Statements and alignments

<p><span><strong>Statement by H.E. Ms. Anna Johannsdottir<br /> Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations&nbsp;<br /> Intersessional consultations of the Preparatory Committee for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development<br /> 24 March, 2025</strong><br /> </span></p> <div>&nbsp;</div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoPlainText"><span>Thank you, Chair,<br /> &nbsp;<br /> I am pleased to deliver these general comments on the First Draft of the FfD4 Outcome Document on behalf of Iceland. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the co-facilitators for their tireless work throughout the process, and for the latest excellent iteration of the outcome document.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> On the process itself, we find it encouraging how these negotiations lead to conversation, coordination and cooperation between the UN and the IFI’s, between New York and Washington, D.C. Also, meaningful inclusion of civil society organizations has been, and remains, pivotal to the success of the work ahead.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> There are three main areas that we would like to highlight in our comments.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Firstly, on gender equality, the imperative of ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls is well captured in the document.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> However, the case for the economic benefit and opportunity of gender equality, as a precondition and enabler for sustainable development, and, indeed, financing for development, can be made more forcefully.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> It is vital that the creative potential of the entire workforce, including women, is leveraged to foster sustainable growth. Policies that enhance women’s economic and political participation and leadership will be key to realizing economic gains. &nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> In this regard, we reiterate that investing in SRHR in one of the most impactful ways to unlock women’s potential and address the women’s health gap, in which they currently spend 25 per cent more of their lives in poor health compared to men. Investing in SRHR not only empowers women but also fuels economic growth, with every one USD invested in family planning returning more than eight USD in benefits for families and societies.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Secondly, we emphasize the importance of domestic resource mobilization (DRM) and stepping up private capital mobilization (PCM), particularly in the context of increasing pressure on ODA.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> However, we must recognize that these efforts are no substitute for ODA as there is only so much you can do without fresh grant funding. Indeed, the catalytic power of ODA is necessary to enable progress on DRM and PCM.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Providing targeted support to countries seeking to increase their tax-to-GDP ratio to at least 15%, and strengthening domestic capital markets, are vital steps, and we are encouraged by the progress being made on these issues by the World Bank and the IMF.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Thirdly, we want to highlight the need to build on existing solutions and platforms. <br /> <br /> Recognizing the progress already being made within our multilateral system is important, and we must make sure that our efforts here in these negotiations strengthen and speed up these processes. In this regard, we welcome the reference to the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable, as well as to the rapid progress being made on development financing at the World Bank.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> However, we must be mindful that recognizing and building on existing solutions is not a crutch for us to lean on. The job is far from done. Existing solutions should help us accelerate our progress, avoid duplicative work, and flip the script on aid fragmentation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> I thank you.&nbsp;<br /> &nbsp;<br /> </span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 58^th session<br /> Item 4: General Debate <br /> Joint Statement on Accountability in Afghanistan<br /> Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of a group of countries<br /> </strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I am honoured to deliver this statement on behalf of Iceland, South Africa and Chile and a cross-regional group of countries.</p> <p>Afghanistan today is facing the world’s most serious crackdown on women’s rights within the context of a worsening human rights and humanitarian crisis, with systematic and widespread human rights violations, many of which may constitute crimes under international law. It demands our urgent attention and action.</p> <p>As the Special Rapporteur reported to this Council, systematic gender oppression has been further expanded and institutionalised through new measures over the past year, including the so-called law on the propagation of virtue and the prevention of vice.</p> <p>Women now face overwhelming restrictions on their right to work, to education, to freedom of expression and movement, to health services as the Taliban seek to erase them from public life. They have been banned from singing in public, even having their voices heard outside their homes. </p> <p>The Taliban have detained women and girls for not abiding by the prescribed dress code, and Special Procedures have <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/02/afghanistan-talibans-arbitrary-arrests-and-detention-women-and-girls-over">reported</a> that some of those detained have been held incommunicado for days and subjected to “physical violence, threats and intimidation.”</p> <p>As this Council recognised by consensus in October last year, these crimes may amount to gender persecution. </p> <p>Minorities also face marginalization, underrepresentation, discrimination and lack of protection; and the Taliban have continued to deepen broader restrictions on civic space, and arbitrarily detained and tortured journalists and other critics, among other violations.</p> <p>We note with alarm the Special Rapporteur’s conclusion that the international community’s failure to hold the Taliban accountable has emboldened them in their increasing oppression of women and girls, and the broader rights crackdown. This conclusion, too, was reiterated by the Office of the High Commissioner in its most recent report, where it is stated that the human rights crisis in Afghanistan is rooted in decades of conflict, where a climate of impunity has enabled violations to persist. This conclusion, therefore, demands that this Council considers further action, commensurate with the gravity of the situation guided by the principles elaborated by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in this report.</p> <p>The Special Rapporteur has recommended the creation of an additional independent investigation mechanism, with a comprehensive mandate and broad scope, to support efforts towards criminal accountability, recognising broad calls for such a mechanism among Afghan and international rights groups. Such a mandate would be, as in other situations, complementary to the important ongoing work of the SR.</p> <p>This call echoes this Council’s own <a href="https://docs.un.org/en/A/HRC/RES/57/3">consensus</a> recognition of the need for urgent action to address long-standing impunity for grave past and ongoing international crimes committed in Afghanistan, and to support efforts to hold perpetrators to account, through processes that are comprehensive, multidimensional, gender-responsive and victim-centred, including possibly through the collection and preservation of evidence to support future accountability and transitional justice processes.</p> <p>As Taliban oppression increases, the Human Rights Council must ensure it is using all the tools available to address the crisis, to support accountability for violations, and to contribute to the prevention of future violations. We call on this Council to take action onthe Special Rapporteur’s recommendation for the creation of an additional independent investigation mechanism, with a comprehensive mandate and broad scope, to support efforts towards criminal accountability.</p> <p>I thank you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Permanent Missions: </p> <p>1. Iceland</p> <p>2. South Africa</p> <p>3. Chile</p> <p>4. Costa Rica</p> <p>5. Liechtenstein</p> <p>6. Switzerland</p> <p>7. Luxembourg</p> <p>8. Colombia</p> <p>9. Slovenia</p> <p>10. Spain</p> <p>11. Czechia</p> <p>12. Mexico</p> <p>13. France</p> <p>14. Afghanistan</p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the SR on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong></strong><strong>Statement delivered by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong> 19 March 2025</strong></p> <p>Mr. President,</p> <p>I speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</p> <p>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her update and reaffirm our full support for her mandate.</p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic States remain deeply concerned by the persistent, systemic, and widespread human rights violations in the DPRK, and extensive restrictions on human rights and fundamental freedoms. </p> <p>We are alarmed by the humanitarian consequences of prolonged border closures, leading to increased food insecurity and severely limiting access to essential medical care, disproportionately affecting &nbsp;persons in vulnerable situations, including women and children.</p> <p>The continued lack of cooperation from DPRK authorities, especially their refusal to grant access to international human rights monitors, significantly hampers efforts toward accountability and justice for victims.</p> <p>We urge the DPRK to cease immediately any direct or indirect assistance to Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine, including the deployment of the DPRK’s military forces to Russia and their use on the battlefield against Ukraine, as highlighted in the report. We are gravely concerned by accounts detailing human rights violations such as extrajudicial executions, severe malnutrition, and retaliation towards family members.</p> <p>Madam Special Rapporteur,</p> <p>Considering restrictions on access to the DPRK, what practical steps could States take to ensure accountability, particularly for violations and abuses related to forced labor affecting women and children, as documented in your report?</p> <p>Thank you.</p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Human Rights Council - 58th Session<em>. </em></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">&nbsp;<br /> Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine.&nbsp;<br /> Statement delivered by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states&nbsp;<br /> 19 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Nordic–Baltic countries thank the Commission of Inquiry for their valuable work and the latest report. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">More than three years ago, Russia launched its full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine. and to this day, has shown no willingness to pursue peace. Russia continues to launch missiles and attack drones over Ukrainian cities, causing numerous civilian casualties, immense destruction and deep psychological distress. Large-scale and targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure persist.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The COI report states that Russian authorities have committed torture and enforced disappearances as crimes against humanity [due to widespread and systematic use and pursuant to a coordinated state policy]. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thousands of Ukrainians – both military personnel and civilians – are likely being held in captivity in Russia and in occupied territories. The deportation of Ukrainian children constitutes a particularly heinous crime.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Russia must cease these widespread violations of international law and uphold its obligations, including by granting independent monitors full access to all detention facilities.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">To achieve comprehensive, just and lasting peace, accountability remains essential. We thank the COI for its important role in documenting atrocities. The day will come, when Russia bears full responsibility for the damage and suffering it has caused.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Commissioners,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">You stated in the report that victims have faced numerous challenges in their recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration. What more could be done to help them overcome these challenges?</span></p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black;"></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Human Rights Council – 58^th session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Interactive Dialogue on Group of Experts on Belarus</span></strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: black;"><br /> </span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Statement delivered by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States<br /> 18 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank the Group of independent experts for this grim update and reaffirm our full support to your vital work. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The report clearly shows that the Belarusian authorities have escalated their commitment to eradicate every expression of &nbsp;dissent through violence, intimidation, and detentions. According to your findings, the Belarusian regime uses widespread repression, specifically in the form of imprisonment and persecution, which has reached levels that may amount to crimes against humanity (to maintain control and create a climate of fear among ordinary people for the exercise of their human rights). </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">We (strongly denounce torture and all forms of mistreatment of political prisoners and) demand immediate and unconditional release and effective rehabilitation of all individuals unlawfully detained. We urge Belarus to meaningfully re-engage with the UN human rights mechanisms.&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">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. We call on Belarus to immediately ensure the safe return to Ukraine of all unlawfully deported Ukrainian children.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">(As the human rights situation in Belarus continues to severely deteriorate), what steps would you recommend for the international community to ensure that the authorities can no longer operate with impunity?</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you!</span></p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> </span></strong><strong><span>Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic</span></strong><strong><span><br /> </span></strong><strong><span>Statement by Latvia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states<br /> </span></strong><strong><span>18 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p><span>Mr. President,</span></p> <p><span>I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic states.</span></p> <p><span>For decades, the Syrian people have suffered grave human rights violations: arbitrary detention, torture, sexual violence, and enforced disappearances. The Assad regime, with the direct support of Russia, conducted mass atrocities against Syrians, including the use of chemical weapons.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The fall of the oppressive Assad regime presents a historic opportunity for Syria. The Syrian people must be given the reigns to stabilise and rebuild their country, with support of the international community. We urge the new Syrian administration to commit to ensuring justice and the rule of law, as well as protecting and promoting human rights for all, including the rights of women and girls. The effort must be aligned with the gradual lifting of international sanctions on Syria.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>We urge the new Syrian administration to fully cooperate with relevant human rights monitoring mechanisms, and to grant them unhindered access to the country.</span></p> <p><span>Accountability is crucial for just, comprehensive, and lasting peace. We reiterate our full support for the Commission of Inquiry and the IIIM. Those responsible must be held accountable.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you!</span></p>

<span></span> <p><span>Distinguished audience,</span></p> <p>I thank the European Union for organising today’s conference. It takes place after momentous change in Syria, but as we have seen the path forward will not be an easy one. We do hope, however, that durable peace is within sight, providing the people of Syria opportunity to heal the wounds and to prosper.</p> <p>I am pleased to announce Iceland´s continued financial support for partners providing humanitarian assistance in Syria and the region, including to UNHCR, OCHA pooled funds, UN Women and WFP.</p> <p>With new pledges for 2028, our total contributions will amount to 960 million Icelandic króna, over 7 million dollars. We will continue providing flexible and predictable funding, taking into consideration developing needs during transition.</p> <p>We call on all sides in Syria to turn the page and work towards peace. We further call on the new authorities in Syria to ensure at all times that the rights of women and girls are respected. We believe that for any society to prosper women need to have key roles in shaping the future, both in Government and in society overall because after all, gender equality benefits all.</p> <p><span>Thank you.</span></p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council - 58th Session</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue on the report of Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic States</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>14 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p><span>Mr. President,</span></p> <p><span>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for an informative report and for underlining the critical importance of healthy oceans for safeguarding of human rights, including those of Indigenous Peoples.</span></p> <p><span>Oceans are not only vital to global ecosystems but are also essential for the well-being of billions of people worldwide. The challenges we face - pollution, climate change, and loss of biodiversity - threaten the environment and human rights. They underline that only when we balance conservation and sustainable use, as outlined in SDG14, can we protect our oceans for sustainable development. </span></p> <p><span>This means working based on the best scientific advice, taking into account Indigenous, ancestral, as well as local knowledge, to strengthen measures to prevent overexploitation, reduce marine pollution, and support industries that respect human rights and endorse sustainable practices. By promoting responsible fishing, marine protected areas and other effective measures, and circular blue economies, we can safeguard the oceans while ensuring access to vital resources for current and future generations.</span></p> <p><span>Special Rapporteur, in your view, what more can we do to highlight and recognize the important role women play in the blue economy and for healthy oceans?</span></p> <p><span>I thank you.</span></p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Human Rights Council – 58^th session<br /> JST to be delivered at the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment<br /> 14 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mr. President,</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">I deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries. </span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">Environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs), including ocean defenders, are amongst the most at-risk human rights defenders in the world. </span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">These defenders, including women and girls environmental human rights defenders, work at the front line of environmental protection, often in remote or isolated locations. They frequently seek to exercise their human rights to push back against unsustainable and environmentally damaging projects. For their brave work, they often face grave risks, including to extrajudicial killing, arbitrary detention, and criminalisation.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">Let us be clear, the work EHRDs is in favour of <em>sustainable</em> development and as such we should all protect their work</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">EHRDs do incredibly important work to protect the environment, including the ocean, </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">from biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. The best way to protect the environment, is to protect and empower those who seek to defend the environment.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">Mr. President,&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">This Council should step up its efforts to better protect and empower EHRDs, particularly women and girls, by promoting equitable, diverse, meaningful and safe representation, in all our relevant work. </span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">The situation and agency of EHRDs should also be recognised in other UN fora, including international environmental conferences on ocean protection, biodiversity and climate change -including COP30 in Brazil-, as well as the outcome documents of those meetings. We urge all States to do so, and to encourage their participation in those meetings.</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="background: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; color: #242424;">Thank you.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council</strong><strong> - 58^th Session</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Annual Discussion on the Rights of the Child (7/29 and 55/29) </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Early Childhood Development</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states<br /> 13 March 2024</strong></p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.&nbsp; </p> <p>The early years of life are critical for a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. Ensuring access to healthcare, nutrition, early education, and protection from violence for children is essential for fostering resilient and inclusive societies.</p> <p>However, we cannot ignore that for too many children, early childhood is marked not by security and care, but by multiple barriers to their development, including poverty, lack of access to essential services, displacement and armed conflict. </p> <p>Children in fragile settings are at higher risk of disrupted care, inadequate learning opportunities, and exposure to violence, all of which have lasting consequences on their development. Attacks on education and healthcare institutions, as well as forced displacement and unlawful deportations, militarization, further undermine their rights and well-being. Strengthening protection frameworks and ensuring accountability for violations against children remain essential to upholding their rights and safeguarding their future. </p> <p>Every child deserves to grow up safe, healthy, and supported. This requires strong child protection systems, better access to essential services, and meaningful international cooperation. We support efforts to enhance child participation, digital safety, and integrated protection measures to ensure that no child is left behind. By working together, we can create conditions for all children to reach their full potential from the very start.</p> <p>Thank you.</p>

<p><span>We welcome the joint statement by Ukraine and the United States on a proposed 30-day interim ceasefire and the decision to resume US security assistance and intelligence sharing to Ukraine. We commend the humanitarian proposals included in the statement.</span></p> <p><span>We will continue to strive for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the principles in the UN charter and international law. The meeting in Saudi Arabia is a step in the right direction.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The Nordic-Baltic countries stand with Ukraine, as we move towards peace.</span></p> <p><span>Now Russia must demonstrate its will to end its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.</span></p> <p><em>Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden.</em></p>

<span></span><span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council 58^th session</span></strong><br /> <strong><span>Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Violence Against Children</span></strong><br /> <strong><span>Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic States</span></strong><br /> <strong><span>12 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p><span>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Representative for her report and for her unwavering commitment to combat violence against children. </span></p> <p><span>We are deeply concerned about the continuous rise in violence against children globally and remain alarmed by the increase in child trafficking, including trafficking for sexual exploitation, forced labor and criminality. </span></p> <p><span>Every child has the right to be protected from violence, regardless of their circumstances. Millions of children of all ages, genders, nationalities and backgrounds remain vulnerable to trafficking. Armed conflicts, climate change, gender inequality and socioeconomic disparities are additional aggravating factors. These and others, demand scaled up efforts, both nationally and internationally. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Special Representative,</span><span> traffickers often exploit gaps in legal frameworks and enforcement across borders. To tackle this grave issue, what specific measures should be prioritized by States to strengthen cross-border cooperation and coordination?</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></p>

<span></span> <p><span>On Tuesday 11 March, Ministers, State Secretaries and senior representatives from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom met in the margins of the Aurora Forum at Goodwood House, Chichester.</span></p> <p>UK Minister for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, chaired a roundtable with Nordic Baltic counterparts to discuss support for Ukraine, security in Northern Europe, and tackling hybrid threats.</p> <p>Ministers agreed on the need to continue supporting Ukraine to achieve a just, comprehensive and lasting peace with credible security guarantees, and the importance of putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position. They agreed that this would be achieved by increasing military support to Ukraine and, as part of this effort, they will leverage their defence industries while also purchasing directly from Ukraine’s defence industry to meet urgent needs and strengthen cooperation between European and Ukrainian industries. They also discussed the need to encourage other countries to do more. Ministers underscored that maintaining Western unity is essential and that there can be no negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine.</p> <p>Ministers discussed the significant and direct threat from Russia against NATO, with emphasis on continuing efforts to contest and constrain Russian aggression and the Russian war economy, including ambitious sanctions and wider efforts to constrain Russia’s energy revenues. They praised the work of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and NATO in monitoring suspected shadow vessels through, among others, Operation Nordic Warden. Ministers underlined the need to hold Russia accountable and advance our global outreach to continue its international isolation.</p> <p>Ministers discussed recent instances of subsea infrastructure damage in the Baltic Sea Region and welcomed NATO’s Baltic Sentry activity, providing reassurance to Baltic states. They also discussed hybrid incidents in the region, and welcomed work, including by NATO, to build resilience to deter and counter hybrid threats, including on cyber, and in addressing foreign information manipulation. Ministers also discussed external threats to the wider European region.</p> <p>The Aurora Forum is an independent annual forum established to bring together governments, businesses and civil society from the UK and Nordic-Baltic states. Today’s roundtable marks the first time Ministers, State Secretaries and senior representatives have gathered in this format to discuss shared priorities, including Northern European security, trade, technology and the energy transition.</p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 58th Session<em>. <br /> </em></strong><strong>Item 3 - Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the right to food<br /> Statement delivered by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states<br /> </strong><strong>11 March 2025<br /> </strong></p> <p>The Nordic-Baltic states thank the Special Rapporteur for his report on how to develop national action plans for the right to food, which is a human right, essential for survival.</p> <p>Preventing hunger and providing nutrition is fundamental for human dignity and social equality, stability and prosperity. Governments therefore must make it a priority in their budgets to ensure their people have access to adequate food.</p> <p>As member states committed to the UN multilateral system and international law, we will step in to help people in vulnerable situations when governments fail to provide, or even actively prevent, people from access to food.</p> <p>We will continue to finance UN agencies and other organizations providing humanitarian assistance to avoid famine and alleviate suffering. Those using starvation as a method of warfare should be held accountable. We also agree with the need to make food systems more socially equitable, sustainable and climate friendly.</p> <p>Special Rapporteur, could you please elaborate on the positive role that the private and business sectors can play, including in blended finance? </p> <p>Thank you.</p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> Int</span></strong><span><strong><span>eractive Debate on the rights of persons with disabilities<br /> Rights of persons with disabilities: digital and assistive technologies, countering cyberbullying, and digital inclusion</span></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Statement delivered Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States <br /> 10 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p><span>Mr President,</span></p> <p><span>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.</span></p> <p><span>We thank the panelists for their highly relevant remarks and insights. We also thank the high Commissioner for his latest report on persons with disabilities and digital technologies and devices. </span></p> <p><span>Well-designed e-governance contributes to good governance and improves lives by alleviating the burden on individuals in vulnerable situations. Robust regulation is essential to preventing exclusion, discrimination, and privacy violations. </span></p> <p><span>Actions to drive the digital inclusion of persons with disabilities must be informed by an understanding of local issues and contexts, ensuring that the perspectives and needs of all persons with disabilities – from data protection measures to product design and accessibility – are taken into account to guarantee their full and equal participation in society. This helps to prevent and reduce the digital gap, inequality, and discrimination from widening.</span></p> <p><span>Another important topic discussed today is cyberbullying. We agree that i</span><span>nitiatives to counter cyberbullying require a holistic approach that addresses discrimination against persons with disabilities in both online and offline manifestations. How could this Council bring its contribution in this respect? </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span>I thank you!<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Video address by H.E. Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland</span></em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;"><strong>UNESCO High-Level Conference on Women and Girls in Afghanistan<br /> Paris, 7 March 2025</strong></span></p> <p><span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;line-height:normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;line-height:normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Madame Director-General,</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;line-height:normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Excellencies, <span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"></span>friends, </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">I am honoured to address this conference on the situation of Women and Girls in Afghanistan. It is a timely discussion, with tomorrow marking the fourth International Women’s Day since the Taliban’s violent takeover in August 2021. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">The situation for Afghan women and girls has become simply intolerable. The Taliban have subjected women and girls to systematic, brutal human rights violations, banning them from public life - including education -<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;">&nbsp; </span>rendering them socially, politically, economically and legally marginalized. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Despite all this, Afghan women have shown incredible courage and leadership and we all bear the responsibility to ensure that their voices are heard and their human rights upheld.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Excellencies,</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">The international community must remain firm in supporting Afghan women and girls. Their full enjoyment of all their human rights, including the right to education, should be our ultimate goal. Advocacy must be relentless and strategic, ensuring that the rights of Afghan women and girls remain a global priority. This is urgent, not only for women and girls in Afghanistan, but for the human rights of women and girls across the globe. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">First and foremost, we must not allow the situation to become normalized. Afghan women have repeatedly referred to the systemic discrimination and oppression they face, as gender apartheid. I hear their call and think it merits discussion.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Educational restrictions have a profound impact on women’s overall social, economic, and political rights. Denying girls their human right to education not only limits personal growth but also the development of society as a whole. Educated women are indispensable to any society. Luckily, there are today many well educated, resilient Afghan women keeping up the fight for the future of their country; their own future. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">The impact of the restrictions put in place by the Taliban is devastating—not just in theory, but in real life. Let me share the story of a dear friend, Noorina, an Afghan doctor who fled to Iceland after the Taliban targeted her for providing women in rural areas essential health education. Today, Noorina has built a new life, earning Icelandic citizenship and contributing to our society. But her younger sisters, bright and full of potential, have not left their home in three years. Her mother, recently diagnosed with cancer, is being denied medical care—because under the brutal Taliban rule, women can only be treated by female doctors, and there are almost none left. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Stories like hers are heartbreaking—and they are far too common. They remind us that denying women access to education, healthcare, and independence is not just a policy choice; it is a life sentence. Educated women are indispensable to any society. Yet in Afghanistan, they are systematically erased. This must never be accepted. Afghan women must have a seat at the table whenever their country’s future is discussed.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Excellencies,</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">UNESCO plays a pivotal role in promoting education as a fundamental human right, and in responding to global challenges with gender equality as an underlying principle. Both inside and outside <span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"></span>Afghanistan, UNESCO has supported initiatives to provide quality education for Afghan women and girls, advocate for their rights, and collaborate with local and international partners. By leveraging its expertise and resources, UNESCO can help them build a brighter future for themselves, working together with the international community to maintain this global priority.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">I want to thank you all for your participation here today, especially the Afghan women participating in the panel and giving their testimonies from Afghanistan. I also wish to thank the Director-General and UNESCO for organizing this important conference and I look forward to seeing the follow-up on today’s discussions. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Let this serve as our call to action for the women and girls of Afghanistan. The situation of women and girls in Afghanistan is a global issue and not just an Afghan issue. Let us stand together in solidarity and work towards a world where every woman and girl can thrive.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">Thank you.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'FiraGO Light', sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<span></span> <p class="BodyA">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> Join statement on the commemoration of International Women’s Day<br /> Delivered by Mexico</span></strong><strong><span><br /> 7 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p><span>Mr. President,&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Mexico and Finland present this statement on behalf of a group of 52 countries<a href="https://governmentis.sharepoint.com/sites/FGE-Genf-HRC/Shared%20Documents/_HRC%20-%20LOTUR/_HRC58/_JST/Final/4.%20HRC58_%20JST%20IWD_Yes.docx#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1"><span>[1]</span></a>.</span></p> <p><span>International Women’s Day gives us an opportunity to commemorate and recommit to important achievements on women’s rights and gender equality.</span></p> <p><span>Let us highlight the right to bodily autonomy. The recognition that women’s rights include the right to have control and decide freely over their body has been indispensable for women’s empowerment and for dismantling patriarchal structures.</span></p> <p><span>Furthermore, since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, human rights norms and standards have developed to recognize sexual and reproductive health and rights.</span></p> <p><span>SRHR compel us to remove discriminatory laws; ensure access to information, including comprehensive sexuality education; address root causes of gender-based discrimination; and prevent sexual and gender-based violence.</span></p> <p><span>SRHR are central for the dignity, equality and rights of all women and girls, for eradicating poverty, for achieving the SDGs and leaving no one behind.</span></p> <p><span>Mr. President,</span></p> <p><span>Despite commendable progress, we are witnessing “concerted efforts to chip away at gender equality” in words of the High Commissioner Turk.</span></p> <p><span>This includes attempts to restrict and deny SRHR, violating the principle of non-regression.</span></p> <p><span>This is alarming.</span></p> <p><span>Today, more than ever, we must join and redouble our efforts for the full realization of human rights of all women and girls.</span></p> <p><span>Thank you</span></p> <div> <hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" /> <div id="ftn1"> <p><a href="https://governmentis.sharepoint.com/sites/FGE-Genf-HRC/Shared%20Documents/_HRC%20-%20LOTUR/_HRC58/_JST/Final/4.%20HRC58_%20JST%20IWD_Yes.docx#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1"><span>[1]</span></a><span> Albania, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, The Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, Uruguay, The United Kingdom.</span></p> </div> </div>

<p><span><strong>Statement by H.E. Ms. Anna Johannsdottir<br /> Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations <br /> on behalf of the Nordic countries<br /> General Assembly 60th plenary meeting<br /> Use of the veto – Special report of the Security Council pursuant to resolution 76/262<br /> 6 March, 2025</strong><br /> </span></p> <div>&nbsp;</div> <p>President</p> <p><span>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the five Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden - and my own country, Iceland.<br /> <br /> I would like to thank you for convening this debate under General Assembly resolution 76/262.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> We welcome the special report submitted by the Security Council on the use of the veto, in this case twice, at the 9866th meeting of the Council on February 24th.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> President<br /> <br /> The Security Council has primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security.&nbsp; In carrying out its duties under this responsibility, the Council acts on behalf of the general membership.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> During the resumed emergency session on Ukraine on February 24, the General Assembly adopted two resolutions on Ukraine: “Advancing a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine” and “The Path to Peace” with a clear two thirds majority.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Both resolutions underlined the commitment to key principles in the UN Charter in bringing about peace for Ukraine that includes respect for its sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. Both resolutions recognised that there can be no equivalence between how we refer to Ukraine and to the Russian Federation in the ongoing war. The first is the victim, the second the aggressor.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> No one wants peace more than Ukraine and its people. No one feels the effects of the war more than them. For a peace to be lasting, it must be in accordance with international law, including the rules and principles of the UN Charter. Russia and other potential aggressors must not draw the conclusion that violations of international law will pass without consequences. That would risk renewed aggression and undermine global security.<br /> <br /> The resolution “The path to peace” as amended and then adopted by the General Assembly reflects the determination of the general membership to uphold the principles and obligations of the UN Charter which we have all committed to uphold. It also reflects members’ clear-eyed view of who has attacked whom.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> The resolution adopted by the General Assembly calls for a swift end to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation but rejects the precept that an invasion of any country is in any way acceptable. It mourns the tragic loss of life including thousands of civilian lives and rejects the precept that one country can simply change by force the borders of another and occupy and annex its territories. We underline that this constitutes a violation of international law, and that accountability must be ensured.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> The resolution “The path to peace” as adopted by the Security Council does not reflect these core principles. It does not give an accurate picture of how we have come to this point. Despite proposals for amendments to reflect the wishes of the general membership on respecting the core principles of the Charter, the Russian Federation exercised its veto - twice.&nbsp; Russia vetoed amendments calling for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in line with the UN Charter.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> President&nbsp;<br /> <br /> It is unacceptable that a permanent member of the Security Council, should oppose language supporting the central rules of the Charter. Article 27, part 3, of the UN Charter sets out one limitation on voting, including to the use of the veto. To quote the Charter: “in decisions under Chapter VI, and under paragraph 3 of Article 52, a party to a dispute shall abstain from voting”. We reiterate our call for the veto to be used responsibly, and only in strict adherence with the Charter.<br /> <br /> We believe that for the Security Council to live up to its obligations and to recoup the respect many feel it has forfeited, permanent members cannot allow themselves to use the veto in a patently partisan manner.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> And the Security Council cannot allow itself to be seen to disregard the clear wishes of the entire membership of the United Nations, expressed through the General Assembly. We regret that last Monday, the Council allowed the self-interest of the aggressor state to trample over the legitimate views and aspirations of the broader membership.<br /> <br /> Let me conclude by once again affirming the steadfast and unwavering support of the five Nordic countries for Ukraine and its people. And may I add, a commitment that was also resoundingly reaffirmed by a vast majority of the world’s countries last week.<br /> <br /> <br /> </span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>UN Human Rights Council</strong><strong> - 58^th Session<br /> </strong><strong>Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Cultural Rights<br /> Statement delivered by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States<br /> 6 March 2025</strong></p> <p>Thank you, Mr. President,</p> <p>I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states. </p> <p>The digitization of cultural heritage is a vital endeavour for safeguarding the cultural rights of all individuals. The historical information and cultural value embedded in heritage are indispensable for forming and strengthening national identities. Any damage to cultural heritage is a damage to humanity. The Nordic-Baltic states remain committed to protecting and preserving cultural heritage around the world for current and future generations. </p> <p>Investing in cultural heritage brings substantial benefits for communities, as the past can serve the present. By managing heritage with innovation and creativity, and leveraging digital tools and technologies, we can create diverse cultural experiences and improve participation of every individual in cultural life. </p> <p>Digitalized cultural heritage and human rights are linked, as both safeguard and promote identity, memory, and cultural expression. Digitization especially empowers Indigenous Peoples and persons in vulnerable situations by offering possibilities to preserve their history and traditions in an accessible manner. It enables the realization of cultural rights and supports the protection of cultural diversity. </p> <p>Dear Panelists,</p> <p>Responsible management and ethical sharing of digital cultural content are essential for upholding human rights and fostering mutual respect. How can we better engage private entities in this task?</p> <p>I thank you.</p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on <br /> Freedom of Religion or Belief</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Statement delivered by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>4 March 2025</span></strong></p> <p><span>President, </span></p> <p><span>I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Denmark. </span></p> <p><span>We thank the Special Rapporteur for her comprehensive overview and for providing us with important insights regarding violations of freedom of religion or belief that appear to reach the threshold of torture and ill-treatment. We commend your focus of nuancing the intersections between freedom of religion or belief and the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. </span></p> <p><span>The Nordic-Baltic states are fully and firmly committed to the fight against torture. </span></p> <p><span>Fortunately, as you note, elaborated human rights norms and international frameworks exist on both the prohibition of torture and the right to freedom of religion or belief. We want to recall our full commitment to these standards and to our collective efforts to promote and protect them. </span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em><span>Special Rapporteur, how can a simultaneous analysis of violations of freedom of religion or belief and the prohibitions of torture and ill-treatment lead to a better outcome for the victims?</span></em></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> </strong><strong>Item 2: General Debate</strong><strong><br /> Incoming Member’s Pledge</strong></p> <p>I am pleased to make this statement on behalf of&nbsp;Benin, Bolivia, Colombia, Cyprus, Czechia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gambia, Iceland, Kenya, Marshall Islands, Mexico, North Macedonia, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Spain, Switzerland and Thailand.</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 rightsbased 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, recognising 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; plan to make progress in the promotion, protection and realisation of human rights at the national level, including through implementation of recommendations and resolutions of the Council and its mechanisms; and</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. We are convinced that these commitments when properly respected and applied will help strengthen the Council’s effectiveness and credibility</li> </ul> <p>We are convinced that these commitments when properly respected and applied will help strengthen the Council’s effectiveness and credibility</p>

<span></span> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> Item 2: General Debate<br /> Joint Statement on Ethiopia</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></p> <p><span>Mr. Chair,</span></p> <p><span>I am making this statement on behalf of a group of 44 countries.</span></p> <p><span>We welcome Ethiopia as a member of the Human Rights Council. We </span><span>appreciated Ethiopia’s constructive engagement at the 4^th cycle of the UPR in November 2024, and </span><span>encourage</span><span> the government to accept all recommendations advancing the fulfilment of human rights in Ethiopia</span><span>.</span></p> <p><span>We continue to encourage all parties to engage in peaceful negotiations and dialogue in order to prevent further human rights violations and abuses, and restore peace especially in the Amhara and Oromia regions. </span></p> <p><span>In the Tigray region, the Pretoria agreement remains the cornerstone of peace and stability. We strongly call on all parties to resolve their dispute peacefully and </span><span>implement the outstanding provisions of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, notably the withdrawal of non-ENDF troops</span><span> </span><span>from Tigray, the returns of IDPs, the peaceful settlement of territorial disputes, the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of ex-combatants.</span></p> <p><span>We call on Ethiopia to demonstrate its commitment to transitional justice by emphasising a victim centred approach and taking decisive steps to ensure accountability for all human rights violations and abuses. We stand ready to support Ethiopia to ensure a credible, transparent and independent transitional justice process, and call for the adoption and implementation of the Transitional Justice draft laws, consistent with international human rights standards. We underline the role of the Ethiopian Commission of Human Rights, whose independence is of paramount importance to fully support the implementation of the Transitional Justice process.</span></p> <p><span>A clear delineation of roles between truth-seeking, reconciliation initiatives, amnesties, reparations, and efforts to locate missing persons is essential. Welcoming and building on the fact that there have been no executions since 2007, we urge Ethiopia to reconsider the inclusion of capital punishment in the draft Proclamation on Fundamental Crimes Committed in Violation of International Law. The long-standing moratorium on capital punishment in Ethiopia offers an opportunity to abolish the death penalty altogether.</span></p> <p><span>We remain concerned about the challenging human rights situation in Ethiopia. This includes constraints on the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, and the silencing of journalists, human rights defenders and civil society. We remain deeply concerned by the suspension of several Ethiopian human rights NGOs and call on Ethiopia to cease any activities curtailing their ability to fulfil their crucial role in monitoring and advocating for human rights. </span><span>We continue to be alarmed by the high number of human rights violations and abuses by both state and non-state actors as recorded by the Office of the High Commissioner in 2024. Killings and injuries of civilians, torture and ill treatment, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, detentions and attacks on civic infrastructure must end. We call on Ethiopia to decisively combat sexual and gender-based violence and ensure justice and accountability as well as a survivor-centered approach for crimes committed.</span></p> <p><span>We encourage the Government of Ethiopia to take advantage to the fullest extent of the technical assistance available in the Office of the High Commissioner and encourage the Office to continue to monitor the situation and keep this Council informed.</span></p> <p><span>Thank you.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council – 58^th Session<br /> Item 2: Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner Oral Update on Myanmar <br /> Statement by Sweden on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States<br /> 28 February 2025</strong></p> <p>Thank you, President.</p> <p>On behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, I want to thank the High Commissioner for his update and for shining a light on the worsening human rights crisis in Myanmar.</p> <p>The ruthless violence against the civilian population in Myanmar must stop, and those responsible must be held accountable. The persecution, arrests and imprisonments of democracy activists, human rights defenders and journalists are utterly unacceptable. The humanitarian needs in Myanmar have increased twenty-fold since the military coup. Over one-third of the population are now in need of humanitarian assistance for their basic needs to be met. &nbsp;</p> <p>The military regime's increasingly forceful imposition of compulsory military service is highly concerning. We Nordic-Baltic countries reiterate our call on the Myanmar military to immediately end all forms of violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, aerial attacks, mass killings and persecution of civilians We urge all parties to fully adhere to international law and to allow unhindered humanitarian access. We underline our support for actors working towards a democratic and inclusive transition process that ensures transparency, accountability and the respect for human rights.</p> <p>High Commissioner, what is your view on how the international community best can support the democratic aspirations of the people of Myanmar?</p> Thank you.&nbsp;&nbsp; <p><strong></strong></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Human Rights Council - 58th session<br /> Item 2: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on report of Commission of<br /> Human Rights in South Sudan<br /> Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states<br /> 28 February 2025</strong></p> <p>&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>President,</p> <p>The Nordic and Baltic countries thank the Commission for its report and align ourselves with its conclusions. We also thank the Government of South Sudan for its continued cooperation with the Commission. </p> <p>This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, signed amidst great hope that the South Sudanese people would enjoy peace and human rights. This hope has largely gone unfulfilled. </p> <p>The report showcases a flagrant disregard for human rights and the rule of law. One such example is the extrajudicial killings carried out under the so-called “Green Book” in Warrap state. Any legislation that facilitates serious crimes under domestic and international law must be repealed. Impunity only sows further conflict.</p> <p>Few measures have been implemented to address widespread conflict-related sexual violence, and other human rights violations and abuses documented in the report. This shows the urgent need to renew the mandate of the Commission with one year.&nbsp; </p> <p>One year ago, we urged the transitional government to adhere to its promise of holding elections by December 2024. This promise to the South Sudanese people was broken. Plans for free and fair elections in 2026 must be implemented immediately. Continuing as before is not an option.</p> <p>High Commissioner,</p> <p>What steps, in your opinion, are most critical for the government to take to improve the situation?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>I thank you.</p>

<p>Statement by H.E. Anna Jóhannsdóttir<br /> Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations<br /> IGN Plenary Cluster Debate<br /> on Working Methods<br /> 27 February 2024<br /> <br /> <span lang="IS" style="mso-ansi-language:IS;"></span></p> <p> <style> @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536869121 1107305727 33554432 0 415 0;}@font-face {font-family:Aptos; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:536871559 3 0 0 415 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0cm; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family:Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:Aptos;}p.xmsonormal, li.xmsonormal, div.xmsonormal {mso-style-name:x_msonormal; mso-style-unhide:no; margin:0cm; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family:Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:Aptos;}.MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-font-kerning:0pt; mso-ligatures:none;}div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} </style> </p> <p>Excellencies, Co-Chairs,</p> <p>I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden and my own country Iceland<br /> <br /> Co-Chairs,<br /> In the Pact for the Future, adopted by General Assembly last September, …it was agreed to strengthen the framework of the intergovernmental negotiations on Security Council reform as a matter of priority and without delay.<br /> Not only does the Pact for the Future deliver a clear statement on the need to reform the Security Council …it also notes specific objectives to that end when discussing the importance of working methods – noting in action 39(f) that; …<br /> <br /> “…the working methods should ensure the inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable functioning of an enlarged Council”. <br /> <br /> This provides us with specific agreed language and guidance, and it should be the basis of any discussions on Working Methods, going forward. It should be our aim to consolidate and build on this language – as we are entrusted to ensure that an enlarged Security Council is able to deliver on its mandate and become fit for purpose.<br /> <br /> Before diving further into the topic, we wish to underline the distinction between working methods reform required to accommodate an expanded Council, and those working methods issues, we are already encountering with the Council in its current configuration. While both issues should be addressed as a matter of urgency, the latter should not await a comprehensive reform of the Council through the IGN process. <br /> <br /> Co-Chairs, <br /> With reference to the Working Methods, the Security Council is expected to;: <br /> <br /> …firstly, make decisions that will ensure prompt and effective action to maintain international peace and security; …<br /> <br /> and secondly, gain the support of the wider United Nations membership for such Security Council decisions to be carried out. <br /> <br /> Enhancing the transparency, efficiency and inclusiveness of the working methods of the Security Council in order to meet these expectations is crucial to the effective functioning of the Council.<br /> <br /> In this regards the Nordic countries note that: <br /> <br /> Strengthened accountability, efficiency and inclusiveness starts with transparency. Transparency may be reinforced through increased dialogue with and involvement of non-Council members and bodies, in particular affected Member States, and civil society. Moreover, transparency may also be strengthened with added emphasis on increasing recourses to open meetings and agreeing on a wider array of press elements. <br /> <br /> At the same time, the Nordic countries recognize that private discussions are paramount to frank diplomatic talks and the building of trust and cooperation among different members of the Security Council. But such discussions must be coupled with, as just mentioned, once common elements of transparency like the routine issue of press elements from closed consultations. <br /> <br /> The Nordics note that the Pact for the Future calls for the working methods to ensure democratic functions – a core issue at the heart of Security Council reform. In this context, the Nordics reiterate our support for a balanced expansion of the Security Council to ensure increased representation. We further support consideration on how to ensure the consistent application of article 27(3) of the Charter.<br /> <br /> We also call on the IGN process and the Council to ensure that working methods in a future Council are guided by the fundamental principles of democracy and that democratic values are generally strengthened. We must ensure that the working methods are updated so that an expansion of the Council does not negatively impact the full participation of all Security Council members in its work, in particular the elected members. We note that – depending on the ultimate size of an enlarged Council there may be need to revise the existing rotation rule of the Council Presidency, in order to ensure that all elected members have the opportunity to hold the Presidency at least once during their tenure. <br /> <br /> Also, further work is needed in order to strengthen the role of elected members. In particular so that the elected members play a full role in all aspects of the Council´s work and can better fulfil their role as members of the council and representatives of the general membership of the United Nations. This can be further strengthened through a fairer burden sharing amongst the P5 and elected members. The informal penholder system should be adapted and pens shared across the Council, especially where there is expertise or where an elected member is chairing the relevant subsidiary body. – The perspectives of the relevant regions should be taken into account across the work of the Council. With African peace and security continuing to take up much of the Security Council´s agenda, it is clear that more African voices are needed, and African Member States should have a more profound influence over its work. We would like to see more opportunities for the African members of the Council for penholdership or co-penholdership. <br /> <br /> Co-chairs<br /> The general improvement of the working methods of the Council is an ongoing process and a collective endeavour. <br /> <br /> The Nordic countries commend the progress made so far and we look forward to the next steps. Reform is urgent and cannot wait. <br /> <br /> Finally, co-chairs, <br /> The Nordic countries reiterate our support for all your persistent work efforts towards Security Council reform. We shall continuously strive to meet the commitments and momentum achieved with the Pact.<br /> <br /> Thank you.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> </p>