Statement by Iceland on the Annual Report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Human Rights Council – 56thsession

Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Statement by Iceland

20 June 2024

Mr. President,

We thank the High Commissioner for his sobering account.

The number and severity of crises in the High Commissioner’s update is a stark warning that human rights are under attack and that no country is immune from regression.

It is also a stark reminder that unless grievances and drivers of tension, violence and conflict are addressed at the micro and macro level, we must anticipate proliferation of armed conflicts, both international and non-international.

Collective failure of ensuring universal respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law comes at a hefty price; measurable through human suffering and death, and in financial terms.

The fallacy that the enjoyment of human rights of some is a threat to others must be countered. We agree that we must embrace inclusivity and challenge harmful narratives. Any form of hate speech is dangerous for social cohesion and a harbinger of worse to come, to quote the High Commissioner.

We are dismayed by the continued corrosion of the multilateral and rules-based international system. The increase in attacks, threats and reprisals, both online and offline, against international institutions, judiciaries and mechanisms is not only unacceptable, but also precarious.

Mr. President,

Looking towards the future, we must recognize that full respect and enjoyment of human rights is indispensable, and this Council must do its part.

I thank you.