about reported continued violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in Syria. </p> <p>All indiscriminate and direct attacks on civilians must cease immediately, as well as torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.</p> <p>Accountability is crucial for achieving a lasting political solution to the conflict. We welcome the legal proceedings initiated at the International Court of Justice concerning violations of the Convention against Torture.</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>Humanitarian needs are record high. We note the improved humanitarian access after the earthquakes in February. All parties must provide full, unhindered, and sustained humanitarian access. We also urge the UN Security Council to renew the cross-border mechanism before it expires on 10 July.</p> <p>To end the suffering of the Syrian population there must be a comprehensive ceasefire, and an inclusive political process in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254.</p> <p>Mr. Commissioner, you have reported a gendered impact of the conflict and how longstanding discrimination against women and girls has been dramatically amplified. What measures would you recommend for addressing these issues?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights situation in Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his update and reiterate our firm support for his mandate.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic States are deeply troubled by reports of an intensification of violence, indiscriminate attacks, persecution of perceived opponents, systemic discrimination against Rohingya and other minorities and the disregard for human rights. Ensuring that the perpetrators of these crimes are held accountable remains a critical task. Therefore, we continue to support the important work carried out by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. </p> <p>The recent cyclone Mocha has only exacerbated the already existing immense humanitarian needs of the affected population. We express our grave concern over the growing access constraints, particularly in the wake of the cyclone, and we call for full, safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to reach those who are suffering, with the assistance needed. </p> <p>Furthermore, we cannot turn a blind eye to the deteriorating situation for women and girls. The alarming reports of sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare and education are deeply distressing. We stand in solidarity with the women and girls of Myanmar and emphasize the urgent need for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all aspects of society. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, what is your view on the potential complicity of the countries that continue to supply the Myanmar military with heavy weapons that are used for suppression and human rights violations?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>10 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We welcome the first report of the Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Racism which gives the strategic vision and priorities for the mandate holder. </p> <p>We stay fully committed to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The 75th anniversary of the Declaration gives us the opportunity to highlight the need for strengthening efforts against all forms of discrimination.&nbsp; </p> <p>President,</p> <p>Let me highlight two aspects from the report which we find especially important: </p> <p>Persons can face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination based on gender, race, and ethnicity. We are pleased that the mandate holder pays attention to the relationship between gender discrimination and racism. </p> <p>To advance on the implementation of the Durban declaration and to move the international debate on racism further we need engagement from all relevant stakeholders. </p> <p>What steps will the Special Rapporteur take to have a broad and inclusive approach to the process going forward?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Enhanced</strong><strong> Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania, on behalf of Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>11 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for the report and commend the OHCHR’s unwavering efforts to assist states in fulfilling their international human rights obligations and commitments.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries will therefore continue to support technical assistance and capacity-building, which is of vital importance for the improvement of the human rights situation on the ground, for the prevention of further violations and abuses, as well as for the facilitation of accountability processes. </p> <p>We encourage all countries to provide unhindered access and cooperate with the OHCHR, other UN human rights mechanisms and the UN Country Teams, and to implement their recommendations. In the spirit of dialogue and cooperation, this will, in turn, help States to overcome crises, achieve tangible human rights impact on the ground, build up resilience and ensure sustainable economic development.</p> <p>Furthermore, demand-driven technical cooperation, partnerships, complementarity, as well as sufficient and predictable funding are key for solving global challenges, sustaining peace, and improving human rights situation worldwide.</p> <p>Mr. High Commissioner, how can we ensure complementarity and facilitate cooperation among stakeholders operating on the ground? </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10 - Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for his dedicated efforts.</p> <p>The security, humanitarian, and human rights situation in the Central African Republic remains deeply worrying. The widespread and serious human rights </p> <p>violations and abuses continue to alarm us. </p> <p>Armed groups are responsible for attacks and grave abuses against civilians. It is even more alarming that the majority of human rights violations are reportedly committed by State agents – agents with a responsibility to protect. </p> <p>We are particularly worried about the grave violations and abuses committed against children. We call on the CAR government to investigate all incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.</p> <p>Half of the population in CAR requires lifesaving assistance, and the escalation in neighbouring Sudan worsens the situation. Rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access must be guaranteed, and in line with humanitarian principles. </p> <p>Children are entitled to special protection under international law and are to be given priority in humanitarian action. In your view, what are the most urgent measures to be undertaken to ensure adequate protection of children in the Central African Republic?</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on oral presentation of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and interim report of the Secretary-General on human rights in Crimea</strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>12 July 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the High Commissioner for the update and strongly support the reporting mandate.</p> <p>Every day, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine results in massive suffering of civilians, including in illegally annexed Crimea. The price they pay is beyond comprehension. </p> <p>We are alarmed by the reports of arbitrary detention of almost 900 men, women and children by Russia. Most of them were tortured and ill-treated, some of them subjected to sexual violence. We echo the grave concern of the OHCHR on the summary executions of civilians in detention. </p> <p>Russia must immediately halt the filtration processes and enforced disappearances often related to detention. The Ukrainian children, deported by force to Russia, must be returned. </p> <p>No country is above international human rights and humanitarian law. Perpetrators of blatant violations of international law will be held accountable. </p> <p>Finally, we expect Russia to provide OHCHR unconditional and unimpeded access to temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. We encourage Ukraine to continue its full cooperation with the OHCHR.</p> <p>Distinguished High Commissioner, how can we ensure effective psycho-social support for survivors of Russian atrocities?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Apr 04, 2023Nordic-Baltic Statements and National Statements of Iceland during the 52nd session of the Human Rights Council 27 February – 4 April 2023<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Nordic-Baltic Statements and National Statements of Iceland during the 52<sup>nd</sup> session of the Human Rights Council 27 February – 4 April 2023</span></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming: A reflection on five years of UN Youth 2030: mapping a blueprint for next steps</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement of the Republic of Lithuania, on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>27 February 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>Today we see active, determined and concerned young people. The international community has an obligation to provide a safe and prosperous future for the next generation. But the main global urgencies remain: including armed conflicts, climate change, disparities in education and employment both within and between countries, digital inequalities and social exclusion of vulnerable groups. In order to make progress on these issues, we fully support the UN Youth Strategy and we are determined to continue engaging and working for and with youth.</p> <p>As a next step for tangible results we see the need for strengthened cooperation among the private sector, governments and civil society. Only by working together we can provide platforms for young people to express their concerns and participate in decision making processes. </p> <p>Furthermore, we believe it is important to provide opportunities for active youth participation in labour market and ensure increased youth employment without any discrimination or age-related exploitation. It would allow young people to improve their skills and balance labour demand.&nbsp; </p> <p>Our goal is to hear, learn and work together with youth. We are looking forward to engage in further implementation of the UN Youth Strategy.</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Biennial high-level panel discussion on the question of the death penalty</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 February 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>Crimes must be met with consequences. However, taking a life is never the answer. We call on all states to abolish the death penalty.g</p> <p>We commend the countries and states that have recently abolished the death penalty or actively moved towards it. We call for immediate moratoria on executions, leading to abolition, as well as restricting the use of the death penalty to the minimum, only to the “most serious crimes” in accordance with international law. </p> <p>We are alarmed by the lack of transparency on the death penalty in various countries and call upon States to provide public, disaggregated data on death sentences. Increased attention to the gender dimension of the death penalty is necessary.</p> <p>The state has the obligation to respect, protect and fulfil human rights of all. Not meeting due process and fair trial guarantees or causing additional suffering in the execution of the death penalty can amount to torture or inhuman or degrading treatment, among other violations. In accordance with international human rights law, children must always be exempted from the death penalty. </p> <p>Lastly, exercising human rights, such as freedoms of religion and belief, of expression, or belonging to the LGBTQI+ community, must never be punishable by death.</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>High level meeting on right to development</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>28 February 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Latvia.</p> <p>Last year we celebrated the thirty-fifth anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Right to Development. It was agreed that the right to development, which is rooted in the universality, indivisibility, interrelation, and interdependence of all human rights, is a fundamental human right by virtue of which every person is entitled to participate in, contribute to, and enjoy economic, social, cultural and political development, in which all human rights and fundamental freedoms can be fully realized. </p> <p>Thirty-six years ago, there was a strong belief that our future will be better, wealthier and happier.</p> <p>Unfortunately, global trends are not encouraging – many different challenges, as the COVID 19 pandemic, devasting climate change and outright military aggressions, hinder the achievement of sustainable development goals and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. These crises have already increased extreme poverty, which hits people and countries in vulnerable situations the hardest.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries call on all governments to ensure participatory approaches that leave no one behind, and to refrain from actions that put human rights at risk. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>High-level panel discussion on UPR Voluntary Funds</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>1 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>No country is perfect, but we can help each other to do more on human rights. The Universal Periodic Review is a key tool in this regard. The recommendations, given in constructive spirit, guide States to build societies that are equal and just for all. We can take pride in the 100% participation rate thus far and aim at the same during the fourth UPR cycle. </p> <p>The UPR Voluntary Funds play an essential role in ensuring that all States, including least developed countries and small island developing states can benefit from the UPR process in full. We particularly welcome the concrete actions on implementation and follow-up which have been possible with contributions through the UPR Voluntary Funds.</p> <p>The UPR is a state driven process but it can greatly benefit from taking the civil society on board. Consulting their views during the process and including their representatives in national delegations can bring stronger, more inclusive results.&nbsp; </p> <p>Esteemed Panellists, how can the UPR Voluntary Funds support the participation of the civil society in the UPR process?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral update on the Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic Countries. We thank the High Commissioner for the update.</p> <p>The situation for human rights in Sudan remains a cause for serious concern. In recent months, parts of the country have seen clashes between armed groups. Too many civilians remain exposed to violence, harassment and SGBV while those responsible are not held to account. We once again call on the signatories to implement the Juba Peace Agreement. Moreover, the right of peaceful protests must be respected, and we urge the military authorities to show restraint.</p> <p>Human rights violations and abuse are linked to the fragile political situation. Therefore, we appreciate that&nbsp;a broad range of Sudanese stakeholders are engaged in negotiations to solve the country’s crisis. This work should be centred around the Framework Political Agreement, which remains the only credible basis to establish a new civilian-led government to lead Sudan through a transitional period to free and fair elections.</p> <p>We are encouraged by your own and the High Commissioner’s visits to Sudan, and we call upon the Sudanese authorities to fully cooperate with UN mandates and mechanisms.</p> <p>What steps can the Sudanese authorities take to protect and promote human rights during the current political crisis?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>I</strong><strong>tem 2:</strong> <strong>Interactive dialogue on the report of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Group of Human Rights Experts for their report. </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries remain deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Nicaragua, including arbitrary detentions, restrictions on civic space and violations of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. The consistent attacks against human rights defenders, Indigenous Peoples, journalists and other media workers, political opposition, religious institutions, and civil society leaders must stop.</p> <p>The release of the 222 political prisoners by the Government of Nicaragua marks a constructive move, however we condemn the decision to revoke their citizenship and to strip nationality from a further 94 citizens.</p> <p>We urge the Nicaraguan Government to respect all civil and political rights, and to free all political prisoners. Impunity for human rights violations must end. We call on Nicaragua to lift all restrictions on civic space and guarantee all persons their rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association. We call on Nicaragua to resume full cooperation with international and regional human rights mechanisms, including the OHCHR. </p> <p>In conclusion, what concrete steps can be taken to urge Nicaragua to end impunity and guarantee accountability for all human rights violations? </p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the High Commissioner on the Human Rights situation in Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. High Commissioner, </p> <p>The Nordic Baltic countries remain deeply disturbed by the human rights violations and abuses which continue to cause human suffering and regression in all areas of human rights in Myanmar.</p> <p>We condemn the military’s indiscriminate use of force, including air attacks, and other violent actions causing civilian casualties, including women and children in Myanmar. </p> <p>We express our continued support to the ASEAN five-point consensus. We recall UN Security Council Resolution 2669 (2022) and demand an immediate end to all forms of violence throughout the country. We call for the release of all arbitrarily detained prisoners, the provision of full and unhindered humanitarian access and the protection of civilians in Myanmar.</p> <p>The Nordic Baltic countries strongly support the OHCHR recommendation to sanction arms transfers enabling further violations. We urge Myanmar to give the UN Human Rights Office access to monitor the situation independently and impartially. We call on all member states to support efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.</p> <p>High Commissioner, </p> <p>What measures can be taken to reduce violence against civilians and human rights violations and abuses in Myanmar, as well as to ensure accountability for past and ongoing crimes? </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We commend the Special Rapporteur for his ardent efforts in documenting human rights abuses and engaging the de facto authorities.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the dire situation in Afghanistan, in particular the situation of women and girls and that of minorities.</p> <p>We strongly condemn the draconian restrictions on women and girls, excluding them from education, politics, and public life. This discriminatory denial of women and girls’ human rights may amount to gender persecution which is considered a crime against humanity. </p> <p>The recent decision to ban women from working for national and international NGOs underscores the Taliban’s utter disregard for half the population of Afghanistan.</p> <p>We stand with the women and girls of Afghanistan, who continue to show immense resilience. Without them, Afghanistan will never achieve peace, prosperity and stability. </p> <p>What scope does the Special Rapporteur see for ensuring women and girls’ full, equal and meaningful participation in all spheres of life and their right to have control over their own future?</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights on advancing the human rights in South Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2023</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the pleasure of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and Norway. We thank the Commission for its work in South Sudan.</p> <p>Political violence and insecurity continue to be fundamental obstacles to improving the human rights situation. We regret that the extension of the Peace Agreement has not been accompanied by a renewed sense of urgency in its implementation.&nbsp; </p> <p>As a result, human rights violations and abuses, such as arbitrary and extrajudicial killings, abductions, conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence, and attacks on humanitarian workers continue with impunity. We urge the parties to make immediate progress on security arrangements, transitional justice and rule of law.</p> <p>We are also deeply concerned by large-scale diversion of public revenues, which undermines South Sudan’s ability to fulfill its human rights obligations. We urge the government to strengthen its financial management systems and use more of its own resources to address the needs of its people. </p> <p>Finally, a strong UN human rights monitoring mechanism is still needed. We urge the government to continue its history of cooperation with the Commission. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>7 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President. </p> <p>Iceland thanks the High Commissioner for his oral update.</p> <p>Iceland continues to monitor the UN Joint Programme on human rights in the <strong>Philippines</strong>. Genuine intentions of all stakeholders are crucial for the programme to bring about positive change. Iceland calls on the Government to implement the Programme to the letter and address accountability failings. </p> <p>In<strong> Ethiopia</strong>, Iceland commends the Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front for steps taken in implementing the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. Transitional justice and accountability through independent, transparent and impartial investigations must be ensured. </p> <p>In <strong>Egypt</strong>, human rights defenders, journalists, and activists continue to face reprisals and unlawful restrictions. Iceland urges the Government to respect, protect and fulfill the rights to freedoms of expression and opinion, and peaceful assembly and association. </p> <p>In <strong>Yemen</strong>, Iceland calls on all parties to uphold international humanitarian law and human rights law and to secure a political solution. The people of Yemen deserve peace. </p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements on the situation in Afghanistan, Nicaragua, Sudan and South-Sudan in respective Interactive Dialogues. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children, including child prostitution, child pornography and other child sexual abuse material</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Latvia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting her latest report on the importance of reparation for child victims and survivors of sale and sexual exploitation.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries believe that reparation should be tailored to the specific case and proportional to the gravity of violations and the harm suffered by the child victims and survivors.</p> <p>However, there are numerous barriers preventing child victims and survivors from being able to access justice and claim reparations. We are especially concerned about legislative gaps regarding, in particular, child, early and forced marriage and child labour. We align with the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations in this regard.</p> <p>Another challenge can be the lack of education about and awareness of potential venues for reparation. Capacity-building and comprehensive education of law enforcement officials, medical professionals, social workers and teachers is vital to ensuring that child victims and survivors are aware of their rights and are able to claim reparation.</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, what are the best practices in providing for the participation of child victims and survivors in developing reparation programmes and procedures, while ensuring that their dignity and rights are respected and they do not face the risk of revictimization?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Adequate Housing</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur on his important report. </p> <p>The climate crisis is also a housing crisis. Extreme weather events, desertification and rising sea levels severely affect housing around the world. </p> <p>Impacts of climate change disproportionately affect persons in vulnerable situations and their homes. Persons with disabilities and older persons have less capacity to move away from exposed areas. Indigenous Peoples often live on lands heavily exposed to climate impacts.&nbsp; </p> <p>Therefore, we must ensure that persons in vulnerable situations are involved in climate responses at all levels. This includes participation in decision-making, implementation and monitoring of climate actions and policies.</p> <p>It is our joint duty to tackle the effects of climate change on the realization of the right to adequate housing. Comprehensive recommendations of the Special Rapporteur give us a way forward.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can we best support the work of human rights defenders promoting the right to adequate housing and addressing the negative impact of climate change?</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue on the report of Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries thank the Special Rapporteur for an enlightening report on conflict and right to food. </p> <p>Conflict remains the primary driver for food insecurity and thus represents the main hindrance for fulfillment of the right to food.</p> <p>Keeping in mind that today is 8 March, we express our appreciation for Mr. Fakhri’s focus on discrimination and equality in the food systems. </p> <p>Women and girls are food producers, traders, consumers, care-takers, decision-makers and negotiators. Protecting women and girls from violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, is crucial to eliminating hunger. In many households, food insecurity and poverty prevail when women are hurt.</p> <p>We need targeted measures to strengthen women, including rural and Indigenous women and girls and other vulnerable groups’ position in the food systems. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine has led to disruption of global food markets and aggravated hunger and famines in other regions.</p> <p>In your view, what are the most serious consequences facing women in particular? And what would be the most pertinent measures? </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, your role and voice is more important than ever. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the issue of human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>9 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report highlighting the disproportionate harms on women and girls by environmental risks. </p> <p>It is particularly worrisome that gender stereotypes, biases, inequalities and multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination negatively affect women and girls’ enjoyment of the right to clean, healthy and sustainable environment. To address these challenges, a human rights-based approach, where States, businesses and civil society work together, must be in place.</p> <p>Furthermore, women and girls should participate fully, equally and meaningfully in all processes when it comes to protecting the environment. Their participation and empowerment is crucial for a sustainable future. </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries are committed to accelerating gender-transformative and inclusive environmental action where everyone has a say. </p> <p>Mr. Boyd, how can the Human Rights Council contribute to eliminating systemic discrimination of women and girls and empowering them to be a part of the climate and environmental transformation? </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Panel Discussion on strengthening of legislative system in order to protect children in digital environment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>10 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Estonia. </p> <p>Children are considered to be the largest proportion of users of digital technologies in the world. Even though the online network provides them the opportunity to express, fulfil and be informed about their rights, higher engagement and self-presentation by children on various digital platforms also poses risks to children’s rights – from violating their privacy to online sexual exploitation and abuse in worst cases.&nbsp;</p> <p>We are concerned that such violations that disproportionately affect children, are on the rise. Therefore, we believe that it is extremely important to continue taking concrete steps to guarantee children's privacy and confidentiality to better protect children from any harm in the digital space, which in the long run contributes to ensuring a healthy and safe childhood for them.</p> <p>In order to achieve this, it is crucial to evaluate, update and put in place wide-ranging measures and best practices, with children’s rights at the core and the best interests of every child as a primary consideration.&nbsp; In the legislative review, it is necessary to include relevant stakeholders, such as experts from civil society, private sector and academia, and guarantee to children the right to be heard and have their views taken into account. Implementing key elements from the Committee on the Rights of the Child general comment No. 25 is also crucial.&nbsp; </p> <p>Further attention should be given to private sector by better regulating their activities and ensuring compliance with their responsibility to prevent networks or online services from being used in ways that cause or contribute to violations or abuses of children’s rights. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the special rapporteur for her <em>inclusive</em> approach, demonstrating how freedom of religion or belief can be traced back to many different sources. </p> <p>Yet, these different sources converge in highlighting the need for mutual understanding and respect. We wish to clearly signal today, that we disassociate with all actions by individuals, which only aim to hurt and provoke. We find them disturbing and disrespectful. </p> <p>Fortunately, as displayed in the report, elaborate human rights norms exist on freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression. While they cannot prevent all incidents, they provide a clear human rights approach to tackle challenges in our interconnected world. We recall our full commitment to these standards and to our collective efforts to promote and protect them.</p> <p>Madame Special Rapporteur, you give a thorough overview of ongoing work on freedom of religion or belief, also in the regional organisations. How do you plan to work with them to ensure a coherent approach?</p> <p>Looking ahead, how will you address the intersectionality between freedom of religion or belief and gender equality throughout your mandate?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.</p> <p>Let me start by thanking the Special Rapporteur for his valuable work and recent report on reimagining services to give effect to the right of persons with disabilities to live independently and be included in the community. </p> <p>We fully agree that active consultation with persons with disabilities and their representative organisations is required to understand what persons with disabilities need and want. We need human rights-based, inclusive and gender transformative solutions that can work in different countries and in different circumstances.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for highlighting the potential of businesses and new technologies, including artificial intelligence, in transforming services for persons with disabilities. As stated in the report, the business sector is increasingly regarded as an important human rights actor. </p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can we better engage with businesses as partners for change in the transformation of services and support for persons with disabilities?</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the </strong><strong>Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report. </p> <p>Ensuring the full respect for human rights and the rule of law is crucial in efforts to counter-terrorism. Any measure taken to counter terrorism must comply with international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, and should not unduly restrict civic space. We firmly believe that a human-rights based approach is a prerequisite for combatting terrorism effectively.</p> <p>We acknowledge the capacity of new technologies to enhance the full realization of human rights. </p> <p>However, we share the Special Rapporteur’s concern that the misuse of these technologies may have serious negative impacts on the enjoyment of human rights. It is vital to address and mitigate the human rights risks associated with these technologies. </p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, what measures should we take to better assess the human rights implications of new technologies in the context of counter-terrorism?&nbsp; </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Annual interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Theme: Support systems to ensure community inclusion of persons with disabilities, including as a means of building forward better after the COVID-19 pandemic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">We thank the panellists for their contributions and the OHCHR for the report that gives a solid basis for our discussion. </p> <p>International human rights law leaves no doubt on the right of all persons with disabilities to live in the community, with choices equal to others. Care and support systems are main enablers of this right, as well as of the autonomy, independence and dignity of the persons with disabilities. </p> <p>Persons in vulnerable situations that rely on care work and support networks, including persons with disabilities, were disproportionally affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic has exposed deep-rooted problems of the support and care systems that urgently need to be addressed in our efforts to build forward better. </p> <p>As States play a fundamental role in organizing the distribution of the care work and ensuring community inclusion, we encourage their resolute action on transforming traditional care systems in a gender-responsive and disability-inclusive way. </p> <p>Furthermore, meaningful participation of persons with disabilities, as well as all other stakeholders, in the discussions related to the respect, protection and fulfilment of their rights must be ensured. </p> <p>Distinguished panellists, how could the international community better contribute to enhancing disability-inclusive approaches to care and support systems?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue&nbsp;with the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Intervention by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>I have the honour of speaking on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>From the outset, we would like to congratulate you on your appointment as new Special Rapporteur on Torture. We are committed allies in your important work to eradicate torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment globally.&nbsp; </p> <p>We appreciate your efforts to shed light on the good practices in national criminalization, investigation, prosecution and sentencing for offences of torture.</p> <p>The need to invest in training and education runs like a thread through the entire report and we could not agree more with you, as this is intrinsically linked to the duty to investigate enshrined in Article 12 of the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. </p> <p>Over the past year, many fundamental tools have either been developed or updated, such as the Méndez Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering or the updated Istanbul Protocol on Effective Investigation and Documentation. These tools – together with the many others already existing – merit to be widely known and used so as to give full effect to the principle of the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. </p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>What measures can the Human Rights Council along with other relevant UN bodies take to ensure that these tools are known and used through training and education?</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to privacy</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Latvia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>14 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting her latest report to this Council.</p> <p>It is the obligation of all States to ensure that the need to collect and analyse data in response to the Covid-19 pandemic or any potential future health crises is not used as a pretext for mass surveillance and the violation of an individual’s right to privacy.</p> <p>We concur with the Special Rapporteur that States must build and consolidate public confidence in the programmes of public entities that involve the processing of personal data. To achieve this, we need to promote the responsible and transparent collection and use of personal data and show compliance with the legal obligations established in personal data processing regulations.</p> <p>The right to privacy and its abuses have become important themes in the relationship between tech companies and their users. According to your mandate, you should promote and protect the right to privacy by, inter alia, articulating private sector responsibilities to respect human rights.</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur, can you share some of the best practices in establishing a risk monitoring and management system to ensure that data are processed fairly and lawfully?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 March 2023</strong> <strong><br /> <br /> </strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour of speaking on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states.</p> <p>We welcome the report of the Special Rapporteur which again demonstrates the resourcefulness and tenacity of human rights defenders despite ongoing threats, harassment, and violence, both online and offline. </p> <p>The report recounts the achievements of human rights defenders, including women human rights defenders, </p> <p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; to end discriminatory laws, </p> <p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; to strengthen the rule of law by ensuring accountability and access to remedy, </p> <p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; and to ensure that more people enjoy and benefit from the rights and protections afforded them. </p> <p>We call on all States to acknowledge and protect of human rights defenders and to support the renewal of the mandate. The mandate has again demonstrated its relevance and value. </p> <p>Madame Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>On the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, and the 25th anniversary of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, this report demonstrates the value of human rights to peace, security and sustainable development.</p> <p>How can this Council best support human rights defenders in their efforts to bring about positive change?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>on Violence against Children</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Representative for the latest report and her actions taken on elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against children.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries also thank the Special Representative for focusing on the protection of children in the digital environment. We are alarmed by the high number of children cyberbullied and subjected to online sexual exploitation and abuse.</p> <p>We are equally highly concerned over the lack of comprehensive data on violence against children and believe the remaining gaps must be filled. An evidence-based approach in tackling violence against children is vital and can only be achieved when child- and gender-sensitive data is available.</p> <p>To ensure that children are protected, respected and empowered online, safety standards and regulations must be mandated. </p> <p>As the report confirms, many organisations are working on a wide range of actions on violence against children online. How can this work be better synchronized to meet the best interest of the child?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue</strong><strong> </strong><strong>with the Special Representative of the Secretary General on children and armed conflicts</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordi</strong><strong>c-</strong><strong>Baltic</strong><strong> Statement delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>16 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We would like to thank the Special Representative for the report. </p> <p>Armed conflicts deprive children of their rights, leaving permanent physical and psychological harm. From the right to education to the right to security and life itself – children’s rights continue to be violated in conflict zones and their future jeopardized.</p> <p>We are extremely concerned about the increasing use of indiscriminate airstrikes, landmines and attacks on schools. This trend places children directly at risk. According to the SRSG reports, the use of explosive weapons in densely populated areas leads to a steady increase in the number of killings and injuries over the years. In the context of Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine we witness deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure, killing and injuring thousands of children; also there are reports on forcible transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia and their illegal adoption there. </p> <p>Grave violations of children’s rights in conflict zones are one of the most pressing political and humanitarian concerns. In June 2023, Norway will host an international conference in order to mobilize action to better protect children in conflict zones.</p> <p>Madam Special Representative,</p> <p>How should we ensure accountability for crimes against children during armed conflicts, including their forced deportations?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on ensuring equitable, affordable, timely and universal access for all countries to vaccines in response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Norway<br /> </strong><strong>16 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I make this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden and Norway.</p> <p>We thank the OHCHR for the report on access for all countries to vaccines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p> <p>The development of medical countermeasures to COVID-19 set new records including for time taken between vaccine development to roll-out in low income countries. The ACT-A* partnership aided this effort, and its vaccine pillar, COVAX, distributed billions of vaccine doses. </p> <p>The report points out many of the challenges faced in ensuring equitable, affordable, timely and universal access to vaccines. This includes the lack of diversified production across regions, the lack of capacity in some countries to store and distribute vaccines, vaccine hesitancy, the lack of reliable systematic and timely data, misinformation, and weak health systems. Learning from these experiences will be key. National policies should be human rights-based, including for immunization. Building resilient and robust health systems must be high on our agenda. </p> <p>High Commissioner, Could you elaborate on how you assist countries in ensuring that immunization priorities are in line with a human rights-based approach? </p> <p>* [Access to COVID-19 Tools-Accelerator]</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights situation in Myanmar</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic </strong><strong>Statement delivered </strong><strong>by Denmark</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his update on the deeply concerning situation in Myanmar. We strongly support his mandate.</p> <p>We continue to condemn the military coup in the strongest possible terms and reiterate our call on the military to immediately end all forms of violence and abuses, including sexual and gender-based violence, against the people of Myanmar, including children. </p> <p>We call on the military junta to end the systematic intimidation and reprisals against the people of Myanmar for exercising their human rights and fundamental freedoms. Furthermore, we call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained – including children, political leaders, journalists, human rights defenders, and others. </p> <p>We are deeply concerned over the deteriorating humanitarian situation, and we call for unimpeded humanitarian access to all parts of the country without discrimination.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, we are witnessing a prolonged crisis in which the military carries out actions against its own people which there are reasonable grounds to believe amount to serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. Some of these may – as you point out - amount to international crimes. </p> <p>Ensuring that the perpetrators of these crimes are held accountable remains a critical task. </p> <p>Special Rapporteur, how can the international community at this time best support the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons in Myanmar?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.</p> <p>For months, the brave people of Iran, especially women and girls, have faced extreme and unjustified violence and crackdown by the Iranian authorities for exercising their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. </p> <p>We strongly condemn the use of violence, harassment and detentions against peaceful protesters. Perpetrators of torture, killings and violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, must be held accountable. We urge Iran to release all persons who were imprisoned or detained for exercising their right to peacefully protest. We strongly oppose the death penalty at all times and in all circumstances and call on the Iranian authorities to impose an immediate moratorium on executions.</p> <p>We are also concerned about press freedom and safety of journalists in Iran. Journalists and media workers are threatened, harassed and detained. Families of Iranians working for foreign media outlets are intimidated and persecuted. We call on Iran to release all arbitrarily detained, including journalist, media workers and their family members and to ensure freedom of opinion and expression and access to information, both online and offline.</p> <p>Finally, we urge Iran to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur, including by granting full and unhindered access to the country.</p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>What more can the international community do to support the people of Iran fighting for their human rights?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><br /> </strong><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on</strong> <strong>the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 March 2023</strong><strong><br /> <br /> </strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her latest report. We are deeply concerned about the serious systematic and widespread human rights violations in the DPRK, some of which, as pointed out by the Secretary-General, may amount to crimes against humanity. The complete absence of an independent and impartial judiciary provides no national recourse for human rights violations in the country.</p> <p>We are particularly worried about the situation for women and girls, the prevalence of SGBV, the use of forced labor and the prevention of persons leaving or entering the country. </p> <p>The disproportionate share of the DPRK’s state budget allocated to military spending cripples the ability of the DPRK to meet its own population’s basic needs. </p> <p>We urge the DPRK to cooperate fully with the UN and the OHCHR and take meaningful and measurable steps to improve the human rights situation in the country, including opening its borders for humanitarian assistance. </p> <p>Efforts to support dialogue must be continued to achieve lasting peace and stability on the peninsula.</p> <p>In the Special Rapporteur’s view, how can we best engage with DPRK to improve the human rights situation in the country? </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: </strong><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement </strong><strong>delivered by </strong><strong>Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>20 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>The brutality of the Russian armed forces is shocking. For more than one year indiscriminate killings of Ukrainian civilians, deliberate attacks on schools, hospitals and critical infrastructure have been daily occurrences in Ukraine. Russian soldiers continue to demonstrate unimaginable cruelty by perpetrating summary executions, torture and conflict-related sexual violence.</p> <p>Furthermore, the Russian authorities at all levels engage in forced transfers and deportations of children from Ukrainian territory to Russia and Russian occupied territory, and their illegal adoption there. We condemn these practices in the strongest possible terms and call for immediate return of all Ukrainian children to their homes. </p> <p>The findings of the Commission of Inquiry are objective and impartial as opposed to Russia’s deliberate disinformation and propaganda. Its findings give us even stronger impetus to take decisive action as it concludes that numerous of violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, as well as war crimes, were committed. </p> <p>There can be no impunity for violations of international law. The investigations must continue until full accountability is ensured. We strongly support the Commission’s crucial role in that regard. </p> <p>Mr. Møse, how could we make sure that the international community remains well informed about the violations happening in Ukraine? And how could we further strengthen your mandate in order to support the overall accountability effort? </p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We express our firm support for the work of the Commission of Inquiry. We note with serious concern the Commission’s conclusion that there have been “pervasive violations of human rights and humanitarian law across the country. </p> <p>We reiterate the need to cease all indiscriminate and direct attacks on civilians and civilian objects as well as to end torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment,</p> <p>President, after 12 years of armed conflict, the Syrian people, were recently hit by the most devastating earthquake in the area for decades. An already dire humanitarian situation has now become even worse.</p> <p>It is therefore important that all parties to the conflict provide full, unhindered, and sustained humanitarian access. We expect to see a renewal of the cross-border mechanism when it expires on 10 July.</p> <p>The Syrian people have suffered enough. There must be a comprehensive ceasefire, and there must be a political process in line with UNSCR 2254.&nbsp; </p> <p>Mr Commissioner: The many missing people and people under arbitrary detention in Syria is a major concern for the Syrian people. What more can we do – as you see it – to clarify the fate and whereabouts of missing people? </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia<br /> Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Norway </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>21 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Nordic and Baltic countries thank the International Commission of Human Rights Experts for the briefing and for your valuable contribution. We are glad to see progress on the implementation of the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement of 2 November 2022 and the Agreement from the Senior Commanders Meeting 12 November. </p> <p>Accountability and transitional justice must remain at the core of the peace process. We welcome the announcement by the Ethiopian Minister of Justice that the OHCHR will deploy human rights monitors to the conflict-affected areas in northern Ethiopia. Furthermore, we welcome the commitment by Ethiopia to implement a comprehensive national transitional justice policy.</p> <p>Independent and credible documentation, investigation and prosecution of reported violations and abuses of international human rights law and violations of international humanitarian law are crucial for the victims and their communities and fundamental to ensure lasting reconciliation, peace and stability.</p> <p>We welcome further progress on the implementation which could signal to the Ethiopian people and the international community that the Ethiopian Government is fully committed to reconciliation, peace and stability.</p> <p>In the Commission’s view, how can we best engage with the Government of Ethiopia and all stakeholders to achieve this?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue – High Commissioner for Human Rights report on human rights situation in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement by Lithuania</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>As reported by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the human rights situation in Belarus continuously deteriorates. </p> <p>Politically motivated persecutions, reprisals, arbitrary arrests and detentions, and torture remain endemic, while the justice system is abused to silence dissent and systematically oppress pro-democratic forces. </p> <p>By allowing Russia to use its territory for aggression against Ukraine, the leadership of Belarus is responsible for the act of aggression.</p> <p>Currently there are about 1500 political prisoners in Belarus; the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Ales Bialiatski among them. They are forced to wear identifying tags, subjected to violence and torture, and not provided with timely medical aid or legal counsel. Meanwhile, lawyers defending political prisoners are deprived of their licences. </p> <p>We strongly condemn the politically motivated prison sentences of human rights defenders, political opponents and representatives of the Belarusian democratic opposition in exile. We stand in solidarity with political prisoners in Belarus and call for their immediate, unconditional release. </p> <p>International community must ensure accountability of the Belarusian authorities for the violations of international law and international human rights law in order to end impunity and prevent further crimes. </p> <p>Mr. High Commissioner, </p> <p>What more could the international community do to protect political prisoners, journalists, media workers and human rights defenders persecuted by the Belarusian authorities?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>Iceland condemns <strong>Russia</strong>’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine which is a flagrant violation of the UN Charter. The human suffering and loss of life stemming from Russia’s invasion is horrifying. Forced transfers and deportations of children, and targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity. </p> <p>We also condemn <strong>Belarus</strong>’ involvement in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and deplore the widespread and gross human rights violations perpetrated in Belarus. We urge for an end to systematic repression and politically motivated sentencing, including of political opponents and representatives of the Belarusian democratic opposition in exile. </p> <p>In <strong>Saudi Arabia</strong>, we are alarmed by the handing down of sentences for peaceful expression of opinion and a surge in executions for offenses that no not meet the threshold of the most serious crimes.&nbsp; </p> <p>In <strong>China</strong>, we remain alarmed by the human rights situation in Xinjiang. We urge China to meaningfully cooperate with OHCHR and to abide by its obligations under international human rights law.</p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements on Myanmar, Iran, DPRK, Ukraine, Syria, Ethiopia and Belarus. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Debate in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>29 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>This year we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; however, concrete and coordinated action is still necessary to promote and protect human rights and to combat all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.</p> <p>Sadly, racism and racial discrimination continue to exist in all spheres of society, often causing conflict and suffering. Whether overt or covert, it remains a potent weapon to incite fear and polarization within society. But, as history has shown us far too many times: Any system of oppression, is ultimately one in which we all lose.&nbsp; </p> <p>Efforts to solve these challenges must be founded on respect for human rights, the inherent dignity and equality of every person. An inclusive civic space, with diverse and meaningful participation, representation, and leadership, is imperative for transformative change. This requires indicating and eliminating structural inequalities and implementing well-targeted policy measures.</p> <p>Women and girls, as well as persons in vulnerable situations, often face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and marginalization. Their perspectives must be heard and translated into action.</p> <p>Eliminating racism requires decisive, coordinated, and sustained efforts to achieve real change and progress towards a world where human rights are ensured for all, without discrimination of any kind, and where no one is left behind.</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: General Debate</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We remain fully committed to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. All individuals must be treated with dignity and enjoy equal rights as also stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. </p> <p>We commend and are committed to protect those who work at the forefront in combatting racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, including persons and communities of African descent. It is key to increase full, equal and meaningful participation of persons from diverse backgrounds, especially those who have traditionally been marginalized, in all spheres of society. An inclusive civic space is imperative for positive change.&nbsp; </p> <p>In recent years, the fight against racism and racial discrimination has gained increased momentum globally. It has revitalized engagement at all levels of society. </p> <p>We acknowledge the need for strong Government leadership on this matter. But we also underscore that inclusion of a wide range of stakeholders, including from civil society, is essential to achieve sustainable progress. We must all work together towards ending the scourge of racism and racial discrimination, by upholding dignity and rights for everyone, everywhere. </p> <p>In conclusion, rest assured that we will continue our persistent efforts to combat racism in our own countries as well as promoting the cause internationally. </p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the oral updates of the High Commissioner on the Democratic Republic of Congo and the team of international experts on Kasai</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.</p> <p>The recurrent and intensified armed violence in eastern DRC and related human rights violations and abuses, including attacks against civilians, are of serious concern. The deteriorating security situation, caused primarily by the armed group M23, as well as other armed groups such as the ADF, severely impacts the rights of the Congolese population and jeopardises the coming elections. We note that the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri introduced in 2021, remains.</p> <p>Accountability and the rule of law must be ensured. We note that the trial regarding the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp is now in appeal and in the final instance. It is of utmost importance that the appeals process takes all evidence into consideration. The ongoing investigation on these heinous crimes, conducted in close cooperation with the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism, remains crucial and enjoys our full support.</p> <p>High Commissioner, we would appreciate if you could elaborate on the consequences that the violence may have on existing ethnic tensions?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive Dialogue on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Norway</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>31 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President. </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the security, humanitarian, and human rights situation in the Central African Republic. The scope and character of the human rights violations and abuses continue to alarm and grieve us. </p> <p>The perpetrators are not only the armed groups. The Central African armed forces and its Russian allies are responsible for the majority of the human rights violations. We call on the CAR government to investigate all incidents and hold perpetrators accountable in order to build peace.</p> <p>We are particularly worried about the grave violations and abuses committed against children. Increased effort must be made to protect them. Their childhood, education and future are at stake, and thus, the future of the Central African Republic.</p> <p>We have previously urged the CAR government to take specific measures to give effect to the Child Protection Code provisions to prevent and punish the recruitment and use of children in conflict, early marriages, and trafficking in persons. We would appreciate if you could elaborate on the progress on the government’s implementation of the Child Protection Code.</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Item 10: Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral report on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Estonia</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>31 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Estonia. </p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for the update and the continuous OHCHR’s work on the ground.</p> <p>Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has resulted in widespread terror and intolerable suffering with far-reaching consequences. We have witnessed images and reports of both indiscriminate and targeted attacks against civilians and civilian and critical energy infrastructure, as well as sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p>Ukrainian children are paying a particularly high price for this brutal and unjustified war. More than 400 children have been killed, hundreds more injured and over 7 million Ukrainian children are left without peaceful and happy childhood, having lost family members, homes, schools or playgrounds. Moreover, numerous children have been systematically put through filtration camps and forcibly transferred within Ukraine and deported to Russia, many of them separated from parents and illegally adopted. As the Commission of Inquiry clearly stated – these forced transfers and deportations amount to war crimes.</p> <p>We once again reiterate that we will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes and do everything we can to hold Russia fully accountable for war crimes and other grave violations of international law. The ICC’s decision to issue arrests warrants against Vladimir Putin and Russia’s Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria <em>Lvova</em>-<em>Belova </em>is an important step towards accountability.</p> <p>High Commissioner, how can we best support the fight against impunity?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br clear="all" /> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item10: </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission on Libya</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Finland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>3 April 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We commend the Fact-Finding Mission on Libya for its important report. In light of the deteriorating human rights situation in Libya, we urge continued engagement by the HRC on Libya’s efforts to end impunity, which, we believe, will also benefit national reconciliation. We also urge Libya to implement the recommendations of the FFM. </p> <p>We are seriously concerned by reports of torture, sexual and gender-based violence, enslavement including sexual slavery, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention and other human rights violations and abuses against Libyans, migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. Some of which may amount to crimes against humanity. Accountability for violations and abuses committed is key. We call upon Libya to hold accountable all those responsible. We encourage full scrutiny of detention centres, leading to reforms, and dismantling secret prisons. </p> <p>Finally, we are deeply concerned by the continued crackdown on civil society. We call on Libya to respect civil society and human rights defenders so they can participate in building the country, without fear of violence. A vibrant thriving civil society is a cornerstone of a thriving nation, where human rights are respected, protected and fulfilled.</p> <p>Thank you.<span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></p>
Mar 31, 2023Item 10: Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on Mali<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 10: Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on Mali</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>March 31, 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for the report. We share the deep concern raised in the report.</p> <p>We are alarmed by the deteriorating human rights situation accompanying Mali’s worsening security crisis, including the systematic targeting of civilians by extremist armed groups. We are deeply concerned by continued reports of violations committed by national forces and the Wagner Group, including conflict related gender-based violence. It should be recalled that Malian authorities carry the responsibility also for violations committed by foreign military companies on their behalf.</p> <p>Strengthening access to justice, fighting impunity, and increasing accountability is crucial. The report of the Independent Expert clearly illustrates that much remains to be done.</p> <p>We note with deep concern the shrinking civic space and growing pressure on freedom of expression, including attacks on human rights defenders, who have been forced to flee the country. The decision by Malian authorities to declare the Director of the Human Rights Division of the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Mali "<em>persona non grata</em>” and the difficulties which the Independent Expert faced during his visit are worrying developments.</p> <p>Allow me to ask the following question: How can the Malian authorities improve freedom of speech and association, and how can the international community most effectively address the shrinking civic space in Mali?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Thank you.</span></p>
Mar 30, 2023Item 10: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the oral updates of the High Commissioner on the Democratic Republic of Congo and the team of international experts on Kasai<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 10: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the oral updates of the High Commissioner on the Democratic Republic of Congo and the team of international experts on Kasai</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.</p> <p>The recurrent and intensified armed violence in eastern DRC and related human rights violations and abuses, including attacks against civilians, are of serious concern. The deteriorating security situation, caused primarily by the armed group M23, as well as other armed groups such as the ADF, severely impacts the rights of the Congolese population and jeopardises the coming elections. We note that the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri introduced in 2021, remains.</p> <p>Accountability and the rule of law must be ensured. We note that the trial regarding the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp is now in appeal and in the final instance. It is of utmost importance that the appeals process takes all evidence into consideration. The ongoing investigation on these heinous crimes, conducted in close cooperation with the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism, remains crucial and enjoys our full support.</p> <p>High Commissioner, we would appreciate if you could elaborate on the consequences that the violence may have on existing ethnic tensions?</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>
Mar 30, 2023Item 9: General debate Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 9: General debate Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance:&nbsp; follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Program of Action</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>30 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We remain fully committed to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. All individuals must be treated with dignity and enjoy equal rights as also stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.</p> <p>We commend and are committed to protect those who work at the forefront in combatting racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, including persons and communities of African descent. It is key to increase full, equal and meaningful participation of persons from diverse backgrounds, especially those who have traditionally been marginalized, in all spheres of society. An inclusive civic space is imperative for positive change.&nbsp;</p> <p>In recent years, the fight against racism and racial discrimination has gained increased momentum globally. It has revitalized engagement at all levels of society.</p> <p>We acknowledge the need for strong Government leadership on this matter. But we also underscore that inclusion of a wide range of stakeholders, including from civil society, is essential to achieve sustainable progress. We must all work together towards ending the scourge of racism and racial discrimination, by upholding dignity and rights for everyone, everywhere.</p> <p>In conclusion, rest assured that we will continue our persistent efforts to combat racism in our own countries as well as promoting the cause internationally.</p> <p>Thank you.</p>
Mar 29, 2023Debate in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Debate in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>29 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>This year we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; however, concrete and coordinated action is still necessary to promote and protect human rights and to combat all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.</p> <p>Sadly, racism and racial discrimination continue to exist in all spheres of society, often causing conflict and suffering. Whether overt or covert, it remains a potent weapon to incite fear and polarization within society. But, as history has shown us far too many times: Any system of oppression, is ultimately one in which we all lose.&nbsp; </p> <p>Efforts to solve these challenges must be founded on respect for human rights, the inherent dignity and equality of every person. An inclusive civic space, with diverse and meaningful participation, representation, and leadership, is imperative for transformative change. This requires indicating and eliminating structural inequalities and implementing well-targeted policy measures.</p> <p>Women and girls, as well as persons in vulnerable situations, often face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and marginalization. Their perspectives must be heard and translated into action.</p> <p>Eliminating racism requires decisive, coordinated, and sustained efforts to achieve real change and progress towards a world where human rights are ensured for all, without discrimination of any kind, and where no one is left behind.</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Mar 22, 2023Item 4 General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention<span> </span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 52nd session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 4 General Debate: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>22 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>Iceland condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine which is a flagrant violation of the UN Charter. The human suffering and loss of life stemming from Russia’s invasion is horrifying. Forced transfers and deportations of children, and targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity. </p> <p>We also condemn Belarus’ involvement in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and deplore the widespread and gross human rights violations perpetrated in Belarus. We urge for an end to systematic repression and politically motivated sentencing, including of political opponents and representatives of the Belarusian democratic opposition in exile. </p> <p>In Saudi Arabia, we are alarmed by the handing down of sentences for peaceful expression of opinion and a surge in executions for offenses that no not meet the threshold of the most serious crimes.&nbsp; </p> <p>In China, we remain alarmed by the human rights situation in Xinjiang. We urge China to meaningfully cooperate with OHCHR and to abide by its obligations under international human rights law.</p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements on Myanmar, Iran, DPRK, Ukraine, Syria, Ethiopia and Belarus. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>
Mar 15, 202352nd session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>52<sup>nd</sup> session of the Human Rights Council</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>on Violence against Children</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>15 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Representative for the latest report and her actions taken on elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against children.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries also thank the Special Representative for focusing on the protection of children in the digital environment. We are alarmed by the high number of children cyberbullied and subjected to online sexual exploitation and abuse.</p> <p>We are equally highly concerned over the lack of comprehensive data on violence against children and believe the remaining gaps must be filled. An evidence-based approach in tackling violence against children is vital and can only be achieved when child- and gender-sensitive data is available.</p> <p>To ensure that children are protected, respected and empowered online, safety standards and regulations must be mandated. </p> <p>As the report confirms, many organisations are working on a wide range of actions on violence against children online. How can this work be better synchronized to meet the best interest of the child?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Thank you.</span></p>
Mar 13, 202352nd session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>52<sup>nd</sup> session of the Human Rights Council</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic-Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the special rapporteur for her <em>inclusive</em> approach, demonstrating how freedom of religion or belief can be traced back to many different sources. </p> <p>Yet, these different sources converge in highlighting the need for mutual understanding and respect. We wish to clearly signal today, that we disassociate with all actions by individuals, which only aim to hurt and provoke. We find them disturbing and disrespectful. </p> <p>Fortunately, as displayed in the report, elaborate human rights norms exist on freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression. While they cannot prevent all incidents, they provide a clear human rights approach to tackle challenges in our interconnected world. We recall our full commitment to these standards and to our collective efforts to promote and protect them.</p> <p>Madame Special Rapporteur, you give a thorough overview of ongoing work on freedom of religion or belief, also in the regional organisations. How do you plan to work with them to ensure a coherent approach?</p> <p>Looking ahead, how will you address the intersectionality between freedom of religion or belief and gender equality throughout your mandate?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Thank you.</span></p>
Mar 13, 202352nd session of the Human Rights Council: Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities <span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 52<sup>nd</sup> session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>13 March 2023</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Mr. President,</span></p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.</p> <p>Let me start by thanking the Special Rapporteur for his valuable work and recent report on reimagining services to give effect to the right of persons with disabilities to live independently and be included in the community. </p> <p>We fully agree that active consultation with persons with disabilities and their representative organisations is required to understand what persons with disabilities need and want. We need human rights-based, inclusive and gender transformative solutions that can work in different countries and in different circumstances.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for highlighting the potential of businesses and new technologies, including artificial intelligence, in transforming services for persons with disabilities. As stated in the report, the business sector is increasingly regarded as an important human rights actor. </p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can we better engage with businesses as partners for change in the transformation of services and support for persons with disabilities?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Thank you.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></p>
Mar 08, 202352nd Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 52<sup>nd</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>8 March 2023</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We commend the Special Rapporteur for his ardent efforts in documenting human rights abuses and engaging the de facto authorities.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the dire situation in Afghanistan, in particular the situation of women and girls and that of minorities.</p> <p>We strongly condemn the draconian restrictions on women and girls, excluding them from education, politics, and public life. This discriminatory denial of women and girls’ human rights may amount to gender persecution which is considered a crime against humanity. </p> <p>The recent decision to ban women from working for national and international NGOs underscores the Taliban’s utter disregard for half the population of Afghanistan.</p> <p>We stand with the women and girls of Afghanistan, who continue to show immense resilience. Without them, Afghanistan will never achieve peace, prosperity and stability. </p> <p>What scope does the Special Rapporteur see for ensuring women and girls’ full, equal and meaningful participation in all spheres of life and their right to have control over their own future?</p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Mar 07, 202352nd Session of the Human Rights Council: General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 52<sup>nd</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President. </p> <p>Iceland thanks the High Commissioner for his oral update.</p> <p>Iceland continues to monitor the UN Joint Programme on human rights in the <strong>Philippines</strong>. Genuine intentions of all stakeholders are crucial for the programme to bring about positive change. Iceland calls on the Government to implement the Programme to the letter and address accountability failings. </p> <p>In<strong> Ethiopia</strong>, Iceland commends the Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front for steps taken in implementing the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. Transitional justice and accountability through independent, transparent and impartial investigations must be ensured. </p> <p>In <strong>Egypt</strong>, human rights defenders, journalists, and activists continue to face reprisals and unlawful restrictions. Iceland urges the Government to respect, protect and fulfill the rights to freedoms of expression and opinion, and peaceful assembly and association. </p> <p>In <strong>Yemen</strong>, Iceland calls on all parties to uphold international humanitarian law and human rights law and to secure a political solution. The people of Yemen deserve peace. </p> <p>In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements on the situation in Afghanistan, Nicaragua, Sudan and South-Sudan in respective Interactive Dialogues. </p>
Mar 06, 202352nd Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue on the report of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Interactive dialogue on the report of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordic – Baltic Statement delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 March 2023</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the Group of Human Rights Experts for the latest report on the human rights situation in Nicaragua. </p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Nicaragua, including arbitrary detentions, restrictions on civic space and violations of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, and consistent attacks against human rights defenders, Indigenous Peoples, journalists and other media workers, political opposition, religious institutions, and civil society leaders.</p> <p>The release of the 222 political prisoners by the Government of Nicaragua marks a constructive move, however we condemn the decision to revoke their citizenship and to strip nationality from a further 94 citizens.</p> <p>We urge the Nicaraguan Government to respect all civil and political rights, and to free all political prisoners. Impunity for human rights violations must end. We call on Nicaragua to lift all restrictions on civic space and guarantee all persons their rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association. We call on Nicaragua to resume full cooperation with international and regional human rights mechanisms, including the OHCHR.</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>What concrete steps can be taken to urge Nicaragua to end impunity and guarantee accountability for all human rights violations? </p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Oct 13, 2022United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 73st Session of the Executive Committee - General Debate<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees<br /> 73<sup>st</sup> Session of the Executive Committee<br /> Palais des Nations, Geneva<br /> 10. – 14. October 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>General Debate<br /> STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF ICELAND<br /> <em>- Check against delivery - </em></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>H.E. Mr. Einar Gunnarsson<br /> Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations, Geneva</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Mr. Chair, High Commissioner. </strong></p> <p>Iceland would like to commend UNHCR staff, under the exemplary leadership of the High Commissioner, for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to protect and assist those forced to flee. We would also like to use this opportunity to express Iceland’s strong support for the High Commissioner extended tenure. </p> <p>Mr. Chair. </p> <p>Yet another forced displacement record has been broken this year with the number of forcibly displaced exceeding one hundred million worldwide. If ongoing conflicts, violence, persecution and adverse effects of climate change remain unresolved and the risks of new ones are not addressed, the twenty-first century will see the pace and scale of displacement by far outstripping durable solutions for persons of concern to UNHCR.</p> <p>The protection crisis in Afghanistan following the Taliban take-over was high on our agenda last year. A crisis that came at a time when the humanitarian system was already under extreme pressure.</p> <p>This year, we had hoped to gather under less strenuous circumstances allowing us collectively to address pre-existing challenges and take off where we left on burden and responsibility-sharing which unfortunately slowed down during the global pandemic.</p> <p>Not only did global human suffering increase - the world also saw the most disruptive international armed conflict since World War II - a war of aggression&nbsp; by Russia against Ukraine - and the forcible displacement of nearly fourteen million Ukrainians in a matter of weeks. </p> <p>Mr. Chair. </p> <p>Last year, Iceland committed to welcoming Afghans in need of international protection following the Taliban take-over. This works continues until this day, including through family reunification. </p> <p>Like other countries in Europe, Iceland also opened its doors to asylum seekers fleeing the war in Ukraine. Since the beginning of this years, Iceland received a record high number of asylum seekers with the majority fleeing the war in Ukraine. New resources were also mobilised for IDPs in Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees seeking protection in neighbouring countries.</p> <p>More specifically on resettlement, Iceland will continue to share the responsibility for providing durable solutions. Our resettlement commitments stand, and we will continue to work in close partnership with UNHCR in honouring them. </p> <p>We recognise that the second Global Refugee Forum is little over a year away. The GRF brings with it important opportunities for countries like Iceland who primarily act as donors to take a closer look at how to better share the responsibilities with larger refugee host countries. We look forward to this undertaking and will do our best. </p> <p>Mr Chair. </p> <p>Iceland values its partnership with UNHCR and we remain committed to strengthening it further. We strongly believe in predictable and flexible annual funding and see it as the most cost-effective, humane and logical way forward in this dire humanitarian landscape characterised by life-threatening funding shortfalls, including for persons of concern to UNHCR. </p> <p>Iceland is committed to help bridge the funding gap this year and is therefore more than doubling this year’s core contribution to UNHCR. We encourage other donors to do the same, before it is too late. </p> <p>In situations of protracted crises, we are committed to the principle of predictable and flexible contributions and will continue to provide multi-year funding for UNHCR´s operations, including in Syria, Yemen and Afghanistan. </p> <p>UNHCR continues to be our main conduit for humanitarian assistance. This year, Iceland has responded to the deterioriating situation in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, and the most recent floods in Pakistan. </p> <p>Mr Chair. </p> <p>In closing, forced displacement and statelessness impact people differently, depending on age, gender and diversity. An intersectional approach is therefore vital for identifying protection risks and designing an effective response. Iceland commends UNHCR for its exemplary work and commitment to persons in the most vulnerable situations. </p> <p>I thank you. </p>
Oct 05, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic Statement - Interactive dialogue on the oral update of OHCHR on technical assistance and capacity-building for South Sudan<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>51<sup>st</sup> Session of the UN Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of OHCHR on technical assistance and capacity-building for South Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you Mr President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>Human rights violations and abuses and human suffering remain pervasive in South Sudan. Extrajudicial, summary and arbitrary executions, sexual and gender-based violence are sadly only some of the ongoing violations and abuses. These must stop. </p> <p>We urge the Government – that has the primary responsibility to protect its population – to take long-awaited steps to improve the security situation in the country. This must include investigating and holding those responsible of human rights violations and abuses to account.</p> <p>With the recent two-year extension of the Peace Agreement and the Government’s own Roadmap, we call for a renewed push for the implementation of Chapter V on transitional justice. The technical assistance provided by the Office of the High Commissioner is fundamental to ensure this. Building capacity in national courts to investigate and prosecute alleged crimes is imperative. </p> <p>The support of the Office of the High Commissioner can only translate to progress with the full cooperation of the Government. We urge the Government to make use of the support provided, to take active measures to reduce the level of violence and ensure that those responsible are held to account.</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br />
Oct 05, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic statement - Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>51<sup>st</sup> session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 10: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>5 October</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, <em>Mr. President</em>.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries welcome the report and thank the <em>Acting High Commissioner</em> and the Resident Coordinator for their updates.</p> <p>Resolution 45/33 importantly requested technical assistance and capacity building through the implementation of a multi-year UN Joint Programme in the Philippines. We are pleased that the Programme is based on this request of the Council with corresponding focus areas. </p> <p>We express concern over the lack of progress made on the accountability agenda. This is a key component of the program and justice is needed, both for the victims of human rights violations and to prevent new ones from occurring. In addition, we would like to highlight the importance of broad civil society participation across all components of the Programme. </p> <p>We believe the Programme, if implemented to the letter, is an important tool in institutionalizing human rights in law enforcement. </p> <p>The Programme has generated some important outputs over the past fourteen months. Now we need to see the outcomes. Anything less than genuine intentions of all stakeholders to use the Programme to improve the human rights situation in the Philippines will constitute a failure. </p> <p>We look forward to the Government and the Resident Coordinator continuing to keep the Council abreast of the implementation of the Programme at future sessions.</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br />
Oct 05, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 51<sup>st</sup> Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia<br /> </strong><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>5 October 2022<br /> Nordic-Baltic Statement</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>We welcome the successful completion of the electoral process and peaceful transition of power in Somalia. However, many serious challenges remain, including with regard to human rights.&nbsp; </p> <p>We are deeply concerned with the increasing number of internally displaced persons due to drought and conflict. People on the move, particularly women, girls and children, are especially vulnerable to human rights violations and abuses, not least sexual and gender-based violence. </p> <p>We remain seriously concerned about the increase in violence against women and girls and encourage the Government of Somalia to adopt and implement sexual offenses legislation in line with international standards. It is key that women are supported and perpetrators held to account. In this regard, we reiterate our call on the Government of Somalia to ratify CEDAW. </p> <p>Lastly, we underscore the importance of adopting a constitution in line with Somalia’s human rights obligations and ensure that the human rights of all Somalis are respected, protected and fulfilled. </p> <p><em>Ms. Dyfan; how can we best support you in your mandate? </em></p> <p>I thank you.</p> <br />
Oct 05, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 51<sup>st</sup> Session </strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 10: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>5 October</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>Thank you, Mr President. </p> <p>We would like to express our deep appreciation for the invaluable work of the Office of the High Commissioner and the Resident Coordinator together with the Government to achieve a first of its kind framework in the UN Joint Programme.</p> <p>As Iceland had been a vocal critic of the Philippine’s human rights record it is important that the Joint Programme addresses the issues raised in the previous High Commissioner’s report and resolution 45/33 jointly submitted by the Philippines and Iceland. </p> <p>The briefing today underlines that important steps and progress have been made since the Programme came into effect, as well as further steps that we trust will be taken to fully implement the Joint Programme. </p> <p>We emphasize the importance of its <span style="text-decoration: underline;">full</span> implementation and particularly note the recommendations made by the Office of the High Commissioner and the Resident Coordinator in this regard. We encourage the Government to take them onboard. </p> <p>We particularly welcome the recommendation for OHCHR to produce a follow-up report to evaluate the impact of the Programme and look forward to the Government and Resident Coordinator continuing to keep the Council up to date on the Programme’s implementation.</p> <p>I thank you. </p> <br />
Oct 04, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>51<sup>st</sup> Session of the UN Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 10 Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral update on Ukraine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>Thank you Mr. President.</p> <p>Iceland reiterates its unwavering commitment to the independence, sovereignty and respect for the territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.</p> <p>We condemn in the strongest possible terms Putin’s illegal sham “referenda” in Ukraine and the illegal annexation of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzia regions of Ukraine. The annexation is a fundamental violation of the Principles of the UN Charter and international law.</p> <p>Relately, we are sickened by Russia´s systematic use of filtration camps which are integral to Russia´s annexation and “Russification”. </p> <p>We continue to witness grave violations and abuses of international humanitarian law and human rights in Ukraine. Russia´s disregard for human lives is harrowing, confirmed by sickening reports of mass graves and atrocities in areas recaptured by Ukrainian armed forces. </p> <p>We welcome the launch of the Fact-Finding Mission regarding the 29 July incident at Olenivka and look forward to the report to the Secretary General. </p> <p>We are deeply alarmed by the severe repercussions of Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine on global food security, which particularly affects developing countries and persons in vulnerable situations.&nbsp; </p> <p>Iceland stands in full unity with the people of Ukraine and demands the withdrawal of all Russian military personnel and equipment from Ukraine. </p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br />
Oct 04, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic statement - Enhanched ID on report of HC and experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>51<sup>st</sup> Session of the UN Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 10 Enhanched ID on report of HC and experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>4 October 2022</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you Mr President.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Acting High Commissioner, [for your report] and to the Team of International Experts for their final report. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The increase in ethnic tensions, attacks against civilians and other human rights violations and abuses in eastern DRC is of serious concern. We note that the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri introduced in 2021, remains. The volatile security situation and the challenges regarding good governance constitute major obstacles to legal proceedings. We also note the dependence on military courts and the limited judicial accessibility outside of urban areas. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Accountability and the rule of law must be ensured. We note the verdict regarding the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp. It is of utmost importance that the upcoming appeals process takes all evidence into consideration. The ongoing investigation to shed full light on these heinous crimes, which is conducted in close cooperation with the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism, remains important and enjoys our full support.&nbsp; </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Acting High Commissioner, we would appreciate if you could elaborate on the consequences of the state of siege and the following extensive use of military courts rather than civilian courts? </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <br />
Sep 26, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention - General Debate<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 51st session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 4: General Debate</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President. </p> <p>Iceland remains gravely concerned about steps <strong>Russia</strong> has taken to further restrict fundamental freedoms inside Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. We urge Russia to respect freedoms of opinion, expression and peaceful assembly, and welcome steps underway to bring the human rights situation inside Russia to Council’s attention.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>In <strong>Ethiopia,</strong> we are alarmed by reports of extrajudicial killings, sexual and gender based violence and starvation, as a method of warfare. We urge all parties to immediately cease&nbsp; hostilities, and take steps towards reachin<em>g</em> a political solution. Redress for past violations and abuses, some of which may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, must be ensured.</p> <p>We are deeply alarmed by accounts of systematic human rights violations and abuses against Uyghurs and other minorities in <strong>China </strong>that may amount to crimes against humanity, including mass arbitrary detention, cultural and religious persecution, forced labor and sterilization. Accountability must be ensured.</p> <p>In <strong>Iran</strong>, we condemn the violent enforcement of the discriminatory compulsory veiling law. We urge the authorities to ensure that fundamental human rights of its citizens, including those of women and girls, are respected and that those under any form of detention are not subject to any form of mistreatment. Violence directed against peaceful protesters and human rights defenders must stop.</p> <p>In <strong>Egypt</strong>, we remain concerned about widespread and systematic violations and abuses of human rights, including freedom of opinion and expression and freedom of assembly and association.</p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>In <strong>Myanmar</strong>, we deplore the relentless attacks on children and call for an immediate end to all forms of violence, including sexual and gender based violence, mass killings, torture, airstrikes and arson. Ensuring accountability for past and ongoing international crimes is vital.</p> <p>Finally, Iceland raised its concerns about the human rights situation in Belarus and Ukraine stemming from Russia’s aggression elsewhere under item 4.</p> <p>I thank you. </p>
Sep 23, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights in Belarus<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 51st session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>23 September 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We thank the acting High Commissioner for her oral update. </p> <p>The Belarusian authorities continue to seriously infringe on the fundamental rights of their own people. The relentless attack on civil society and independent voices, and the widespread use of disinformation is appalling. Today, over one thousand three hundred political prisoners remain detained in Belarus. Moreover, the repression by the Belarusian regime of persons belonging to minorities, such as the Polish minority, is gravely concerning. </p> <p>Despite this grave situation, Belarusian activists continue to show great courage in their fight for the public’s enjoyment of their fundamental human rights. The recent harsh sentencing of Belarusian journalist Katsiaryna Andreyeva and Belarusian activists Maria (Marfa) Rabkova and Andrey Chapiuk are a stark reminder of the risks they take.</p> <p>Mr President. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We call on Belarus to adhere to its international commitments and obligations under human rights law. We request an immediate and unconditional release of political prisoners and other arbitrarily detained persons. The rights of persons belonging to minorities likewise need to be respected, including their right to foster their ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and religious identity.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The international community must send a strong message that we stand united for a democratic Belarus. Iceland certainly does so.</p> <p>Thank you. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <br />
Sep 23, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 51st session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>23 September 2022</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We thank the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine for the oral update. </p> <p>We continue to witness systematic violations and abuses of international humanitarian law and human rights law by Russia in Ukraine. Russia´s complete disregard for human lives is appalling, confirmed by sickening reports of mass graves and atrocities in areas recaptured by the Ukrainian armed forces. </p> <p>Evidence of filtration camps in Russian occupied territory in Ukraine are extremely disturbing and bring back painful memories of Europe´s past. Reports of forced transfers of unaccompanied Ukrainian children to Russia are likewise chilling. These cannot and will not be tolerated.</p> <p>Along with the immediate damage and destruction, where civilians and civilian infrastructure, are the primary victims, Russia’s war will have devastating long-term consequences on the Ukrainian population, not least young people and future generations. Scars caused by war take long to heal.</p> <p>Mr President. </p> <p>Iceland strongly condemns Russia´s plans for "referendums". They are a clear violation of international law and their outcomes can never be respected. </p> <p>We once again call on Russia to respect international humanitarian law and human rights law. </p> <p>Iceland stands in full unity with the people of Ukraine and demands the withdrawal of all Russian military personnel and equipment from Ukraine. </p> <p>Thank you. </p> <br />
Sep 14, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic Statement - D with SR on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 51st session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 3: ID with SR on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>14 September 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.</p> <p>We firmly belief that safe drinking water and sanitation is not only a human right; it is also central to living a life in dignity. </p> <p>Lack of access to quality water and sanitation disproportionately affects women and girls; and indigenous women and girls are no exception. Discriminatory norms and structures, gender stereotypes, and stigma and taboos related to menstruation and child birth seriously affect the realization of the right to water and sanitation. The multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination that indigenous women and girls face need to be taken into account. </p> <p>With growing global water scarcity and contamination, indigenous women and girls are increasingly forced to walk longer distances to fetch water. With this, the risk of sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination and exploitation and lack of autonomy increases.</p> <p>Despite indigenous women’ and girls’ irrefutable live-saving water role, they remain under-represented in consultative processes and decision-making about water management. The vast majority of water-related laws and programmes fail to include their knowledge. Essentially, their effective participation is not guaranteed. This must change. </p> <p>Mr. Special Rapporteur, what more can be done to guarantee indigenous women’s and girls’ seat at the table? </p> <br />
Sep 13, 202251st Session of the Human Rights Council: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG - General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council<em><br /> 51st session</em></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong><em>Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG</em><br /> General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President. </p> <p>Iceland thanks the Acting High Commissioner for her oral update.</p> <p>We would like to raise concerns of the sharply deteriorating human rights situation in the <strong>Russian Federation</strong> after its war of aggression against Ukraine. The persecution of human rights defenders, silencing of journalists, the ban against independent media and peaceful protests, and the attack against civil society is alarming. </p> <p>Iceland also strongly condemns Russia’s expansion and harsh enforcement of its “foreign agents’ law” which is systematically used to silence dissenting and opposition voices. Formal scrutiny of the human rights situation in Russia is urgently needed.<s><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></s></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>In <strong>Afghanistan</strong>, we remain greatly alarmed by the sharp deterioration of human rights, in particular women and girls, and ethnic and religious minorities. We reiterate our call on Taliban to respect women’s and girls’ rights and accept diversity and different views. The Taliban must close the gap between their words and their deeds, as they continue to be judged by the latter.</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>We thank the OHCHR for the assessment report of human rights concerns in <strong>China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region </strong>which is sound, and its credibility cannot be refuted. </p> <p>Iceland is gravely concerned by accounts of systematic, widespread, and targeted human rights violations and abuses against Uyghurs and other minorities that may amount to crimes against humanity. Accountability must be ensured. We urge China to abide by its international human rights obligations and to immediately implement the report’s recommendations. </p>
Jul 14, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic statements, national statements and joint statements<ul> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/HRC50%20All%20NB8%20statements.pdf"><span class="pdf">Nordic-Baltic (NB8) statements</span></a></li> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/HRC%2050%20All%20national%20statements.pdf"><span class="pdf">National statements</span></a></li> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/HRC50%20All%20signed%20joint%20statements.pdf"><span class="pdf">Joint statements</span></a></li> </ul>
Jul 06, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission on Libya<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>50th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission on Libya</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>6 July 2022</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><br /> </strong>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the members of the Fact-Finding Mission for their report and reiterate our full support for their mandate. Their work is critical to ensure accountability and to end impunity for human rights violations and abuses in Libya.</p> <p>The human rights situation in Libya remains deeply concerning. It is unacceptable that reports of torture, extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and sexual and gender-based violence remain largely unaddressed.&nbsp; We are also concerned about the use of arbitrary detention and shrinking civic space.</p> <p>We condemn the resurgence of politically motivated violence. We call on all actors to work towards a peaceful political transition in Libya and to adopt a holistic National Human Rights Plan of Action to ensure full respect for human rights and a sustainable transition to peace and democracy through fair elections.</p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>The work of the Mission is not yet completed. It is essential that it is given the necessary time and resources to complete its mandate. We therefore urge for the extension of the mandate and encourage all parties to fully cooperate with the Mission.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jul 05, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: ID on the oral update of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and interim report of Secretary-General on the situation of human rights in Crimea<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>50th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>5 July 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 10: ID on the oral update of the High Commissioner on Ukraine and interim report of Secretary-General on the situation of human rights in Crimea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for the update and welcome the report.</p> <p>It has been more than four months now since Russia launched its brutal war against Ukraine, which has caused widespread destruction and unspeakable suffering of civilians. We urge Russia to immediately cease all attacks and deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure, which constitute serious violations under international humanitarian law.</p> <p>The human rights situation in Crimea and all other Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine continues to deteriorate. We are appalled by increasing reports of arbitrary detentions, executions, sexual and gender-based violence, torture and other ill-treatment, and enforced displacement. We strongly reiterate that international human rights law and international humanitarian law must be upheld.</p> <p>Russia bears the full responsibility for all destruction and loss of life of civilians it is causing. Those responsible for human rights violations and abuses must be brought to justice. </p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Iceland’s support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity remains firm. We reiterate our call on Russia to immediately withdraw all its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine without precondition, and to fully comply with its obligations under international law.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jul 01, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic statement in the Urgent Debate on Afghanistan<p>President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. </p> <p>Afghanistan is facing dark times. </p> <p>When our countries addressed this Council last August, we - as many others - appealed to the Taliban to “live up to their promises, and uphold their obligations under international law to protect civilians and respect human rights”. </p> <p>Regrettably, the Taliban have shown no willingness to listen to such appeals - neither from the international community <em>nor</em> their own people. </p> <p>Almost one year on, a hard-hit population has no representative government and is suffering a humanitarian, economic and human rights crisis.</p> <p>The deteriorating situation for Afghan women and girls is of particular concern. No country of any religious persuasion of its people or government, denies girls the right to a secondary education – with one exception, Afghanistan. </p> <p>This egregious policy comes in addition to multiple directives and practices significantly impeding women’s rights. This includes freedom of movement, the right to gainful employment and freedom of political, economic, and social participation and decision-making.</p> <p>A country ravaged by 44 years of conflict, facing dire humanitarian and developmental challenges, can ill afford to exclude half of its population from participating in rebuilding society. </p> <p>The international community must continue to support Afghanistan. The Security Council provided UNAMA with a comprehensive mandate to engage. We welcome the visit of Special Rapporteur Bennett to Afghanistan and anticipate his first report to the Council in September. We support the convening of an urgent debate and the establishment of a panel. </p> <p>The UN and the rest of the international community must continue to support the Afghan people and promote the establishment of an inclusive government that represents its people and respects the human rights of all, including those of women and girls.</p> <p>Thank you.</p> <br />
Jun 30, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Adoption of the Outcome of Iceland’s UPR Report and Addendum<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item 6 - Adoption of the Outcome of Iceland’s UPR Report and Addendum</strong></p> <p><strong> 50th Session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p><strong>Delivered by Head of Delegation, H.E. Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland</strong></p> <p><strong>30 June 2022</strong></p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>It is my great honour to address the Council on the occasion of the consideration and adoption of the outcome of Iceland’s third Universal Periodic Review.</p> <p>The promotion and protection of human rights is a core priority for the government of Iceland, in both domestic and foreign policies. We firmly uphold the principle that human rights are universal, and we strive to see this reflected in all areas of Icelandic society.</p> <p>The UPR offers an exceptional opportunity to regularly hold ourselves to account, take stock, and learn from others and Iceland greatly appreciates the interest shown in the human rights situation in our country. This review was an opportunity to discuss our own human rights record with fellow Member States and non-state actors. New challenges to human rights continue to rise and we, as all other countries, benefit from new perspectives on where we can do better.</p> <p>Iceland respects the UPR’s core concept of broad stakeholder consultations. A central part of this was the establishment of a Government Steering Committee on Human Rights, which since 2017 has served as a formal platform for human rights consultation and cooperation across all ministries. </p> <p>We closely involved Icelandic civil society in the review process. We held regular open consultations, and throughout the process, stakeholders were invited to submit comments and proposals.</p> <p>Another vital part of the consultation process was the involvement of children and young people, with the <em>Youth Council for the Sustainable Development Goals</em> playing an important role. The input of children and young people was invaluable. </p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Government of Iceland welcomes the recommendations received during the third UPR of Iceland on 25 January 2022. Iceland received 230 recommendations. They are highly valuable for our continued national development.</p> <p>The Government’s overall approach when considering the recommendations received was to accept recommendations where the Government could foresee measures before the next review, or where measures had already been or were being implemented.</p> <p>After careful consideration of the recommendations, the Government submitted an addendum to the Report of the UPR Working Group on 4 April this year. A table with all the recommendations and the Government’s responses to them was annexed to the addendum. The responses include explanations with regard to all recommendations that were noted.</p> <p>The Government of Iceland accepted 218 recommendations, partially accepted 2 recommendations and noted 10 recommendations.</p> <p>The recommendations cover a number of different human rights issues. I will provide some comments with regard to the main themes. </p> <p><strong>During our review, the establishment of a National Human Rights Institution was raised by a large group of states. </strong></p> <p>The Government of Iceland has decided to establish a strong, independent and effective National Human Rights Institution that will be fully compliant with the Paris Principles. The establishment of a human rights institution is included in the coalition treaty of the current Government. Work is already underway on the establishment of a new human rights institution a bill will be presented to Parliament in 2023.</p> <p>A number of states recommended <strong>the Ratification of the UN Convention for the Protection of all Persons from Enforced Disappearance.</strong></p> <p>We are pleased to announce that the process is underway. Icelandic law is based on a dualistic system, whereby national legislation is adapted to conform with international conventions ratified by Iceland. Consequently, the ratification process takes time. The Icelandic authorities emphasize their absolute devotion to continue an ambitious approach to the implementation of international human rights obligations.</p> <p>I would now like to make a few comments about the <strong>ratification of Optional Protocols that entail communications procedures </strong>of the respective human rights treaty bodies. After careful consideration, a decision was made to ratify the third Optional Protocol on the Rights of the Child before the end of 2023. To further strengthen the status of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Government of Iceland has decided to incorporate it directly into Icelandic legislation. In parallel with the incorporation of the Convention into Icelandic legislation, a preparation of the Optional Protocol's ratification is planned. </p> <p>Allow me now to highlight a few of the steps the Government of Iceland has taken to <strong>combat gender-based and sexual violence, and trafficking in human beings. </strong></p> <p>The Government is firmly committed to fighting gender-based and sexual violence. Significant efforts have been made to ensure faster and higher quality investigations and prosecutions in gender-based and sexual violence cases. This includes enhanced financing and additional training for police and prosecutors.</p> <p>Combating human trafficking is a top priority for Iceland. In 2019, the Government’s policies were outlined in a National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking and Other Forms of Exploitation which since has been the foundation of a strengthened approach to the prevention, protection, and prosecution of human trafficking, as well as enhanced partnership and consultations across the administration and with the police.</p> <p>We also received several recommendations concerning <strong>equality, non-discrimination and measures to combat discrimination, and accepted all of them.</strong> </p> <p>There should be no doubt that the Government of Iceland attaches great importance to combatting discrimination. Significant steps were taken in 2018, when the Icelandic Parliament adopted two anti-discrimination laws: the Act on Equal Treatment in the Labour Market and the Act on Equal Treatment irrespective of Race and Ethnic Origin.</p> <p>Legislative protection against discrimination has been strengthened, with the broadening of the Act on Equal Treatment outside the Labour Market with a bill passed by the Parliament earlier this month/in June this year. The Act now covers equal treatment in all areas of society, irrespective of race, ethnicity, religion, life stance, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics.</p> <p>I would also like to mention that earlier this month, the Parliament unanimously passed the first Action Plan on the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals in Iceland with the aim of improving their rights in all areas of society. </p> <p><strong>The matter of hate crimes and hate speech was also raised.</strong> The criminal code has been amended and now includes a provision on hate crime. The provision on hate speech has also been broadened to include protection for more groups. </p> <p><strong>During our review, a number of states gave recommendations to address the rights of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.</strong></p> <p>The government has adopted a new and coordinated approach to refugee reception and integration, aimed at ensuring quicker and better inclusion of refugees into the community. This has gone hand in hand with a detailed Action Plan to further facilitate integration of all immigrants and to monitor societal perception of Iceland’s immigrant population.</p> <p>The Government intends to formulate a comprehensive immigration policy in the coming years, aimed at ensuring that persons who settle in Iceland have the opportunity to integrate and actively participate in Icelandic society and in the labour market.</p> <p>We noted the recommendations on ratifying the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. The revision of the labour law is planned and needs to be conducted and the ratification of the Convention will be taken into consideration after that process. </p> <p>Lastly, the fight against <strong>climate change</strong> is a core priority for the Government and we therefore welcomed and accepted the recommendations received on human rights and the environment. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> <h2>Concluding remarks</h2> <p>Let me first of all thank you and all those who have participated today. I also wish to thank the Secretariat for their invaluable guidance, and our Troika – Argentina, Finland and Senegal – for their excellent work.</p> <p>We have implemented a number of strategic initiatives since our last Review to promote human rights in Iceland, and the Government remains fully committed to continuing to implement the UPR recommendations. We will continue to involve civil society organisations in Iceland, and other stakeholders, in the follow up process. A strong and engaging dialogue with stakeholders is crucial to ensure that all key areas of concern are addressed. I can also confirm that we will, like last time, submit a voluntary mid-term report in 2024.</p> <p>Iceland remains firmly committed to promoting and protecting human rights and we will strive to find adequate solutions and responses as new human rights challenges arise. Iceland views the Human Rights Council as the key platform for the promotion of human rights and a cornerstone of the multilateral system. We will continue to work actively with the Council to ensure that mechanisms for protecting and advancing human rights globally are strengthened.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jun 29, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic<p><strong>UN Human Rights Council<br /> 50<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry <br /> on the Syrian Arab Republic </strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Intervention by Iceland, on behalf of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </p> <p>After more than a decade of a brutal armed conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic, civilians continue to bear the brunt of gross violations and abuses of international human rights law and international humanitarian law committed against them. </p> <p>We are gravely concerned about continuous reports of such violations and abuses, not least targeted attacks and killings, torture and sexual and gender-based violence, arbitrary detentions and enforced disappearances throughout Syria. </p> <p>In a continuing pattern documented by the Commission for years, the Syrian regime and its allies have continued to indiscriminately target civilians. Once again, we demand all parties to the conflict to stop the systematic and widespread human rights violations and abuses, and comply with international humanitarian law.</p> <p>We are also concerned about the rising risk of hunger in Syria, particularly in view of increasing global food insecurity as a result of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. In this context, the extension of Security Council Resolution 2585 allowing continued cross-border humanitarian assistance in the northwestern part of the country is vital.</p> <p>We express our unwavering support for the Commission of Inquiry and its mandate. The people of Syria deserve accountability for the crimes continuously committed against them. </p> <p>The war has now lasted for more than 11 years. What can States do to ensure that the war and the suffering of the people of Syria are not forgotten, and to support accountability?</p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Jun 29, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>50th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>28 June 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>ITEM 4 - <span>Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Iceland thanks the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus for her report, an important update on an ever-worsening human rights situation that we must not lose sight of. </p> <p>Belarus’ involvement in the war against Ukraine exacerbates the situation in Belarus and creates additional concerns. Civil society remains under attack and the widespread use of disinformation is alarming and must stop.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned about widespread and systematic violations and abuses that have been executed as an official policy, as well as recent constitutional and other legislative changes that restrict fundamental freedoms even further, including the recently adopted law on the death penalty. </p> <p>Iceland strongly supports the mandate of the Special Rapporteur. The Rapporteur’s work is vital to gain insight into the human rights violations and abuses taking place every day in Belarus with the collection of information showing persecution of political opponents of the regime, arbitrary arrests, and harassment of human rights defenders. </p> <p>Iceland condemns the systematic human rights violations and abuses of the Belarusian regime<strong> </strong>and calls for the immediate release of all political prisoners. We call on Belarus to adhere to its international commitments and obligations under human rights law. </p> <p>We stand firmly with the Belarusian people in their fight for a free and democratic society.</p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Jun 28, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic Statement - Panel on adverse effects of climate change on human rights of people in vulnerable situations<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council<br /> </strong><strong>50th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Panel on adverse effects of climate change on human rights of people in vulnerable situations</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>28 June 2022</strong><br /> <br /> </p> <p style="text-align: left;">Mr. Chair,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We thank the distinguished panelists for their contributions. It is important to ensure a strong global message on the human rights impacts of climate change, disproportionately affecting persons in vulnerable situations.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The Human Rights Council has rightly underlined the interlinkages between human rights and climate change. It is our joint duty to tackle the adverse effects of climate change on the realization of human rights and to enhance a just and equal transition.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We must pay special attention to the protection and promotion of the rights of those who are more acutely impacted by climate change, including women and girls, children, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, persons in vulnerable situations and environmental defenders.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We thank the panel for highlighting that the integration of human rights into climate action will increase its effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability. It is vital to empower women and persons in vulnerable situations and ensure their full, effective, equal and meaningful participation in decision-making at all levels.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"> Esteemed panelists,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">How can we best promote the integration of a gender perspective in climate action?</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Thank you.&nbsp; </p>
Jun 24, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>50th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>24 June 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report.</p> <p>We strongly condemn killing, harassment and intimidation of journalists and media workers. The disproportionate, multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and gender-based violence directed at women journalists is extremely worrying. All journalists and media workers must be able to work without fear of reprisals, online as well as offline.</p> <p>Freedom of opinion and expression is fundamental for resilient and democratic societies and protection of all human rights. Free, independent, strong and pluralistic media helps people make informed decisions and hold governments and public institutions accountable, both in peacetime and in conflict or war situations.</p> <p>Protecting journalists and media workers requires further attention and constant commitment. We need strengthened cooperation and dialogue between stakeholders across sectors, regions and fora. States have the primary responsibility to protect freedom of expression and ensure the safety of journalists, including ending impunity for crimes against journalists. As media today is dependent on digital platforms, businesses also have a crucial role to play.</p> <p>Honourable Special Rapporteur, what steps can governments take to strengthen cooperation and dialogue between stakeholders?</p>
Jun 16, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity<p><strong>50<sup>th</sup> Session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (NB8</strong><strong>)</strong></p> <p><strong>16 June 2022</strong></p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President.</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Independent Expert for his report and reiterate our unwavering support to the renewal of this crucial mandate. We welcome the focus of the new report on the realization of the right to health in relation to the SDGs. Bringing a SOGI lens to the health-related commitments of the SDGs is of paramount importance to “leaving no one behind”. </p> <p>The right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, including sexual and reproductive health and rights and the right to bodily autonomy, must be enjoyed without discrimination of any kind, including on the basis of SOGI and sex characteristics.</p> <p>We would also like to underscore the importance of providing comprehensive sexuality education to reduce health risks for LGBTQI and gender-diverse youth, including with regard to sexual and reproductive health and rights.</p> <p>We strongly condemn all attacks on human rights defenders and civil society organisations, including those working to combat discrimination and violence based on SOGI and call on all States to create a safe, inclusive and enabling environment for the promotion of human rights and equality for all.</p> <p>Mr. Independent Expert,</p> <p>What advice do you have for States to address the serious gaps in the evidence-base regarding health-related discrimination and violence based on SOGI? </p> <p>Thank you.</p>
Jun 16, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Dialogue on the High Commissioner oral update on the situation in Mariupol<p><strong>50th Session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p><strong>Item 2 – </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner oral update on the situation in Mariupol (Ukraine, res S-34/1)</strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p><strong>16 June 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>Iceland thanks the High Commissioner for her briefing on the devastating situation in Mariupol. What we have heard today has unfortunately become a common thread in Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine.&nbsp; </p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The reports of the atrocities committed by the Russian military in Ukraine are shocking. Blatant disregard for human lives is a signature of Russia’s warfare for the past months. </p> <p>The Russian military continues to flagrantly violate the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, by way of executions, sexual and gender-based violence, arbitrary detentions, enforced displacements and shelling of hospitals and schools. This is something we have unfortunately seen in multiple cities across Ukraine, including Mariupol and Bucha.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We must continue to collectively fight against impunity for violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. </p> <p>Those responsible for committing those atrocities against civilians must be brought to justice. </p> <p>Iceland fully supports the Commission of Inquiry and other initiatives to this end, including the investigation of the ICC. Iceland also commends the Prosecutor General of Ukraine and other States in their joint efforts along with the ICC to facilitate investigations and prosecutions in the concerned states as well as those that could be taken forward before the ICC.</p> <p>I thank you. </p>
Jun 16, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Dialogue on the interim oral update by the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua (Council resolution 46/2)<p><strong>50th session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p><strong>Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the interim oral update by the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua </strong><strong>(Council resolution 46/2)</strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p><strong>16 June 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. We thank the High Commissioner for the latest update.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned about ongoing human rights violations in Nicaragua, including arbitrary detentions, violations of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, and consistent attacks against human rights defenders, journalists and other media workers, political opposition, and civil society leaders.</p> <p>The space for civil society in Nicaragua is shrinking dramatically. We strongly condemn the authorities’ recent cancellation of 177 additional non-governmental organisations’ legal status and urge the Nicaraguan authorities to immediately revoke these decisions and to guarantee, in all circumstances, the right to freedom of association.</p> <p>We urge Nicaragua to ensure the full enjoyment of human rights, including civil and political rights. Impunity for human rights violations must end. We call on Nicaragua to cooperate fully with international and regional human rights mechanisms, including the OHCHR.</p> <p>Madame High Commissioner,</p> <p>What concrete steps can be taken to encourage Nicaragua to restore the legal personality of the organisations that have been arbitrarily shut down? </p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Jun 16, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the Sudan <p><strong>50th session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p><strong>Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights since, and human rights violations and abuses committed during, the period of the military takeover in the Sudan </strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p><strong>15 June 2022</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Iceland has the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic Countries. We thank the High Commissioner for the update.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The situation for human rights in Sudan has deteriorated since the last time we met in this format. </p> <p>We are appalled by the violence from the security forces towards peaceful protesters. More than 100 have been killed and thousands arbitrarily detained. We have seen widespread sexual and gender-based violence. Tensions are increasing nationally, including 200 people killed in inter-communal violence in Darfur. </p> <p>A Sudanese-led inclusive dialogue is necessary to achieve a broad-based support for the path forward. We appreciate the commitment of UNITAMS, AU and IGAD to support the process. The de facto authorities must stop the violence and create a conducive environment for dialogue. The lifting of the state of emergency and release of prisoners are positive steps, more needs to be done. </p> <p>We appreciate the work of the independent human rights expert in Sudan and call upon the Sudanese authorities to fully cooperate with his mandate. </p> <p>Mr. President, </p> <p>How can we and the Office best support the protection and advancement of human rights in Sudan?</p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Jun 16, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: High level commemorative event, achievements and lessons learned<p><strong>High level commemorative event on the occasion of the 50th session of the Human Rights Council: achievements and lessons learned</strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p><strong>15 June 2022</strong></p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries:&nbsp; Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Norway, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>As we commemorate the 50th session, we reflect on the Council’s successes, challenges and opportunities.</p> <p>Overall, the HRC is a success. It has shown its relevance and ability to respond to crises through rapidly established Commissions of Inquiry.</p> <p>The adoption of the resolution on prevention (45/31) was a milestone. The HRC is perfectly placed to prevent serious human rights situations from deteriorating further.</p> <p>The HRC architecture is working. The special procedures publish bold and timely reports. UPR provides valuable recommendations to improve human rights nationally.</p> <p>However, ensuring adequate and predictable funding is key. We must make sure that mandates established by the HRC get the necessary funding and expertise.</p> <p>Our discussions are often subject to deep polarization. We need to build bridges and seek compromise. We need to work on civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights at the same pace, always putting the individual at the centre. Civil society and human rights defenders play a crucial role, as well as national human rights institutions.</p> <p>We have a strong normative framework, but the implementation gap is too large. We can all do more at home to implement the human rights that we call for in this room.&nbsp;</p> <p>Finally, we would like to thank the High Commissioner for her tireless efforts for human rights during her mandate.</p> <p>Thank you.</p>
Jun 14, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner<p><strong>Item 2 – Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner</strong></p> <p><strong>14 June 2022</strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>Mr. President.</p> <p>We thank the High Commissioner for her report.</p> <p>We remain gravely concerned over the situation of human rights in the <strong>Russian Federation</strong>, including erosion of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, systematic crackdown on civil society, political opposition and media, and use of disinformation contributing to Russia’s war against Ukraine. Human rights and fundamental freedoms must be respected, and perpetrators held to account.</p> <p>In <strong>Belarus</strong>, we are deeply concerned of widespread and systematic violations that have been executed as an official policy, including the recently adopted law on death penalty, and attacks on civil society and widespread use of disinformation. We reiterate our call on Belarus to stop enabling the Russian aggression in Ukraine and to abide by its international obligations. </p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We continue to be gravely concerned about the human rights situation in the <strong>Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region</strong>. We urge China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang for independent observers and call for the High Commissioner to release her long-awaited report.</p> <p>Finally, we condemn the severe regression in the recognition, protection and realization of the rights of women and girls in <strong>Afghanistan</strong>. We call on the Taliban, and all other parties, to live up to their promises, and to their obligations under international law. </p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Jun 13, 202250th Session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic-Baltic Statement - Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Eritrea<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council<br /> </strong><strong>50th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>I</strong><strong>nteractive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Eritrea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)<br /> </strong><strong>13 June 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.</p> <p>We remain deeply concerned over persistent human rights violations in Eritrea, in particular the practice of indefinite national service, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances and widespread sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p>We condemn the continuing involvement of Eritrea in the war in Ethiopia, including reports of the deployment of child soldiers and forced conscription of Eritrean refugees. We urge the Government to immediately and unconditionally withdraw Eritrean forces from Ethiopia and to investigate all alleged breaches of international law by Eritrean actors in Ethiopia.</p> <p>We also condemn severe restrictions on the rights to freedoms of expression and religion or belief, and the continued closure of civic space in Eritrea. We call on the Eritrean Government to release all those arbitrarily detained, to end the practices of prolonged, incommunicado and arbitrary detention, and to develop independent rule-of-law institutions to protect human rights.</p> <p>Finally, as a member of the Human Rights Council, Eritrea should uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights and fully cooperate with the Council’s mechanisms, including by granting the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access to the country.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
May 13, 202234th Special Session of the Human Rights Council<p><span>34th Special Session of the Human Rights Council on the deteriorating human rights situation in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>National statement by Iceland as well as a statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries and a s</span>tatement by the Marshall Islands on behalf of the “Group of Friends of Accountability following the Aggression against Ukraine”, that Iceland is a member of.</p> <ul> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/HRC%2034th%20Special%20Session.pdf"><span class="pdf">Statements</span></a></li> </ul>
Apr 07, 2022Introduction by Iceland for resolution on the Islamic Republic of Iran in HRC49<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>UN Human Rights Council 49<sup>th</sup> session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Introduction of L.7 – Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>1. April 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong> <strong>on behalf of a core group</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I would like to introduce the resolution L.7, Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of a core group, consisting of the Republic of Moldova, North Macedonia, the United Kingdom, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The resolution is a short procedural text, aiming at extending the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for a further period of one year, with a view to improving the human rights situation in Iran, in light of the persisting human rights concerns.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The core group held negotiations in an open and transparent manner and </p> <p>no changes were made to the text adopted last year apart from technical updates. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his work and welcome his report. We also note positively the improved and increased engagement of the Government of Iran with the Office of the High Commissioner, and we call on the Government to facilitate the request from the Special Rapporteur for visits to the country. Cooperation with the Special Rapporteur, and other mandate holders, offers an important opportunity for the Government of Iran to engage with the Council on the concerns that persist about the human rights situation.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Finally, it is our sincere hope that the resolution will be adopted by consensus today.</p> <p>I thank you, Mr. President.</p>
Apr 07, 20229 Joint Statements supported by Iceland in HRC49<p><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/Joint%20Statements%20HRC49.pdf"><span class="pdf">9 Joint Statements supported by Iceland in HRC49</span></a></p>
Apr 07, 2022Nordic-Baltic Statements and National Statements in HRC49<p><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/HRC49-Statements.pdf"><span class="pdf">Nordic-Baltic Statements and National Statements in HRC49</span></a></p>
Mar 30, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner's Oral Update on Ukraine <span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Human Rights Council<br /> 49th session<br /> Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner‘s Oral Update on Ukraine<br /> Statement delivered by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">(90 sec. 217)</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">On behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, I thank the High Commissioner for her oral update and the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">UN Human Rights monitoring mission in Ukraine for its work.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We stand united with Ukraine facing large scale unprovoked, unlawful and unjustified aggression by Russia, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">enabled by Belarus. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We admire the courage of the Ukrainian people defending their country and legally binding norms of the international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We urge Russia to immediately cease the attacks </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">and deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">especially</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">using explosive weapons, such as cluster munitions</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">, in residential areas, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">which are grave violations of international humanitarian law. We demand Russia to immediately and unconditionally withdraw all its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Russia is responsible </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">for the bloodshed of innocent people, including women and children, and for millions lives destroyed.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> All human rights violations and suspected war crimes must be investigated and accountability ensured. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Accountability matters. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Justice cannot be escaped. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The international community must do everything to hold Russia and its accomplice Belarus to account. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Nordic-Baltic countries commend the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry and call for its immediate operationalization. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span>Madam High Commissioner, what more could be done to strengthen our efforts in seeking justice for victims and accountability of perpetrators? </span></em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 30, 202249th session of the Human Rights Council: statement by Iceland during interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on the oral report on Ukraine <span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner <br /> on the oral report on Ukraine</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">30 March</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Statement by Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland thanks the High Commissioner for her Oral Report and the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine for its work. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland reiterates its support to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, within its internationally recognized borders. Our position remains clear: we do not recognize the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia and strongly condemn Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We are witnessing an escalating pattern of violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, including Russia’s indiscriminate attacks on civilian lives and infrastructure. We urge Russia to uphold its obligations for safe and unhindered humanitarian access in Ukraine.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President, </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We are deeply alarmed at the security risks faced by journalists and human rights defenders in areas occupied by Russia, as well as increased repression of media freedom and right to freedom of expression in Russia relating to the war in Ukraine. The right to freedom of opinion and expression must be respected. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Prisoners of war must be treated humanely and protected against acts of violence or intimidation, including public curiosity.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland stands in full unity with the people of Ukraine and demands the withdrawal of all Russian military personnel and equipment from Ukraine.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 29, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic statement on the human rights situation in Syria<span></span> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">UN Human Rights Council&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /> 49th session</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry <br /> on the Syrian Arab Republic </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Intervention by Iceland, on behalf of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">[Check against delivery]</span></em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0f1419; background: white; font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Eleven years have passed since a peaceful uprising in Syria descended into a brutal war </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">that has since caused enormous human suffering, grave and widespread human rights violations and abuses, and violations of international humanitarian law. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the Commission’s findings reveals, the human rights situation continues to deteriorate, inflicting new levels of hardship and suffering, including </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">arbitrary arrests and detentions, enforced disappearances, targeted attacks and killings, torture and sexual and gender-based violence. </span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Accountability is key. We call on all parties to fulfil their obligations under human rights law and international humanitarian law. </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Impunity must end, </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">independent monitors given unimpeded access to places of detention, and </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">the respect for human rights for all in Syria must be restored. </span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; background: white; font-size: 14pt;">The Syrian regime must engage in the UN-facilitated political process </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 with the aim of creating stability and peace in Syria. Safe and unhindered access for i</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">nternational humanitarian and human rights organisations must be ensured. </span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We reiterate our strong support for the crucial work of the UN Special Envoy for Syria, the Commission of Inquiry and the triple IM. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Commissioners: </span></em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">What can be done to accelerate the work to achieve accountability and justice? What more can be done for those missing and/or arbitrarily detained? </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you.</span></p>
Mar 29, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic statement on the situation of human rights in Iran <span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Human Rights Council</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">49th session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update by <br /> the Special Rapporteur on Islamic Republic of Iran</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">17 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his update.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We remain deeply concerned about the persistent human rights violations and abuses in Iran, and the absence of a system of accountability. Iran must undertake fundamental reforms to establish appropriate legal and political structures of governance, and ensure independence of the judiciary. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The continuous use of death penalty, including the execution of child offenders remains an issue of deep concern. We urge Iran to abolish the death penalty for all offences and impose an immediate moratorium on executions. Moreover, the rights to freedom of opinion and expression, online and offline, peaceful assembly and association must be protected.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We regret the fact that discriminatory laws and practices against women and girls persist in Iran, including child marriage. We share the Special Rapporteur’s grave concerns about the new family law and its consequences on sexual and reproductive health and rights. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Finally, we urge Iran to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur, including by granting full and unhindered access to the country.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you.</span></p>
Mar 29, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic statement on the situation of human rights in Belarus<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Interactive Dialogue on OHCHR report</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">on the situation of human rights in Belarus</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">17 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">H.E. Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We are deeply concerned by the findings of the OHCHR examination, in particular that violations have been widespread and systematic, and executed as an official policy.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Lukashenko regime is on a destructive path, at home and abroad. We reiterate in the strongest possible terms our condemnation of Russia’s illegal and unprovoked aggression against Ukraine and Belarus’ involvement in it. We stand in full solidarity with Ukraine and its people. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; background: white; font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; background: white; font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We call on Belarus to adhere to its international commitments and obligations under human rights law. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; background: white; font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The relentless attack on civil society and independent voices, and the widespread use of disinformation in Belarus must stop. We urge an immediate and unconditional release of political prisoners and other arbitrarily detained persons, whose numbers rise constantly.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We continue to stand with the Belarusian people in their fight for a free and democratic society. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Nordic-Baltic countries fully support a renewal of the OHCHR examination mandate, to ensure a further assessment of evidence from the perspective of applicable international criminal law.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Madame High Commissioner, how can civil society best continue to contribute to accountability efforts?</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 29, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic Statement on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan <span></span> <div> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">UNITED NATIONS <br /> HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL<br /> <br /> </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>WITH HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS, MICHELLE BACHELET, ON HER REPORT ON THE SITUATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN AFGHANISTAN</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>7 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic–Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We welcome the High Commissioner’s report and this opportunity to highlight key concerns regarding the human rights situation in Afghanistan in the wake of the fall of the democratically elected Government. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Our countries have been actively engaged in efforts for the stabilisation and development of Afghanistan. We are deeply concerned by the findings of the report and the deterioration in the human rights situation, particularly by reports of arbitrary killings, violence and intimidation against peaceful protestors, journalists and other media workers, human rights defenders, persons associated with the previous government and persons belonging to ethnic, religious and sexual minorities. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Equally, we are gravely worried about the erosion of the enjoyment of the rights of women and girls, in particular their access to education, and the exclusion of women from political, social and economic spheres of Afghan society. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We express our strong support for the new mandate of a special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you.</span></p> </div>
Mar 29, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic statement on the situation of human rights in the Tigray region of Ethiopia<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">UN Human Rights Council</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">49th&nbsp;Session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Interactive Dialogue&nbsp;with the High Commissioner on the situation <br /> of human rights in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, 7 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Intervention by Iceland on behalf of NB8</span></strong></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: black;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: black;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">[check against delivery]</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">We thank the High Commissioner for her update. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">We welcome recent positive steps taken by the Government of Ethiopia. However, we call on all parties to abide by international humanitarian law and allow full, safe and unfettered humanitarian access to all people in need, including in Tigray.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">We remain deeply concerned about human rights violations and abuses in the Northern parts of Ethiopia. This must stop and accountability must be ensured for all crimes committed. We urge all parties to the conflict to cease hostilities, seek a negotiated settlement and respect the human rights, security and safety of civilians and humanitarian workers. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: black;">Finally, we urge the Government of Ethiopia to strengthen its engagement with the Council’s mechanisms by granting the international commission of human rights experts full, safe and unhindered access to the country. The commission complements ongoing national efforts and is key to help hold all perpetrators to account for their actions, including non-Ethiopian actors. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="background: white; font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond, serif; color: black;">Madam High Commissioner,</span></p> <p><span style="background: white; font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond, serif; color: black;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="background: white; font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond, serif; color: black;">Taking into account the investigation and findings by the Joint Investigation Team, how can it best be ensured that the work of the international commission of human rights experts on Ethiopia will complement those findings?</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: #232323;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond; color: black;">Thank you. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond, serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond, serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 13pt; font-family: Garamond, serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 29, 2022Joint Nordic-Baltic Statement on the situation of human rights in Eritrea<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>49th session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">I</span></strong><strong><span>nteractive Dialogue on the Oral Update by the Special Rapporteur on Eritrea</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>4 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Garamond, serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Mr President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>We would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his update.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>We remain highly concerned about persistent human rights violations and abuses in Eritrea, including arbitrary detention, imprisonment of refugees and asylum seekers, indefinite national service, and restrictions on the rights to freedoms of expression and religion or belief.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>We are deeply concerned about the reported human rights violations and abuses committed by Eritrean Defence Forces on Ethiopian territory and call for their immediate and unconditional departure from Ethiopia. We urge the Government of Eritrea to undertake investigations meeting international standards and to hold those responsible to account. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>The inhumane prison conditions exacerbated by COVID-19 and reports of increased pervasive controls by the Eritrean authorities on its population are of great concern. We call on the Government to fully comply with its international obligations and to ensure respect for all human rights.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Finally, we reiterate our call to the Government to strengthen its engagement with the Council’s mechanisms, including by granting the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access to the country.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>How can the international community support efforts to improve the human rights situation in the country?</span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 29, 202249th session of the Human Rights Council: Iceland's Statement about Ukraine, Venezuela, Myanmar, Ethiopia and Afghanistan<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Item 4 – General Debate&nbsp; </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt;">21-22 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Statement by Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you, Mr. President.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We reiterate in the strongest possible terms our condemnation of <strong>Russia</strong>’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces continue to demonstrate utter disregard for civilian lives through indiscriminate attacks that can amount to war crimes. We call on Russia to immediately withdraw all military personnel and equipment from Ukraine. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">In <strong>Venezuela</strong>, we remain deeply concerned about restrictions of fundamental freedoms and the erosion of the rule of law.<strong> </strong>We urge the government to end its policy of repression and to restore judicial independence. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">In <strong>Myanmar</strong>, we call on the military to cease all violations and abuses against the people of Myanmar, including ethnic minorities, and call for accountability and the immediate return to democratic rule. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We urge all parties to the conflict in<strong> Ethiopia</strong> to respect international humanitarian law and to ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access across Ethiopia. Accountability must be ensured for all human rights violations and abuses and perpetrators must be held to account.&nbsp; </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lastly, in<strong> Afghanistan</strong>, we call for the full enjoyment of human rights of women and girls, including the right to education and the right to work, and strongly condemn the use of violence and arbitrary detention by the Taliban. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Mar 28, 2022Standing Committee of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner's Programme (83rd meeting): Statement by Iceland<span></span> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Standing Committee of the Executive Committee of</span></strong></p> <p class="Default" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 11pt;">the High Commissioner's Programme (83rd meeting)</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">8-10 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Statement by Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">H.E. Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you, Madame Chair.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland is gravely concerned about the plight of the Ukrainian people and condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine in the strongest possible terms.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Civilians are suffering, lives and livelihoods lost and we are looking at consequences that will not only be horrific for Ukraine, but also tragic for the world as whole. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The outflow of refugees from Ukraine is nearing 2 million, with the majority being women and children. Neighboring countries have kept their borders open and shown tremendous hospitality, albeit under immense pressure. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">And let us not forget about those who remain internally displaced or bunkered down with nowhere to go due to the intensity of aerial and ground attacks on civilian infrastructure – homes, schools, and health facilities. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">This is a flagrant breach of international humanitarian law and must stop. Adherence to international human rights law and international humanitarian law is not optional. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Unhindered humanitarian access, including freedom of movement, must be guaranteed. Civilians, humanitarian and medical workers can never be a target. Every precaution must be taken to ensure and guarantee their safety, including their safe passage.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. Chair, </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The refugee crisis Europe is facing is the largest since the Second World War. It is absolutely essential that we all demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine, and its neighboring countries, and welcome Ukrainians to our lands. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland is committed to do so and is already receiving asylum seekers from Ukraine. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">These actions are in addition to our resettlement programme and efforts following the Taliban take-over in Afghanistan last year.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">On the funding side, we remain committed to providing unearmarked multi-year contributions, but in addition we have also allocated three hundred million Icelandic krona to humanitarian actors working in and around Ukraine, including to UNHCR. Emphasis has been on flexibility of funding to allow our humanitarian partners to programme and reprogramme as necessary. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. Chair,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine comes on top of an extremely dire global humanitarian outlook. Already, humanitarian needs were at record high and so was the number of people displaced from their homes – be it in Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Ethiopia or elsewhere.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">It is in times like these that enhanced solidarity, unity, and human compassion is what is most needed – let us work together towards that end.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 28, 202249th session of the Human Rights Council: Response to Oral Update by the High Commissioner for Human Rights<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 2 – General Debate&nbsp; </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Response to Oral Update by the High Commissioner for Human Rights</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>8 March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Statement by Iceland</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you, </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland thanks the High Commissioner for her Oral Update.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We are concerned over intensification of restrictions on freedom of expression, media freedom, and right to peaceful assembly.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Iceland strongly condemns <strong>Russia</strong>’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, as well as violations of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, including attacks on journalists and media workers. Measures to restrict peaceful protests is of great concern. The right to freedom of peaceful assembly must be respected. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">In <strong>Egypt</strong>, human rights defenders, journalists, and activists face repression, including by application of terrorism legislation against peaceful critics. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">In <strong>Sudan</strong>, the use of excessive force and unlawful dispersal of protests countering opposition against the military coup is of great concern. We call for accountability and immediate end to impunity. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Women and girls still face disadvantages due to discriminatory laws and practices in <strong>Saudi Arabia</strong>, we acknowledge women’s increasing participation in society and workforce but remain concerned about severe restrictions imposed on women human rights defenders, including travel bans. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Finally, we are concerned regarding grave human rights violations and abuses committed against the Uyghur and other minority groups in <strong>China</strong>.<strong> </strong>Human rights must be ensured for all persons belonging to religious and ethnic minorities, also in Xinjiang.<strong> </strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you.</span></p>
Mar 28, 202249th session of the Human Rights Council: Iceland's Statement in Urgent Debate on the Situation of Human Rights in Ukraine<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Human Rights Council – 49<sup>th</sup> session, 3. March 2022</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Urgent Debate on the Situation of Human Rights in Ukraine </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">stemming from the Russian Aggression</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">H.E. Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir </span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">As we meet here today, a brutal war is being fought in Ukraine.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Russia has chosen a path of war and destruction: to invade Ukraine and create a serious threat to European and global&nbsp;security. It has enlisted Belarussian authorities, a regime that has shown utter disregard for the human rights of its own people, as its enabler.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">This war is waged to turn back the clock, to stop the advance of tolerance, understanding, peace - to take back the human rights that we have worked so hard for, and this Council is tasked with promoting and protecting.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The human suffering will be severe – in fact, it already is. Civilians are being killed and injured. Hundreds of thousands of refugees have arrived in neighbouring countries. With humanitarian needs mounting, humanitarian access must be secured, and international humanitarian law respected.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Russia bears full responsibility for this military aggression and all the destruction and loss of life it will cause. We stand in full unity with Ukraine and call on Russia to stop this senseless war and to immediately&nbsp;withdraw all its forces from Ukraine without precondition.</span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 22, 2022ILO Governing Body - Cross-Regional Joint Statement on the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>ILO GB344 – Cross-Regional Joint Statement</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Presentation of the resolution on the </strong><strong>Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine from the perspective of the mandate of the International Labour Organization (ILO)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Delivered by Canada’s DPR Tamara Mawhinney on March 22, 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">Madam Chair,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">I have the honour of delivering this cross-regional joint statement on behalf of the 47 original co-sponsors of the resolution, namely Albania, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay, and my own country, Canada,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">As well as the following countries: Costa Rica, Israel, and the Republic of Korea.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">One week ago, this room spoke in unison to urge this Governing Body not to stay silent on the Russian Federation’s blatant violations of international law, the UN Charter, and the fundamental principles enshrined in the ILO’s constitution.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">For the people of Ukraine, the past week has meant seven more days of brutal and senseless bombing, displacement, and suffering.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The lives and livelihoods of the Ukrainian people, workers, employers, and their families are under attack. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">Madam Chair,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The ILO was created with a mandate to pursue universal and lasting peace through social justice. 100 years later, we re-affirmed this commitment in the Centenary Declaration, and today, it’s time to do so again. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">It’s this Governing Body’s responsibility to take measures - within its purview - to urge Russia to abide by international law, and prevent further devastating impacts on the world of work in Ukraine and beyond.&nbsp; </p> <p style="text-align: left;">This is why we support the resolution text as submitted and entrust this Governing Body to adopt it in solidarity with the tripartite constituents of Ukraine. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is unjustifiable. It is a flagrant violation of international law, the UN Charter and the principles upon which this Organization is founded. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">We call on Russia to immediately and unconditionally cease its aggression, withdraw its military forces from Ukraine and end the suffering it is inflicting. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">The Ukrainian people, including workers and employers, must have the freedom to determine their own future.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Thousands of Ukrainian businesses have been destroyed, or forced to stop operating, and their workers have fled from hostilities.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We call for the protection of workers, employers and their families in Ukraine.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We commend the ILO for quickly adjusting its programming in support of aid for those who fled Ukraine. We count on the ILO to do all it can to support the tripartite constituents of Ukraine and aid constituents in their efforts to protect labour rights and promote decent work for those who have fled Ukraine. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Madam Chair,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Let us pay tribute to ILO’s staff in Ukraine, who have continued their tireless work amidst unfolding conflict.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Let us pay tribute to the unwavering efforts of trade unions and the business community from around the world to help Ukraine’s people.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">And most importantly, let us pay tribute to the solidarity of workers, employers and the government <span style="text-decoration: underline;">of</span> Ukraine, who are risking their lives in the name of freedom and social justice.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The Russian Federation’s disregard for the ILO’s Constitution cannot be tolerated, and must not be ignored by this Governing Body.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Today, we must condemn the Russian Federation with one voice. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">We must stand firmly with the&nbsp;brave and resilient workers, employers and&nbsp;government&nbsp;of Ukraine.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Thank you.</p>
Mar 22, 2022ILO Governing Body, 344th session - The Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine from the perspective of the mandate of the ILO <p><span><strong>ILO Governing Body, 344th session&nbsp;<br /> 14th to 26th March 2022&nbsp;<br /> The Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine from the perspective of the mandate of the ILO&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><br /> </span></p> <p><span>Chair,&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The Candidate Countries, the Republic of North Macedonia1 , Montenegro* and Albania* and the EFTA countries Iceland and Norway, members of the European Economic Area, as well as Ukraine, align themselves with this statement.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We align with the cross-regional joint statement as delivered by Canada&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>On 24 February, the Russian Federation brought war back to Europe. Its unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine grossly violates international law and the principles of the UN Charter and undermines European and global security and stability. It is inflicting unspeakable suffering on the Ukrainian population.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The Russian Federation, and its accomplice Belarus, bear full responsibility for this war of aggression and those responsible will be held to account for their war crimes, including for indiscriminately targeting civilians and civilian objects.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We call on the Russian Federation to immediately cease its military actions, to immediately and unconditionally withdraw all its forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine, and to fully respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence within its internationally recognised borders. We ask our partners to speak out in support of this call.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We stand by the women and men of Ukraine whose extraordinary courage and determination exemplifies their commitment to the shared and universal values of freedom, sovereignty and democracy. We will not abandon them in this time of need. As pointed out by DG Ryder, working people are among the first victims of this aggression and the devastation of jobs, enterprises and livelihoods will be massive and endure for many years to come.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Chair,&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We reaffirm the principle enshrined in the ILO Constitution that universal and lasting peace can only be established if it is based upon social justice. We recall the incontrovertible truth enshrined in the Centenary Declaration which states that ‘the experience of the past century has confirmed that the continuous and concerted action of governments and representatives of employers and workers is essential to the achievement of social justice, democracy and the promotion of universal and lasting peace’.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The EU and its Member States express their unwavering support for the tripartite constituents in Ukraine - workers, employers and its freely-elected government - at this most difficult time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>This is why we support the resolution text as submitted and fully trust that this Governing Body will adopt it, in solidarity with the tripartite constituents of Ukraine.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Chair,&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>While it is the Russian aggression against Ukraine that we are discussing today, we cannot forget other situations across the world where human and labour rights are being violated. We once again commend the ILO for its invaluable work striving for fundamental principles and rights at work, supporting governments, workers and employers throughout the world.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The EU and its Member States will continue to be seized of this matter. We are determined to redouble our engagement with all ILO constituents and partners and push for an immediate end to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Thank you, Chair.&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 15, 2022ILO Governing Body, opening of the 344th session - Cross-Regional Statement on Russia's aggression against Ukraine<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cross-Regional Statement</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Opening of the ILO GB344</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Delivered by Canada’s Ambassador Leslie E. Norton on March 15, 2022</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Madam Chair,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">I have the honour of delivering this cross-regional joint statement on behalf of 55 countries, namely: Albania, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Republic of Moldova, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, and my own country, Canada,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">103 years ago, the ILO was created with a mandate to pursue universal and lasting peace through social justice. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">As we meet today, these very aims are being violated. Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine is causing enormous suffering and tragic loss of life. It is an egregious violation of international law, the UN Charter, and the fundamental principles of the ILO.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We strongly condemn this senseless military assault, which is supported by the Belarusian government,and we call on the Russian leadership to cease its aggression immediately. No more precious lives should be lost.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The invasion has forced Ukrainian people, workers, employers, and their families, to flee their homes, their workplaces, their businesses, and their country. Those who stay to continue their livelihoods are risking their lives. Many have already died in the course of doing so. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">The destruction of jobs, enterprises, and the forced displacement of the workforce, will have a long-lasting, devastating impact on the world of work in Ukraine—and beyond. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">It is this Governing Body’s responsibility to call for the protection of workers, employers and their families in Ukraine, and to take measures - within its purview - to urge Russia to end its aggression.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ILO membership comes with duties and obligations, and all Member States must be accountable to them.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We, the ILO’s tripartite constituents, unanimously reaffirmed in the ILO Centenary Declaration what the ILO Constitution recognized more than a century ago – namely, that the concerted action of governments, employers and workers is essential to the achievement of social justice, democracy and the promotion of universal and lasting peace. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">We also recognized that conflict and humanitarian emergencies are not only a threat to economic and social progress, but also to securing shared prosperity and decent work for all.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">This Governing Body cannot remain indifferent whilst the ILO’s founding principles are treated with contempt and undermined by two of its members.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">In the face of such suffering, our tripartite constituents are translating those principles into action. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">Each day, we are witnessing incredible acts of solidarity with the people of Ukraine, who desperately need assistance. Trade unions and the business community from around the world are providing help and support to Ukrainian partners and their families. Governments, trade unions, employers and communities outside of Ukraine are also providing a safe haven and livelihoods for those who have fled. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">We are proud of the joint efforts of the ILO community, but this should never have happened. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">The brave Ukrainians who are fighting for their freedom, and for the right to choose their own future, should have been safe at home and at work. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">Chair,</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We must stand up for international law and the principles on which this Organization is founded.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We must stand in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and its territorial integrity. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">We must stand, hand in hand, with the workers, employers and people of Ukraine.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We welcome the addition of this urgent matter on the agenda and we urge this Governing Body to voice its unequivocal support to the the tripartite constituents of Ukraine in this most difficult time.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is unprecedented in nature, and it requires a strong and urgent response from this room. The Governing Body cannot stay silent.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Mar 15, 2022ILO Governing Body, 344th session - statement on Ukraine<p><span><strong>ILO Governing Body, 344th session&nbsp;<br /> 14th to 26th March 2022&nbsp;<br /> INS Opening&nbsp;</strong><br /> <br /> Chair,&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><em>The Candidate Countries Turkey, the Republic of North Macedonia[1], Montenegro*&nbsp;and Albania*, and the EFTA countries Iceland and Norway, members of the European&nbsp;Economic Area, as well as Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia align&nbsp;themselves with this statement.&nbsp;</em></span></p> <p><span>Many thanks for giving us the floor&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>And many thanks to the DG Ryder for his opening speech&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>As we gather today, at the 344th session of ILO Governing Body, the Russian Federation is pursuing its aggression against Ukraine, including attacks on civilians.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>This is not only an attack on a free, democratic and peaceful Ukraine. It is an attack on global stability and security; an outrageous violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and a violation of human rights and basic humanitarian principles .&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>So, let us begin by making it very clear: the EU condemns in the strongest terms Russia's unprovoked and unjustified aggression against Ukraine. The EU also condemns the involvement of Belarus in this aggression against Ukraine. We support the democratically elected government of Ukraine and its efforts to defend its territory within its internationally recognised borders and its people.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We fully align with the UN Secretary General's appeal to Russia to stop its aggression and his grave concern over civilian casualties and the human rights implications of Russia's actions. We also fully endorse Director General Ryder’s statement which describes this as one of the darkest chapters in the ILO’s century long history and a brutal repudiation of the organization’s mission to promote peace through social justice.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We stand by the women and men of Ukraine whose extraordinary courage and determination exemplifies their commitment to freedom, sovereignty and democratic values&nbsp; . As pointed out by DG Ryder, working people are among the first victims of&nbsp;this aggression and the devastation of jobs, enterprises and livelihoods will be massive and endure for many years to come.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The EU and its Member States express its unwavering support for the tripartite constituents in Ukraine – workers, employers and its freely-elected government – at this most difficult time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Chair,&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>While now we are focused on the Russian aggression&nbsp; against Ukraine, we cannot forget other situations where human and labour rights are violated. We once again commend ILO for its invaluable work striving for fundamental principles and rights at work, supporting governments, workers and employers throughout the world.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>This aggression not only brings suffering to the people of Ukraine. We are seeing this as an attempt by the Russian Federation to reshape the core principles of international relations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Multilateralism, with the United Nations and ILO at its core, remains the only way to achieve global peace, security and prosperity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We are ready to work with all ILO members, governments, workers and employers, to firmly defend the principles and values enshrined in the Constitution of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The Declaration of Philadelphia asserts that all human beings have the right to pursue both their material well-being and their spiritual development in conditions of freedom and dignity, of economic security and equal opportunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Together with a group of countries, we will propose a resolution on the matter for consideration of the Governing Body and we count on the wide support of all constituents&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The EU and its Member States will continue to be seized of this matter and call for the ILO to consider the impact of the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine on ILO’s work, mandate and tripartite constituents in this and future sessions of the Governing Body and the International Labour Conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Thank you, Chair.&nbsp;</span></p>
Mar 14, 2022Joint Statement on Aggression by the Russian Federation Against Ukraine - WTO<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>JOINT STATEMENT ON AGGRESSION BY THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION AGAINST UKRAINE WITH THE SUPPORT OF BELARUS</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">COMMUNICATION FROM ALBANIA; AUSTRALIA; CANADA; EUROPEAN UNION; ICELAND; JAPAN; REPUBLIC OF KOREA; MOLDOVA; MONTENEGRO; NEW ZEALAND; NORTH MACEDONIA; NORWAY; UNITED KINGOM AND UNITED STATES</p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We, WTO Members, stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and are united in condemning in the strongest possible terms the Russian Federation’s military assault on Ukraine, which is supported by Belarus.&nbsp; We consider that the Russian Federation’s actions are an unprovoked, premeditated attack against a sovereign democratic state, and an egregious violation of international law, the UN Charter, and fundamental principles of international peace and security. These actions call into serious question the respect of the Russian Federation for all international institutions, disciplines, and norms.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Together, we insist that the Russian Federation urgently stops the military aggression and immediately withdraws its troops.&nbsp; We are firmly convinced that the Russian Federation must be held accountable and stop undermining democracy, global stability and international law. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">We will take any actions, as WTO Members, that we each consider necessary to protect our essential security interests.&nbsp; These may include actions in support of Ukraine, or actions to suspend concessions or other obligations with respect to the Russian Federation, such as the suspension of most-favoured-nation treatment to products and services of the Russian Federation. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Furthermore, in light of Belarus’ material support to the actions of the Russian Federation, we consider that its accession process is suspended and will not participate in any accession-related work. </p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">Finally, we will continue to call on the Russian Federation to live up to its responsibility to maintain international peace and security.&nbsp; </p>
Mar 09, 2022Statement on the illegal invasion of Ukraine - EFTA<p><strong>EFTA strongly condemns the illegal invasion of Ukraine and stands united with its partner</strong></p> <p>The EFTA States condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. They express deep concern for the severe destruction and human suffering resulting from this act of military aggression. This serious violation of international law is causing the loss of life of civilians and a humanitarian catastrophe in Ukraine, which is being felt across the European continent.</p> <p>The EFTA States call on Russia to de-escalate the situation immediately, cease all hostilities and withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory without delay.</p> <p>The EFTA States also condemn the involvement of Belarus in Russia’s military attack.</p> <p>The EFTA-Ukraine free trade agreement from 2010 is grounded in respect for the rule of law, democracy, and a common commitment to free societies and open economies – values that are being profoundly thwarted by the current unprovoked aggression by Russia.</p> <p>All four EFTA Member States – Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – have joined other democratic partners in supporting Ukraine and its people by imposing numerous economic sanctions against Russia, as a response to the gravity of the violation of our shared fundamental values of human rights, self-determination and democracy.</p> <p>"Russia's attack on Ukraine is a serious threat to European security. The EFTA Member States reiterate their unwavering support to Ukraine and condemn this attack on Ukraine and its territorial integrity. We call on Russia to withdraw its military forces immediately from Ukraine.“ says Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Icelandic Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Chair of EFTA – the European Free Trade Association.</p> <ul> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/Statement-EFTA-strongly-condemns-the-illegal-invasion-of-Ukraine-9-March-2022%20(1).pdf">Statement-EFTA-strongly-condemns-the-illegal-invasion-of-Ukraine-9-March-2022.pdf</a></li> </ul>
Dec 17, 2021Joint Nordic-Baltic statement at 33rd Special Session of the HRC on the human rights situation in Ethiopia <ul> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/Special%20Session_Ethiopia_NB8.pdf">Joint&nbsp;<span>Nordic-Baltic statement on the&nbsp;human rights situation in Ethiopia</span></a></li> </ul>
Dec 16, 2021Intersessional meetings in the Human Rights Council with oral updates on the situation in Nigaragua and Ukraine<p>The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights delivered oral updates on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua and Ukraine at intersessional meetings on 14 and 15 December. Finland and Denmark delivered joint statements on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states. Iceland also joined a statement by 55 states on the situation in Nicaragua.&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/library/09-Sendirad/Genf/Intersessional_Ukraine_NB8.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="pdf">Nordic – Baltic Statement on the situation of human rights in Ukraine</span></a></li> <li><span class="pdf"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/library/09-Sendirad/Genf/Intersessional_Nicaragua_NB8.pdf" target="_blank">Nordic – Baltic Statement on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua</a></span></li> <li><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/library/09-Sendirad/Genf/Intersessional_Nicaragua_JST.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="pdf">Joint Statement on behalf of 55 states on the situation in Nicaragua</span></a></li> </ul>
Nov 11, 202139th Universal Periodic Review in the Human Rights Council<p>The 39th Universal Periodic Review in the Human Rights Council took place 1.-12. November 2021. Thirteen states were under review this time: Greece, Surinam, Samoa, Hungary, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,&nbsp;Papua New Guinea,&nbsp;Tajikistan, Tanzania, Eswatini, Antigua and Barbuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Thailand and Ireland. Iceland delivered recommendations to all thirteen states and emphasized gender equality, LGBTI+ rights and the abolition of capital punishment.</p> <ul> <li><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/UPR39%20-%20Final%20statements%20Iceland.pdf">Iceland's recommendations - 39th UPR</a></li> </ul>
Nov 09, 2021Joint Nordic-Baltic statements at HRC48<p>The Nordic-Baltic states enjoy close cooperation in the United Nations Human Rights Council and increasingly join their efforts and take turns delivering statements on behalf of the group.&nbsp;</p> <p>The 48th regular session of the Human Rights Council took place from September to October 2021. Iceland was party to 30 joint statements on the status of human rights in specific countries and on thematic issues regarding human rights. The statements are available here:</p> <ul> <li> <span><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/HRC48-R%c3%a6%c3%b0ur%20NB8.pdf">Joint Nordic-Baltic statements at HRC48</a></span></li> </ul>
Nov 05, 202132. Special Session on Sudan - Nordic-Baltic statement<div> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>32nd Special Session of the Council on the human rights implications of the ongoing situation in Sudan</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>5 November 2021</strong></p> </div> <strong><br clear="all" /> </strong> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Chairperson,</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We are gravely concerned by the recent developments in the Republic of the Sudan. We strongly condemn the military coup. We call for the immediate release of the Prime Minister, civilian government leaders, human rights defenders, journalists and all other political detainees since the coup and the immediate return to the civilian-led Transitional Government. The leaders of the coup have entered a path that is dangerous for the country and its people. We strongly urge them to step back.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Those in power in Sudan have an obligation to respect, protect and fulfil all human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. They must ensure a safe environment where everyone can freely exercise their freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. This includes members of political parties, civil society, human rights defenders, journalists and media workers.&nbsp; We urge all authorities in Sudan to refrain from unlawful dispersal of protests and end the use of unlawful force. We underscore the need to prevent and redress all human rights violations, including all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls, especially sexual- and gender based violence.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Similarly, the authorities must ensure prompt, independent, transparent and impartial investigations into all human rights violations and abuses. The international community, including the Human Rights Council, must stand with the people of Sudan and do its utmost to ensure that perpetrators of violations and abuses are held accountable.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We reiterate our full support to the civilian-led transition to democracy and those working for a democratic Sudan. A fully legitimate civilian government ensuring peace, freedom and justice for the Sudanese people remains the best guarantee for long-term stability and prosperity of the country.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you. </p>
Oct 07, 202172nd Executive Committee of the Programme of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees - statement by Iceland<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees<br /> 72<sup>st</sup> Session of the Executive Committee<br /> Palais des Nations, Geneva<br /> 4. – 8. October 2021</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>General Debate<br /> STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF ICELAND<br /> <em>- Check against delivery - </em></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>H.E. Mr. Harald Aspelund<br /> Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations, Geneva</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Mr. Vice-Chair, Mr. High Commissioner, </strong></p> <p>Let me begin by thanking the High Commissioner for his opening statement and valuable insights on the way forward. Iceland commends the High Commissioner and UNHCR staff for their unwavering commitment to protect and assist those forced to flee. </p> <p>The past decade has seen the highest number of people forcibly displaced. Extreme poverty has risen for the first time in years and violence and armed conflict continue to put a heavy toll on civilians. Moreover, extreme weather events continue to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, often triggering repeated forced displacement. </p> <p>As highlighted in the recent report on Internal Displacement, internally displaced persons are all too often neglected, resulting in a vicious cycle of invisibility and lack of prioritisation. Iceland welcomes the report’s concrete recommendations and solutions to this global crisis. </p> <p>Mr. Vice Chair, </p> <p>The COVID-19 pandemic has been a stark reminder of the importance of collective action. Iceland has from the onset advocated for COVID-19 vaccines for ALL, with emphasis on fair and equal access, as demonstrated by our dedicated support to COVAX-AMC. We recognise that refugees, IDPs and stateless persons remain disproportionately affected by the pandemic, and that special attention needs to be given to their inclusion in vaccination and health care responses. </p> <p>The pandemic has also revealed the extent of gender inequalities, with a stark rise in gender-based violence globally. Women and girls in humanitarian settings are now 70% more likely to become victims of GBV. As steadfast advocates for gender equality, Iceland continues to emphasise a strong focus on women and girls across all UNHCR activities.&nbsp; </p> <p>We also remain committed to supporting the rights of LGBTI+ persons, who face some of the greatest protection risks around the world, and who are often forced to seek refuge outside their country of origin for fear of persecution.</p> <p>Mr. Vice Chair,</p> <p>The complex humanitarian situation in Afghanistan remains alarming, in particular the situation of women and girls and that of LGBTI+ persons. </p> <p>Iceland is committed to play its part. We recently provided urgent and flexible humanitarian funding to UNHCR to respond to the immediate needs of vulnerable Afghans, including those internally displaced. </p> <p>In parallel, Iceland is ready to assist Afghan refugees and others who have clearly expressed their wish to leave Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover, focusing specifically on the most vulnerable. To that end, a formal government decision was announced in late August stating Iceland’s intent to continue to work closely with partners to address this critical issue.</p> <p>More broadly, Iceland will continue to partake in burden and responsibility sharing, both by hosting refugees and by supporting host communities. Our resettlement commitments for 2020 and 2021 stand, despite COVID-19 delays, and we will continue to work in close partnership with UNHCR in providing a durable solution to refugees. </p> <p>Mr. Vice Chair, </p> <p>Statelessness continues to be an issue worldwide with millions of people being denied a nationality, impacting their access to basic rights such as education, healthcare, employment, and freedom of movement. Iceland fully supports UNHCR's actions to end statelessness by 2024, as signalled by our recent accession to the UN Conventions on Statelessness. </p> <p>Finally, we welcome the High-Level Officials Meeting in December to take stock of progress made and remaining challenges following the Global Refugee Forum. </p> <p>I thank you. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Oct 06, 202148th session of the Human Rights Council: Joint Nordic-Baltic Statement on the situation of human rights in Cambodia<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>48th session of the Human Rights Council<br /> </strong><strong>Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the&nbsp;</strong><strong>situation of human rights in Cambodia<br /> </strong><strong>6 October 2021</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Joint Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em>[Check against delivery]</em></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Madame President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for his written report.</p> <p>While there have been some positive developments, the human rights situation in Cambodia remains concerning. We are alarmed by reports of judicial harassment and repression of opposition members, journalists and human rights defenders, including youth and environmental defenders. In that regard, we call on the Government of Cambodia to fully implement the UPR recommendations which it has accepted, as a matter of priority. </p> <p>During the COVID-19 pandemic, civic space has been further reduced. We urge the Government of Cambodia to respect the right to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, in the digital, print and public space. </p> <p>Failure to do so will result in unjust and stifled elections and further delay Cambodia’s 2050 Vision to become a prosperous country guided by social inclusion and environmental sustainability. </p> <p>We express full support for the mandate extension of the Special Rapporteur and in conclusion ask what is needed for a pluralistic democracy based on respect for and protection of all human rights and the rule of law to materialise in Cambodia?</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Oct 05, 202148th session of the Human Rights Council: Joint Nordic-Baltic Statement on the human rights situation in Ukraine<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council<br /> 48th session<br /> Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner‘s Oral Update on Ukraine<br /> </strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by H.E. Gudlaugur Thór Thórsson,<br /> </strong><strong>Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development Cooperation of Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries (NB8)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em>(Check against delivery)</em></p> <p>Madame President,</p> <p>On behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, I thank the High Commissioner for her oral update.</p> <p>We reiterate our support to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, within its internationally recognized borders. We do not recognise the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia, and strongly condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Therefore, we do not recognise the so-called elections held in the occupied Crimean peninsula.</p> <p>We urge Russia to uphold its obligations under international law, including international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and we underscore the need to fully implement the Minsk agreements. We call on Russia to take on its responsibility, as occupying power.</p> <p>We likewise call on Russia to cease human rights violations and abuses and humanitarian law violations in Crimea and in the non-government controlled areas in eastern Ukraine. This total disrespect for the rule of law, humanitarian law, and human rights is unacceptable. Those responsible for violations and abuses must be held accountable.</p> <p>We reiterate our firm support for the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission and commend Ukraine’s successful efforts to keep Crimea on the international agenda.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>
Oct 05, 202148th session of the Human Rights Council: Joint Nordic-Baltic Statement against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>UN Human Rights Council - 48th session<br /> </strong><strong>Item 9: General Debate<br /> </strong><strong>5 October 2021</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em>[Check against delivery]</em></p> <p>Madame President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland. </p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic countries are committed to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.</p> <p>The inherent dignity and equal rights of all individuals, as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, should be self-evident. However, no society is immune from racism and racial discrimination. </p> <p>All too often, individuals and groups of people are discriminated against – be it with regard to access to health care, education or employment – based on the way they look or as persons belonging to religious, national or ethnic minorities. This is unacceptable. </p> <p>Online hate speech is another all too common manifestation of racism and racial discrimination, which contributes to hate crime. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic, made matters worse and the world witnessed an increase in racist comments in the online space. This cannot be tolerated and must be stopped. The responsibility lies with every single one of us as inhabitants of this planet.&nbsp; </p> <p>As another urgent issue, we strongly condemn systemic racism and racially motivated violence, both in the virtual space and in our everyday life. </p> <p>States bear a responsibility to combat and prevent racial discrimination. We must never forget that - it is our joint obligation to eliminate racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. We can only achieve this goal by working together.</p>
Sep 24, 202148th session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of OHCHR on the situation of human rights in Belarus <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>UN Human&nbsp;Rights&nbsp;Council, 48th&nbsp;session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Item&nbsp;4:&nbsp;</strong><strong>Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of OHCHR&nbsp;</strong><strong>on the situation of&nbsp;human rights in Belarus</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement&nbsp;delivered&nbsp;by&nbsp;Iceland&nbsp;</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em>(</em><em>Check&nbsp;against&nbsp;delivery)</em></p> <p>Thank you Madame President, and thank you to the High Commissioner for her oral update.</p> <p>The situation in Belarus remains alarming as Lukashenko’s regime continues to disregard the human rights of the Belarusian people. Repression of political activists, human rights defenders, athletes, and others who dare to express their view, must stop. </p> <p>The number of political prisoners in Belarus continues to rise, with politically driven sentencing used to silence opposition. Reports of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, including sexual and gender-based violence, are greatly concerning. We urge the Belarusian authorities to immediately release all those who are unlawfully detained. </p> <p>Moreover, we condemn the instrumentalization of migrants on the border of Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland – and call on the Belarusian authorities to immediately seize those hybrid tactics.</p> <p>Iceland will continue to stand by the Belarusian people in their legitimate quest for a democratic, independent, and prosperous Belarus. We call on the regime to respect human rights and to foster a climate where a real dialogue on human rights and democracy can take place. </p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Sep 14, 202148th session of the Human Rights Council: Response to the Oral Update by the High Commissioner for Human Rights<p><strong>UN Human Rights Council<br /> 48th session</strong></p> <p><strong>Item 2 – General Debate<br /> Response to the Oral Update by the High Commissioner for Human Rights<br /> 14 September 2021</strong></p> <p><strong>Statement by Iceland</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em>(Check against delivery</em></p> <p>Thank you Madame President,</p> <p>I thank the High Commissioner for her comprehensive update.</p> <p>We share her concerns on Afghanistan and agree that the Council must take robust steps, commensurate with the gravity of the situation, and establish a dedicated human rights mechanism. We remain alarmed by the reports of human rights violations and abuses across the country and are deeply concerned by the non-inclusive political representation recently announced. We must work together to protect hard-won gains and support the respect for human rights, in particular the rights of women and girls. Overall, despite the political and security situation, it is evident that the Afghan people – especially the most vulnerable – need our support.</p> <p>Madame President,</p> <p>We are deeply concerned by the reports of increasing serious human rights abuses and violations stemming from the expanding conflict in Northern Ethiopia. The systematic abuses committed in Tigray and the region, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence, forced displacement and obstruction of humanitarian relief must stop, and unhindered humanitarian access must be secured.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Sep 14, 202148th session of the Human Rights Council: Joint Nordic-Baltic Statement on Yemen<p>Iceland delivered a joint statement on the behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states in the Human Rights Council on 14 September on the situation in Yemen.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Human Rights Council<br /> </strong><strong>48th session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Interactive dialogue on the report of the Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen<br /> </strong><strong>14 September 2021</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p style="text-align: right;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><em>[Check against delivery]</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Madame President, </p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries. </p> <p>We thank the Group of Experts for their reporting outlining a host of serious violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law; both of which may constitute war crimes. The disrespect for IHL and human rights must stop; parties to the conflict must uphold their obligations under international law. </p> <p>An inclusive political solution to this man-made conflict is the only way forward. In its absence, one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world will reach new lows and the culture of impunity will continue to prevail and fuel abuses.</p> <p>We strongly support the UN-led mediation efforts, the mandate of the UN Special Envoy, and the critical work of the Group of Experts. We call upon the parties to the conflict to meaningfully engage with the Special Envoy without preconditions, to fully cooperate with the Group of Experts and to partake in a political process towards a comprehensive and sustainable peace. </p> <p>How can the Council support the promotion of human rights, inclusiveness, safety and dignity of the people of Yemen?</p>
Mar 23, 2021Statements at the 46th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p><span>During each session Iceland delivers a number of statements on issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found below:</span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/02/23/Raeda-utanrikis-og-throunarsamvinnuradherra-i-46-fundalotu-mannrettindarads-Sameinudu-thjodanna/">Statement by the Minister during the High-level segment</a></span></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/02/26/Raeda-Islands-i-umraedu-um-skyrslu-mannrettindafulltruans-um-stodu-mannrettinda-i-Hvita-Russlandi/">Interactive debate on the human rights situation in Belarus</a></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/02/26/Raeda-Islands-i-umraedum-um-munnlega-yfirlitsskyrslu-mannrettindafulltrua-Sameinudu-thjodanna-HRC46/">Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner</a></span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/03/03/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-trufrelsi-fyrir-hond-Nordurlanda-og-Balta/">Interactive dialogue on freedom of religion &amp; belief</a></span></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/03/05/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-vernd-theirra-sem-berjast-fyrir-mannrettindum-fyrir-hond-Nordurlanda-og-Balta/">Interactive dialogue on human rights defenders</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/03/10/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-Venesuela/">Interactive dialogue on Venezuela</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/stok-frett-fra-sendiskrifstofu/2021/03/22/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Ukrainu/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Ukraine</a></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2021/03/22/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Mid-Afrikulydveldinu-fyrir-hond-Nordurlanda/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Central-African</a></span></p> <p><span>In the Human Rights Council Iceland also works closely with the Nordic countries, as well as the Baltic countries (so called NB8 group). </span></p> <p><span>With these groups Iceland makes a number of statements at each session. During the 46th session there were 36 of those statements on issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found here: <a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/R%c3%a6%c3%b0ur%20Nor%c3%b0urlanda-NB8%20-%20Copy%20(1).pdf">Statements</a></span></p>
Oct 07, 2020Statements at the 45th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">During each session Iceland delivers a number of statements on&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found below:</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/09/15/Raeda-Islands-i-umraedum-um-munnlega-yfirlitsskyrslu-mannrettindafulltrua-Sameinudu-thjodanna-HRC45/">Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/09/18/Raeda-Islands-i-aridandi-umraeda-mannrettindaradsins-um-stodu-mannrettinda-i-Hvita-Russlandi/">Urgent debate on the human rights situation in Belarus</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/09/21/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-vernd-gegn-thvingudum-mannshvorfum-fyrir-hond-Nordurlanda-og-Balta/">Interactive dialogue with Working group on enforced disappearances</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/09/25/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-lond-sem-tharfnast-serstakrar-athugunar/">Debate on human rights situations that require the Council´s attention</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/10/01/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Ukrainu/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Ukraine</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/10/02/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-stodu-mannrettinda-i-Sudan-fyrir-hond-Nordurlanda/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Sudan</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">In the Human Rights Council Iceland also works closely with the Nordic countries, as well as the Baltic countries (so called NB8 group). Additionally Iceland is part of the so-called Mountains group which in addition to Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Australia, Canada and New Zealand belong to.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">With these groups Iceland makes a number of statements at each session. During the 45th session there were 27 of those statements on issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/library/09-Sendirad/Genf/R%c3%a6%c3%b0ur%20Nor%c3%b0urlanda-NB8-Fjallah%c3%b3psins-HRC45.pdf">Statements</a></p>
Jul 17, 2020Statements at the 44th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">During each session Iceland delivers a number of statements on&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found below:</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/06/30/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-a-Filippseyjum/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in the Philippines</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/07/01/Avarp-i-panel-umraedu-um-rettindi-barnsins/">Panel discussion on the rights of the child in the context of the environment</a></span></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/07/01/Raeda-Islands-i-umraedum-um-munnlega-yfirlitsskyrslu-mannrettindafulltrua-Sameinudu-thjodanna-HRC44/">Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on her annual report</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/07/02/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-skyrslu-serstaks-fulltrua-framkvaemdastjora-STh-um-ofbeldi-gegn-bornum/">Interactive dialogue on violence against children</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/07/09/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-rettindi-hinsegin-folks/">Interactive dialogue on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/07/09/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-aftokur-an-doms-og-laga/">Interactive dialogue on extrajudicial executions</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">In the Human Rights Council Iceland also works closely with the Nordic countries, as well as the Baltic countries (so called NB8 group). Additionally Iceland is part of the so-called Mountains group which in addition to Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Australia, Canada and New Zealand belong to.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">With these groups Iceland makes a number of statements at each session. During the 44th session there were 24 of those statements on issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/Raedur%20Nordurlanda%20og%20NB8.pdf">Statements</a></p>
Jul 06, 2020Statement of Iceland at the trade policy review of Japan<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland welcomes the distinguished delegation of Japan led by Deputy Director General Kenko Sone to their 14<span style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; line-height: 25px; vertical-align: baseline; top: -0.5em; font-weight: bold; font-size: 16px;">th</span>&nbsp;Trade Policy Review and would like to express appreciation the WTO Secretariat, as well as to Japan for the reports prepared, as well as to the discussant Ambassador Dagfinn Sorli, for his excellent framing of the issues for the discussion.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Japan and Iceland have a long history of shared values and Iceland regards Japan among one of its closest global partners. Japan is Iceland´s largest export partner in Asia and the largest trading partner that we do not have a free trade agreement with.&nbsp;</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Japanese market has for long been one of the most important market for Icelandic seafood products.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Imports from Japan amounted to close to 2% of total imports, with main products including motor vehicles and electronic equipment. Iceland and Japan have also been working towards further strengthening the collaboration in the field of geothermal energy.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Despite the geographical distance, Iceland and Japan are like-minded partners enjoying excellent cooperation in various international fora and sharing commitments to promoting a rule-based multilateral system.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">As island countries with highly developed fisheries industries, Iceland and Japan share common interest in the elimination of harmful subsidies in the fisheries sector. Iceland looks forward to collaborating with Japan for the successful conclusion of an agreement in the field of fisheries subsidies within the WTO.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black;">Chair,</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Japan was one of 120 WTO members and observers that launched a Joint Declaration on Women and Economic Empowerment that aims at sharing best practices and working together here at the WTO to remove barriers for women’s economic empowerment and increase their participation in trade.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">In this respect Iceland thanks the Secretariat for the specific information on Japan’s policies promoting women’s economic empowerment in its report. Japan has enforced labour force reforms, to promote women's participation in the work force through measures such as increased childcare capacity, increased child care leave benefits, training and education programmes, and more flexible working conditions.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share best practices in this field. Iceland submitted advance written questions on the participation of women in the economy of Japan.</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The answers are very useful as we implement the joint declaration on trade and women’s economic empowerment and gather best practices.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Given the very unusual circumstances of this review and the current developments due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Iceland wishes the Japanese delegation good health and every success for the success for their trade policy review.</span></p>
Jun 19, 2020Statements at the 43rd session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">During each session Iceland delivers a number of statements on&nbsp;<span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found below:</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/02/27/Raeda-Islands-i-umraedum-um-munnlega-yfirlitsskyrslu-mannrettindafulltrua-Sameinudu-thjodanna.-/">General debate on the oral update of the High Commissioner</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/03/02/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindi-og-umhverfid/">Interactive dialogue on human rights and the environment</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/03/04/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-vernd-theirra-sem-berjast-fyrir-mannrettindum/">Interactive dialogue on human rights defenders</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/03/09/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Nordur-Koreu/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in North Korea</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/03/09/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Iran/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Iran</a></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/03/10/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Myanmar/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Myanmar</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/03/09/Avarp-i-umraedu-um-lond-sem-tharfnast-serstakrar-athugunar/">General debate on human rights situations that require the Council´s attention</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/06/16/Avarp-i-serstakri-umraedu-um-rasisma-i-heiminum/">Urgent debate on current racially inspired human rights violations, systemic racism, police brutality and violence against peaceful protests</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/06/17/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Ukrainu/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Ukraine</a></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/06/18/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Libiu/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Libya</a></span></p> <p><span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;"><a href="https://www.stjornarradid.is/sendiskrifstofur/fastanefnd-islands-i-genf/raedur/stok-raeda/2020/06/18/Avarp-i-umraedum-um-mannrettindaastandid-i-Mid-Afrikulydveldinu/">Interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in Central African Republic</a></span></p> <p><span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">In the Human Rights Council Iceland also works closely with the Nordic countries, as well as the Baltic countries (so called NB8 group). Additionally Iceland is part of the so-called Mountains group which in addition to Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Australia, Canada and New Zealand belong to.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">With these groups Iceland makes a number of statements at each session. During the 43rd session there were 17 of those statements on issues ranging from the human rights situation in individual countries to thematic issues. Those statements can be found here: <a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/R%c3%a6%c3%b0ur%20Nor%c3%b0urlanda-NB8-Fjallah%c3%b3psins.pdf">Statements</a></p>
Mar 11, 2020Statement of Iceland at the trade policy review of Australia<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland would like to welcome the distinguished delegation of Australia to their eighth trade policy review and would like to express appreciation to the WTO Secretariat, as well as to Australia, for the reports prepared, as well as to the discussant, Ambassador Braithwaite, for his excellent framing of the issues for our discussion today.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Despite the geographical distance, Iceland and Australia are like-minded partners enjoying excellent cooperation in various international fora and sharing commitments to promoting a rule-based multilateral system.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Iceland and Australia share common interest in the elimination of harmful subsidies in the fisheries sector and Australia is a strong supporter of developing enhanced fisheries subsidies disciplines in the WTO. Iceland congratulates Australia for its commitment and active work in the field of fisheries subsidies within the WTO.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chair,</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black;">Australia played an active role in championing the Joint Declaration on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment and is an active member of the Trade Impact Working Group, that is co-chaired by Botswana, Iceland and the ITC.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Furthermore, Australia is one of the members that have voluntary started to integrate information on their gender-responsive trade policies in the Trade Policy Review process.&nbsp; Iceland submitted advance written questions on the participation of women in the economy of Australia and thanks Australia for the information provided. &nbsp;The answers are very useful for the&nbsp;</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">implementation of the Joint Declaration on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment and for gathering best practices.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chair, Iceland appreciates Australia’s active engagement in WTO and their continued support for the multilateral trading system. We wish the delegation of Australia every success for their trade policy review.</span></p>
Feb 18, 2020Statement of Iceland at the trade policy review of the European Union<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #000000; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Thank you chair,</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #000000; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Iceland would like to welcome the distinguished delegation of the European Union to their fourteenth trade policy review lead by Sabine Weyand, Director-General, and I look forward to the discussions today. We would like to thank both the WTO Secretariat, as well as the European Commission, for the reports prepared for this trade policy review, and the discussant, Ambassador Alexandre Guido Lopes Parola, of Brazil, for his clear and concise overview for our discussion today.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">It is of particular interest for Iceland to take part in the trade policy review of the European Union</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">.&nbsp;</span></span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;"><span style="color: #000000;">Iceland enjoys very deep trade relations with the EU under the Agreement on the European Economic Area, the EEA Agreement, and we have a long history of strong economic cooperation. Under the EEA Agreement, Iceland is part of the internal market of the European Union and participates in the EU’s internal harmonization of r</span>ules. We do that while not being a member of the Customs Union of the EU.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Tariffs on industrial products in trade between Iceland and the EU have been abolished. Our trade arrangement for agricultural products is quite liberal and has recently been updated. Iceland is satisfied with the current level of market access for such products.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">That leaves us with fish. While tariffs have been abolished on most fish products in trade between Iceland and the EU, a large number of Icelandic fish products are still subject to tariffs arrangements, such as tariff reductions or tariff quotas, upon imports to the EU. Such tariff arrangements continue to distort our trade in such products imported from Iceland, while EU enjoys tariff free imports for all its fisheries products exported to Iceland.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Iceland would therefore like to reiterate its request to the EU to eliminate all remaining tariffs on Icelandic fisheries products into the EU. Our key rationale is the following:</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Firstly, non-discrimination: The EU policy has shifted considerably in recent years towards full market access for fisheries products from third countries into the EU. Under the EU´s recent FTAs, tariffs have been eliminated of all fish products from Canada, Japan, Vietnam and Mercosur and the same has been offered to current negotiating partners such as New Zealand and Australia. But still refuses to offer it to one of its closest partner, Iceland, which goes much further than any of these partners in harmonizing it rules with the rules of the EU. Another fact that makes Iceland also different from these partners, is that fish is by far the most important goods sector in Iceland’s exports.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Secondly, economic interests of the EU: To the EU, Iceland is one of the most important trading partner, when it comes to fish imports. The EU is a major importer of seafood – with self-sufficiency rate of only 41% - with future consumption of fish products expected to increase substantially (less meat, more fish).</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Thirdly, environmental benefits: Iceland´s fisheries are sustainable and therefore environmentally friendly. Furthermore, as Iceland in close geographical proximity with the EU market, imports of fish products from Iceland have lower carbon footprint than from countries that are further away from the EU market.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Fourthly, the streamlining of current trade arrangements: Current trade arrangements between Iceland and the EU for fish products are not user friendly. They are governed by too many instruments and conditions such as tariff reductions and tariff quotas, without fully liberalizing trade in these products. These arrangements result in additional tariffs and administrative costs for imports of such products.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">And finally, Iceland is among the EU’s closest partners. The EEA Agreement is the deepest and most comprehensive agreement the EU has concluded with other countries. The current trade regime for fish products is no longer justifiable. Finding a solution is a win-win for both parties.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Chair,</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">In closing I would like to turn to a subject that is particularly close to my heart. The European Union played an important role in the adoption and implementation of the Buenos Aires Declaration of Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment adopted at the MC11. &nbsp;We welcome the focus the EU places on gender equality and the economic empowerment of women. We also applaud the EU for integrating specific provisions on trade and gender equality in recent trade negotiations.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">As mentioned in the report of the Secretariat gender issues have begun to figure more prominently in EU trade policy, including analysis on how to improve the understanding of the impact of international trade agreements on gender equality. Iceland looks forward to further cooperation on this matter with the EU.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 25px;">Finally, allow me to complement the whole EU team for the enormous work they have put into their TPR and my delegation wishes the EU all the success.</span></p>
Mar 07, 2019Joint statement on the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia<span>STATEMENT UNDER AGENDA ITEM 2:<br /> INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE WITH THE HIGH COMMISSIONER<br /> 40TH SESSION OF THE UN HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL<br /> DELIVERED BY H.E. HARALD ASPELUND (ICELAND)<br /> 07 MARCH 2019<br /> <br /> Mr. President, <br /> I have the honor to read this statement on behalf of a number of States.<br /> <br /> While acknowledging the spirit of modernization and reform embodied by the Saudi Vision 2030, we express significant concerns about reports of continuing arrests and arbitrary detentions of human rights defenders in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including women’s rights activists. <br /> <br /> We are particularly concerned about the use of the counter-terrorism law and other national security provisions against individuals peacefully exercising their rights and freedoms. Human rights defenders and civil society groups can and should play a vital role in the process of reform which the Kingdom is pursuing.<br /> <br /> We join the High Commissioner and Special Rapporteurs in their calls upon the Saudi authorities to release all individuals, including Loujain al-Hathloul, Eman al-Nafjan, Aziza al-Yousef, Nassima al-Sadah, Samar Badawi, Nouf Abdelaziz, Hatoon al-Fassi, Mohammed Al-Bajadi, Amal Al-Harbi and Shadan al-Anezi, detained for exercising their fundamental freedoms.<br /> <br /> We condemn in the strongest possible terms the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which Saudi Arabia has confirmed took place in its consulate in Istanbul. <br /> The circumstances of Mr. Khashoggi’s death reaffirm the need to protect journalists and to uphold the right to freedom of expression around the world. Investigations into the killing must be prompt; effective and thorough; independent and impartial; and transparent. Those responsible must be held to account.<br /> <br /> We call upon Saudi Arabia to disclose all information available and to fully cooperate with all investigations into the killing, including the human rights inquiry by the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions. <br /> <br /> Finally, we call on Saudi Arabia to take meaningful steps to ensure that all members of the public, including human rights defenders and journalists, can freely and fully exercise their rights to freedoms of expression, opinion and association, including online, without fear of reprisals. <br /> <br /> I thank you, Mr. President.<br /> <br /> List of countries supporting the Joint Statement:<br /> Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. </span>
Mar 05, 2019Statement of Iceland on freedom of religion<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Clustered interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on freedom of</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">religion and the Special Rapporteur on sale of children</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">5 March 2019</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Statement by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland thanks the Special Rapporteurs for their latest reports.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We believe persecution of people based on their religion or belief should never be condoned. I therefore take this opportunity to reiterate the worry expressed by our Minister for Foreign Affairs, in his address to this Council last week, of the apparent increase in both anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in Europe, where individuals are being targeted for hate and discrimination simply for their faith.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We need to do more to address this trend, in Europe and where ever else it is found. And we need to do it urgently.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. Shaheed, we warmly welcome the conceptual focus of your report on the freedom of religion and belief. This is most useful in a time when new methods of communication are becoming ever more important and have made it possible to immediately share information between people, across borders and boundaries, including&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">false&nbsp;</em></span>information, incitement and intolerance.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We take particular note of your attempt to highlight the importance of not curtailing freedom of expression, while attempting to address issues relating to incitement of discrimination, hostility or violence against persons on the basis of religion or belief.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. Shaheed, in this regard, with an eye on your comments regarding the challenge policy-makers globally are faced with of responding to online expression, that can be viewed as incitement to violence or at least discrimination and stigmatization, we would like to ask whether you have had any contacts and discussions with leaders of social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, to name but two?</p>
Mar 05, 2019Joint Statement of the Nordic - Baltic states on violence against children<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">40<span style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; line-height: 25px; vertical-align: baseline; top: -0.5em;">th</span>&nbsp;session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Clustered Interactive Dialogue</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on violence against children and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for children and armed conflict</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">5 March 2019</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Intervention by the Nordic – Baltic States</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">delivered by H.E. Mr Jānis Kārkliņš, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to the United Nations Office in Geneva</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Thank you Mr President.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries [Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Latvia].</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We thank both Special Representatives for their valuable work and express support for their mandates.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We share Ms Gamba’s concern over abductions as a means of instilling fear and terror. We are looking forward to the guidance note in this field.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We are pleased to see that best practices obtained during two decades of mandate for children and armed conflict will serve as a guidance on the integration of child protection issues in peace processes.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Ms Gamba,&nbsp;<em style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">taking into consideration the unanimous adoption of Security Council resolution 2427, what do you see as the main challenges for ensuring that the understanding of child protection as a preventive measure of conflicts is put in practice?</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">While we see positive developments in protecting children from violence around the world, [including those referred to in the report of&nbsp;<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Ms Santos Pais,] we are not doing nearly enough [to protect our children].</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">[Today’s reality is alarming, as noted by the Special Representative, every five minutes a child dies because of violence and every year half of the world’s children suffer from violence.]</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Our countries believe stronger political commitment by states is necessary to protect children from violence. Violence, in all its forms, conducted online or offline, is unacceptable!</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Greater effort is required by national governments to develop national violence prevention and response programmes with effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. To ensure protection is effective, we would like to stress the importance of mainstreaming gender in these programmes. The protection of children from violence can not be done without addressing the gender, especially the specific risks, needs, vulnerabilities and coping strategies that girls are facing.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Ms Santos Pais,&nbsp;<em style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">we would be grateful if you could elaborate on the best practices already in place to ensure gender sensitive prevention and response.</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Finally, as “no-corporal-punishment countries”, we call on all states that have not done so, to prohibit corporal punishment in all settings.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you!</p>
Mar 05, 2019Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on disabilities - Statement by IcelandClustered interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on disabilities and the Independent Expert on Albinism<br /> <br /> 5 March 2019<br /> <br /> Statement by Iceland<br /> <br /> Iceland thanks the Special Rapporteur and the Independent Expert for their latest reports.<br /> <br /> Mrs. Devandas-Aguilar, we find your focus in your report on disability-specific forms of deprivation of liberty most welcome and agree with you that depriving people of their liberty on the basis of their disability represents a violation of human rights.<br /> <br /> We take particular note of your conclusion that persons with disabilities are systematically incarcerated, imprisoned, detained or otherwise physically restricted across the globe, regardless of the economic situation of the country or its legal tradition.<br /> <br /> This conclusion, while worrying in itself, invites somewhat contradictory deductions. On the one hand, it would indicate that the problem is so deep-rooted that it will be difficult to address. On the other hand, it could also offer an opportunity, in the sense that if the same applies to all or most states, then perhaps some unity of purpose may be achieved.<br /> <br /> We would be interested in hearing your thoughts on this.<br /> <br /> I would also like to ask you how one can tailor into the debate the passage of time, of progress that has taken place in recent years and decades. I will presume you agree that in many countries the situation has improved very considerably in fifty years, maybe even in just twenty years.<br /> <br /> But what does that mean on a longer time-scale; can we foresee a continuing gradual march towards elimination of such methods as described in your report, or is it your opinion that a drastic intervention is needed at this time, in all societies, in all corners of the world, in equal measure?<br /> <br /> Lastly, I want to say that we share your view that children are particularly vulnerable to institutionalization on the basis of impairment and that if we are to start anywhere, we should start there.<br /> <br /> I thank you.
Mar 04, 2019Joint Nordic - Baltic statement on the rights of children with disabilities<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">4 March 2019</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Annual full day meeting</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">on the rights of children</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Theme: Empowering children with disabilities for the enjoyment of their human rights, including through inclusive education</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">STATEMENT BY H.E. ASMUNDUR EINAR DADASON,</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">MINISTER FOR SOCIAL AND CHILDREN AFFAIRS OF ICELAND,</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">ON BEHALF OF THE NORDIC-BALTIC STATES</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr./Madam President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I am honoured to deliver this intervention on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We thank the panellists for their interventions and particularly appreciate that the voices of children have been brought to this debate.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr./Madam President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Children with disabilities hold the same rights as all children and their empowerment depends upon the realization of those rights. The Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provide a robust policy and legal framework to achieve the rights for children with disabilities.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We are all committed to the goal of achieving self-determination and full participation in society of persons with disabilities, and that includes children with disabilities. A crucial element in ensuring the meaningful participation of children with disabilities in society is inclusive education.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We need to take a holistic approach to ensuring the inclusion of children in society and education, ensuring that families and communities are supported to enable their inclusion. Similarly, in our experience working towards fully inclusive education requires our different agencies, ministries and municipalities working together across traditional sectors so that the right of each child is realized. It is also urgent that civil society is involved in this work.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Finally, it is worth mentioning that children with disabilities also receive education on their autonomy and rights, including comprehensive sexuality education, as well as how to protect themselves from violence and abuse in the same way as other children. Without it, we fall short of delivering a truly inclusive education.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In closing, we would like to ask the panel to share best practises or examples of supportive policies to families and communities that support inclusive education.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Thank you.</p>
Mar 04, 2019Statement of Iceland on human rights and the environment<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Interactive dialogue with the&nbsp;</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Special Rapporteur on</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">human rights an and the environment</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">4 March 2019</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Statement by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland thanks the Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment for his latest report and its focus on clean air and the negative impact of air pollution on the enjoyment of many human rights. Air pollution is one of the silent killers of our world and has a devastating impact on our health and wellbeing.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The good news is that realising clean air for all goes hand in hand with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including healthy lives for all, sustainable cities, universal access to clean energy and effective action to address climate change. We have the tools needed and must redouble our efforts.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">For my delegation it was also particularly interesting to receive the concise overview of the different ways we have in our regional and sub-regional frameworks acknowledged that every person has the right to live in an environment adequate to his or her health and well-being.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">It is becoming increasingly clear that we will, at the same time as we recognize this right, have to acknowledge the flip side of this coin; with this right also comes a responsibility and a duty, both individually and in association with others, to protect and improve the environment for the benefit of present and future generations.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The question we would therefore have for the Special Rapporteur is what he feels should be the next steps when it comes to bringing together and solidifying our common understanding of the right of every person to live in an environment adequate to his or her health and well-being?</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Mar 01, 2019Statement of Iceland on the misuse of counter-terrorism legislation<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Individual interactive dialogue with the&nbsp;</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">1 March 2019</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Statement by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland thanks the Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism for her latest report.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We remain deeply concerned about the widespread misuse of counter-terrorism legislation worldwide. The trend of using counter-terrorism legislation to silence human rights defenders, including women and LGBTI rights defenders, is particularly worrying.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The findings of the report that the targeting of civil society is not a random or incidental aspect of counter-terrorism law and practice must be urgently addressed. States must not use the pretext of ‘national security’ to shrink civic space or to arrest or detain individuals exercising their rights and freedoms.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">A vibrant and active civil society play a key role in preventing violent extremism and countering terrorism and the successful implementation of counter-terrorism strategies rely on broad communal support. Any effective counter-terrorism strategy needs to strengthen, not weaken, civil society.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In this context, I want to highlight the importance of the fourth pillar of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy which focuses on measures to ensure respect for human rights for all and the rule of law as the fundamental basis for the fight against terrorism. We firmly believe that your mandate Madame Special Rapporteur, is crucial for the implementation of this pillar.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In conclusion, I would like to ask the Special Rapporteur how she views the role of her mandate in the broader UN counter-terrorism architecture?</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Feb 28, 2019Statement of Iceland on the protection of human rights defenders<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Clustered interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders and the Special Rapporteur on torture</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">28 February 2019</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Statement by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland thanks the Special Rapporteurs for their latest reports.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. Forst, we warmly welcome the focus of your report on the situation of women human rights defenders. We applaud the courageous and vital work carried out by women human rights defenders in challenging traditional notions of family and gender roles in society while acknowledging the significant and specific risks, threats and attacks they face.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">It is important to highlight that not all women human rights defenders are female. All human rights defenders who work in the defence of the human rights of women or on gender issues are women human rights defenders. Women, however, as your report clearly highlights - are also targeted for or exposed to gender-specific threats and gender-specific violence.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">States must stop criminalizing women for their work as human rights defenders and develop measures to tackle the root causes of discrimination against women, while ensuring the protection of human rights defenders in a manner that systematically integrates a gender perspective.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">While the responsibility for ensuring a safe environment for human rights defenders belongs to the State, women defenders need spaces of trust among women to talk about the challenges that affects them. States must ensure that women human rights defenders enjoy freedom of movement, have safe spaces and communications channels in order to create and participate in networks.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I ask you Mr. Forst, how can Member States better ensure that women human rights defenders are recognized and supported and enabled to participate equally, meaningfully and powerfully in the promotion and protection of human rights, at the national and international levels?</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Feb 26, 2019Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gudlaugaur Thor Thordarson's statement on behalf of the Nordic - Baltic states on the question of the death penalty<span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Human Rights Council</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Geneva, 26 February 2019</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Biennial high-level panel discussion&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Theme: Human rights violations related to the use of the death penalty, in particular with respect to the rights to non-discrimination and equality</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">STATEMENT BY H.E. GUÐLAUGUR ÞÓR ÞÓRÐARSON,&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF ICELAND,&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">ON BEHALF THE NORDIC-BALTIC STATES</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">I am honoured to deliver this intervention on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">We thank the panellists for their interventions. We reiterate our strong opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances. The death penalty constitutes a violation of the right to life and its abolition is necessary for the enhancement of human dignity and the progressive development of human rights.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">We are alarmed by the evidence of discriminatory use of the death penalty against persons belonging to racial and ethnic minorities or based on gender or sexual orientation. The disproportionate impact of its use on persons in vulnerable and marginalized situations is particularly troubling.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">When the UDHR was adopted, only 16 countries had abolished the death penalty. Today, more than two-thirds of the countries in the world have abolished it in law or practice. This represents a huge positive shift in the global outlook.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">It is therefore deeply worrying that some States are now choosing to go against this global trend by resuming executions. Imposition of death sentences for any offence, including drug offences, is incompatible with the fundamental tenets of human rights.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Instead of resuming executions, authorities should focus on evidence-based approaches to crime prevention in conformity with international human rights law. Moreover, States providing bilateral technical assistance to combat drug crime must ensure that the programmes, to which they contribute, do not result in violations of the right to life.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">In closing, we would like to ask the panel to share best practises in addressing the discriminatory use of the death penalty against women, especially linked to adultery.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Thank you.</span></span>
Feb 25, 2019Address by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gudlaugaur Thor Thordarson during the 40th session of the Human Rights Council<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Human Rights Council<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Geneva, 25 February 2019<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Address by<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> H.E Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Mr./Madame President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> &nbsp;<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> When I addressed this chamber one year ago, I did not know that Iceland would soon after be elected to serve on the Human Rights Council. For Iceland, it was a proud moment, made even more meaningful as we celebrated 100 years of sovereignty in 2018. I thank you for your support.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr./Madame President, I have sometimes been asked what useful purpose it serves to be a member of the Human Rights Council. There are those who deem it merely a talking shop. Others argue that the Council has been guilty of bias – that it spends too much time debating human rights violations in some countries, while ignoring similar or worse situations in others.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">My response is that yes, the Human Rights Council certainly has its flaws. For me though, the answer to the question is clearly not to disengage with the Council because of these imperfections, but rather to engage even more. Why? Because if it is broken, we need to fix it.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">This Council is and should be the primary arena for debating and advancing human rights at the national and international level.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Most importantly, we must not forget that the Council has been successful on many fronts. Only last September, it came together to pass landmark resolutions on the dire human rights situations in Venezuela, Myanmar and Yemen.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Similarly, the UPR has proven to be of utmost importance as it allows each Member State – even those that may think they are beyond reproach – to listen to the comments and questions of others, to receive criticism and recommendations to improve their human rights record.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Overall, the Human Rights Council has proven to be a valuable platform for advocacy on behalf of those left voiceless and have their rights ignored or violated in all parts of the world.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Nevertheless, and I want to stress this part: The Council could and should do even more, and Iceland will, for its part, strive to support efforts to that effect - in the session underway and in future sessions.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Ladies and Gentlemen,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">When the Human Rights Council was established more than ten years ago, we made it clear that Council members should “uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights” and “fully co-operate with the Council”.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">As a new member of the Council, and as a first-time member of the Council, Iceland has pledged to act in accordance with this standard. Regrettably, however, many Member States have proven unwilling to do the same. States which join the Council should lead by example and expect their own human rights record to be subject to particular scrutiny during their time as members.&nbsp;</p> <span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">We have in this body highlighted the situation in the Philippines, where reports of extrajudicial killings have reached new heights with some estimates up to 27.000 people killed with impunity. It is, therefore, a concern when a re-election to this Council is claimed to justify these killings as a legitimate part of the so called “war on drugs”.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">The question we must ask ourselves is whether we are not, by electing and re-electing countries to this Council that have less than stellar human rights records, to put it mildly – playing into the hands of those who argue and accuse this Council of not being a force for good but rather a protector of human-rights abusers.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr./Madame President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> </span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland is not only a first-time member of the Human Rights Council, but also the smallest country to be elected to the Council. We believe more countries should be encouraged to serve as members, of all sizes and strength, to expand its reach and impact. We advocate for the full participation of small states from all corners of the world and hope our election can serve as an inspiration.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Large and powerful member states tend to run repeatedly for membership, thereby making it harder for smaller countries to gain a seat at the table. One could argue that this is the ultimate proof that the Council matters greatly, but on the other hand, this often blocks the way for others, including smaller members of the United Nations.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> </span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In our opinion, we ought to consider a rotational basis of membership and ensure that all those that desire to serve on the Council can do so. Human rights are universal and belong to all of us, big and small, and we should all be able to engage fully.</p> <span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr./Madame President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> </span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I would like to add my voice to those who have in this chamber expressed concern about the rising intolerance against migrants and minorities, also in mainland Europe. We also see a worrying trend in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia where individuals are targeted for hate and discrimination simply for their faith. We cannot return to our past of us versus them, of indiscriminate hate and fear.&nbsp;</p> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">I am also concerned about increasing repression, through arrests and detention of human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers and judges. Let me in this context draw attention to the independence of the judiciary in countries such as Turkey, where it has come under increased scrutiny, and call on the Turkish Government to ensure fair proceedings.</span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has confirmed took place in its consulate in Istanbul, further highlights the plight of journalists and human rights defenders. Widespread arbitrary arrests, torture and the persecution of human rights defenders for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights is unacceptable – always and everywhere. I cannot mention Saudi Arabia without also stressing the urgent need for the Kingdom to improve the status of women’s human rights.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We must also continue to advocate for political resolution of disputes; for the rights of all citizens to be upheld and, in the case of Venezuela, for the peaceful return to democracy – and for humanitarian assistance to be allowed to reach those in need.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Finally, repeated reports of violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals, including in Chechnya and Tanzania are also of great concern to us.&nbsp; On this point, I want to highlight our pledge to put the human rights of LGBTI individuals in the forefront of our membership of the Human Rights Council.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I am also pleased to announce Iceland´s intention to become a regular contributor to the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner´s work in this field. We got it right decades ago in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights when we set out that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. This means everyone, irrespective of their gender, sexual orientation or gender identity.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Feb 04, 201932nd session of the Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review (UPR) <p>Iceland is an active participant in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the Human Rights Council. The UPR is an important forum where the state of human rights in all states is discussed roughly every five years. The 32nd session of the UPR took place January 21. to February 1. During the session the state of human rights in 14 states was discussed. Iceland's recommendations to all 14 states can be found below.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/UPR32%20Iceland%20all%20statements.pdf"><span class="pdf">Iceland's recommendations during the 32nd session of the UPR</span></a></p>
Dec 10, 201831st session of the Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review (UPR) <span></span> <p>Iceland is an active participant in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the Human Rights Council. The UPR is an important forum where the state of human rights in all states is discussed roughly every five years. The 31st session of the UPR took place November 5. - 16. During the session the state of human rights in 14 states was discussed. Iceland's recommendations to all 14 states can be found below.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/UPR32%20Iceland%20all%20statements.pdf"><span class="pdf"></span></a><a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/All%20UPR31%20Statements.pdf">Iceland's recommendations during the 31st session of the UPR</a></p>
Sep 27, 2018Joint Nordic statement on the human rights situation in Cambodia <p><span>The Permanent Representative of Sweden to the Human Rights Council delivered last Wednesday a statement on behalf of all the Nordic countries during a discussion on the human rights situation in Cambodia.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><strong>UN Human Rights Council<br /> </strong></p> <p><strong>39th&nbsp;session</strong></p> <p><strong>Item 10 debate: Cambodia 26 Sep 2018</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Delivered by H.E. Swedish Permanent Representative Veronika Bard</strong></p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President,</p> <p>Statement on behalf of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway,&nbsp;</p> <p>We thank Special Rapporteur Rhona Smith for her work and for the report on the human rights situation in Cambodia.</p> <p>As the report outlines, there has been a sharp decline of political and civic space in Cambodia over the past year, resulting in serious negative impact on human rights, democracy and the rule of law. This is illustrated by the dissolution of the main opposition party and the banning of many of its representatives from political activities.</p> <p>The arrests, threats and harassment directed against media and civil society underscores the severity of the situation. Furthermore, opposition leaders and supporters, civil society activists and journalists have fled the country in fear of arbitrary arrest.</p> <p>Democracy and the rule of law, as well as a fair and free election process, are prerequisites for the full enjoyment of human rights. Sweden, on behalf of the Nordic countries, would like to join others in expressing its deep concern over the restrictive conditions in which the Cambodian parliamentary elections took place in July.</p> <p>We would like to emphasize that an election, from which the main opposition party is effectively excluded, cannot be considered neither legitimate, nor representative of the will of the Cambodian people. Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of democracy, as is the protection for the freedom of expression and opinion, and of association and peaceful assembly.</p> <p>We call on the Cambodian government to drop all criminal charges against opposition leader Kem Sokha, recently released on bail, and to remove all restrictions against him. All other individuals imprisoned for exercising their fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, must also be unconditionally released and have all charges against them dropped.</p> <p>Prior to this year’s election we noted a steady progress of elections in terms of compliance with international standards.</p> <p>We now call on the Government of Cambodia to reopen democratic space and to permit human rights defenders and media to engage in political life and carry out their roles freely, allowing civil society to flourish.</p> <p>Thank you</p>
Sep 27, 2018Statement of Iceland on the situation in Georgia<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Item 10 Iceland Statement</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Situation in Georgia</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">27 September 2018</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland would like to thank the Office of the High Commissioner for its efforts to provide cooperation and assistance to Georgia. We also take note of and welcome the commitment of the Government of Georgia to human rights, as described in the High Commissioner´s latest report.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We take this opportunity to encourage the Government to prioritize the promotion of gender equality, welcoming work done so far, in particular the adoption earlier this year of a National Action Plan on Measures to be Implemented for Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence for the period 2018-2020.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We would like to echo the concern of OHCHR of the state of human rights of populations living in Abkhazia and South Ossetia and call on those in control of these regions to grant immediate access to OHCHR.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We reiterate that it is not acceptable that no access has been granted, despite repeated requests since 2011. It is not sufficient to allow access to United Nations development and humanitarian actors, actors dealing with human rights must also be allowed access, including OHCHR, the Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner and others.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The few reports that have come out of these areas would seem to point to serious human rights issues. Therefore, all parties should be embracing the need for credible and verified information.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Finally, Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Ten years have passed since the conflict between Russia and Georgia. Iceland would like to express its full support for a peaceful resolution of conflict in Georgia and takes this opportunity to reiterate its firm support for Georgia’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Sep 26, 2018Statement of Iceland on racism<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland to the international organisations in Geneva, delivered last Tuesday a statement in the Human Rights Council on racism and the importance of all states coming together to combat prejudice and persecution based on racial or ethnic origin.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Iceland Statement under Item 8</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">24 September 2018</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland is committed to fight racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. The Icelandic Constitution prohibits discrimination based on racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, and provisions in the General Penal Code specifically safeguard against such discrimination.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In addition, The Penal Code also makes it clear that any kind of attack or incitement against a person or a group of persons based on their nationality, ethnicity, race or religion is not tolerated.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We unfortunately see an increase in such incitement around the world. But this is not only true for racism and xenophobia but we also see increased intolerance and attacks being directed at those that fight for gender equality, as well as those that fight for the rights of LGBTI persons. Hate speech and incitement is never justified, for whatever reason.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Just yesterday our leaders came together in New York to celebrate the life and achievements of Nelson Mandela. There they committed to redouble efforts to build a just, peaceful, prosperous, inclusive and fair world, and revive the values for which Nelson Mandela stood by placing human dignity at the centre of their actions.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">And relevant to the work of this Council, they recognised that the respect for the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights, as well as the fundamental freedoms, of all members of the human family is the foundation of inclusivity, justice and peace in the world. They declared that racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance represent the very opposite of the noble purposes of the United Nations.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We must build on those commitments in our work to advance the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We all constitute one human family. We must never forget that it is our joint obligation to eliminate racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. We must work together to achieve this goal. Iceland is willing to its part.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you Mr. President</p>
Sep 26, 2018Statement of Iceland on the situation in Ukraine<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland to the International Organisations in Geneva delivered last Tuesday a statement in the Human Rights Council on the situation in Ukraine.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Iceland Statement</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Interactive Dialogue with High Commissioner on Ukraine</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">25 September 2018</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Thank you, Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland would like to thank the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for its continued work to monitor the human rights situation in the armed conflict zone and other parts of Ukraine.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We share concerns about the lack of effective investigation into conflict-related human rights violations, such as arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment in government-controlled territory.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland deplores that between 16 May and 15 August 2018, OHCHR recorded 105 civilian casualties in eastern Ukraine, which constitutes a 30 per cent increase compared to the previous reporting period. As noted in the report, increased hostilities worsen the immediate and long-term human rights protection of people living in the affected areas. We call on all parties, –the Government of Ukraine and the Russian Federation and other groups – to end all hostilities and human rights abuses and to bring to an end to the conflict by strictly adhering to the ceasefire and implementing other obligations foreseen in the Minsk agreements.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We also call on the Russian Federation to Implement General Assembly Resolution 72/190 of 19 December 2017, including by ensuring proper and unimpeded access of international human rights monitoring missions and human rights non-governmental organizations to Crimea as well as to respect obligations applicable to an Occupying Power pursuant to international humanitarian law, including the obligation to respect laws in force in an occupied territory.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We reiterate our respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Finally, we call on all sides to take urgent measures to protect LGBT persons and activists, who are subjected to cruel attacks and harassment and hold perpetrators accountable.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Sep 26, 2018Statement on the situation in Yemen<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Edda Björk Ragnarsdóttir, specialist, delivered on Tuesday a statement in the Human Rights Council on the situation in Yemen, where a bloody conflict has led to the death of thousands of civilians and had devastating effects on the human rights and living conditions of the people.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Iceland statement in Interactive Dialogue on Yemen<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; line-height: 25px; text-decoration-line: underline;"></span></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: right;">25 September 2018</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The findings of the Group of Independent Eminent International and Regional Experts with regard to the situation in Yemen are as important as they are shocking.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland is deeply concerned by the conclusion of the Group of Experts that parties to the armed conflict in Yemen may have committed war crimes, and&nbsp;are responsible for various human rights violations, including unlawful deprivation of the right to life, arbitrary detention, rape, torture, ill-treatment, enforced disappearance and child recruitment, as well as violations of freedom of expression and economic, social and cultural rights.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We take this opportunity to reiterate our condemnation of the indiscriminate air strikes by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland wholeheartedly agrees with the recommendations of the Group of Experts, including their call for an immediate cessation of violence committed against civilians in violation of applicable international human rights and international humanitarian law.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Taking note of the warning issued by the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Lowcock, earlier this week, that a famine may strike Yemen under current circumstances, we also urge all parties to fulfill obligations to facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief and unhindered access to medical facilities.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We would also like to stress that acts of sexual and gender-based violence, including sexual violence against women and children, must be stopped. We furthermore condemn the recruitment and use of children in the armed conflict.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The people of Yemen deserve peace and must be given a sustainable and inclusive peace. The Human Rights Council must do its part by ensuring that the situation in Yemen remains on its agenda, including by renewing the mandate of the Group of Experts.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Sep 25, 2018Debate on Gender Equality I - Mountains Group joint statement<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: left;"><span>Canada delivered on Monday a statement in the Human Rights Council on behalf of the Mountains Group (Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) in a special debate on gender equality.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">HRC39</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Joint Statement</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Annual Discussion on integration of a gender perspective</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">September 24, 2018</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I have the honour to deliver this joint statement on behalf of Australia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and my own country, Canada.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We welcome this important discussion on the use of gender-sensitive methodologies and the integration of a gender perspective into human rights investigative mechanisms.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In recent years, UN commissions of inquiry and fact-finding missions have increasingly sought to integrate a gender perspective into their work, in particular through the presence of gender advisors dedicated to ensuring the gender sensitivity of the investigation mechanism and by collecting evidence of sexual and gender-based violence.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">While this is to be commended, there is much more work to be done by COIs, FFMs and other investigative mechanisms in fully integrating a gender perspective throughout investigations.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">First, commissioners and experts should gather contextual information to uncover and analyze the root causes of gender-based human rights violations and abuses in conflict settings, including historical and structural gender inequalities and multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Second, investigators should systematically collect data disaggregated by gender, age, race, ethnicity, disability and other identifying characteristics to determine the degree to which all human rights – including sexual and reproductive health and rights – of various subgroups of individuals are respected, protected and fulfilled in times of conflict.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Third, meeting with women human rights defenders and civil society organizations, including feminist networks and LGBTI persons, should be built into the working methods of human rights investigative mechanisms in order to capture diverse gender perspectives.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Fourth, recommendations on accountability measures should reflect the voices of women, girls and all individuals who experience gender-based human rights violations and abuses in conflict.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The comprehensive integration of a gender perspective into the mandates of COIs, FFMs and other human rights investigative mechanisms is not only an important – but truly an essential – step towards achieving gender equality.</p>
Sep 25, 2018Debate on Gender Equality II - Joint Nordic - Baltic statement by Latvia<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Latvia delivered on Monday a statement in the Human Rights Council on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States (NB8) in a special debate on gender equality.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">39<span style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; line-height: 25px; vertical-align: baseline; top: -0.5em;">th</span>&nbsp;session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Annual discussion on the integration of a gender perspective through the work of the Human Rights Council and that of its mechanisms</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">Theme: Gender integration and human rights investigations: strengthening a victim-centred approach</em></span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">24 September 2018</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Intervention by the Nordic – Baltic States</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">delivered by H.E. Jānis Kārkliņš, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to the United Nations Office in Geneva</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr President, Distinguished panellists,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries [Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Latvia].</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We welcome todays’ important discussion.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Gender mainstreaming is essential to all the work of this Council and its mechanisms, including human rights investigative teams.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Despite efforts to combat sexual and other forms of gender-based violence, these crimes remain common and widespread in humanitarian and conflict situations. Women and girls continue to account for the vast majority of those affected. Impunity for such crimes can never be tolerated. Human rights investigative teams play a vital role in mapping human rights violations and abuses in a given context, which is crucial for holding perpetrators of such crimes to account. In carrying out this work, it is crucial to understand and investigate all forms of gender-based violence, not merely sexual violence.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We believe that integration of a gender perspective throughout the work of the Council’s human rights investigative bodies is crucial not only to uncover the causes, patterns and extent of the human rights violations committed, but also to better respond to the fact, that women, girls, men and boys may experience human rights violations and abuses differently.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The investigation of human rights violations through the prism of gender perspective also allows moving towards specific, action-oriented and victim-cantered recommendations that can bring a real change ensuring that all violations and abuses are accounted for, as well as preventing gender-based violence and discrimination in the future. Identifying the root causes of gender-based violence should also contextualize it within the gendered structures of society, identifying the broader patterns of discrimination against women and girls.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Gender integration of human rights investigations also relates to the composition of the mechanisms of the Human Rights Council, where gender parity must be the goal.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We would like to ask the distinguished panellists the following – Conflict often exacerbates existing inequalities. How can we ensure that human rights investigations are gender transformative, not focusing only on the sexual and gender based violence but also look at the underlying causes such as stereotypes, gender power relations and structural discrimination against women and girls?</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you Mr President!</p>
Sep 25, 2018Debate on Gender Equality II - Joint Nordic - Baltic statement by Estonia<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Estonia delivered on Monday a statement in the Human Rights Council on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states (NB8) in a general discussion on gender equality.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Human Rights Council 39<span style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; line-height: 25px; vertical-align: baseline; top: -0.5em;">th</span>&nbsp;Session.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Item 8: General Debate</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">24 September 2018</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Nordic-Baltic Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Andre Pung, Estonia</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">This statement is made on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries: Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Estonia.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” and “Human rights of women and of the girl-child are an inalienable, integral and indivisible part of universal human rights” are quotes from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Vienna Declaration, that are often highlighted. However, while celebrating the 70<span style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; line-height: 25px; vertical-align: baseline; top: -0.5em;">th</span>&nbsp;and the 25<span style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; line-height: 25px; vertical-align: baseline; top: -0.5em;">th</span>&nbsp;anniversary of the mentioned documents, we can conclude that these words have not always been followed by sufficient actions.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Acknowledging the advancements of the enjoyment of human rights by women and girls, the World Economic Forum in its last year’s report concluded that at the current rate of progress, the global gender gap will take 100 years to close. The struggle of women’s rights movements and the strive for equal opportunities for women around the world show that it is high time to move from words to actions, to end all forms of gender inequalities.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Women and girls are often more deeply impacted than men and boys by poverty, climate change, food insecurity, conflict, inadequate access to basic services and global economic crises. For making progress on ensuring the enjoyment of human rights by all women and girls and making our words count, we need to have a gender responsive approach in all policy fields, at the international, national and local levels. This is also well demonstrated through a number of thematic reports presented to the Human Rights Council at the ongoing session, be it on safe drinking water and sanitation, death penalty or preventable maternal mortality. For women’s and girls’ rights to be realized it is crucial to eliminate gender based violence and ensure women’s and girls’ right to decide freely on matters affecting all aspects of their life, including their sexual and reproductive health and rights. There also needs to be effective and meaningful participation of women at all levels of decision making in political, economic and public life.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The Nordic and Baltic countries remain fully committed to respecting, protecting and fulfilling the human rights of all women and girls. We urge all States to fulfill their human rights obligations towards women and girls in their countries.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Thank you!</p>
Sep 25, 2018Statement of Iceland on the rights of LGBTI persons<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Þorvarður Atli Þórsson delivered on Monday a speech in the Human Rights Council on behalf of Iceland on the rights of LGBTI persons.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Iceland Statement under Item 8</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">24 September 2018</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> This year we celebrate the seventieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Iceland firmly believes that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the declaration and reinforced in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action.&nbsp;<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> As a member of the Human Rights Council Iceland will continue to support the Human Rights of LGBTI individuals, both home and abroad, and in that context I would like to hail the recent decision by the Indian Supreme Court to decriminalise same-sex relations.&nbsp;<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> This ruling is a welcome development. Too many states still hold laws on their books that criminalise consensual adult relationships and we want to take this opportunity to encourage them, as the High Commissioner did in her Oral Update, to look to India´s example in this respect.<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Mr. President,<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> I am proud to be able to say that Iceland currently tops the index when it comes to LGBTI social acceptance, according to a study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development from 2017. Recently, domestic funding for LGBTI issues has been doubled and an ambitious law on gender identity recognition is in the pipeline.<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> We continue to support the historic mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as the United Nations Free and Equal campaign. Both are important in their own right as we need to address both discrimination and violence but also work to increase the social acceptance in our societies. We have seen that change can happen fast when we come out together for the dignity and rights of all.&nbsp;<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> I thank you</span></p>
Sep 21, 2018Commitment to good practices by incoming members<p><strong>39th session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p><strong>Human rights bodies and mechanisms&nbsp;- Item 5</strong></p> <p><strong>21 September 2018</strong></p> <p><strong>Delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p>Mr President.</p> <p>As incoming members of the Human Rights Council, we are committed to the success and effectiveness of the Council and are convinced that the Council plays an invaluable role in promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.</p> <p>Resolution 60/251, setting up this Council over ten years ago, makes clear that Council members shall “uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights” and “fully cooperate with the Council”.</p> <p>In furtherance of these requirements, we commit to strengthening the Council through good practice, and pledge to:</p> <ul> <li>cooperate in good faith with the OHCHR, the Council and its mechanisms, including responding in a timely manner to Special Procedures’ communications, urgent appeals and country visit requests;</li> <li>address human rights concerns on their merits, applying objective and human rights-based criteria in determining whether and how the Council should respond to a situation of concern, and take leadership and responsibility in initiating action when such criteria are met;</li> <li>engage in the work of this Council in a spirit of self-reflection with a view to improving our own human rights situation, recognizing that no State has a perfect human rights record;</li> <li>engage in the work of the Council in good faith and in a transparent manner, including in resolution negotiations;</li> <li>avoid procedural tactics when used to block genuine debate and prevent the Council from considering human rights issues on their merits;</li> <li>work to fulfill the Council’s prevention mandate through both technical assistance and capacity-building, as well as receiving from the High Commissioner “early warning” information about patterns of violations, and taking early preventive action;</li> <li>plan to make progress in the promotion, protection and realization of human rights at the national level, including through implementation of recommendations and resolutions of the Council and its mechanisms;</li> <li>work in cooperation with civil society in relation to our engagement with the Council, support civil society participation throughout the work of the Council, strive to create a safe and enabling environment for civil society, and engage robustly to prevent and address acts of intimidation and reprisals, speaking up to address such incidents when they occur.</li> </ul> <p>We are convinced that these commitments when properly respected and applied will help strengthen the Council’s effectiveness and credibility.</p>
Sep 20, 2018Joint Nordic - Baltic statement on the rights of indigenous peoples<p><strong>Human Rights Council 39th Session</strong></p> <p><strong>NORDIC-BALTIC STATEMENT&nbsp;<br /> Delivered by Denmark</strong></p> <p><strong>Annual Panel Discussion on the rights of indigenous peoples, on the participation and inclusion of indigenous peoples in the development and implementation of strategies and projects in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development</strong></p> <p><strong>19 September 2018</strong></p> <p>[Check against delivery]</p> <p>Thank you, Mr President</p> <p>I have the honour to make this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries[1].</p> <p>We welcome the report[2]&nbsp;of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on the rights of indigenous peoples, which underscores the particular relevance of the 2030 Agenda - and its focus on reducing inequalities and leaving no one behind - to indigenous peoples.</p> <p>The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) place emphasis on participation and the principle of consultation in order to obtain free, prior and informed consent. Consequently,&nbsp;we support&nbsp;mechanisms for indigenous peoples’ participation in the implementation, follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda. Here, it is important to consider the interlinkages and possible synergies with other initiatives and frameworks such as the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Platform. We therefore also encourage States to include information related to indigenous peoples in their voluntary reviews for the high-level political forum on sustainable development.</p> <p>We support integrating the promotion and protection of the rights of indigenous peoples into development policies, including in the implementation of development programmes aiming at achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda. In order to systematically monitor the level of recognition and implementation, we encourage the further development of tools for collecting disaggregated data, such as the “Indigenous Navigator”.</p> <p>In closing, we kindly ask the Panel’s reflections on how all stakeholders can better integrate the protection of the rights of indigenous peoples in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda?</p> Thank you. <div style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;"><br clear="all" /> <hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" /> <div id="ftn1"> <p>[1]Norway, Finland, Iceland, Sweden, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Denmark together with Greenland.</p> </div> <div id="ftn2" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;"> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; line-height: 25px;">[2]A/HRC/39/37</p> </div> </div>
Sep 20, 2018Joint Nordic - Baltic statement on reprisals against human rights activists<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>39th&nbsp;Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Assistant Secretary-General on SG report on reprisals</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 September 2018</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am delivering this statement on behalf of Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and Denmark.</p> <p>We are deeply concerned by the increased number of allegations contained in the reprisals reports from the Secretary-General, which documents how acts of intimidation and reprisal against those cooperating with the United Nations continues to be a grave problem.</p> <p>Intimidation and reprisals affect not only individuals and groups, but are alarming also for the very negative message they send to others who wish to engage with the United Nations freely. It is very disturbing that the UN has documented self-censorship in all regions. We are particularly concerned about reports of acts of reprisals by Council Members and candidates for Council membership who must uphold the highest human rights standards. We call on every State to make it a priority to prevent and put an end to acts of intimidation and reprisals.</p> <p>Another disturbing trend is&nbsp;the use of national security arguments and counter-terrorism strategies by States as justification for blocking access for civil society to the UN. As the report highlights, protecting human rights is the best way to tackle the root causes of terrorism. National security should never be an excuse to limit participation and engagement with the UN.</p> <p>With reference to resolution A/36/21, we encourage the&nbsp;&nbsp;HRC Presidency to provide short oral updates on cases of alleged intimidation or reprisal, including actions taken, at the start of the Item 5 general debate of each Human Rights Council session, and to provide States concerned with the opportunity to respond.</p> <ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; overflow: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;"> <li style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; list-style-type: none; line-height: 25px;">Mr Gilmour, what do you see as the greatest obstacles in combatting reprisals, and how can we best help you from Geneva?</li> </ul>
Sep 20, 2018Joint Nordic statement on the rights of indigenous peoples<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>39th&nbsp;Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Clustered Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 September 2018</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement on behalf of the Nordic countries</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries: Finland, Denmark together with Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We welcome the reports presented by both the Special Rapporteur and the Expert Mechanism.&nbsp;During its 10th&nbsp;session in July 2017, the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (the Expert Mechanism), under its mandate in resolution 33/25, decided to produce a study on “free, prior and informed consent” (FPIC), as it&nbsp;appears in several provisions of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In this study the Expert Mechanism provides insight how EMRIP understands free, prior and informed consent.&nbsp;We look forward to reading the final version, in light of the input that has been given on the draft version.The concept of free, prior and informed consent is closely connected to consultations, which&nbsp;serve as an important tool to secure participation from indigenous peoples in decision-making processes and as a tool to increase knowledge of indigenous peoples' issues in Government ministries and agencies.&nbsp;Consultation requires resources as well as time. The consultations must for example take place at a time where it is still possible to influence the legislative or administrative measures.</p> <p>Turning to the report by the Special Rapporteur. We note with concern the findings of her report highlighting the unique vulnerability of indigenous human rights defenders towards attacks and criminalization.</p> <p>The work of indigenous human rights defenders is highly important as it attests to the developments on the ground – for better or for worse - and provides important information to this Council. The work of indigenous human rights defenders must be safeguarded and their efforts recognized for its importance in the advancement of the rights of indigenous peoples.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In closing, we would like the Special Rapporteur’s reflections onwhat good practices can be identified in implementation of human rights impact assessments for large scale development projects?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you for your attention.</p>
Sep 18, 2018Statement of Iceland on the situation in Myanmar<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">39th session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">Statement in Interactive Dialogue with Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">18 September 2018<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Delivered by Iceland</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We are pleased to have this opportunity to engage with the Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar on this urgent matter.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The findings of the report of the Fact-Finding Mission are indeed shocking. The report indicates genocide and crimes against humanity may have been committed by Myanmar Security Forces during their campaign against the Rohingya people. As is always the case in crises and conflicts, women and children are among those suffering most.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">We are alarmed by these findings, in particular we are dismayed that persecution of Rohingya people appears to be continuing to this day in Rakhine. It indicates that the Myanmar security forces are acting with complete impunity. Thus, my delegation fully supports the efforts of this body including the ongoing discussions on how we can ensure accountability including through trial in national and international courts, including possibly by the International Criminal Court.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The report is based on hundreds of interviews with affected individuals. It is conclusive beyond reasonable doubt, identifying where specifically violations and/or crimes have been committed and where the principal responsibility lies. Indeed, the report names individuals who should be investigated and prosecuted.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In this context, the response of the Myanmar Government to the report of the Fact-Finding Mission is deeply disappointing.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland furthermore finds it abhorrent that the Government of Myanmar has arrested and prosecuted journalists involved in documenting some of the massacres which have occurred. We support the High Commissioner´s call that these individuals be immediately released. We also want to use this opportunity to commend Bangladesh for opening its doors to Rohingya fleeing the violence and persecution in Myanmar.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Sep 18, 2018Statement of Iceland on human rights situations that require the Council’s attention<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">39th session of the Human Rights Council</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Item 4</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">18 September 2018<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Delivered by Iceland</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland is very concerned about the situation in&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Nicaragua</span>, where OHCHR has reported&nbsp; some 400 people have been killed because of a police campaign of extrajudicial killings; enforced disappearances; widespread ill-treatment, and instances of torture and sexual violence, as well as other human rights violations. We regret the decision by the Government to cease cooperation with OHCHR after the publication of its report.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">The situation in&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Venezuela&nbsp;</span>is also of great concern, with reports that more than two million people have fled the country, with those numbers expanding day by day, and that those remain may be suffering from extreme effects of poverty, including malnutrition and health problems. Iceland will support a resolution in this Council which seeks to address the situation there.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. It goes without saying, in our view, that women should be allowed to enjoy their full human rights. Therefore, reports of a recent serious crackdown on human rights defenders in&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Saudi Arabia</span>, especially defenders of women´s rights, are of great concern to us.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland is opposed to the use of the death penalty under any circumstance but reports of the use of the death penalty by Saudi authorities to silence those who seek to enjoy their full human rights is deplorable in our opinion.&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">In&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">Iran</span>, Iceland finds the continued use of the death penalty for juvenile offenders very troubling. The arrests and ill-treatment of human rights defenders in Iran is also of concern and we would like to stress that freedom of expression is one of the fundamental principles imbued in every living person, in our view.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Sep 17, 2018Statement of Iceland on the situation in South Sudan <span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">39th session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">ID with Commission on Human Rights</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">in South Sudan (oral update)</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">17 September 2018<br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> Delivered by Iceland</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">Iceland is grateful for having this opportunity to engage with the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">In its last report in March of this year, the Commission concluded that most of the parties to the conflict in South Sudan had been “deliberately targeting civilians on the basis of their ethnic identity and by means of killings, abductions, rape and sexual violence, as well as looting and the destruction of villages“.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">We would agree that those acts constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity and believe there must be accountability for those responsible for any such acts.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">We look forward to receiving the Commission´s next report, at the March session of the Council next year, which we hope will provide clarity on who is responsible for the worst human rights violations in the conflict in South Sudan, including sexual and gender-based violence and ethnic violence.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">While we welcome the latest peace agreement signed by the warring parties in South Sudan, and hope it will finally bring durable peace to the long-suffering people of South Sudan, we are concerned about the recent announcement by President Kiir of a general amnesty and would like to ask the members of the Commission whether they think peace in South Sudan can take hold if there is no &nbsp;accountability for the crimes committed against civilians in the country, as well as international aid workers.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">I thank you.</p>
Sep 17, 2018Joint Nordic statement on the human rights situation in Syria<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">39th session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry (COI) on the<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Syrian Arab Republic</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">17 September 2018<br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> Intervention by the Nordic countries</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px;">Delivered by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and Norway.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We are deeply concerned about the looming humanitarian catastrophe in Idlib. Only this year, 1,2 million Syrians have been displaced. We call on all parties, in particular the Syrian regime and its allies, to cease hostilities and ensure &nbsp;protection of civilians, as well as&nbsp; humanitarian access. All parties in Syria must respect their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We condemn all use of chemical weapons in Syria. The regime’s repeated use of chemical weapons against its own population, as confirmed by the UN-OPCW Joint Investigative Mechanism, is unacceptable. All such use is reprehensible and constitutes a serious violation of international law. Those found responsible for chemical weapons’ use must be held accountable.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We express alarm over the systematic human rights violations committed by the Syrian regime, including related to detention practices. There are numerous challenges connected to the protection of housing, land and property rights (HLP), such as Law No. 10 enacted by the Syrian regime. We are especially worried about the grave implications for female-headed households and refugees. The Nordic countries support the recommendations proposed on HLP in the latest COI report.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We continue to pursue accountability and strongly support the triple-I-M and the COI as well as civil society actors who risk their lives to ensure documentation of crimes. We urge others to support these efforts.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Finally, we underline the need for progress in the UN-led political processes. The underlying causes must be addressed to end the conflict and prevent future conflicts.</p>
Sep 17, 2018Statement of Iceland on the situation in Burundi<p>Davíð Logi Sigurðsson, director for Human Rights, delivered today a statement during a discussion of the <a href="/library/09-Embassies/Geneva/burundi.pdf">Report of the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi.</a>&nbsp;The report contains&nbsp; information on serious human rights violations in Burundi and a lack of cooperation with the Commission by Burundian authorities.&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>39th session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement on Burundi</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>17 September 2018</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you Mr. President<br /> &nbsp;</p> <p>Iceland thanks the Commission of Inquiry for their report on the human rights situation in Burundi.<br /> <br /> We take this opportunity to express our concern over the lack of cooperation shown by the Government of Burundi, as described in the report. The Human Rights Council has passed resolution 36/19 urging the Burundi Government to cooperate fully, allow visits by the Commission and provide it with all the relevant information to fulfill its mandate.<br /> <br /> In this context, we would like to recall in particular that elected members of this Council shall uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>The Commission of Inquiry is to be commended for the detailed report it has been able to provide, despite the difficult conditions it has had to conduct its work under.<br /> <br /> We remain deeply concerned over the situation in Burundi, as described in the report, with indications that crimes against humanity may have been committed.<br /> <br /> We are concerned over the continued violence committed by the National Intelligence Service, the Burundian police, army and the Imbonerakure, the ruling party‘s youth league. Furthermore, the persistence of violations of international law, such as extrajudicial executions, arbitrary arrests and detentions, enforced disappearances, torture and sexual violence continue to be a grave concern.</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We look forward to supporting a resolution in this council extending the mandate of the Commission of Inquiry. However, we take this opportunity to reiterate our call to the Government of Burundi to immediately cooperate with the Commission.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Sep 13, 2018Statement of Iceland on development and human rights<span></span> <div style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; color: #555555; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><span>Þorvarður Atli Þórsson delivered today a statement during the 39th session of the Human Rights Council on the importance of including human rights in the discussion on development and the positive interplay between development and human rights. Iceland emphasized the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and that focus on inequality was important in that regard.</span></div> <div style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; color: #555555; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</div> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">39th session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Item 3</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">The right to development</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">13 September 2018</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px;">Delivered by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Mr. President,<br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> We are pleased to engage here today with the Special Rapporteur on the right to development.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">One of the major advances of the Sustainable Development Goals compared with the Millennium Development Goals is that they apply to developing and developed countries alike. &nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We believe that another key component of Agenda 2030, which the MDGs neglected, is that it explicitly acknowledges that human rights are essential components of sustainable development, and vice versa. The premise of the Goals to leave no one behind can help to promote inclusive development policies, as well as to serve as a foundation for human rights promotion in development.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We believe this is particularly important in our discussion on the right to development, as well as on the link between development and human rights. It is also founded on our commitment in the Vienna Declaration where we reaffirmed that democracy, development and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are interdependent and mutually reinforcing.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a;" /> Mr. President,</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We are particularly pleased with the focus of the report of the rapporteur on inequality as it is an element of Agenda 2030 that could benefit from increased attention and it can affect not only enjoyment of economic and social rights, but also infringe on civil and political rights.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We particularly would like to thank the Rapporteur for highlighting gender inequality in this context and for featuring the positive steps Iceland has taken to outlaw unequal pay. We agree with the Rapporteur that ensuring that no one is left behind requires a dedicated focus on the equal rights of women and men and on ensuring women’s participation in decision-making.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">We would therefore like to ask the Special Rapporteur, how can the lens of Agenda 2030 and the right to development continue to support and build a foundation for the mutually reinforcing link between development and human rights?</p>
Sep 13, 2018Joint Nordic -Baltic statement on the 70th Anniversary of the Convention on Prevention of Genocide<p>Andrius Krivas, Permanent Representative of Lithuania in Geneva, delivered today a statement in the Human Rights Council on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states (NB8) in a special discussion on the 70th Anniversary of the Convention on Prevention of Genocide. The Convention was the first human rights convention created by the United Nations. </p> <p>Various esteemed specialists in the field of international law took part in today's discussion, some of which have served on UN courts on genocide in Rwanda and Yugoslavia. Michelle Bachelet,&nbsp; UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Foreign Minister of Armenia, also took part in the discussion.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>39th session of the Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>High Level Panel discussion on the 70th Anniversary of the Convention on Prevention of Genocide Nordic-Baltic Statement</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>13 September 2018</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Lithuania</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries; Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden and my own country Lithuania.</p> <p>This year marks the 70th&nbsp;anniversary of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. During these years, much progress has been made in the fight against impunity for the perpetrators of atrocity crimes. Landmark convictions paved the way for the establishment, twenty years ago, of the International Criminal Court.</p> <p>After the genocide in Rwanda, the international community promised “never again”. Despite this, and a commitment by UN Member States to protect populations, atrocity crimes, continue to be perpetrated. For persecuted persons across the globe, these promises and commitments have failed to translate into action.&nbsp; Impunity is still all too common.</p> <p>We therefore need, not only more robust accountability mechanisms, but also a focus on prevention. While the primary responsibility lies with States, early responses must be undertaken by all, at local, national and international level. We believe that the Human Rights Council and other Geneva-based human rights mechanisms are particularly well suited to recognise early warning signs of genocide and other mass atrocity crimes. Violations of human rights law and humanitarian law are common risk factors that can lead to the commission of atrocity crimes. These crimes are also a threat to national, regional and international peace, security and stability. We also welcome the Special Rapporteur’s commitment to strengthen the gender perspective in his thematic and country-related work</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We would like to thank the UN Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide, Adama Dieng, for his tireless work on genocide prevention by putting human rights, the responsibility to protect and prevention of atrocity crimes at the center of his office’s work. The anniversary of the Genocide Convention provides an opportunity to promote its universal ratification. The Nordic and Baltic countries urge all states that are not yet party to the Genocide Convention to ratify or accede to it. We are committed to continue our unwavering support for the Special Advisor and his office’s work. We can all, and must all, do more. &nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. Adama Dieng, how can we support you in your important work to promote the universal ratification of the Genocide Convention?</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Sep 12, 2018Statement of Iceland on toxic substances and hazardous waste<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;"><span>Andri Júlíusson, counsellor, delivered today a statement on the dangers posed to workers handling toxic substances. Iceland emphasized that all states have the responsibility to protect worker’s health and live up to international obligations and that this was not an issue that should divide states but unite them in searching for solutions.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">39th session of the Human Rights Council</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Item 3</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Hazardous wastes</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;">12 September 2018</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px;">Delivered by Iceland</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Thank you Mr. Vice-President</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Every worker wants to, and has the right to be safe at work, free from harm and exposure to toxic substances. Unfortunately, millions of workers do not enjoy this right as clearly displayed in the report by the special rapporteur, and we thank him for his work.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">States have the responsibility to protect worker’s health and live up to international obligations. Companies, economic actors, investors, regional and local governments are also responsible for the conditions of workers. Today, no one can hide behind lack of information about what substances used in industry and manufacturing can cause illness, disability or premature death.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Some argue that preventive action and using alternative materials is too expensive or too cumbersome! Such arguments are not to be accepted, never should short term profit, at the cost of human health or human lives, be tolerated.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">States must rise above such behaviour and take immediate action to improve the grave situation. To do so may be challenging, however, assistance and guidance from competent international organisations is readily available, e.g. from WHO and ILO.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Protecting our workers from toxics is not a geopolitical issue – this is one of the rare issues at our table that surely should unite us and give us a common undisputed goal. That is, to ensure respect for basic human rights of workers, to create a safe working environment for all and by doing so cutting both financial and societal losses caused by the current situation.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; font-family: 'Open sans', sans-serif; color: #555555; font-size: 14px; line-height: inherit; padding: 0px 0px 28px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: justify;">Thank you.</p>
Sep 11, 2018Statement of Iceland on modern forms of slavery<span><span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Thank you Mr. President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Iceland thanks Ms. Urmila Bhoola, Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery for her comprehensive report.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Slavery is not a problem of the past. Modern slavery remains widespread in all parts of the world. The mandate of the Special Rapporteur is central to international efforts to eradicate it and Iceland will continue to fully support it.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Iceland strongly commends the Special Rapporteur’s emphasis on the issue of the impact of slavery and servitude on marginalized migrant women workers in the global domestic economy. We fully share her observations, that policies are needed that tackle discrimination while also helping to balance the legitimate concerns of both employers and workers.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Iceland is certainly not immune to the difficulties encountered by migrant women in employment and their exposure to violence. A sustainable domestic work economy should ensure access to justice, effective enforcement and remedies in the case of exploitation and abuse, while also addressing issues of prejudice against migrants through advocacy.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Modern slavery and trafficking is – in clear violation of our laws. The Government is actively working on eliminating this practice through better cooperation mechanisms and stronger supervision measures of the Icelandic Labour Market in cooperation with the labour unions</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">Mr. President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">The fight against forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking requires a global response, and we will continue to advocate for a coherent multidimensional and multi-actor response both at the regional and international level.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">This type of criminality causes its victims in particular women and girls great suffering, and constitutes a challenge to the entire international community.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;">The Special Rapporteur mentions in one of her recommendations that States should create&nbsp;<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; line-height: 25px;">viable, accessible and non-discriminatory employment options for women as a sustainable alternative to poverty and to prevent exploitation. We ask the Special Rapporteur to give us some examples of these options?&nbsp;</span></em><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;"></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; color: #4a4a4a;">I Thank you</span></span>
Sep 11, 2018Joint Nordic statement on the rights of the elderly<span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">I have the honour to make this statement on behalf of Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Allow me to thank Ms. Kornfeld-Matte for her presentation and report. We also complement her for working with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities on supporting the autonomy of older persons with disabilities. Such cooperation across mandates is exemplary.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">The Nordic population is growing. The average age of the population is also increasing, requiring the full implementation of existing obligations to ensure that the enjoyment of human rights for all is guaranteed.&nbsp;</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">We fully support the work of the Independent Expert and are pleased to engage with her here today and in many other forums where we address the full enjoyment of human rights by older persons.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Mr. President,</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">We are proud of our Nordic welfare model that promotes equality through state policies that ensure universal access to education, health care and social protection through life. The basic values underpinning the model are compassion, tolerance and the conviction that all humans are of equal worth.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">That does not mean, however, that there are no challenges in the region. The ability to continually adapt to new challenges is a prerequisite for preserving the Nordic model and for coming up with innovative new welfare solutions.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">We therefore particularly welcome the focus of the report of the Independent Expert on social exclusion of older persons. We have seen many of the key recommendations pay dividend in our countries in reducing exclusion, such as universal pension coverage that includes both a contributory pillar and social pensions delinked from formal work. This is especially important for women who still tend to have shorter work lives and lower salaries.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;" /> <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; background-color: #ffffff;">We therefore ask the Independent Expert, how can we ensure the implementation of existing rights and recommendations, such as to social security for older persons, without discrimination of any kind and within the existing human rights framework?</em></span>
Sep 11, 2018Response to the High Commissioner's report<span></span> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">Thank you Mr. President,<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Iceland wishes to congratulate Mrs. Bachelet on taking up the post of High Commissioner, while at the same time using this opportunity to thank her predecessor, High Commissioner Zeid, for his leadership and courage during his tenure.<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> As a new member on this Council, Iceland welcomes the High Commissioner´s very useful oral update yesterday. We share many of her concerns and she can rely on our full support in her challenging assignment.<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> <br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> Mr. President,<br style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;" /> We believe, as the High Commissioner, that Human Rights express the core purpose of the United Nations. Advancing the dignity and equality of all human beings must be our fundamental goal. Only that way can we attain peace, security and sustainable development for all societies. We firmly believe also that upholding human rights is in the interest of every state.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">It is States which have the primary responsibility for upholding the rights of their people. It would seem logical that the States that sit on this Council should be first among equals in their contribution to the promotion and protection of Human Rights. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as we heard yesterday, when the High Commissioner raised some of the most pressing human rights issues facing this body currently.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">I take this opportunity to recall that in his address to this Council in February, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, shared his concerns that countries such as the Philippines, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia and Egypt are members on the Council and yet their human rights record has been far from exemplary.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">We could add others, mentioned by the High Commissioner yesterday, but the question is how we can, together with these countries, truly deliver on the commitment that members elected to the Council shall uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">Multilateral institutions such as the Human Rights Council will continue to face criticism, and the call for reform will become ever louder if we cannot deliver on this commitment. Member states, not least those elected to this Council, must implement the human rights commitments they have made and we must hold each other accountable when need be.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: 'Fira Sans'; color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 25px;">I thank you.</span></p>
Jun 19, 2018Statement of Iceland at the 38th session of the Human Rights Council<p style="text-align: left;"><span>Ms Edda Björk Ragnarsdóttir, delivered today a statement at the Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on violence and discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity at the 38th Session of the Human Rights Council.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><br /> ID with IE on violence and discrimination based on SOGI</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Item 2</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2018</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Delivered by Iceland</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you Mr. President</p> <p>Iceland congratulates Mr. Victor Madrigal-Barloz for assuming his position and thanks him for his work on this very important portfolio.</p> <p>We are very gratified to receive this initial report which underlines the importance of the mandate of the Indipendent Expert, which Iceland fully supports. The fact that more than 3 billion people, almost half of the world’s population, live in one of 72 countries in which law or other measures criminalizes on the basis of sexual orientation is indicative of the size of the task ahead of us.</p> <p> Mr. President,</p> <p>I am happy to announce that earlier this year, Iceland became a member of the Equal Rights Coalition, a partnership of close to 40 countries with a particular focus on ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of rights by LGBTI people worldwide</p> <p>Iceland is committed to this goal. The current government aims to put Iceland in the front rank regarding LGBTI issues with ambitious legislation on self--determination based on gender awareness. Through legislation the government intends to lay down provisions under which individuals are able to determine their gender and gender identity; their gender awareness is to be respected, individuals are to enjoy the right to respect of their physical persons and equality before the law irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender awareness, gender characteristics and expression of their gender identity.</p> <p><strong>Question to the Independent Expert:</strong>&nbsp;In your report you highlight recent allegations of violence or violations against LGBT+ individuals in Chechnya, Republic of Korea, Azerbaijan, Egypt and Indonesia. Have you been able to communicate your concerns appropriately with the relevant national authorities and what has been their response?</p>
Jun 19, 2018Statement of Iceland on the Human Rights situation in the Philippines<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council 38th&nbsp;session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Joint Statement on the Human Rights Situation in the Philippines</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>General Debate - Item 2</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>19 June 2018</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Delivered by Iceland</p> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thank you Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to make this statement on behalf of a group of 38 States.</p> <p>The Philippines is a current member of the Human Rights Council. States which are elected to join the Council should lead by example and are expected to uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights during their time as members. The Human Rights Council has a responsibility to fulfill its duty to promote universal respect for the protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction of any kind and in a fair and equal manner. If needed, the Council may take further steps, including a more formal Council initiative to try and ensure that member states meet their human rights obligations.</p> <p>While acknowledging that drug use in the Philippines is a serious problem, actions to tackle drug abuse must be carried out in full respect of the rule of law and compliance with international human rights obligations. We urge the government of the Philippines to take all necessary measures to bring killings associated with the campaign against illegal drugs to an end and cooperate with the international community to investigate all related deaths and hold perpetrators accountable.</p> <p>We are also concerned over reports of harassment of persons exercising their rights to freedom of opinion and expression, including human rights defenders and journalists. We are also concerned about the harassment of members of the Commission on Human Rights. We call upon the Philippines to provide and guarantee a safe and secure environment for all, including journalists and Human Rights defenders.</p> </div> <div> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We are encouraged by reports that the Government of the Philippines has indicated a willingness to cooperate with the UN to allow an objective assessment of the human rights situation in the country.</p> <p>We urge the Government of the Philippines to cooperate with the United Nations system - including the Human Rights Council and its special procedure mandate holders - without preconditions or limitations.</p> <p>I thank you</p> </div> <div> <p><em>On behalf of:&nbsp;</em></p> <div> <p>1.&nbsp; Australia<br /> 2.&nbsp; Austria<br /> 3.&nbsp; Belgium<br /> 4.&nbsp; Bulgaria<br /> 5.&nbsp; Canada<br /> 6.&nbsp; Croatia<br /> 7.&nbsp; Cyprus<br /> 8.&nbsp; Czech Republic<br /> 9.&nbsp; Denmark<br /> 10. Estonia<br /> 11. Finland<br /> 12. France<br /> 13. Georgia<br /> 14. Germany<br /> 15. Greece<br /> 16. Iceland<br /> 17. Ireland<br /> 18. Italy<br /> 19. Latvia<br /> 20. Liechtenstein<br /> 21. Lithuania<br /> 22. Luxembourg<br /> 23. Malta<br /> 24. Macedonia<br /> 25. Montenegro<br /> 26. Netherlands<br /> 27. New Zealand<br /> 28. Poland<br /> 29. Portugal<br /> 30. Romania<br /> 31. Slovakia<br /> 32. Slovenia<br /> 33. Spain<br /> 34. Sweden<br /> 35. Switzerland<br /> 36. Ukraine<br /> 37. United Kingdom<br /> 38. United States</p> </div> </div>
May 18, 2018Statement of Iceland on the Human Rights situation in Palestine<p>Geneva, May 18. 2018</p> <p><em>As delivered by Ambassador Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland.</em></p> <p>Thank you, Mr President,</p> <p>Iceland is deeply concerned over the situation on the border between Israel and Gaza and regret the loss of lives. We urge political leaders on both sides to exercise restraint and avoid further violence and casualties.</p> <p>The right to freedom of expression is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and while we would like to stress that Israel has the right to defend itself under attack and secure its borders against violent incursion, the exercise of that right must be proportionate.</p> <p>The use of live ammunition and of number of fatal casualties raises serious questions on the proportionality of the response, and call for an independent and transparent investigation into the incidents forthwith.</p> <p>At the same time, we urge Palestinian leaders not to inflame the situation further – any demonstration must be peaceful. Those who intentionally place civilians in harm's way are in breach of international law.</p> <p>Iceland is committed to a two-state solution where Israel and a Palestinian state exist side-by-side in peace and security. This objective will not be reached if Israel continues its settlement policies and its blockade of Gaza, and if Hamas continues to use its position in Gaza to fan the flames of radicalism.</p> <p>A peace process needs urgently to be put back on track. Otherwise, we run the risk of violence continuing and conditions deteriorating even further.</p> <p>I thank you Mr. President.</p>
Mar 13, 2018Joint Nordic statement on the situation in Syria<p>Iceland delivered today a statement on behalf of the Nordic countries during the 37th session of the Human Rights Council of the United Nations in Geneva in which the effect of the appalling humanitarian situation in Syria on children was emphasized.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Nordic comments on Syria (panel discussion on human rights of children in Syria)</strong></p> <p><strong>13 March 2018&nbsp; - Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Iceland.</p> <p>The already appalling humanitarian situation in Syria, in particular Eastern Ghouta, has deteriorated significantly. As a direct result, thousands of children have been killed or maimed, or suffer from acute malnourishment and profound trauma.</p> <p>We have all been shocked by horrible footage of desperately ill and wounded children needing immediate evacuation from the hell they have been made to suffer.</p> <p>There is no group as vulnerable as children. Their suffering is particularly devastating because they represent the future.&nbsp; Despite the protection provided by international law, children are often separated from their families, driven from their homes, sexually abused or exploited in other ways. Syrian girls are now more vulnerable to child marriage; and access to basic services, like reproductive healthcare, is limited.</p> <p>It is unacceptable that schools are increasingly becoming targets of violent attacks. Too many Syrian children are out of school or have lost long periods of learning. All parties must ensure that schools remain open and a safe space for students.</p> <p>Mr. President</p> <p>The Nordic countries call on all parties to the conflict, in particular the regime, to stop the deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure and to ensure the protection of children. We further urge all parties, in particular the regime and its allies, to fully and immediately implement and respect Security Council resolution 2401 and cease all hostilities and ensure safe, sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access, as well as safe and unconditional medical evacuation of all those in need.</p> <p>I thank you.</p>
Mar 02, 2018Statement of Iceland on the situation in Syria<div>Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland, delivered today a statement on the situation in Syria during a special meeting in the Human Rights Council of the United Nations.&nbsp;</div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div><strong>Item 1 - Urgent Debate on situation in Eastern Ghouta</strong></div> <p><strong><br /> Statement by Iceland, 2 March 2018</strong></p> <p><em><strong>As delivered by Ambassador Harald Aspelund, Permanent Representative of Iceland</strong></em></p> <div >Thank you Mr. President</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The tragic events in Syria have unfortunately, once again, called for an urgent reaction of this council. Last Monday our foreign minister expressed our deep concerns over the terrible suffering of civilians in the never-ending conflicts in Syria.<br /> &nbsp;</div> <div>The Security Council on Saturday agreed on a ceasefire which is a step in the right direction. However, airstrikes, barrel bombs and artillery shelling were reported across eastern Ghouta this week. Has the Security Council resolution 2401 been fully implemented? No. Is there a ceasefire in Syria? No.<br /> &nbsp;</div> <div>We condemn such a devoid of respect for international law.<br /> &nbsp;</div> <div>It is imperative that we do our utmost to pressure those responsible to bring the killing to a complete stop and allow for humanitarian access to take place. The world cannot stand by, yet again, while massacres are being committed in broad day light, and innocent women, children and men are killed indiscriminately.<br /> &nbsp;</div> <div>I thank you.</div>
Feb 26, 2018Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gudlaugaur Thor Thordarson's statement during the High Level Segment of the 37th session of the Human Rights Council<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>37th session of the Human Right Council</strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Statement of H.E. Mr.</strong><strong>&nbsp;Gudlaugur Thor Thordarson<br /> Minister for Foreign Affairs</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>&nbsp;26 February 2018</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,<br /> High Commissioner,<br /> Excellencies,<br /> Ladies and Gentlemen,</p> <p>This year, as we celebrate the seventieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is appropriate to go back to basics.</p> <p>Article 1 pretty much says it all: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”</p> <p>How can&nbsp;<em>anyone&nbsp;</em>object to the thought and meaning inherent in these words?</p> <p>Article 2 also states very clearly that “everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status”.</p> <p>Article 3 is short and to the point: “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.”</p> <p>So is article 5: “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”</p> <p>I am reciting some articles of this fundamental document because many of the issues facing this body, the Human Rights Council, would unfortunately suggest that not every member state of the United Nations is shouldering its responsibility - to fully respect the rights of all human beings under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.</p> <p>Governments were not coerced by the UN or anyone else into creating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It was created because it seemed imperative, after the horrors of the Second World War, to create a better world where everyone would have full and equal human rights.</p> <p>So why does not everyone live up to the ideals of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and why are we living in a period when, according to the High Commissioner, there is an increasing tendency to try and negate and deny the value of human rights?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I take this opportunity to recognize and applaud the work of the High Commissioner who has shown courage in speaking out about negative trends in the field of global human rights. And while I am an optimist by nature, and tend to try always to see the positive, one has to agree with the High Commissioner that we are falling short on too many fronts.</p> <p>But what can be done when states violate the commitments they have taken upon themselves to respect and who is to hold them accountable? Can we not agree that it is primarily<em>&nbsp;us</em>&nbsp;– other states that have taken upon ourselves to accept these obligations? We should not point towards the UN as some body unrelated to the states that make up its membership.&nbsp;<em>We</em>&nbsp;must hold&nbsp;<em>each other</em>&nbsp;to account.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Last year, Iceland took the lead in this body in highlighting the human rights situation in the Philippines and were joined in our statements by close to 40 states.</p> <p>We shared our concerns over the methods, used by the Government of the Philippines, in their “war on drugs”, and we urged the Government to take all necessary measures to bring unlawful killings to an end, and to cooperate with the international community to pursue appropriate investigations in keeping with universal principles of democratic accountability and the rule of law.</p> <p>We welcome reports that the Philippines have indicated that they may be willing to cooperate with the UN to allow an objective assessment of the human rights situation in the country. We would like to take this opportunity to urge the Philippines to continue on that path and to accept, without preconditions or limitations, a visit from the UN Special Rapporteur and to cooperate with the Office of the High Commissioner to receive a mission by independent experts to conduct such an assessment without delay.</p> <p>The International Criminal Court announced earlier this month that it will conduct a preliminary examination into killings linked to the Philippine government’s “war on drugs.”</p> <p>This is an important development – but it does not take the responsibility away from this body to fulfill its duty to monitor, investigate and to deliberate, and take further steps, including a more formal Council initiative if the need arises, to try and ensure the Philippines meets its human rights obligations.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>It should be noted, that the Philippines is currently an elected member of the Human Rights Council.</p> <p>So too is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, recently accused of widespread and arbitrary arrests through its use of counter-terrorism and security laws, and the persecution of human rights defenders for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights.</p> <p>So too is Venezuela, a country which has in recent months and years witnessed excessive use of force by security officers, and multiple other human rights violations, in the context of anti-Government protests.</p> <p>Egypt is also a member of the Council and yet the High Commissioner has recently informed us of reports of oppressive measures by the Government, including increasing waves of arrests, allegations of torture in detention, extra-judicial killings and restrictions on human rights defenders.</p> <p>States which join the Council should lead by example and expect their own human rights record to be subject to particular scrutiny during their time as members. If the Human Rights Council does not hold its own members to account to ensure they uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights, then who will?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>We are&nbsp;<em>deeply</em>&nbsp;concerned over the terrible suffering of civilians in the never-ending conflicts in Syria and in Yemen. Recent images from Ghouta in Syria, and similar news reports from Yemen, have provoked, once again, strong reactions. The Security Council on Saturday agreed on a ceasefire which is a step in the right direction. However, it is imperative that we do our utmost to pressure those responsible to bring the killing to a complete stop and allow for humanitarian access to take place. The world&nbsp;<em>cannot&nbsp;</em>stand by, yet again, while massacres are being committed in broad delight, and innocent women, children and men killed indiscriminately.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Women's rights are human rights. For us, gender equality is a priority. For Icelanders it is a source of pride to be the frontrunner in the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Index for the ninth year in a row. Ranking at the top is a confirmation of successes achieved in recent decades and inspires us to share with others, advocate changes and do better ourselves.</p> <p>My Government is committed to eradicating gender-based wage discrimination at home and, inspired by the global #metoo revolution, we aim to eradicate sexual violence, including in the cybersphere. We aim to ratify soon the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence.</p> <p>We will also continue to speak out, in this arena and elsewhere, on the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI). At home, my Government aims to pass ambitious legislation on self-determination based on gender awareness. Abroad, I am happy to say that we plan to accept an invitation to join the&nbsp;<em>Equal Rights Coalition</em>, a partnership of 35 countries, where we hope to work with other like-minded countries to promote and protect the fundamental rights of LGBTI individuals.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>Last autumn, Iceland chaired the UN General Assembly´s Third Committee and, in that capacity, we were proud to welcome to New York, for the first time, the Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity - a function wisely established by this Council recently. During our chairmanship, the Committee passed almost sixty resolutions, some of them regular items, but others brand new - such as the resolution on the human rights situation in Myanmar.</p> <p>The Committee unfortunately faces some of the same challenges as the Human Rights Council with regards to its workload. We believe much can still be done to streamline and strengthen the coordination between the Third Committee and this Council to make our work for our common agenda more effective. We remain available to take part in any work to that effect.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>As we celebrate the seventieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights we accept the challenge the High Commissioner has given us - to mobilize once more and strive to reach universal respect for, and observation of, the human rights and fundamental freedoms we so cherish.</p> <p>Thank you.</p>
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