National and Nordic-Baltic Statements during the 53rd session of the Human Rights Council
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
Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
19 June 2023
Mr. President,
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.
We commend the Special Rapporteur’s valuable work and appreciate his access to the country.
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.
Supporting human rights defenders and civil society space remains our priority.
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.
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.
The use of cruel, inhuman and degrading punishments is deeply concerning.
The severe lack of respect for international obligations by the de facto authorities only further isolates Afghanistan from the international community.
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
Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
19 June 2023
Mr. President,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
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.
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.
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.
Mr. High Commissioner, how can the international community best support the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons in Sudan?
Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Statement by Iceland
20 June 2023
Mr President.
I would like to thank the High Commissioner - and his Office – for their tireless work in promoting and protecting human rights around the world.
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.
In your remarks, Mr High Commissioner, you paid tribute to countries that engage constructively with OHCHR and international human rights bodies.
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.
The 75th 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.
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.
Item 2: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea
Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
20 June 2023
Mr. President,
The Nordic-Baltic countries thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic Countries
21 June 2023
High Commissioner and panelists,
Thank you for these insights. The Nordic-Baltic States remain deeply disturbed by the human rights situation in Myanmar.
Daily, we hear reports of military action against civilians amounting to serious violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law.
The consequences are increased human suffering and regression in all areas of human rights, including for the Rohingya and other minorities.
We condemn the military’s indiscriminate use of force against civilians, including women and children.
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.
We urge Myanmar to endorse and implement the Safe School Declaration.
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.
In this regard, we are concerned about the planned repatriation pilot of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar.
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.
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.
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?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
21 June 2023
Mr. President.
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.
We reiterate our unwavering support for the work of the Independent Expert and this critical mandate.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls
Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
22 June 2023
Mr. President,
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls Statement by Norway, on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
22 June 2023
Mr. President,
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.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for highlighting the concern about the pattern of ignoring intimate partner violence against women in determining child custody cases.
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. All violations of the rights of the child and the principle of the best interest of the child are to be fully respected.
To address these challenges, we must ensure that judges and other experts have adequate training. Allegations of domestic violence must be properly investigated and women experiencing such violence must be ensured with all necessary protection and services.
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.
Ms. Asalem, what would be your advice to national authorities to ensure proper processes in child custody cases?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression
Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
23 June 2023
Mr. President.
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting her latest report.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions
Statement delivered by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
26 June 2023
Mr. President,
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.
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.
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.
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.
We highlight the need to ratify the OPCAT (Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment). Could the Special Rapporteur elaborate why it is so important for States to ratify this protocol?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association
Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
28 June 2023
Mr. President,
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.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report and its two addendums.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mr. Special Rapporteur, how could the cooperation between national, regional and international mechanisms be strengthened in order to advance accountability?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights
Statement by Finland, on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
30 June 2023
Mr. President,
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mr. Special Rapporteur,
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?
Item 3: Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women
Panel 1: Gender-based violence against women and girls in public and political life
Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries
30 June 2023
Mr. President.
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Item 3: Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women
Panel 2: Social protection: women’s participation and leadership
Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries
30 June 2023
Mr. President,
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.
Gender stereotypes, harmful and discriminatory social norms continue to impact women and girls’ rights across the world. 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.
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.
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.
Dear panellists, how would you recommend expanding and strengthening social protection to make it gender transformative?
Item 3: Annual Panel on Adverse Impacts of Climate Change
Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
3 July 2023
Mr. President.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue on the report of the Secretary-General on climate change and the right to food
Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
3 July 2023
Mr. President,
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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
Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic- Baltic Countries
3 July 2023
Mr, President, esteemed panellists,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We are living in an era marked by digital technologies that are causing unprecedented challenges as well as opportunities.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Esteemed panellists, what role do you see for the OHCHR in taking the important work on the topic of this panel forward?
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons
Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
4 July 2023
Mr. President,
I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We congratulate the Special Rapporteur on her appointment and we thank her for the report, detailing her vision and thematic priorities.
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.
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.
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.
The Nordic-Baltic countries strongly support the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and stand ready to assist her in its implementation.
Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide
Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
4 July 2023
Mr. President,
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.
We reaffirm our firm commitment to atrocity prevention and our full support to the Joint Office on Genocide Prevention and R2P.
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.
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.
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?
Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran
Statement by Iceland
5 July 2023
Mr President,
Iceland thanks the Experts of the Fact-Finding Mission for their valuable update and reiterates its unwavering support for the mandate.
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.
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.
We look forward to the FFM’s findings in HRC 55 and recommendations including on measures for prevention, protection, and reparation and accountability.
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.
History has shown that addressing grievances and ensuring accountability is key to justice and reconciliation.
In closing, Madam Chair how can we best support the work of the FFM going forward?
Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus
Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
5 July 2023
Mr. President,
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
Madam Rapporteur, we thank you for the report and highly appreciate your work.
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.
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 in absentia on extremism charges.
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.
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.
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?
Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran
Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
5 July 2023
Mr. President,
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.
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.
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.
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.
Finally, we expect Iran to fully cooperate with the Council’s mechanisms.
Distinguished Chairperson, could you elaborate on the challenges you experience or foresee in investigating sexual and gender-based violence as part of your mandate?
Item 4: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic
Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
5 July 2023
Mr. President,
I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland.
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.
All indiscriminate and direct attacks on civilians must cease immediately, as well as torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
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.
Mr President,
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.
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.
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?
Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights situation in Myanmar
Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
6 July 2023
Mr. President,
I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for his update and reiterate our firm support for his mandate.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Item 9 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance
Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
10 July 2023
Mr. President,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
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.
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.
President,
Let me highlight two aspects from the report which we find especially important:
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.
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.
What steps will the Special Rapporteur take to have a broad and inclusive approach to the process going forward?
Item 10: Enhanced Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on technical cooperation and capacity-building
Statement by Lithuania, on behalf of Nordic-Baltic countries
11 July 2023
Mr. President,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mr. High Commissioner, how can we ensure complementarity and facilitate cooperation among stakeholders operating on the ground?
Item 10 - Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic
Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries
12 July 2023
Mr. President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We thank the Independent Expert for his dedicated efforts.
The security, humanitarian, and human rights situation in the Central African Republic remains deeply worrying. The widespread and serious human rights
violations and abuses continue to alarm us.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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
Statement by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic Countries
12 July 2023
Mr. President,
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.
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.
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.
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.
No country is above international human rights and humanitarian law. Perpetrators of blatant violations of international law will be held accountable.
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.
Distinguished High Commissioner, how can we ensure effective psycho-social support for survivors of Russian atrocities?