38th Meeting - 60th Session of Human Rights Council

Very good afternoon, distinguished friends. I hereby declare open the 38th meeting of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. We will now continue the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's oral update, with the participation of the independent human rights expert on the situation of human rights in Haiti. according to Council Resolution 58/32. We will continue with the list of speakers. The next speaker is UNICEF. Please go ahead.

Children in Haiti are enduring one of the most severe crises in the world today. Six million people require humanitarian assistance, more than 3.3 million of them are children. Nearly 680,000 children have been displaced by violence. Reports show a 70% increase in child recruitment into armed groups between 2023 and 2024, with children now making up as much as half of armed group members. Children are killed and maimed in their homes and schools and abducted from the streets. Girls are subjected to sexual violence, while boys are used as fighters, lookouts, and to conduct dangerous tasks. And groups deliberately deny humanitarian access. Schools and hospitals are no longer safe havens. Armed violence is killing and injuring children in places meant to protect them-- homes, schools, and communities. UNICEF urges the authorities to put children at the center of national protection efforts. Accountability for grave violations must be enforced. Safe and uninterrupted access to education and other essential services must be guaranteed. We also appeal to the international community to provide flexible funding. The global financing shortfall has already forced critical protection programs in Haiti to scale back. We also urge all partners to support efforts to help restore security and protect children from violence. Without urgent and sustained support, the rights of millions of children will remain at risk. We stand ready to support. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Malta, please, has the floor.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Malta aligns itself with the statement of the European Union and thanks the High Commissioner for his update. We remain gravely concerned by the human rights and humanitarian situation in Haiti, which continues to deteriorate at an alarming rate. Violence by armed gangs has reached unprecedented levels, with more than 3,000 people killed in the first half of this year, alongside thousands who are injured or kidnapped. Gang control has now expanded to rural areas, with more documented abuses, including killings, kidnappings, and sexual violence. Reports of children being used as gang members are deeply concerning and highlight their increased vulnerability to abuse and exploitation. The collapse of state authority has created a near total absence of rule of law, judicial institutions are largely non-functional, and impunity prevails for both gang-related crimes and violations committed by other groups. Malta condemns in the strongest terms this extreme violence and reiterates that those committing human rights abuses and violations must be held accountable for their crimes. In conclusion, Madam Vice-President, we applaud the efforts of all UN structures working in Haiti, including the UN Integrated Office in Haiti and the Multinational Security Support Mission.

I thank you.

Thank you very much. I now recognize Sierra Leone.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. High Commissioner Volker Türk and Mr. William O'Neil. for the oral updates and for the continued engagement on human rights situation in Haiti. CIO remains deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis in Haiti, which is characterized by violence, political instability, armed groups, and severe humanitarian needs. This situation is having a destructive impact on civilians, especially women and children. And as your updates highlight, it is undermining human rights, essential services, and prospects for peace. We thank the Republic of Kenya for leading the Multinational Security Support Mission and welcome the recent approval by the United Nations Security Council of the 5,500-strong Gang Suppression Force to succeed it. In particular, we note the GSS mandate to protect vulnerable groups, support the integration of former fighters and strengthen Haitian institutions. We hope that this mission will help the Haitian authorities create the conditions that would enable the country to gradually take on full security responsibility. We call for urgent international support to strengthen Haiti's institutions, uphold the rule of law, ensure accountability, and address root causes such as poverty and inequality along immediate humanitarian assistance. Seychelles reaffirms its solidarity with Haiti and its people and calls on the international community to support Haiti in its efforts to restore stability, protect human rights, and achieve sustainable peace and development. And I thank you, Vice President.

Thank you very much.

We now turn to Costa Rica, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Costa Rica reiterates its deep concern at the deteriorating situation in Haiti, with serious knock-on effects for human rights and the stability of the region. Indiscriminate violence perpetrated by armed gangs has led to unacceptable suffering and has displaced more than a million people. The illicit trafficker of arms has had an impact on human suffering. We would encourage Haiti to ratify the arms trade treaty. We hail the adoption of the FSP by the Security Council to try to bolster protection from gangs and to provide humanitarian access. Sorry, that's the GSF in English. We would call on the international community to comply with action to try to support Haiti and ensure that all Haitians can enjoy human rights. Civil society in Haiti should be consulted. Costa Rica would like to make it clear that a support security support mission will not address the entrenched causes of the violence, such as corruption and insecurity. This should go hand in hand with accountability, including establishing specialised courts that are tasked with prosecuting serious crimes, as well as technical support for the long term, with a view to trying to establish a state with solid foundations of peace and human rights. Thank you.

Thank you. New Zealand, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. New Zealand joins other delegations to express its deep concern in the face of the humanitarian crisis in Haiti. The spike in violence and the collapsing of institutions are profoundly of concern and have devastating effects on the civilian population. We are particularly concerned at information referring to sexual violence and gender-based violence in a widespread fashion affecting women and girls in Haiti. Establishing security in Haiti is an absolute priority. New Zealand supports initiatives geared at bolstering the capacity of the country. Nevertheless, security operations alone will not be able to guarantee long-term protection for human rights. It is essential to deal with the lack of governance and the weak structural framework in Haiti. It is essential to create an ambitious solution for the human rights crisis in Haiti. New Zealand continues to support regional partners in order to find a Haitian solution that creates or that places human rights at the heart of solutions. High Commissioner, we would like to know what your analysis is on how to guarantee the respect for human rights in Haiti in the current context. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I now turn to the Ambassador of Colombia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Colombia reiterates its commitment to stability, peace and well-being of our brother people of Haiti. And we stand in solidarity with all victims of the armed violence and the serious humanitarian crisis that has a devastating effect on women, girls and boys. It's crucial to bolster the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti. As our President Gustavo Petro said, Colombia is ready to participate in dismantling gangs in Haiti in order to overcome violence and allow for freedom of expression. Colombia values and supports the excellent work of the independent expert on Haiti, William Neill. In order to bolster national capacities in justice, security and human rights, through a comprehensive strategy moving towards peace and stability for the Haitian people. We should also see the bolstering of international co-operation to guarantee humanitarian assistance, psychosocial support, eradication of illiteracy, access to education and healthcare, and protection mechanisms for women, boys, human rights defenders and displaced persons. We should also ensure that, at all times, human rights are strictly respected, including significant reduction of social inequality and strengthening of the rule of law. Thank you very much, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you, Ambassador. And I recognize the delegation of Peru.

Peru is grateful for the oral update on the human rights situation in Haiti, and we express our deep concern at the deteriorating human rights situation. We regret the high levels of violence that have been reported, in particular sexual and gender-based violence, homicides, the recruitment of minors by armed gangs, as well as abductions and trafficking. These undermine fundamental rights of the Haitian people. We are appalled to hear what the Secretary-General said in his recent report, where he warns that in January of 2025, the UN Children's Fund reported a 70% increase in recruitment of children by armed gangs compared to the previous year. Therefore, we believe that any initiative to support Haiti should go hand in hand with priority attention for the needs of communities that have been affected by violence, as well as a comprehensive analysis of the structural causes, which include poverty, inequality and exclusion. Peru reaffirms its commitment to building a safe, democratic and prosperous Haiti, and we reiterate our resolute attitude to continue to support multilateral efforts to protect the Haitian people. Thank you very much.

And I give the floor to France.

Madame Vice President. Criminal groups continue to tighten their grip and spread violence in Haiti. There are fears of a humanitarian collapse. Women and children are the first victims of this dramatic security situation. They use sexual violence and forced prostitution, destroy schools and recruit children into armed groups. Gangs ruin children's prospects, in particular girls. In the face of these mass human rights violations, France stands in solidarity with the Haitian people. It is committed and present on the ground with humanitarian assistance that has been given to the tune of 25 million euros since last year to help support displaced people and combat the issues of food security, establishing temporary learning spaces or schools, or providing psychosocial support for children. France is cooperating actively with the national police of Haiti through providing training and equipment, as well as the armed forces of Haiti, to try to break the influence of gangs. France was the first country to establish, in 2023, the trust fund for the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, and has supported the Security Council in transforming that into a more robust force. I thank you.

Thank you. Next, the distinguished representative of Canada.

Thank you, Madame Vice-President. Canada thanks the High Commissioner for the update. We express our deep concern in the face of the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Haiti. More than 6 million people are facing a serious level of food insecurity, acute malnutrition, and high levels of disease and illness. A million people are displaced. Sexual violence and gender-based violence, including against children, are instrumentalised by gangs, and they are reaching alarming levels. We are seeing a multiplication of attacks that are targeting humanitarian workers and civil society actors. We underscore the need to restore security in order to allow for the provision of fundamental services across the entire country. Canada announced a new level of funding of $60 million to support multilateral efforts. geared at stabilising the situation in Haiti. We urge Haiti to respect human rights as well as international law in its efforts to restore security in the country, in particular when it comes to kamikaze drone use. We are helping Haiti, and we encourage it to work together with into the international community to combat corruption. We would also recall the importance of the full implementation of the judicial centers that are specialized in human rights. I thank you.

Thank you very much. And I turn to the delegation of Brazil.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Brazil thanks the High Commissioner for the oral update on Haiti. We are deeply concerned at the untenable levels of violence and anarchy that are seriously compromising human rights and the humanitarian situation in the country. Brazil remains actively committed in discussions as to the next steps for Haiti. Any new steps on the ground need to be carefully reviewed, respecting the specific mandates of each organisation. These actions must also help advance institutions, bolster democracy, protect human rights and provide humanitarian assistance. Security alone is not enough. Widespread social inequality that weakens the state and affects the most vulnerable groups must be addressed. Technical assistance provided by this Council is crucial to ensure that a human rights approach be included in each initiative. These efforts need to be spearheaded by the Haitian people themselves. High Commissioner, do you consider that truth and justice initiatives could be used to help heal the Haitian crisis? Thank you.

Thank you very much. And now I turn to the Ambassador of Kenya.

President, for far too long, the people of Haiti have called out to the world for help. Too often, their pleas were met with silence, hesitation, or half measures. Haiti has become a tragic reminder of what happens when the international community looks away, prevaricates, or offers half-hearted support. Kenya responded to the request of the Haitian authorities in full belief that we were joining a genuine multinational effort. We welcome the Security Council Resolution 2699, which authorized the MSS mission with Kenya as the lead nation. Kenya's engagement in Haiti has always been anchored in the protection of vulnerable communities, the upholding of United Nations Charter, and our commitment to global peace and security in line with international obligations. Our officers, despite operating amid severe constraints and below full strength, worked alongside international partners to safeguard communities, reopen vital facilities, and support Haitian people in their struggle against rampant gang violence. Kenya welcomes the unanimous adoption of the Security Council Resolution 2793, authorizing the establishment of a robust multi-gang suppression force in Haiti. This firm expression of international solidarity marks a necessary evolution in the global response to Haiti's prolonged crisis. A transition welcomed by Kenya is both timely and indispensable to restoring peace and security. We urge all partners to support the GSF operations, operational, humanitarian, and institutional objective, while ensuring respect for human rights and Haitian sovereignty. To the independent expert, what are the most urgent measures the international community and the new GSF should prioritize to help Haiti's institutions protect civilian and promote inclusive national recovery? Thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador.

I now recognize the delegation of Austria.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Austria lines with the EU statement and thanks to the High Commissioner and the Human Rights Expert for their update.

We are deeply concerned by the persistent

human rights violations and abuse, abuses, including child exploitation by criminal gangs and the increasing use of sexual violence to spread fear and punish communities. Haiti's multidimensional crisis requires a comprehensive plan to achieve durable peace and security that goes beyond human rights. It is crucial to fight against the armed criminal groups that terrorize the population and undermine

the authority of the state.

In view of the humanitarian crisis that is further exacerbated by violence, we underline our recent commitment to supporting the Haitian people through a contribution of 1 million euro to the ICRC. The Multinational Security Support Mission signifies an important step towards enhancing security and restoring and strengthening the rule of law and democratic institutions. It is essential to strengthen the mission through reliable funding and to ensure that it operates in compliance with international human rights law and standards. We welcome the extension of the MSS by the UN Security Council earlier this week and highlight Kenya's contribution as a lead nation.

High Commissioner.

Mr. O'Neill, could you elaborate on how the Office can support the MSS or national authorities on the way forward? Thank you.

Thank

you very much. The delegation of Italy, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Italy aligns itself with the EU statement and thanks to the High Commissioner and independent experts for their update. remain deeply concerned by the ongoing humanitarian and security crisis in Haiti. The growing control of armed gangs over wide parts of the country continues to generate widespread violence, serious human rights violations, and obstruct access to basic services, including hospitals and schools. Italy is particularly alarmed by the impact of violence on civilians, especially women and children. Armed groups use sexual violence to terrorize communities, while children are increasingly subjected to grave violations. They are recruited and exploited by criminal gangs, abducted, sexually abused, and denied safe access to humanitarian assistance. Amid this dire situation, recognize the efforts of the international community to stabilize Haiti and the engagement of the transitional government to restore the rule of law and strengthen the democratic institutions. We also know the importance of the role of the Multinational Security Support Mission in backing the Haitian national police and protecting civilians. Mr. High Commissioner, how can the international community most effectively support the Haitian government in addressing the most severe human rights violations? I thank you.

Thank you.

And I give the floor to Romania.

Madam Vice-President, Romania aligns itself with the statement from the European Union and thanks the High Commissioner for the update. Political, economic and humanitarian challenges facing Haiti are of concern and they are magnified by corruption. With a dysfunctional judiciary, impunity and the collapsing of the state, the rule of law mean that the situation may fall into the abyss. The protection of human rights is severely compromised. The rights to physical integrity, to food, health care, drinking water, housing, education are beyond the reach of most Haitians. Half of the country is suffering from hunger and more than a million people, the majority of which are children, are displaced. Romania is very concerned by the effects of this protracted crisis on the protection and enjoyment of human rights, notably by the impact of persistent and widespread violence by gangs on the Haitian people and by the inability of the police to bring about an end to this. We would call for a halt to sexual violence towards women and young girls and the recruitment of children into gangs. Romania stands ready to contribute to the efforts of the international community leading to a solution, and we give our full support to the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti. Ladies and gentlemen, we believe that the halt to the flow of weapons is...

Thank you very much. I'm now going to turn to the next speaker, the delegation of Spain, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Spain aligns itself with the statement from the European Union and thanks the High Commissioner and the independent expert on Haiti for the work. The international community must support Haiti to tackle the appalling spiral of violence that is destroying the lives of Haitians. It undermines their trust in institutions and respect for human rights as a basic principle for coexistence. Therefore, Spain has promoted and protected international initiatives such as the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, the efforts to which we acknowledge. The creation of basic security across the country, which has now been flouted by gangs, is essential. Without this security, we cannot guarantee human rights. We would urge Haitian authorities to maintain efforts to try to develop education and healthcare, as well as efforts in the field of justice. to respect the right to fair trial for those who are violating human rights. We also call for a safe space so that representatives of civil society and human rights defenders can exercise their role as change makers in the country. We must step up and coordinate our efforts to support Haitian authorities and ensure that human rights are at the heart of all international efforts to find a solution to the serious security situation afflicting the country. Thank you.

Thank you very much. We now continue with the delegation of Ireland.

Vice President, Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU and thanks the High Commissioner and designated human rights experts for their update. Ireland is deeply concerned about the ongoing severe humanitarian and human rights crisis in Haiti. We note with concern growing numbers of internally displaced persons, high levels of food insecurity, and forced recruitment of children and young people to gangs, and the widespread nature of sexual and gender-based violence across the country. Ireland condemns in the strongest terms the systematic use of sexual violence as a weapon against Haitians, and notes the particular risk to women and girls. We are further concerned by the high rates of maternal mortality. We call for an end to all human rights violations and abuses, for perpetrators to be held accountable, and for justice and reparations for victims and survivors. Ireland supports the leadership provided by CARICOM and the Organization of American States in working with the Transitional Presidential Council of Haiti with a view to establishing a pathway towards elections. We reaffirm that a Haitian-led process, supported by the international community, is vital to ending the ongoing violence and instability. High Commissioner, what can states do to support the transitional presidential council and the democratic process in Haiti? Thank.

You. Thank you very much.

I'll now give the floor to Switzerland.

Madame Vice President. Switzerland thanks the High Commissioner for the update. Haiti is going through a deep crisis, with thousands of deaths and food insecurity. Switzerland is concerned about the serious human rights violations that are particularly affecting women and children. Gender-based violence is perpetrated by armed gangs, and traditional models of society are destroying families. We are seeing These crimes need to be investigated. Switzerland is committed to protecting victims of violence but also to bolstering resilience in the short and medium term. At this juncture, we must not forget Haiti. With the end of the mandate of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, significant decisions need to be taken as to how to support the resolution for the security situation, this multinational, multidimensional security situation, is not to be forgotten. We must try to create prospects, particularly for young people. High Commissioner, what prospects do you think there are to try to promote social cohesion and justice in Haiti in order to halt the spiral of violence? Thank you.

Thank you very much. And I turn to the Ambassador of Cuba.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice-President. The brother nation of Haiti is facing huge challenges, a result of centuries of colonial pillaging. The international community has a huge historic debt with this Caribbean country, a protagonist in one of the initial revolutions of our continent. It has become an unacceptable sign or signal of indifference. This nation needs more and better international solidarity. It needs more and better international cooperation. It is calling for more generosity. We need to devote to Haiti at least part of the many resources that this council wastes to support many interfering mandates that are worthless. We need to create effective mechanisms that judiciously use our resources in order to support the Haitian people. Unfortunately, many of the supports that have been pledged in the past were insufficient. and they never were given by the donors or they were pocketed for traveling costs and so on. In many occasions, the real priorities of the Haitian people were not catered for. This cannot be repeated. We will continue to provide our support and extend a hand to this brother nation and they can count on the support of Cuba. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Ambassador. I now give the floor to the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We are grateful to the High Commissioner for his report. Criminal gangs continue to commit abuses, including killings, kidnappings and sexual violence. Over a million Haitians have been displaced and access to essential services is severely restricted. Restoring security is essential to Haiti's long-term stability. The UK supported the Multinational Security Support Mission by providing 5 million to the Office of the High Commissioner to ensure the mission complies with international standards on human rights, conduct and discipline. We welcome the Office's role in ensuring the mission operates in line with the highest standards of human rights protection. We also welcome efforts at the UN Security Council to develop a coordinated and sustained way forward for Haiti's security and stability. Any future arrangements should seek to protect the rights and civil liberties of Haitians. Moreover, we will continue to act against perpetrators of human rights abuses in Haiti, including through our human rights sanctions regime. How can the international community ensure that future security arrangements in Haiti support a Haitian-led political process that protects rights and freedoms? Thank you.

Thank.

You very much. I now call on the Russian Federation.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The situation in human rights in Haiti remains dire. are organized criminal groups that control up to 90% of the territory of Port-au-Prince. The criminal elements and gangs have stepped up their attacks on the country, trying to expand their zones of influence. The worst situation is in the Centre and Artibonite regions. According to the UN Representation in Haiti, the The number of killings and kidnappings remains very high. We are also seeing sexual violence. More than 1.3 million people have been forced to flee their homes. We are seeing a terrible situation in places of deprivation of liberty, where there is a lack of water and food and access to medical supplies. This situation in Haiti is the consequence of long-term neocolonial policies by the West against this Caribbean state and the imposition on Haiti of recipes for resolving situations in... And we are convinced that... A long-standing solution for the situation can only be found by the Haitians themselves, and this would help them. This would be aided by organizing elections as soon as possible.

Thank you.

Thank you. And I call on Egypt.

Vice President, Egypt welcomes the High Commissioner for his oral update. We express our appreciation for all efforts related to technical assistance and capacity building in Haiti. We encourage the government to continue strengthening its capacities and cooperating with human rights mechanisms to protect human rights. We emphasize providing technical assistance to continue its relevant national efforts. We highlight the importance of supporting technical cooperation and capacity building mechanisms in various countries as a means of strengthening their capabilities to enhance civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, including the right to development. We emphasize that this support be extended in line with countries' requests and needs and priorities. And thank you, Vice President.

Thank you. We will now hear from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you, Vice President. Since the feat of the Haitian Revolution, the people of Haiti have been a symbol for the freedom struggles and the spirit of equality which inspired our America on its path towards independence and freedom. For more than two centuries, Venezuela and Haiti have been bound by ties of brotherhood, recording the support provided by President Petion to the liberator Simon Bolivar at the dawn of our independence. This very same tradition of solidarity was what led to Petrocaribe, a mechanism which facilitated access to fundamental energy resources for the development of the Haitian people. However, Unilateral coercive measures that have been illegally imposed on Venezuela have had a negative impact on this comprehensive cooperation program, limiting the benefits it was generating. Venezuela regrets that Haiti has been the victim of external interventions and which have triggered violence and a lack of stability. Therefore, we reject all forms of interference and the deployment of foreign forces in its territory. Cooperation and technical assistance are fundamental pillars in order to tackle challenges in the field of human rights, as long as they have the consent of the concerned and with the only goal being to achieve the full economic and social development for the Haitian people. Thank you.

Thank you. I now call on China.

Thank you, Vice President. We have taken note of the oral update by the High Commissioner and we would like to express our deepest sympathy for the situation of the Haitian people, especially the plight of children. Haiti is currently plunged in a political, security, and development crisis, as well as a humanitarian one, and this is of great concern. It is urgent that the Haitian authorities unite all parties and factions so as to move ahead with the political process led by the Haitian people themselves, and in order to create conditions that foster sustainable and stable aid from the international community. China encourages the Haitian authorities to step up their investment in security and development, and we call on the countries of the region, as well as the international community, to continue to support Haiti in order to gradually strengthen social protection and the country's. capacity for autonomous development. Moreover, any international assistance should benefit from the support of the Haitian people and should respect international law and the principles of international relations, and it should not undermine sovereignty or interfere in domestic affairs. China stands ready to maintain communications with all parties and to try and achieve a consensus in order to contribute in a constructive way to finding a way out of the crisis for Haiti. Thank you very much, Vice-President.

Thank you. That was the last speaker on my list. We will now move on to the national human rights institutions and non-governmental organisations. The first speaker on my list is the Haiti Office for the Protection of Citizens.

Thank you, Vice-President. The Citizens Protection Office would like today to highlight the dire situation of internally displaced persons. In its investigation on the situation, which was published last month, we set out in great detail the scale of the problem and suggested suitable measures for the authorities to consider so as to prevent this displacement situation from leading to further tragic events in a context that is already absolutely dire. There is over 1.2 million people currently living in a situation of overcrowding, with thousands of children who can't go to school. Private homes and public buildings, as well as school buildings and vocational training centers, university premises, as well as religious sites, have been pillaged and then burnt by a coalition of gangsters who have plunged the country into further alienation and misery. I am sorry to be painting such a grim picture, but it actually only represents the tip of the iceberg of the suffering of the Haitian people. I could have engaged in a speech which would have been didactical and which would have talked about the... desired blessings of democracy and the rule of law. But that would have been, from my point of view, a lack of respect for the suffering of these young women who have lost their voice from because of crying out for justice so much without ever being heard after having been kidnapped and raped, some of them executed without even though a ransom was paid. And yet the authorities have done nothing to try and bring justice. We will always defend the aspirations of the Haitian citizens, their aspirations to freedom, and the

Vice President interrupts. Thank you very much. I will now move on to the next speaker, the Lutheran World Federation.

Good morning, Mr. President. I speak on behalf of the Lutheran World Federation and its partner, Norway Church Aid. We're present in Haiti, and we have witnessed the protracted humanitarian crisis. The people of Haiti are not asking for pity. They're demanding respect, protection, and the fulfillment of their human rights. Armed conflict, displacement, hunger, and the collapse of essential services have stripped millions of their dignity and safety. Today, nearly half of the population depend on urgent assistance. We have seen families flee in the capital of Gyan and the south, arriving with nothing but trauma. Among them, women and girls as young as 10 who have been subjected to sexual violence and exploitation, communities battling hunger, cholera, and fear. Our ability to support Haitian communities rely on the safe humanitarian access, civilians protection, and urgent international solidarity. We urge the international community to ensure the humanitarian exceptions under Security Council Resolution 2664 so that the life-saving assistance is not obstructed by sanction measures. The Council engagement and the international community's sustained support are vital to restore hope, dignity to the Haitian people. Thank you, Mr. President.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. We will now continue with the Center for Global Non-Killing.

President, ladies and gentlemen, armed gangs in Haiti are terrorizing, killing, and abducting the population, controlling close to 90% of the capital and blocking roads connecting the 10 departments. Recently, more than 40 people, including women, children, and the elderly, were massacred in the commune of Kabare. The Grand North, Artibonite, the Central Region, and the Great South are cut off from the capital. Hundreds of thousands of families have been forced to flee. Many are currently surviving in inhuman conditions. As of June 2025, approximately 1.3 million people had been displaced by violence, more than half of whom are children. Nearly one child in six in Haiti is displaced now, which amounts to some 700,000 children. And paradoxically, 30 to 50% of gang members are also children. This tragic situation is the result of structural violence linked to poverty and social injustice. The response, over and beyond security measures, must necessarily integrate an approach that is based on the principle of non-killing, including peace education programmes in schools and communities. We urge the Council and the international community to support these efforts to give Haiti a chance to regain peace and dignity. Thank you.

Thank you.

The next speaker is Edmund Rice International Limited.

Mrs. Vice President, during the Human Rights Council's one-year extension of the mandate of the independent human rights expert for Haiti, appointed by the High Commissioner, concerns over a violation of human rights have continued to plague the state. Despite calls during the 58th session of the HRC to ensure safety and rights of Haitian civilians, countless incidents of violence have still occurred, including a recent drone strike carried out by the government task force in Port-au-Prince that killed at least 11 people, including a pregnant woman and children. Multiple reports estimate that between April and June, more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in violent attacks by criminal groups. Potentially exacerbating the situation, a February executive order of the US administration have sought to temporary protected status for more than 500,000 Haitians living in the United States. While this order was recently blocked by a US federal judge, the potential effects of a reputation of dissidence would both threaten their own safety and disrupt the prospect of restablishing stability in the state. We call upon the United States to extend temporary protected status for Haitians living in the US and to continue its efforts in stemming the flow of illicit weapons in Haiti. We call also upon the United Right Council to urge the UN Security Council members to authorize a full security mission with sufficient resources and personnel to restore order and protect democratic institutions.

Thank you.

Thank you. We'll now continue with Cecile.

Thank you, President. CACED would like to thank the High Commissioner and the independent expert for their tireless work, despite ongoing widespread and systematic violations of human rights in Haiti. Gangs currently control public spaces, committing killings and kidnappings, sexual violence, and recruiting children, while hundreds of thousands of people are displaced and hungry. We note the adoption by the Security Council of Resolution 2793, which creates a gang suppression force. But a security operation, however necessary, cannot be a blank cheque. It must be strictly circumscribed by international human rights law. There should be clear rules of engagement, a clear and transparent accountability chain and predictable financing so as to protect the population and not expose it to further abuse. We therefore call immediate protection for civilians and humanitarian access that is safe and unhindered, including to the for the neighborhoods of Port-au-Prince, an independent human rights monitoring mechanism with public investigations into all allegations of abuse by state actors or non-state actors, urgent measures against arm illicit arm flows and demobilization and reinsertion of children used by gangs with financing, and the strengthening of the rule of law, support for the national Haitian police, a fight against corruption and credible timeline for free elections as soon as this is possible from a security perspective. The people of Haiti can no longer wait and the gang suppression forces will only be legitimate if they actually save lives.

Thank you.

Thank you. We will now hear from Interfaith International.

Madam Vice-President, Interfaith International thanks the High Commissioner for his oral update on the situation in Haiti and endorses his recommendations. The situation there commands our urgent attention, not only as a humanitarian crisis, but as a test of collective resolve, human dignity, and justice. Over the past year, Haiti has endured a spiral of violence, state fragility, and social collapse. Criminal gangs now exert de facto control over the vast swathes of Port-au-Prince and other regions, disrupting essential services, displacing over a million people, and deepening food insecurity. The human toll is stark. Hundreds of thousands of Haitians face dire hunger, health systems are under siege, and the most vulnerable, women, children, and displaced communities are trapped in cycles of abuse, exploitation, and impunity. Reports of massacres, mass graves, forced recruitment of children, sexual and gender-based violence, and the collapse of judicial institutions demand our moral alarm. We welcome the Haitian authorities requests to strengthen international engagement, including proposals to expand the Multinational Security Support Mission into a robust, sustained force. Yet it must be made clear, security responses alone cannot succeed without accountability, justice, and inclusive governance. Let us remember the crisis in Haiti is not a distant or isolated one. It is a reflection of global justice, solidarity, and shared obligation to protect human dignity. Interfaith International stands ready to support faith actors, local communities, and international partners in building peace rooted in justice, care, and reconciliation. I thank you, my Vice President.

Thank you very much. We will continue with Human Rights Watch.

Madam Vice President, we thank the High Commissioner for his update and for the ongoing work of his office and the designated expert to address Haiti's crisis. Since the High Commissioner's March report, violence has escalated, pushing the number of displaced Haitians to 1.4 million. During a recent visit to Northern Haiti, Human Rights Watch interviewed dozens of displaced people from the capital, many of them former students and professionals who lost their homes and livelihoods and are now sheltering in Cap-Haitien without access to essential services or aid, despite efforts by the UN and local organizations. Violations of their rights to life and security by criminal groups are compounded by the state's failure to ensure protection. Madam Vice President, as violence in Haiti continues to worsen, the international community should strengthen its engagement to ensure that efforts to restore security are grounded in human rights and effectively protect Haitians. Following the recent UN Security Council authorization to transform the Multinational Security Support Mission into a gang suppression force in Haiti, it is essential that the international community ensure the mission is properly resourced, fully accountable, and equipped with robust human rights safeguards. We'd like to ask the High Commissioner and designated expert how the international community could better support a comprehensive rights-based response that addresses urgent humanitarian needs and strengthen protection for victims of violence, including displaced people. Thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. We now have Amnesty International.

Madam Vice-President, Amnesty International is deeply concerned that the lack of long-term security solutions in Haiti could deepen the human rights crisis in the country amid continuing crimes and human rights violations and abuses. The deployment of private military actors with a record of abuse poses serious human rights risks and further undermines state institutions. Amnesty International notes new initiatives, but stresses that any mechanism must include human rights safeguards, independent monitoring, and accountability for all those suspected of criminal responsibility. Furthermore, the humanitarian and security response plan is severely underfunded, with USAID suspensions already forcing Haitian CSOs to shut down vital health services, undermining protection for those most at risk. Our research has documented how children are routinely recruited and used by gangs, subjected to sexual violence, and killed or injured by indiscriminate gunfire and in deliberate attack. A comprehensive child protection roadmap is urgently needed to end these abuses and violations and ensure children's rights. Mr. President, Haitians are asking for dignity, rights, and security. The international community must match words with action. We call on states to engage with Haitian authorities towards guaranteeing durable security solutions, applying strict safeguards to all security actors, and restoring as well as increasing predictable funding for essential services, including child protection. High Commissioner, what can be done to ensure that Haitian civil society is empowered to play an effective role in shaping solutions? Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. This was the last speaker that we could accommodate for this dialogue. I will now give the floor to Mr. William O'Neill for his concluding remarks.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice President and Excellencies. I hope you can hear me. I've had some trouble hearing the dialogue in and out, but I think I captured most of the the discussion. So, first of all, let me thank you all for your attention and commitment to Haiti. It is at a crisis point, as you've heard throughout this morning. It can't be more dire. I really can't exaggerate the gravity of the situation and all the statistics and stories you've heard about the IDPs, sexual violence, killings, kidnappings are all true. I'll try to respond to some of the questions that have come up in the dialogue, and maybe I'll group them a bit because they share some common themes. I mean, how best can the international community, and in particular, in our case, the United Nations and BINUH and human rights, help the situation in Haiti? One is keeping the spotlight on. And I have to commend my colleagues in Haiti, in the human rights service in BINUH, are doing a fantastic job under really trying circumstances, very dangerous and difficult, to gather information and confirm the ground truth of what's happening in Haiti. So that's crucial, and we have to keep doing that. Two, they not only report and tell us what's happening, but there are many initiatives to try to help the government. And here the questions come up about what can we do to help effectively address human rights violations, build the rule of law. It's absolutely crucial that the Haitian National Police do their jobs and do their jobs consistent with human rights principles. very concerned about the excessive use of force reported cases. They need to be investigated and if it's true, then those who are responsible need to be held accountable. First of all, this helps the police because it makes them, it helps build confidence in the population. They can see that they can trust their police, that they will do the right thing, and if they do the wrong thing, there will be consequences. And the police need help and support, but they also need to be held to these principles. It's for their benefit actually and for the benefit of the entire country. Second, the judiciary. There are huge problems with the judiciary, lacking resources, lacking everything you can imagine. They also work under great stress, especially in the capital and the gang-controlled areas. But there are also problems of lack of accountability with the judiciary and also corruption and interference. So that needs to be addressed. I think that there's a part of the government called the unit that fights corruption, the French acronym is the ULCC, that has done fantastic work uncovering corruption cases. They've documented these cases and presented them to the judiciary. The problem is, in the judiciary, the cases seem to die. And there have only been a handful of cases prosecuted with over 100 that were submitted. So this is a problem, and it also tarnishes the image of the judiciary, and Haitians lose faith in their institution. But if they see that some people are held to account, this, again, will help build faith and trust and help restore some of this torn social cohesion that is plaguing Haiti now with all the violence and the consequences of the violence and the institution's failure to address them properly. And I think here we are also doing, we and everyone working on this issue will be benefiting the Haitian institutions, but more broadly speaking, the Haitian state and people if they're seen to function fairly and independently and without outside interference. On the international side, I think several items have come up in questions, what could be done to help restore security, how long might it take. I think Brazil asked. I would just say this, if the international community in here, I mean all the UN member states, all of them, were to take seriously the arms embargo and stop the flow of weapons and bullets that the gangs depend on, and if sanctions were enforced more rigorously on those who are allied with the gangs, who are supporting them either financially or in other ways, and finally, with the new force that we're about to see come into formation, Those three elements, if they are properly and robustly implemented, could turn the situation around in a matter of months. I really believe that the gangs are not that powerful. They have no support among the population. In fact, the population to test them. And that's something that I think is in favor of the efforts to try to suppress the gangs power. And lastly, I think the issue of children has come up several times. I just want to end with this point. There are many children who need rehabilitation that are in the gangs, that half or so are in or gang members, and also generally children are half the population of the displaced, like 700,000 children. So we need programs and assistance that will help children to be rehabilitated and to take up their future roles in Haitian society. So I'll stop there. Thank you.

Thank you very much. We will now continue with the words from Mathias Pincher, who is the head of the Central America branch of International Cooperation.

Mathias, please.

Thank you.

Thank you, first of all, ladies and gentlemen, for all the words of support to Haiti and human rights in Haiti. I think that is a testament to the fact that it is a situation that deserves the attention of the international community. I also wanted to thank those of you who have directly supported work on human rights and our work on human rights in Haiti, and that's absolutely vital.

I'd also like to express my gratitude to the government of Haiti for their cooperation. We stand firm in our commitment to continue this cooperation so as to ensure the inclusion of human rights in all the activities of the government.

There were some questions about the new gang suppression force that has been adopted by the Security Council. We obviously stand ready to support the implementation of the resolution, and we need to stress that already a lot of work has been done on human rights in the MSSM, which we, of course, can build on. The resolution provides for a UN support office that will support the gang suppression force, and we also plan to be in that in terms of the human rights work there. One is, of course, to ensure that the human rights due diligence policy applies in everything that the human rights that the United Nations does in support of the force. But also, and this is vital, and the Security Council stresses the need for the force to have to be compliant with international human rights. And there we can certainly provide some support. It's vital that this compliance framework of the force be robust, uh, because the, the, we need to be able to mitigate all the risks there are and ensure, uh, sufficient follow up action. Um, I would also say that in addition, in, in terms of what we do, I think the human rights monitoring and reporting role of BINU will remain vital. Um.

There was a question about the humanitarian situation. What I can say is that the Human Rights Office and the cluster protection unit have been supporting the work of humanitarian officers in order to include human rights, but access remains very difficult for humanitarians. We strongly support closer cooperation between the authorities and humanitarian staff. Of course, we share the concerns regarding children at all levels, but it has to be emphasized, I think. And finally, a couple of words about civil society. The role of civil society, be it international or national civil society, is crucial if we are to succeed in our work in Haiti, and it's important to lend them support. Thank you.

Thank you very much. This leads us to the end of the interactive dialogue. I would like to thank the High Commissioner, as well as Matthias Benke, and of course, Mr. O'Neill, who is the independent expert on the situation of human rights in Haiti. Thank you for your participation. We will take a short break now before beginning the interactive dialogue with the independent expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic. Thank you.

We.

Will now begin, distinguished colleagues, dear friends. We will begin the interactive dialogue with the independent expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic. The list of speakers will close in 15 minutes. I now give the floor to Mr. Yao Agbetse to present his report.

Thank you, Vice-President. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I am here before you today to present my sixth and last report on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic. It is with a sense of gratitude that I would like to thank the Central African authorities, who have always cooperated with me. The participation in person of His Excellency Mr. Arnaud Djouba Abazine, Minister of Justice and the Promotion of Human Rights, is a testimony to the good political will of the authorities and the presence within the delegation of the head of the National Human Rights Commission also reflects the country's will to strengthen national institutions on human rights. President, when the Human Rights Council adopted resolution 2434 in 2013, establishing the mandate of the independent expert on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic, the country was on life support. Under the impetus of Ms. Marie-Therese Keita-Bokoum, who is the first mandate holder, remarkable work was done. The international community mobilized itself, and bold efforts from the Central African authorities brought a first breath of oxygen. When I was appointed in 2019, the Central African had not yet recovered. It was still bleeding from an open wound. Its hemorrhage was a security, social, economic, financial, and political one. But today, we have still not stemmed the bleeding. The country is trying to get up again. It stumbles, but it remains on its two feet. For it to move forwards with strength and dignity, we need to find specific and sustainable solutions for the tremendous challenges that still lie in its path towards recovery. At the security level, the peace agreement signed on the 19th of April 2025 between the government and the armed groups 3R and UPC. was a major step for rebooting the peace process in keeping with the political agreement of 19 February 2019 and the Luanda roadmap. The effective dissolution of all armed groups regardless of whether or not they have signed the peace agreements, must be a priority in the short term, and it should go hand in hand with better planned and better organized disarmament and demobilization, as well as the deployment of basic social services in demilitarized area in order to ensure stabilization. In this context, 117 fighters from the 3R armed group were disarmed and demobilized early December in Sangheh Lim. However, Peace-building and the restoration of security require co-ordinated responses at three levels. At the national level, there has to be reform of the security sector, and this should begin with training, equipment, deployment, including in border areas, as well as the strengthening of command chains and accountability in order to ensure the state can fully ensure its own security. MINUSCA should be given the necessary means, especially as regards anticipation and aerial surveillance capabilities, in order to deploy advanced bases in border zones that are under tension and in the Vakaga area in particular, along the border with Sudan and M'bomo with South Sudan. Also, the African Union should, uh, consider in the short term organizing a sub-regional conference on peace and development. At the sub-regional level, for instability is ongoing, especially due to the conflict in Sudan. This is having a direct impact on the Central African Republic. On the 20th of June, a MINUSCA patrol was attacked and, uh, in… From the 17th to 22nd of September, several villages around M'pafou were attacked, with houses being destroyed and burnt, and serious violations made against the lives of civilian populations. At the international level, the Security Council must ensure that its resolution 2745 is comprehensively implemented, as states should not provide any weapons or military equipment or assistance to the armed groups that are operative in the Central African Republic. Sanctions against people who are on the Security Council's sanction list must be rigorously implemented, and the configuration of the Central African Republic and the Peacebuilding Commission of the United Nations should step up its good offices in order to remove the obstacles that still hamper the path to peace. It is only by building strategic capacities and the organization and operational capabilities of the Central African armed forces that the country will, in the long run, be able to reduce the country's dependence on foreign forces. The security situation in the Mbomou and High Mbomou is of particular concern. In particular, the involvement of the head of state, Professor Faustin-Archange Touadja, through regular visits in the region, could contribute to appeasing the atmosphere there and preventing further serious human rights violations and reducing intercommunity tensions between the Azande, Anek, Bie, Gbeya, and Muslim communities, as well as Pool and Arab communities. The deployment of the armed forces of the Central African Republic should also help protect assets and prosecute violations and ensure that, and this must be done by ensuring that the forces themselves are properly trained and integrated into the army. At the political level, the first round of local, municipal, regional, legislative and presidential elections is scheduled for the 25th of December this year. In the Central African context, political dialogue is not an option but an imperative, and it should take place within a permanent framework in accordance with the spirit of the republican dialogue and the recommendations that stemmed therefrom. As I said in my report to the Council and in my recent press release, prompt institutional reform and at least some significant support for the national elections authority is of the essence, given the constraints that they're grappling with, especially as regards the availability of definitive electoral lists. In order to ensure free, transparent and peaceful and inclusive elections, including participation of women and young persons, the election authority should establish robust mechanisms to prevent protests and violence before, during and after the vote. During the electoral period, it is also essential to step up the resources of the High Council on Communication so that it can fully deliver on its mandate of combating hate speech and disinformation in traditional and digital media. Those who spread hate speech should feel the full force of the law and they should not be pardoned by political parties who might benefit from their subversive manoeuvres. There also has to be equal access for candidates to public media, regardless of their political affiliations, and candidates should also have the necessary security and logistic wherewithal in order to ensure the credibility of the electoral process. I call for there to be sufficient financial support for the national electoral authority so as to ensure that there are the necessary conditions for transparent, inclusive elections that can bring stability. Also, I believe that the strong dependence of the Central African Republic on international aid lays bare the need for a renewed model of economic governance, one that is based on rigorous planning and proactive leadership in order to ensure the transparent and equitable exploitation of national resources. The High Authority for Good Governance should have technical and financial support in order to fully play its role in order to bolster domestic revenue, including through tax reforms and transparent public finance management, better administration of the mining sector, better tax collection, including at customs posts, and also the car on the fuel market. Also, given the scale of the territory and the scale of the ongoing social and infrastructure challenges in the heartland, the decentralization and local governance are essential as levers for restoring and building the authority of the state. Municipal elections scheduled for December would be an opportunity to effectively implement the national policy for decentralization and territorial development 2022-2032.

On social services. Years of conflict and instability have deeply weakened the social fabric. Extreme poverty is becoming increasingly entrenched, making the population more and more vulnerable, and the social protection system is weak. More than 65% of the population are living in systemic poverty. Against this backdrop, social programmes for development, particularly in terms of crop and livestock rearing, professional training and entrepreneurship, need to be established as strategic priorities of the Government in order to bolster the resilience of communities and to create lasting prospects for young people and women. I urge States and international institutions to support the requests of the Central African authorities. On justice, the regular holding of criminal hearings, not just at the Court of Appeal of Bangui, but also the courts of Ouara and Bambari, are crucial to make headway with combating impunity. The continuous training of magistrates, clerks and court officers must also be made a priority. Full demilitarisation of places of deprivation of liberty and the adoption of a lasting plan for reintegrating detainees are crucial in order to avoid on-spot releases and to reduce the risks of reoffending. The special criminal court continues its work with significant decisions, and its jurisprudence sends a clear signal to the perpetrators of violations that their sponsors and accomplices, sooner or later, justice will catch them, as we saw in the conviction by the ICC on the 24th of July 2025 of Alfred Yekatom and Patrice Edouard Nkizimana to 15 and 12 years of imprisonment. The Special Criminal Court, like the Commission on Truth, Justice, Reparation, and Reconciliation, needs to be equipped with appropriate funds. I also advocate the connection of the Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission under the Minister of Justice in order to ensure an appropriate institutional framework. Its institutional journey is still fragile, and yet its mandate is essential. The implementation of its plan of action, including the deployment in rural parts of the country, requires technical and financial support. Looking at human rights issues, over the past six years, as part of my mandate, I have called for and reported to the Human Rights Council on violations by state actors and other groups. The appropriate implementation of DDR and the dissolving of armed groups is crucial to ensure that the civilian population is not subjected to such acts. The situation of the population is inextricably linked to the security situation and the provision of basic services, such as drinking water, education, social protection, the right to healthcare and other services. Those are all a challenge across the country. Extending the authority of the state should not just be a motto, it needs to be cemented through the effective implementation of the national policy on human rights and its plan of action. Madam Vice-President, to conclude, given that this is my last mandate, my last report to the Council, I'd like to say that this was an honour and a privilege for me to serve the Council and the Central African Republic and its people who are resilient and admirable. And I've done this for the past six years. Now I'm leaving the Central African Republic a little less weak than it was at the beginning of my mandate. Please take care of it. Its people still need you. Do not give up on the CAR because it's now that technical and financial support needs to be enhanced to consolidate efforts already made and to provide lasting support to its recovery.

I thank you.

Thank you very much. In keeping with our usual practice, we will begin hearing from the country concerned. I now give the floor to the representative of the Central African Republic for five minutes.

Madam Vice-President, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished delegates, it's an honour and a pleasure to once again take part in the work of the 60th session on behalf of the Central African Government. It's an opportunity for me to take stock of the human rights situation in my country, in the Central African Republic, following the report from the independent expert. This report is the last report from Mr. Yaw Agbedzo. and his mandate has come to an end. Allow me, therefore, to convey my satisfaction and that of my country as to the high quality of the cooperation we've had between Mr. Agbedze and human rights actors in our country. Mr. Yau Agbedze, on behalf of the Central African Republic, I would like to thank you and wish you all the best. Madam Vice-President, The Central African Republic continues its efforts to restore the state's authority across the country, guarantee the security and safety of its people, combat impunity, consolidate democracy and the rule of law, and guarantee the respect and promotion of human rights, as well as embrace development. On the restoration of authority of state and security, the reform that began since its accession to the supreme magistrature of the country has almost complete. The new regions created and the governance and the prefectures and the sub-prefectures as well as the various districts of Bangui are now up and running. There's no area, municipal area, in the Central African Republic that is lacking administrative authority. On a security level, the reform is bearing fruit. We are seeing the central African armed forces and the police forces that have been supported. There's the involvement of the general inspectorate of the army and the operationalization of military justice. The implementation of the various peace accords is continuing, and there was a recent signing on the 19th of April, 2025, of an additional agreement supported by our sisterly nation, Chad, which is devoted to returning the African police and prisons community and the remaining armed groups. On justice and combating impunity, Central African justice, which has been hampered by decades of crisis, is recovering its reputation and has won acclaim. National courts are operational, and we have seen significant growth with the creation of 24 new courts, including around 100 new judges. That is improving the availability of justice and access to do it. The courts of appeal of Bangui, Bouar, and M'bambary, in addition to Bouale, Bosangoa, Briang, Bangassou, which were recently established, are holding criminal hearings in order to investigate the most serious cases of violations of human rights. The Special Criminal Court, although we've seen a restriction in its budget due to a number of lack of contributions, is continuing to conduct hearings and to make decisions on international crime cases. The Commission on Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation has recently been re-established. On consolidating democracy and the rule of law, the CAR is preparing for presidential, legislative and local elections that are due to take place in December 2025. These elections will renew democratic institutions and help to bring about new local assemblies, which will help guarantee local governance. There have been some delays because of technical and financial issues. and the Government is now respecting the new schedule that is incumbent upon it. The electoral body has been established and we are hoping for a successful election. On human rights and development, we have seen progress and we are implementing the national human rights plan over five years, 2023 to 2028. We count on working with the international community to rise to these challenges. Ladies and gentlemen, the Central African Republic is had a recent roundtable in September in Casablanca with support from Morocco, and many states and partner organizations have kept their promises. Development in the Central African Republic is underway, and it requires commitment from the international community. This is a country emerging from a crisis, and we need to be able to count on the solidarity of the international community to be able to bring a smile back to the people in Central African Republic. I thank you.

Thank you very much. The list of speakers is now closed. I invite interested delegations to ask questions of the independent expert and make comments on the report. As usual, you have 1 minute 30 seconds for each statement. I begin by giving the floor to the European Union.

Independent expert, your report refers to some progress in the CAR regarding judicial reforms and combating impunity. It also underscores the fragile humanitarian situation and human rights situation marked by sexual violence and violations of the rights of the child. The civilian population remains the first victim of violations, including by mercenaries. The withdrawal of mercenaries is indispensable for lasting peace. MINUSCA is working tirelessly and their assistance is precious. We also hear the work of the special criminal courts in combating impunity and renew our support. The European Union welcomes the signing of the peace accords on the 19th of April 2025 and calls on signatories to respect these terms, notably on DDR. We would encourage the CAR and its partners to continue to follow the recommendations in your report. It calls on the effective implementation of all parties of the political agreement for peace and reconciliation and the Luanda roadmap, as well as the holding of local legislative and presidential elections in 2025 that will be free, transparent and inclusive. I thank you.

Thank you. We now turn to Luxembourg, who's speaking on behalf of a group of countries.

Madam Vice President, I speak on behalf of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. We thank Mr. Akbete for his report. The Central African Republic stands at a critical juncture today. The upcoming elections constitute a historic opportunity towards a democratic, inclusive, and peaceful society.

Armed.

Violence, however, continues to lead to grave violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law, including forced displacements. We strongly condemn the crimes committed by all parties. The situation remains particularly unstable in the eastern regions, where spillover effects of the conflict in neighboring Sudan have led to increased smuggling activities. We welcome the recent advances made in the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration scheme, and in particular, the return of the armed groups Unite pour la Paix en Centrafrique and Retour, Reclamation and Rehabilitation to the peace process and their subsequent dissolution. We call upon other groups to follow suit and lay down arms. We call on the government of the Central African Republic to respect and protect the right to freedom of expression and assembly, to hold arbitrary detentions, and to end the use of torture. Only with this enabling environment in place will elections be free, fair and transparent. Finally, we commend the Central African Republic for the ratification of the Maputo Protocol on women's rights last July. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. We now continue with Ghana, on behalf of the Group of African States.

Madam Vice-President, Ghana delivers this statement on behalf of the African Group. The group welcomes the significant progress made by the Central African Republic in the field of human rights, as well as its constructive cooperation with United Nations mechanisms, including the independent expert and the country office of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. We encourage the Central African Republic to continue its efforts and, in accordance with the commitment already expressed, to soon submit its candidacy to serve on the Human Rights Council in order to actively contribute to the work of this body. To this end, we invite all States to it with their valuable support. The African Group invites all delegations to adopt by consensus the resolution on technical assistance and capacity building in the Central African Republic, which reflects the ongoing and united support of the international community. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you very much.

When I continue with South Sudan.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. South Sudan takes note of the independent expert's report on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic and aligns with the African group statement. We also commend the cooperation of the Central African Republic government with the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights and the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms. Madam Vice President, we commend the efforts of the government of the Central African Republic to restore peace, security, and stability in the country despite challenges it faces being a post-conflict country and which requires support. In this context, we agree with the independent experts' observation that technical and financial support services be provided to the government of the Central African Republic directed towards strengthening national institutions, especially in the areas of training, equipment, and deployment of its defense and security, including the establishment or enhancement of accountability mechanisms to enable the country to address challenges. Madam Chair, we thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. We now continue with Morocco.

Madam Vice President, my delegation would like to renew our full support to the Central African authorities in their efforts to establish peace and lasting security in the country, and we hailed their cooperation with the Human Rights Council's mechanisms. Morocco has always stood alongside this country, notably in guaranteeing or in taking up the presidency of the country of the CAR in the Commission for Consolidating Peace, and by deploying the blue helmets within MINUSCA. In the same framework, Morocco organized a roundtable for investment in the financing of the national plan for development in CAR. With a view to lasting peace, Morocco encourages all measures taken by the Government to establish local, legislative and presidential elections. Furthermore, my delegation hails the process for a plan of action for implementing the recommendations accepted by the UPR. Furthermore, Morocco is pleased to see efforts deployed by the OHCHR in the CAR. through technical support and bolstering national capacities. By way of conclusion, my delegation reaffirms the importance for the international community to continue its support to the stabilisation efforts in the CAR through coherent and lasting support. It must continue to mobilise financial and technical resources that are key to providing the adequate support to the efforts of the CAR. I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Thank you very much. The next speaker is the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They're not in the room. We'll continue with Slovenia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Slovenia aligns itself with the EU statement. We thank the independent expert, Azbece, for the overview report on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic. Slovenia welcomes encouraging progress in justice sector reforms and steps towards combating impunity. We remain concerned by the persistence of fundamental human rights violations, in particular children's rights and conflict-related sexual violence, and the breaches of the international humanitarian law. MINUSCA's role in preventing and documenting these violations remains vital. Slovenia reiterates its support to the indispensable work of the Special Criminal Court. We urge the international community to ensure the court remains adequately funded and properly staffed. Slovenia calls the government of the Central African Republic to hold free, transparent, and inclusive combined elections in December. Mr. Agbetsa, implementation of peace instruments remains essential for reconciliation and long-term stabilization. We welcome the peace agreement reached with the 3R and UPC and their return to the political agreement, which must be implemented in good faith. Can you provide an update on the implementation of the peace agreement with UPC and 3R, especially in regard of the DDR processes? I thank you.

Thank you very much.

We'll now continue with Cameroon.

Cameroon thanks the independent expert for the presentation of his report and aligns itself with the statement by the African Group. My country hails the cooperation of the Central African authorities with the United Nations and notes with satisfaction the signature on the 19th of April 2025 of the new peace accords. This offers a glimmer of hope for stability and national reconciliation, in particular through disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration and the repatriation of former combatants, as well as the reduction of community violence. Cameroon also takes note of progress in the operation of the special criminal court and the establishment of a new commission for truth, justice, reparation and reconciliation. It is crucial that those mechanisms be appropriately equipped with resources and that they can act independently to guarantee justice, truth and reparation for victims. As a neighborly and brotherly country, Cameroon is particularly vigilant as to security and humanitarian challenges along border areas. We appeal to the international community to maintain and bolster its support to the CAR by supporting national and regional efforts for consolidation of peace, protection of human rights and sustainable development. Finally, Cameroon reiterates its commitment to support the Central African Republic in its quest for peace, security and shared prosperity. I thank you.

Thank you very much. We will now continue with Chad.

Chad aligns itself with the statement given by the African Group and commends the independent expert for the presentation of his report, which outlines the human rights situation in the Central African Republic. We are pleased to see positive progress on the part of the Central African government in terms of decentralization of local governance, thus contributing to the restoration of state authority. Chad appreciates the efforts taken by the Central African government in the field of human rights. and also praises the commitment of Central African authorities in organizing local, presidential, and legislative elections that will be credible, transparent, and inclusive. Chad is pleased at the facilitating role played in the signing of the political agreement for peace and reconciliation on 19 April 2025 and reiterates unwavering support to supporting the Central African authorities and all stakeholders in implementing this agreement with a view to consolidating stability and strengthening national cohesion and promoting sustainable development in this brother country. Chad calls on continued support from the OHCHR and reaffirms the importance that the international community continue to provide multifarious support to the efforts for stabilization in the CAR. Thank you.

Thank you very much, and I continue with Ethiopia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Ethiopia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Ghana on behalf of the African group. We commend the government of the Central African Republic for the important steps taken towards peace and reconciliation, including the April 2025 peace agreement and the renewed commitment of armed groups to political agreement for peace and reconciliation. These efforts represent a critical step forward in the path to national healing and stability. Ethiopia strongly supports the Central African Republic's efforts to strengthen national institutions, promote justice and reconciliation, and expand access to essential services. We welcome the revitalization of the Truth, Justice, Reparation, and Reconciliation Commission and encourage continued efforts to ensure its independence, inclusivity, and effectiveness. As a country that believes in the African-led solutions, Ethiopia stresses the importance of continued international support that respects CAR's sovereignty and priorities. We call on partners to scale up technical assistance, capacity building, and predictable financing to support the DDRR process, justice sector reform, and sustainable development. In conclusion, Ethiopia reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the government and peoples of the Central Republic. I thank you.

Thank you very much. And now I give the floor to Egypt.

Thank you, Vice President. Egypt welcomes the independent experts and takes note of the report presented to the Council on the human rights situation in Central African Republic, the peace process, and national human rights institutions. We also welcome the cooperation of CAR with the Council's mechanisms, including their participation in the UPR last year. We encourage the government to continue engaging with the Council to pursue efforts to improve human rights situation. Egypt emphasized the Council's role in supporting technical cooperation and capacity building for national mechanisms and encourage it to engage with the concerned states to listen to their concerns and identify ways to support their efforts in accordance with their needs and priorities and in a manner that supports the role of national human rights institutions. And thank you, President.

Thank you very much. I now give the floor to the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

We welcome the Central African Republic's continued engagement with this Council and the independent expert's scrutiny of the human rights situation. Ongoing implementation of national human rights policies remains vital to translate commitments into results.

The UK welcomes the Central African Republic's commitment to hold local, legislative and presidential elections in December.

However, holding combined elections presents significant challenges.

We urge the Government to strengthen the National Electoral Authority to ensure that the constitutional timelines for elections are met, and we encourage.

Stakeholders to support the authority in delivering free and fair elections.

We are pleased that the measures taken under the political agreement for peace and reconciliation have led to an.

Improvement in the human rights situation, but we remain deeply concerned by the abuses that are committed by Russian proxies and armed groups.

Those groups do not improve security or stability.

We urge the authorities.

To strengthen the implementation of the agreement and to support MONUSCO as it seeks to fulfil its mandate.

Intercommunity tensions represent a serious threat to peace and human rights.

So we ask the independent expert what the international community can do to support the Central African Republic.

In combating those tensions.

I now call on the Russian Federation.

Thank you, Vice President. We note that the situation in the field of security in the Central African Republic is gradually improving. At the same time, despite the work done by the authorities, threats to the population remain due to armed groups. In a number of regions, killings and kidnappings of civilians is ongoing, as well as attacks on villages. We are seeing a difficult situation for the most vulnerable groups, primarily women and children. Particularly concerning is the harsh treatment by the armed groups and their recruitment of minors. We believe that carrying out investigations into human rights violations is something that falls to the authorities of the Central African Republic. So that is why we welcome the lifting of the arms embargo and the changing of the sanctions regime to focus on combating armed groups who are refusing to take part in the national reconciliation process. We note that the leadership of the Central African Republic is actively cooperating with human rights mechanisms and is doing all it can to take measures to improve the situation regarding human rights in the country. In this connection, we categorically reject the attempts to exert political pressure on the Central African Republic through the HRC and its mechanisms. We call for respect for Bangui's national interests when acting on human rights. Thank you.

Thank you.

We will now continue with China.

Madam Vice President, China commends the efforts of the Government of CAR in advancing the national peace process and safeguarding human rights. We are pleased to see the significant progress in the reconstruction and peace process. China always advocates constructive dialogue and cooperation to address differences in the field of human rights. We oppose the politicization of human rights and interference in the internal affairs of the countries concerned. Discussions at the Council should contribute to stability and development in the CAR, not the opposite. China supports the African approach to address African issues by the Africans. and welcomes the active role played by the regional countries and organizations for the early and comprehensive restoration of stability and normal order in CAR. China stands ready to join the international community in safeguarding human rights through security, promoting human rights through development, and advancing human rights through cooperation, thereby providing support and assistance to the peace process in CAR. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

I now give the floor to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Thank you, Vice-President. We welcome the Central African Republic's cooperation with this Council and its mechanisms, as well as its readiness to pursue further action to improve the situation on the ground. An example of this was its participation in the Universal Periodic Review, during which it accepted more than 95% of the recommendations made during the interactive dialogue. This reflects the country's commitment to the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights for its people. Venezuela will continue to emphasize that agenda item 10 of this Council was designed to tackle technical assistance and foster capacity building on human rights on the basis of genuine dialogue and cooperation, which are fundamental pillars of its work and which must always involve the consent of the state concerned without any impositions or conditions. We encourage the government of the Central African Republic to continue working determinedly towards consolidating peace and national reconciliation with the technical assistance and cooperation that the country requires.

Thank you.

Thank you. This was the last. we could accommodate. We will now move on to the speakers from national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations. And I would like to give the floor to Christian Solidarity Worldwide.

Thank you, Mr. President. CSW commends the work undertaken by the independent expert, Jaouk Betsy, during his term, and appreciates the insights he has shared in this final interactive dialogue. will share the independent experts' concerns regarding the upcoming local and presidential elections in the Central African Republic. In December 2025, the people of CAR will participate in both local and presidential elections, following the rescheduling of the former. Ahead of and during the last parliamentary and presidential elections in 2020, the security situation deteriorated significantly, impacting the most vulnerable communities. The decision to postpone local elections once again has had a detrimental effect on the trust between the Government and citizens, for whom the election and emergence of local officials with a democratic mandate would make the reach and representation of the State more tangible. As the Independent Expert has reported, holding combined local and presidential elections multiplies the challenges involved. Mindful of this, we are concerned by the potential impact of the budget cuts to the UN peacekeeping mission in CAR ahead of the elections. Independent Expert, Given that intergovernmental institutions such as the UN are grappling with financial and operational challenges, what recommendations do you have for regional and international human rights bodies regarding how they can best support the people of CAR ahead of the elections and in the post-election period?

Thank you.

Thank you. We will now hear from Association MAONA for Human Rights and Immigration.

Thank you. We would like to highlight the threats to international humanitarian law posed by the armed groups still residing in the country. Groups such as Wagner, Tia Zanda have continuously committed crimes against the Muslim minority, including killings, sexual violence, torture, kidnappings, and child abuse and exploitation. Due to the remoteness of the places in which they operate and the deficiencies for the provision of state security forces, the people of Bamu and Obamu continue to live under constant threats. These groups perpetuate the community tensions and hinder the peaceful co-living of the Christian majority with the Muslim minority. Lastly, we would like to stress the worrisome conditions of the prisons, such as overcrowding, food shortages, and the use of punitive measures. We invite the country to reconsider adopting restorative justice in handling its prison practices. We acknowledge the country's endeavors in its recent judicial reforms, and we commend its successful disarmament of nine groups, Association Mauna and Geneva International Center for Justice, encourage the state to continue this campaign and engage in a constructive dialogue with the remaining armed groups to secure their full abolition. The international community must shift its priorities from providing broad aid, fueling the financial dependency of the country, to empowering the Central African Republic by developing sustainable strategy to restore its authority over the resource-rich areas. Thank you.

Thank you.

We will now hear from RADO.

Vice President, RADO would like to congratulate the independent expert, Mr. Yao Akpetse, for his huge contribution to supporting the Central African Republic since the start of his mandate. We also commend the country's constant cooperation and support provided by various financial and technical partners. To date, measures taken to implement the political agreement for peace and reconciliation in the Central African Republic are encouraging, despite the situation remaining brittle in several regions and ongoing human rights violations being committed by the armed forces of the country and their Russian proxies. Radau also welcomes the recent conviction by the International Criminal Court of Mr. Alfred Yekatom, who is a former commander of a zone, and of Patrice-Edouard Ngaïssona, who coordinated the anti-Balaka group. This decision gives hope to victims regarding the triumph of justice over impunity. In light of the tensions between the opposition and the powers in place regarding the organization and holding of the four elections in December, we would like to know what the rapporteur recommends to prevent the Central African Republic falling into a new

cycle of violence. Thank you.

Thank you very much. We will now continue with Human Rights Research League.

Thank you, Mr. President. In the Central African Republic in 2025, 2.8 million people need humanitarian assistance, including 1.3 million children, and nearly 70% of children do not attend school regularly. At the same time, foreign arms presence continues with Russian Wagner Group and Rwandan military deployments, increasing their influence in the country, ensuring that the president remains in office. Against this backdrop, the unconstitutional process leading up to removing the presidential term limits in the revised constitution, in violation of Articles 23 and 25 of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the president's subsequent running for a third term in this year's elections, raise serious concerns as to the legitimacy of the pending elections. The exclusion and imprisonment of leaders of the political opposition without due process, irregularities in the electoral lists, recurring delays, and compounding local, legislative, and presidential elections in December, if they take place at all, do not bode well for democracy in the country. The vote on December 28, 2025, is not just a simple election. It is a test of what remains of political credibility in the Central African Republic. Human Rights Research League calls at a minimum for the full inclusion and unhindered participation of opposition parties and their voters in the elections or the ballots to represent anything more than mere rubber stamping.

I thank you.

Thank you very much. The next speaker is International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

Thank you for the report and for all your efforts. The International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Geneva International Center for Justice express grave concern over the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic. Civilians continue to suffer the consequences of this protracted conflict. Armed groups, as well as security forces, continue to commit grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, targeting vulnerable populations. This is not just a crisis of governance, but a crisis of humanity. Every attack on a market, every obstruction of aid, every act of sexual violence only tears at the dignity and future of the Central African people. We therefore stress 1. Accountability to provide full support to the Special Criminal Court and the ICC to deliver credible justice. 2. Protection of civilians. Humanitarian corridors must be guaranteed and all parties must be pressed to stop attacks on displaced communities, women and children. 3. Inclusive peace. Any dialogue must place victims and civil society at its center. Mr. President, every day of delay only deepens the suffering. The people of the Central African Republic urgently need action, not just statements of concern. Silence and inaction means nothing but complicity.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. This was the last speaker we could accommodate. So I would now like to give the floor to the independent expert, Mr. Akbetsay, for his concluding remarks. Thank you, Vice-President. I would like to thank all delegations and civil society organisations who made statements. Thank you so much. Regarding the questions that were raised, including the question asked by Slovenia about the peace agreement of the 19th of April, This agreement involved the UPC and the three armed groups and the government, and it made it possible to renew with the peace process and to appoint a certain number of officers from the armed groups within the government. And then around 60 members of the three armed group expressed a desire to lay down their weapons and to integrate the DDR process. Then in September, 117 combatants from the three were disarmed in Sangare Rim, but in any case, the human rights division of MINUSCA documented human rights violations, including sexual violence, of which the UPC and the three R armed groups would be the perpetrators, even though they've already signed the agreements. So I think it's important to ensure that there is proper monitoring by the, uh, guarantors of this agreement, the African Union in particular.

technical, financial support, support to the ongoing electoral process to strengthen democracy and map out paths to peace and reconciliation, support to the national development plan, support to the national human rights policy and its action plan,

but also support to the fight

against impunity initiative, especially the establishment of a reparation fund for both criminal special court and the truth commission.

Support as well to improving capacities of defense and security forces in ensuring the protection of the population. Support to the DDR process and to ask the question from the UK.

We need support to community-based services in order to address challenges at the grassroots. And also above all, support to community-based project, including access to safe drinking water, education, and health services.

There are also questions about the elections, and I think it's important that the ongoing dialogue can yield results and ensure that all relevant stakeholders can take part in the elections. This will contribute to strengthening democracy and civil participation in public policy management. To conclude, I would like to pay tribute to the blue helmets who work on the ground, and I'd like to pay tribute to those who were wounded or lost their lives, and I'd like to commend the tremendous work done by MINUSCA. After six years, I am leaving my function with a stronger belief than ever that the people of the Central African Republic deserve peace and dignity. They carry within them such resilience and dignity. I met victims whose pain is indescribable, but also young men and women and young persons whose bravery and courage are highly commendable. And So I would like to leave this testimony behind, because behind each figure, each statistic, there is a life, a face, a family. And as long as their lives are not guaranteed, our collective mission will not be fulfilled. So I invite you all to remain committed to this cause. The Central African Republic needs your technical and financial support more than ever, and they need our solidarity and our constant. Thank you.

Thank you very much. This brings us to the end of the interactive dialogue. Mr. Akpabzie, as your mandate as independent expert is coming to an end, I would like to take this opportunity to express, on behalf of the Council, our deep gratitude for the valuable contributions you have made to the work of the Council, and to wish you every success in your future endeavors. Thank you very much. We will take a short break before holding the next interactive dialogue, namely with the independent expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia. Colleagues, dear friends, we will now hold the interactive dialogue with the independent expert on the human rights situation in Somalia. The list of speakers will close in 15 minutes. I'd like to give the floor to Ms. Isha Difaan. Please go ahead, you have the floor.

Madam Vice-President, Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I have the honor to present my fifth and final report on the situation of human rights in Somalia, covering developments between July 2024 and June 2025. The report provides an overview of human rights, political, security, and humanitarian developments during this period. Somalia continues to face immense challenges, yet the resilience and determination of its people remain evident in their pursuit of peace, justice, and stability. To assess progress against my benchmarks and guide this dialogue, I will highlight four interrelating dimensions: the political landscape, security, human rights, and humanitarian and climate challenges. Together, these factors define both the risks Somalia faces and the opportunities to strengthen human rights protection. Madam Vice-President, Somalia's political transition remains fragile. Efforts to advance a one-person, one-vote system could mark real progress towards inclusive democracy, yet political consensus has proved elusive. Tensions between the federal government and member states, notably Puntland and Jubaland, have deepened, leading to armed clashes and eroded cooperation. Without inclusive dialogue, and such divisions risk fueling mistrust and diverting attention from urgent governance, security, and humanitarian priorities. Encouragingly, the peaceful presidential election on Somaliland in late 2024 demonstrated the potential of dialogue and participation in advancing democracy. Yet, Somalia's broader political landscape remains polarized, underscoring the urgent need for genuine national dialogue to consolidate peace and ensure respect for human rights. Despite earlier territorial gains by the Somali National Army and its international partners, Al-Shabaab has reasserted its presence, reclaiming areas in central and southern Somalia and launching deadly attacks, including in Mogadishu. To illustrate, an attack on Lido Beach in August 2024 reportedly killed nearly 100 people. In March 2025, a roadside explosive targeted the presidential convoy. And in May, a suicide bombing the Mamayou military base killed at least 10 recruits. These incidents underscore the group's enduring threat to civilians and state institutions alike, needing reconciliation. Vice President, the human rights situation remains grave. From September 2024 to March 2025, the United Nations documented 402 civilian casualties, including 179 deaths, among them 26 women and 21 children. Arbitrary arrests, detentions, and extrajudicial executions persist. Civic space is shrinking. Journalists and human rights defenders are harassed, attacked, Uh, 41 journalists were arrested or intimidated between March and May 2025 alone, while Al-Shabaab continues to target those critical of its ideology. These resulted in cl- in a climate of fear and leads to self-censorship, undermining democratic participation. Somalia must halt enforcement of and reform provisions in the penal code and the 2020 revised media law that contravenes international standards. The continued use of death, of the death penalty, including against minors, is also deeply troubling. Executions, some without the right of appeal, were carried out in several states. I reiterate my call for a moratorium in line with Somalia's own commitment before this Council. Women and children remain particularly vulnerable. Sexual and gender-based violence persists at alarming levels, with 267 cases of sexual violence against children recorded in 2024 alone. Between September and December 2024, the UN verified 856 grave violations against children, including recruitment, abduction, and killing. Critical legislation, including the Sexual Offences Bill, the Child Rights Bill, and the Anti-FGM Bill, remains stalled in Parliament, leaving survivors without protection or redress. Minorities, marginalised groups, and persons with disabilities continue to face discrimination and exclusion, despite the passage of the Disability Bill in December 2024, which was a welcome step. Implementation, of course, is still outstanding. Madam Vice President, conflict, drought, and flooding continue to displace communities. Between September 2024 and March 2025, insecurity forced 640,000 people from their homes, over 80% of them women and children. More than 150,000 were forcibly evicted during the same period, while flash floods in April and May affected over 84,000 people. This year, nearly 6 million Somalis require humanitarian and protection assistance, yet funding remains critically insufficient and access is severely constrained. Against this backdrop, progress on my seven benchmarks, including security, reconciliation, freedom of expression, rule of law, and the protection of vulnerable groups, including women and children, remain minimal. While I welcome steps such as the appointment of the commissioners to the National Human Rights Commission, the institution remains non-operational and core pillars of accountability and inclusive governance remain unfulfilled. I also welcome the labor law that was passed. Somalia is at a critical turning point. Insecurity, political fragmentation, a persistent human rights violation threatening to undo fragile gains. while the phased withdrawal of international forces leaves civilians increasingly vulnerable. Madam Vice-President, as I conclude my tenure as independent expert, I remain convinced that Somalia's fragility, marked by insecurity, political division, weak institutions and ongoing human rights violations, requires sustained, well-resourced international engagement. Extending this mandate or establishing a medium to long term strong oversight, independent and support mechanism with regular engagement with this Council will be vital to consolidating progress, preventing backsliding and keeping civilian protection at the core of Somalia's transition. I also urge the Somali Government to prioritize the rights and protection of its people through inclusive dialogue, reconciliation, accountability, stronger institutions, legal reform, a moratorium on the death penalty, and ratification of human rights instruments. Equally, I call on this Council and international partners to remain engaged, provide robust support, and ensure that ongoing UN and AU transitions do not erode hard-won gains. Madam President, in closing, I wish to express my deep gratitude to the Government of Somalia, this Council, the Office of the High Commissioner, the United Nations generally, and the AU colleagues and civil society organizations for their steadfast support throughout my tenure. With continued partnership, I am confident Somalia can move forward to lasting peace, stronger governance, and the full realization of human rights. Finally, Madam Vice-President, allow me to unconditionally denounce the United States Government's sanctions on the Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories. I express my full solidarity with Francesca Albanese. Sanctioning a Special Rapporteur appointed by this Council violates international law and is in direct attack on the integrity of the UN system as a whole. including special procedures as a whole. I call on all states to act decisively to denounce these sanctions and to refuse to carry them out. I also call on the United States to immediately withdraw these illegal sanctions. I thank you for your attention.

We'd like to thank the independent expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia, Ms. Aisha Duffan. According to our practice, we shall start by hearing the delegations of the country concerned. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Somalia.

Madam Vice-President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, it is an honour to address the Human Rights Council on behalf of the Federal Republic of Somalia. I thank the independent expert for her dedicated work in advancing human rights in Somalia. The Human Rights Council, for its continued and unwavering attention, and all partners who play a crucial role in these efforts, your cooperation is deeply appreciated. Over the past decade, Somalia has actively and constructively engaged with the United Nations human rights mechanisms. We remain firmly committed to making human rights a reality for all. integrating them into the law and policies, protecting and promoting fundamental rights and freedom, and building strong institutions that embed these rights into everyday life. While we acknowledge the challenges to the full enjoyment of human right, Somalia is not standing still. We are strengthening independent oversight that complaints are heard and addressed. We welcome technical cooperation that supports Somalia in promoting and protecting all human rights, that builds national capacity, strength, skills, improve procedures, and take full account of our contacts. Madam Vice President. The report of independent expert before the Council does not reflect Somalia current reality, and instead, it's returned to a crisis narrative that does not align with the expert on 2024 report, which recognized the progress and steady commitment. The sudden shift appears to rely mainly on a very brief 11 days country visit and overlook information that Somalia provided during that mission. As a result, several fundings appears incomplete and, at the times, misleading. We also concern about the methodology and process of verification and the balance that multilateral report requires. Somalia stressed that country-specific mandate are exceptional and time-bound tools. There should not be appeal in a way that wrongly, dependence, nor should they substitute for thematic mechanisms or the treaty body systems, with which Somalia remains fully committed to engage and collaborate. We will continue to honor our national and international human rights obligations. We invite all stakeholders and partners to work with our government institution, national independent bodies and civil society and advancing efforts to promote and protect human rights. Madam Vice President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I thank you for your attention and for your continued solidarity with the people of Somalia. We stand ready to work with you in a spirit of partnership so that human rights are not hope for tomorrow, but tangible protection that everyone in Somalia can enjoy today. I thank you all.

Thank you very much. I also inform you that the list of speakers is now closed. I invite interested delegations to ask questions and to make comments on the report of the independent expert. The speaking time, as you know, is one minute 30 seconds for all. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland on behalf of a group of countries.

Madam Vice-President, I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States. We remain deeply concerned about human rights violations and the humanitarian situation in Somalia. Continued displacement driven by conflict and climate shocks undermines access to essential services and livelihoods. The deepening humanitarian crisis, compounded by a sharp decline in humanitarian funding, continues to affect women and girls disproportionately. Further, the prevalence of high rates of sexual and gender-based violence, including female genital mutilation, remains alarming. We are also disturbed by reports of arbitrary arrests, prolonged detentions and extrajudicial executions. These violations undermine trust in institutions and must be addressed through transparent investigations and accountability. We welcome Somalia's commitment under the Somali Women's Charter and urge full implementation of the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. We encourage Somalia to promote women, peace and security as a key priority under their presidency at the Security Council. We commend Somalia's engagement with international human rights mechanisms and encourage further efforts to strengthen the rule of law and access to justice, especially for women and children. Madam Independent Expert, in your view, how can we best support the monitoring and reporting on developments related to sexual and gender-based violence and the rights of children, including in the context of recent legislative processes?

I thank you.

Thank you very much, Ambassador.

We'll now continue with the delegation of the European Union.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Madam Independent Expert, the European Union would like to thank you for your report. We share your concerns about the ongoing security challenges, political instability, and humanitarian crises that continue to hinder the full enjoyment of all human rights by all Somalis. The EU welcomes the Federal Government's efforts to meet its international human rights obligations. Steps toward establishing the long-overdue National Independent Human Rights Commission are a significant and welcome development. We note, however, that without parliamentary approval, the Commission is not yet fully established. We urge the Federal Government to expedite this process and to ensure that the Commission is pluralistic, credible and independent. Ensuring accountability for human rights violations also remains a critical priority, and we look forward to the establishment of the Law Reform Commission and the Judicial Administration Commission. Finally, allow me to express the EU's sincere gratitude for your dedicated years of service and valuable contributions to human rights in Somalia. Madame Difan, in the context of the UN and AU transition in Somalia, how can the international community best support Somalia in guaranteeing the human rights of all its people going forward? I thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. We'll now continue with Ghana on behalf of a group of African states.

Vice President. The African Group thanks the independent expert for their draft report on Somalia and take this opportunity to welcome Somalia's continued progress in advancing its human rights obligations. In 2024, this Council acknowledged Somalia's steady progress and strong commitment to advancing its human rights obligations. Over the past year, Somalia has continued on this path, consolidating reforms and deepening its engagement with international human rights mechanisms. Somalia has operationalized its National Independent Human Rights Commission established its national mechanism for reporting and follow-up, ratified key treaties, advanced constitutional and legislative reforms, and fully engaged with the UPR, treaty bodies and thematic mandates, most recently hosting the Special Rapporteur on Counter-Terrorism in May 2025. These are the very benchmarks set by this Council, now institutionalized to ensure sustainability. In this context, it is important that the Council's approach remains consistent with its principles of proportionality, and equal treatment. The Council has previously concluded mandates once agreed benchmarks were achieved, including in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Cote d'Ivoire and Burundi. Somalia's progress invites a similar approach, ensuring that its engagement now continues through regular mechanisms that reinforce sustainability and national ownership. The African Group, therefore, calls for the termination of this mandate at this 60th session, with Somalia's cooperation to continue through the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, country office, thematic procedures and treaty bodies. Thank you.

Thank.

You very much. I'll continue with Jordan. Madam Vice-President, Jordan would like to thank the independent expert for the report. We're grateful for the efforts to carefully follow the human rights situation in Somalia. We've seen challenges and developments in human rights in this country. We commend measures taken by the Government of Somalia to pass the law on the rights of persons with disabilities and the 30% quota for representation of women and the health care bill. There are some concerns for security and the establishment of institutions. Community involvement is necessary in reform, and the international community should support efforts in providing technical assistance, capacity building and humanitarian assistance. We stand in solidarity with Somalia, and we hope that the constructive dialogue and international cooperation will help create the circumstances that are necessary to protect human rights and create a better future for the Somali people. I thank you.

Thank you very much.

I will now continue with the UK.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Let me thank the independent expert. We are grateful for her work on Somalia since 2020. As we transition to a nationally led partnership with OHCHR, we recognise the invaluable work of the independent expert mandate since 1993 in documenting and reporting on the situation of human rights in Somalia and supporting the government. We welcome today the presence of the Minister of Family and Human Rights Development and her team from Mogadishu. We welcome the passing of the Juvenile Justice Bill in March 2025 and the adoption by the Council of Ministers of the amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code Bill in January 2025. We remain concerned, however, at the continuing loss of civilian life due to ongoing conflict and insecurity, continuing cases of sexual and gender-based violence, and restrictions on the freedom of expression, including detention of journalists. We encourage the Somali Government to strengthen the rule of law and enhance fundamental freedoms by finalising the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission. We also emphasise the importance of promoting the rights to freedom of expression and opinion, protecting vulnerable and marginalised groups and fostering a broad consensus as Somalia prepares for timely, free and fair elections in the coming year. The UK stands ready to work with Somalia on all those issues. To the independent expert, what action can the UN and other international partners take to support the work of the national human rights commission over the next year? Thank you.

Thank you very much.

We now continue with the delegation of Qatar.

Thank you. We thank Ms. Eisha Dian for these efforts. We're pleased to see the cooperation and discussion underway. We need to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the integrity of Somalia. This country is facing challenges that affect its stability and security and development. This is why international solidarity is essential. Reforms are necessary. We need to see the establishment of institutions for the rule of law and the strengthening of human rights. This involves all parties in Somalia in order to arrive at a consensus-based solution. This country faces drought, a lack of food and displacement. This is why we need to have a coordinated international response that helps to bolster the resilience of local communities. We must also strengthen technical assistance and bolster capacities and meet the priority needs of Somalia. We are supporting Somalia through bilateral agreements and through the UN because we are resolute in our desire to support Somalia and to create a strong state. Thank you very much.

We will now continue with Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We are pleased to see the positive cooperation of Somalia with human rights mechanisms. We hail the continued efforts of Somalia to establish state institutions and to guarantee the rule of law. This leads to stability and the improvement of living conditions and of the human rights situation in spite of the major challenges. Madam Vice-President, the Somali government has taken concrete steps. This demonstrates a desire to engage and embrace progress and development and create a fairer society. Hence, the international community should continue its support by strengthening capacities and providing technical and logistic assistance. This, in turn, will strengthen human rights and allow the Somali people to have a more prosperous and stable future. Capacity building is crucial to allow the country to face challenges, respect their obligations, and improve their capacity to promote human rights in a lasting way. I thank.

You. Thank.

You very much. I'll now continue with Sierra Leone.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements of the African Group and thanks our compatriots Ms. Aisha Dahir, the independent expert, for her selfless, courageous, and meritorious service since she assumed this mandate, and for her report pursuant to Council Resolution 5727. The Council commends the Federal Government of Somalia for its consistent efforts to consolidate human rights reforms and strengthen its engagement with special procedure mechanisms, including in strengthening its human rights institutions, advancing legal reforms, and cooperating fully with international human rights mechanisms. This reflects its commitments to and sense of ownership of its obligations. We emphasize the importance of capacity building and technical assistance in supporting Somalia's national institutions and mechanisms, particularly with regards to ensuring accountability, consolidating the rule of law, and safeguarding the media and civic space. At the same time, we acknowledge the significant recommendations set out by the independent experts. and urge the government of Somalia, in collaboration with international partners, to give these recommendations due consideration. Sierra Leone encourages the international community to continue supporting Somalia in consolidating reforms, deepening national ownership, and ensuring sustainable human rights progress. And I thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. We continue with the delegation of Kuwait.

Thank.

You. We take note of the report from the independent expert. We thank the independent expert for the efforts taken, and we encourage continued efforts to follow the latest progress made by the Somali Government, which we can see in the improved human rights situation. Madam Vice-President, We hail the measures adopted by the Government to promote human rights, as well as their constructive spirit with human rights mechanisms, notably the Human Rights Council. The Somali Government helps facilitate official visits from the Human Rights Council's mechanisms. We express our support to Somalia. in all of the steps it takes, and we underscore the importance of strengthening the development program, capacity building, and technical assistance in step with Somalia's needs. I thank you.

Thank you very much.

We now continue with the delegation of Kenya.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Kenya aligns with the Africa Group statement and welcomes the delegation of Somalia in the spirit of regional solidarity, reaffirming our enduring commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Somalia. As close neighbors and longstanding partners, Kenya recognizes that the well-being of Somalia is inextricably linked to the security and prosperity of the entire Horn of Africa. Kenya welcomes the efforts undertaken by the Federal Government of Somalia as it transitions to greater national ownership of its peace, security, and development agenda. We welcome the timely withdrawal of international support missions and the critical human rights gains achieved over recent years through collective partnership with the Africa Union, the UN, the broader international community. We firmly believe that sustainable solutions for Somalia can only be achieved through a Somali-led process aligned with its priorities and in full respect of sovereignty. As we look to the future, Kenya underscores the need for sustained international support, especially in the face of persistent security threats and a deepening humanitarian crisis. In this context, independent expert, what efficient and effective strategies would you propose to the international community and regional stakeholders in support of Somalia's transition to ensure a long-term protection of human rights and the consolidation of peace and stability. I thank you.

Muchisimas gracias.

Thank you very much. We'll continue with Eritrea.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Eritrea aligns with the African Group statement. Eritrea commends the Government of Somalia for its steadfast engagement with the Council and its mechanisms,

as well as its efforts to uphold its human rights obligations.

Eritrea reaffirms that technical assistance remains vital for strengthening institutional capacity through adequate resources and professional support to national institutions. At the same time, we emphasize the importance of safeguarding Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. We support Somalia's request for the termination of the Independent Experts' mandate and welcome its commitment to engage constructively with the OHCHR and relevant mechanisms. Eritrea will continue to stand by the Somali Government in its efforts, while encouraging its ongoing dedication to advancing national stability, fostering peace, and ensuring the well-being of its people. I thank you.

Thank you very much.

Sudan, please.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We welcome the Somali delegation. And we've taken note of the independent expert. We hailed the attitude of Somalia vis-a-vis the human rights mechanisms and their efforts to restore the rule of law and strengthen human rights in the country with the, notably the 30% quota for women in parliament and the plan to implement resolution 1325 of the Security Council on women, peace and security and to protect children from military enlistment. We encourage the government, according to the Paris Principles, to continue along the path of reconciliation and the empowerment of women, and we would call on international community to support the country and preserve the territorial unity of Somalia we stand ready to provide support in the field of human rights to allow the country to complete the transitional justice system and uphold the rule of law thank you

gracias thank you we continue with Turkey

Microphone, if you could start again.

Sorry.

Madam Vice President, Turkey firmly supports the sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, stability, and welfare of Somalia. Turkey has developed a multifaceted cooperation with Somalia, ranging from development assistance to health, education, trade, and most importantly, fight against terrorism. We continue to support Somalia in its fight against all forms of terrorism. Somalia has the support of Turkey regarding the upcoming elections, which is planned to be held on the basis of one person, one vote. We believe that universal suffrage is not only a fundamental democratic right, but also a powerful tool to strengthen legitimacy, accountability, and trust in public institutions. Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency has realized more than $1 billion U.S. worth of sustainable development projects since 2011. The Turkish Red Crescent alone provided 115 million U.S. dollars worth of aid in the last decade. We provide crucial health services at the Recep Tayyip Erdogan Research and Training Hospital. We will continue to stand in solidarity with Somalian people in their efforts to achieve lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in the country. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to Ethiopia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Ethiopia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Ghana on behalf of the African Group. Ethiopia reaffirms its strong and enduring support for the government and people of Somalia in their efforts to build a peaceful, stable, and democratic nation. We commend the Government of Somalia for its continued and concrete progress in institution building, security stabilization, justice sector reforms, and the promotion and protection of human rights. As a neighboring and sisterly nation, Ethiopia underscores the importance of sustained and coordinated international support that is fully aligned with Somalia's national priorities and anchored in the principle of sovereignty, ownership, and mutual respect. We call for enhanced technical assistance, predictable and long-term funding and capacity building to further strengthen national institutions, advance inclusive governance and support Somalia's development aspirations. Ethiopia also welcomes Somalia's engagement with the international human rights mechanisms and encourages the continuation of this constructive cooperation. In conclusion, Ethiopia reiterates its unwavering solidarity with the people and government of Somalia. We remain committed to working together toward this durable peace, resilience, and prosperity for Somalia and the wider region. I thank you.

Thank you very much.

The Russian Federation, please.

Vice President, we are carefully following the development of the situation in Somalia, and we are deeply concerned by the regularly recorded cases of victims among civilians as a result of the operations to combat terrorist group so, extremist groups by the armed forces, as well as the terrorist acts committed by ISIS and Al-Shabaab. The increasingly frequent cases of sexual violence are also alarming, including by military personnel as well as militarized formations of the opposition and local militia. We are also seeing discrimination and restrictions of the rights of persons with disabilities, and harassment and threats and killings of journalists. Also, there are inhumane treatment and inadequate conditions of detention in penitentiary centers. We believe that Somalian authorities should take effective measures to address these problems. Having said that, we do welcome the constructive role played by the National Advisory Council in establishing cooperation between the central leadership and the federal states, and we also note the government's efforts to enhance the national electoral system. In this connection, we call on the UN Human Rights Council and the international community in general to continue cooperation with Somalia on the basis of respect for the national interests of this sovereign state, with an emphasis on the provision of technical assistance in the field of human rights. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

We continue with the delegation of Ireland.

Thank you, Vice-President. Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU. We thank the independent expert for her updates and welcome the ongoing work of the Federal Government of Somalia on human rights issues. We acknowledge the Federal Government's efforts to strengthen its institutions and the significant challenges in relation to the ongoing military offensive against Al-Shabaab. However, we remain deeply concerned that civilians, particularly women and children, continue to bear the brunt of the conflict and have been subjected to serious human rights violations and abuses. The mistreatment of prisoners, the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, the conflict-related sexual violence are of particular concern. We encourage the Federal Government to continue implementing legislative reforms to bring it further in line with its international human rights obligations. Progress towards establishing the National Independent Human Rights Commission is a positive step in this regard. Ireland strongly encourages the Federal Government to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which would further strengthen human rights protections. We condemn the targeting of journalists, civil society organisations, human rights defenders, and stress that the ongoing conflict cannot be used to justify restrictions on freedom of expression. Independent expert, what support can the international community provide to bring forward human rights reforms in Somalia? Thank you.

Thank you.

We'll continue with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Thank you, Vice-President. We would like to welcome Somalia's efforts to improve the human rights situation in the country, despite the economic and humanitarian challenges. We highlight measures taken by the government since the start of 2023 up till today to consolidate security and contribute to the protection of its population. Similarly, we recognize the constructive cooperation by the Somali government with the mechanisms of the universal human rights system, in particular the Office of the High Commissioner and the bodies established under the human rights treaties. Cooperation, technical assistance and capacity building, always with the consent of the state concerned, contribute to improving the human rights situation anywhere in the world. The independent expert, like all of the mandates of this Council, should strictly abide by the provisions of the Code of Conduct and comply with the UN's principles of respect for sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs of states. Finally, Venezuela would like to support Somalia's efforts and encourages the country to continue working for national stability and lasting peace. Thank you.

Thank you.

I call on China.

Madam Vice-President.

China recognizes the progress made by the Somali government in promoting and protecting human rights, in

particular its efforts to advance sustainable economic and social development, reduce poverty and raise

living standards of the people, vigorously combat terrorism and extremism to safeguard the lives and property of its people,

and continue implementing the national gender policy to promote gender equality and better protect women's rights.

China has consistently participated actively in Somalia's peace process and has long provided assistance within its capacity

for peace and security, disaster relief and mitigation, and personnel training.

China hopes that all parties in Somalia will prioritize the interest of nation and the people and resolve differences through dialogue and consultation.

The international community should acknowledge the Somali Government's efforts and progress in promoting and protecting human rights.

On the basis of respecting Somalia's

sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the wish of its government and people, the international community should continue to assist Somalia in enhancing technical capacity building in the field of human rights. China calls on all parties to adhere to the Somali-led and Somali-owned principle, avoid external pressure, interference, and imposition of governance models, and provide effective assistance to the country for

lasting peace and development.

Thank you. Thank you very much. This was the last speaker we could accommodate. We will now move on to the list of speakers from national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations. And we will begin with MAT for Peace, Development and Human Rights Association.

Thank you, Mr. President. MAD welcomes the Somali government's roadmap for holding the first direct elections in decades in 2026. However, concerns remain about the challenges facing the security sector in Somalia, especially the terrorist attacks carried out by Al-Shabaab against security personnel. As MAD documented more than 20 terrorist attacks carried out by the group between July and September 2025. The incitement of Somali clans by external parties, especially Ethiopia, located in the far eastern Horn of Africa, has serious consequences for the continued violence in Somalia. MAT also rejects the separatist calls led by Puntland with the support of external parties, similar to the approach previously taken by Somaliland. MAT warns that countries that support this approach in Somalia risk ensuring that Somalia remains a fertile ground for terrorism and gross human rights violations. Finally, we recommend that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights provide technical support and assistance to complete the final steps towards holding elections in Somalia. We also hope that Ethiopia will abandon its plans to incite Somalia tribes and clans to wreak havoc in the States. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

We'll continue with Eliska Relief Foundation.

Madame Vice President, thank you. The Eliska Relief Foundation would like to thank the independent expert for the report, and we hope it will be made available well in advance of the interactive dialogue. Our foundation expresses deep concern regarding the incitement by Ethiopian forces present in Somalia to local tribes in the Gedo region of southwestern Somalia. This could provoke violence and tension and could potentially impact the future work of the African Union Mission in Somalia. Our Foundation also notes the ongoing violations of the right to freedom of opinion and expression in Somaliland, where journalists continue to be subjected to harassment, threats and continued arrests and detentions. Between January and June 2025, 16 journalists were arbitrarily detained and imprisoned without access to legal counsel. Our commission calls on the independent expert to urge the Ethiopian Government to investigate the violations committed by Ethiopian forces in Southwestern Somalia. And we also recommend that the independent expert focus more on the violations perpetrated by these Ethiopian forces in Somalia. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to Eastern Horn of Africa Human Rights Defender Project.

Mr. President, Madame Independent Expert, we thank you and salute your work in support of the Somali people and government. We acknowledge Somalia's cooperation with the Council and its mechanisms and the government's will to move to another approach. However, we stress the ongoing need for scrutiny, including public reporting and debates, In this sense, the move away from a special procedure cannot be considered to be a graduation that reflects a clear improvement. We note the mandate's termination and thank Madame Di Fan and her predecessors for their work in difficult conditions with minimal support. We are concerned about the widespread insecurity and grave violations in the country. We condemn abuses by terrorist group Al-Shabaab, including attacks against human rights defenders and journalists. but also violations by authorities, including harassment of independent actors by the National Intelligence and Security Agency. We urge all actors to urgently address the appalling situation for women and girls. Mr. President, we call on OHCHR to transparently and comprehensively report on Somalia's situation. This may include a call if and when necessary for a new mechanism. We stress the need to strengthen the National Human Rights Commission. Madame Dyfan, how can we ensure the mandate's legacy will be preserved? How can work on benchmarks and indicators continue?

I thank you.

Thank you. We will now continue with Minority Rights Group.

Madam Independent Expert, Minority Rights Group organization

warmly welcome the work of your mandate in the past six years, despite the difficult circumstances and limited resources. We appreciate in particular your consistent attention to those most vulnerable in Somalia, including ethnic minority groups such as Bantu, Benadiri and Baravans, as well as occupational minorities or clans such as Yibir, Tumaal and Gaboye. Somalia is at a crossroads. With the support of the international community, it has a historic opportunity to reset and to address decades in which minority community members have been politically, socially, economically and culturally discriminated against and disadvantaged. We remain concerned that Unless specific attention is paid to the fate of the Somalis most vulnerable groups, they will continue to face exclusion from the access to humanitarian aid, from the development efforts, and from full political inclusion and democratization policies. We call on the HRC

to keep Somalia on the agenda, to ensure robust monitoring and public reporting, as well as

engagement to improve equality of the access and inclusion in all the country. Thank you.

Thank you very much.

We'll continue with Human Rights Research League.

Thank you, Mr. President. A nation that sacrifices its children is a nation that is bound to fail and devour itself. In Somalia today, boys are recruited into militias, forced to fight wars they did not even choose. Girls, on the other hand, are forced to marry men decades older than them, sometimes even old enough to be their grandfathers. For the rest of their lives, they're condemned to abuse and early and dangerous childbirths. 97 to 99% of all females in Somalia have undergone female genital mutilation, most of whom were 10 years old or younger when this happened. These are not isolated acts. They are deliberate patterns to break a nation from within. Here's the truth, when children are used as brides, and soldiers, a nation will fall. And when the Somalian nation falls, this will have a trickle down effect on the rest of the region, causing instabilities and insecurities. Human rights are not acts of charity. They're the sole foundation of peace and power. Leaders who protect children secure the future of nations. And we will remember the leaders who failed for their silence as generations were destroyed.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. The next speaker is Amnesty International.

Madam Vice-President, we thank the independent expert for her work on Somalia. Civilians in Somalia continue to bear the brunt of a devastating conflict between the armed group Al-Shabaab and the government, as well as its regional and international allies. All parties to the conflict continue to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law with impunity. Freedom of expression is severely limited. Journalists are attacked by security forces and subjected to threats, harassment, intimidation, beatings, and arbitrary arrests. Somalia also continues to be one of the countries where grave violations against children are taking place. As the independent expert stated in May, these violations and abuses are taking place at a time where the UN and the African Union operations transitioning, and Somalia is experiencing political, security, and humanitarian challenges that severely impact the enjoyment of human rights. Given this uncertain context, we are deeply concerned regarding the timing of the proposed discontinuation of the mandate of the Independent Expert. The mandate's role in monitoring and reporting human rights violations and abuses in Somalia has been critically important. OHCHR must build on the work of the independent expert, including the benchmarks that she identified, and ensure adequate levels of continuing scrutiny through its public reporting. Madam Independent Expert, what are the key steps that the Somali Government should take to demonstrate its genuine commitment for credible and independent national institutions to address accountability? Thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. I now give the floor to the International Commerce for Development Centre.

Thank you, Vice-President. CISED would like to firmly condemn the ongoing human rights violations in Somalia, in particular against freedom of expression and female genital mutilation. Freedom of expression is under constant pressure. Journalists are arbitrarily detained, intimidated, and there is a repressive legal framework, including vague provisions on the Media Law of 2020, which are conducive to abuse. We call for immediate guarantees for the press and for detentions of journalists to end. FGM remains one of the worst human rights crises for girls and women, despite it being prohibited by Article 15.4 of the Constitution. We call for national law banning FGM, with the prosecution of perpetrators and sustainable financing for prevention at the community level, as well as psychological and healthcare. We thank the High Commissioner for his constant support for Somalia, which faces huge security challenges, and this needs to go hand in hand with robust accountability and civilian protection. We have clear recommendations to protect journalists and investigate all attacks and to release journalists who have been detained for their work, to adopt and implement a national law prohibiting FGM to fund the prevention and services for survivors, and to ensure that any security action fully respects international human rights law and freedom of expression. The courage of Somalian journalists and women and girls who refuse to undergo FGM calls for us to be mobilised.

Thank you. Thank you.

Very much. I would now like to give the floor to National Union of Somali Journalists.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. On behalf of the National Union of Somali Journalists, I thank the independent expert for her tireless efforts. At a time when alarming brutality is crushing freedom of expression, her mandate has been a lifeline for Somali voices. Between September 2024 and September 2025, No Such Verified 66 media freedom violations. This is not a random series of incidents, but a deliberate campaign to silence journalism and deny Somali people the right to know. This figure exposes a systematic and worsening trend. Journalists are trapped between physical violence and legal persecution. They are arrested, assaulted, or killed in the field. At the same time, they are dragged into courts under 1964 penal code and anti-terrorism law. Madam Vice President, the situation is not just deteriorating, it is escalating. Somalia has indeed made progress and has constructively engaged with this Council, yet the reality cannot be downgraded. Somali citizens need stronger human rights protection, and the world cannot afford to remain silent. We therefore urge the establishment of a robust human rights presence in Somalia under the OCHR, fully resourced and operating independently on the ground. We further call for the Human Rights Council to be sized every year and briefed on the evolving human rights situation, including media freedom. Protecting Somali journalists is not optional. It is the only way to defend the right of every citizen to question power, to expose wrongdoing and abuse, and to participate in shaping their country's future. Without media freedom, there can be no justice, no democracy, and no peace in Somalia.

I thank you.

Thank you. This was the final speaker we could accommodate. I would now like to give the floor back to the independent expert, Ms. Difan, for her concluding remarks. Please go ahead.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President, and I thank States for their questions, comments, recommendations, as well as best wishes for my work. I want to start with the questions, and I'm going to try my best to group them so that we can do them quickly. On the questions raised by the EU and Ireland, regarding how the international community can best support Somalia. It is essential to ensure sustained engagement, including by the Human Rights Council, through putting in place a robust and well-resourced support and monitoring mechanism, with funding, mandating OHCHR to provide regular reporting and capacity-building support for Somali institutions, civil society, and the judiciary. would further strengthen accountability and the rule of law. The international community must remain firm in advocating for human rights, engaging Somalia through both bilateral and joint initiatives to ensure meaningful reforms and lasting progress. On the questions of how we best support monitoring and reporting on sexual violence by Iceland, I still stress the need to empower the Office of the High Commissioner and other agencies to provide independent monitoring and reporting on sexual and gender-based violence, while building the capacity of Somali institutions to investigate abuses and uphold international standards. Of course, this includes passing the Sexual Violence Act. On the question of how my mandate's legacy, the benchmarks, should be preserved by defenders and others, the mandate's legacy can be best preserved through strong national ownership backed by a robust international support with oversight mechanisms and ensuring that it is a medium to long-term robust mechanism. This cannot be a year. I have been there for six years and I know that the remaining benchmarks need sustained medium to long-term support from the international community and this council, with independent reporting so that the Government can be sure that it can finalise what is outstanding. Let me now then do my final conclusions. Taking into account that there were about five to seven questions that were given to me, I apologize if I've forgotten any one. But I need to say that Somalia's journey remains fragile. Political fragmentations, insecurity, and persistent human rights violations compounded by weak institutions demand sustained international support and engagement. On establishing a strong support mechanism through OHCHR with the Council's continued engagement, if this mandate does not continue, is necessary. It will be essential to consolidate progress, prevent backsliding, and ensure that civilian protection remains at the core of Somalia's transition. I leave this mandate with deep respect for the resilience of the Somali people and with confidence that through sustained partnership, Somalia can advance towards a future of peace, justice, and human rights for all. I thank you.

Thank you very much. This brings us to the end of this interactive dialogue. I would like to say that Ms. Diffen is ending her mandate as independent expert, so on behalf of the Council, I would like to express to you my deep gratitude for your contributions and your work and your commitment to human rights in Somalia, and we wish you all the best. Thank you. We will take a very short break before holding the interactive dialogue on technical cooperation in Libya. I'd like to inform you that we will finish at 6.15 this evening. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, we will now hold the interactive dialogue on the report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on the implementation of technical assistance and capacity building in Libya. It is my honor to welcome Ms. Nada Al-Nashif, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights. The list of speakers will close in 15 minutes. I now give the floor to Ms. Al-Nashif.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice President, Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates. We meet today at a very important juncture for Libya. The political roadmap announced by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya in August offers renewed hope following years of political stalemate. It provides a viable path towards national elections, unified institutions, and structured dialogue, all of them essential to deliver on the Libyan people's aspirations for justice and sustainable peace. At the same time, Libya's transition is challenged by a long and continuing legacy of serious human rights violations and abuses. Regrettably, civic space continues to come under sustained attack with perceived political opponents, journalists, and civil society systematically targeted as a means of stifling dissent. And yet, the meaningful participation of all these groups and of women, youth, minorities, people with disabilities, and victims and survivors of human rights violations and abuses is essential for an inclusive national dialogue that moves Libya onwards from the status quo that is favored by some parties. Technical cooperation is a critical element in supporting the Libyan authorities to promote and protect human rights and to establish the foundations for accountability as well as a rights-based transition under the political roadmap. The report before you outlines the capacity-building activities carried out by our office in close cooperation with the UN Support Mission in Libya. During the reporting period, we expanded the substantive and geographical scope of our activities, including through cooperation with the eastern authorities. We brought together Libyan stakeholders from the east and west of Libya to reach an agreement on the legislative framework for a national transitional justice and reconciliation process, as well as on a law on prevention of violence against women. Despite these positive steps, Our office remains concerned that key legislative reforms continue to be undermined by political fragmentation and the lack of institutional commitment. Our office also conducted specialized training for judges and prosecutors on international human rights standards and mechanisms, criminal justice principles, and fair trial guarantees. Our goal is to address systematic violations of fair trial and due process guarantees. We also trained prison officials through about 15 workshops conducted across the country with the aim of improving detention conditions and bringing the treatment of detainees in line with international standards. We undertook monitoring visits to detention facilities, in some cases alongside Libya's national human rights institution, the National Council for Civil Liberties and Human Rights. This is part of our efforts to strengthen the Council's capacity for monitoring and documentation. We also supported the Libyan authorities in their efforts to establish a committee to monitor detention conditions. And while the authorities expressed their openness to technical cooperation, Our efforts continue in this domain to be undermined by the denial of full, unhindered access to all detention facilities and locations. Your Excellencies, the report before you also offers insights into the human rights situation since April 2024 and calls for sustained technical assistance to Libya. It highlights a persistent pattern of arbitrary arrests and detentions, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances, all perpetrated with impunity. Between March 2024 and September 2025, our office verified the deaths of 20 individuals in custody, many of whom were deemed to be political opponents. The Libyan authorities remain either unwilling or unable to bring perpetrators of atrocity crimes to justice. Piecemeal action and opportunistic prosecutions cannot address Libya's accountability deficit. More than a year after the publication of our joint report on mass graves and gross human rights violations in Tarhuna, little credible progress has been made by Libyan authorities to hold alleged perpetrators to account. Meanwhile, migrants and refugees continue to face brutal and systematic human rights violations. Human traffickers, Armed groups and state security personnel prey on their vulnerabilities and engage in an exploitative business model, profiting from extortion, slavery, sexual exploitation, and forced labor, emboldened by a climate of impunity and indifference. Madam Vice President, Your Excellencies, I wish to recall the shocking revelations of mass graves torture, and other gross human rights violations at detention facilities run by state security forces in Tripoli earlier this year. We welcome the subsequent commitment by the Libyan authorities to engage in meaningful reform of the security sector in line with Libya's human rights obligations. Another positive development is the release on July of this year of several people who had been arbitrarily detained, some for up to eight years. This came after the sustained engagement of our office with that of the Attorney General. Our office also welcomes the declaration by the government accepting the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court with respect to alleged crimes in its territory from 2011 to the end of 2027. This is a very important step towards accountability, but it needs to be followed by concrete action. First, it is crucial that the Libyan authorities cooperate fully with the Court on the execution of outstanding arrest warrants and on granting unrestricted access to sites under investigation. Second, Member States must support the Court's efforts by surrendering suspects to it and themselves making full use of the principle of universal jurisdiction in accordance with international law. Madam Vice-President, our message is unequivocal. Any sustainable political settlement for Libya must be anchored in justice and human rights. It must address the root causes of the conflict and the governance deficit, and build legitimate institutions. Our office remains committed to extending its full support to the Libyan authorities and the people of Libya through this transition, with international human rights norms and standards as our guiding principle. Libya's Universal Periodic Review in November will be an opportunity to continue the dialogue on improving the country's human rights situation. At this important juncture, I call on all Libyan actors and the Member States to rise to the moment by offering their full backing and concrete support to each pillar of the political roadmap. Despite the enormous challenges ahead, it is time to grapple with the human toll of decades of violence and violations and abuses and to restore hope and human rights to the Libyan people.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. In keeping with our practice, we will begin hearing from the country concerned. I therefore give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Libya.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We thank Ms. Nada Al-Nashif for the update. We thank the High Commissioner and the mission in Libya for the efforts made to implement resolution 56/16. We are committed to respecting human rights in keeping with our constitutional and judicial responsibilities. We are determined to co-operate with human rights mechanisms and the OHCHR. through the African group, we asked for an extension of the mandate for technical assistance, and we hope that this will meet with the Council's approval. We have acknowledged the report. We would have liked the report to highlight programs implemented on the contrary, a negative image of the human rights situation has been conveyed. National efforts continue to promote and protect human rights, in particular economic, social and cultural rights, as well as civil and political rights. The same goes for the empowerment of women and the rights of vulnerable groups. The government has taken significant steps to promote human rights. We've established a mixed commission composed of state officials, the judiciary, with the support mission in order to review the situation in detention, places of detention, to ensure that They come under the aegis of the judiciary. We are combating illegal migration, and the Government of National Unity has recognised the competence of the International Criminal Court up to 2027. That shows that our Government does not tolerate any perpetration of human rights violations, and we are committed to combating impunity and establishing the rule of law. The Office of the Attorney General is investigating human rights violations, and perpetrators are brought before the courts. We have established a strategy for social development in order to improve the quality of education, as well as other initiatives. Libya is facing enormous challenges. My country has gone through a transitional period, there are political divisions and there are weapons in the hands of non-state actors. Many leave Libya in the hope of a better life. We need to guarantee human rights for all. This is why Libyans look to the international community. seeking support for this transitional process to buttress stability and to allow for elections so that people can choose their own representatives. We want to end this transitional period, which has been exhausting. There are many factors that have brought about divisions within one and the same people, and this has meant that the conflict has continued. We are determined to work constructively with human rights mechanisms, with your office and with this Council in order to implement the resolution on technical assistance and capacity building in Libya. I thank you for your attention.

Thank you very much, Ambassador. I also inform you that the list of speakers is now closed. I invite interested delegations to ask questions and to make comments on the report. The speaking time, as ever, is one minute 30 seconds. I give the floor, giving the floor to Latvia on behalf of the group of countries.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. I'm speaking on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states. We thank the Office of the High Commissioner for their valuable work in providing technical assistance and capacity building to Libya. We note the enhanced engagement of the Libyan authorities with the OHCHR, notably by granting partial access to both eastern and western Libya, that has broadened the scope of the Office's work mandated by this Council. We strongly urge the Libyan authorities to take further steps towards genuine and constructive dialogue with the Office. For far too long, the people of Libya have aspired to lasting peace, security and stability. The continued lack of justice, accountability and the rule of law has led to a significant erosion of political and civic space and grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. We fully support the OHCHR's continued advocacy for the establishment of a comprehensive rights-based and people-centered national reconciliation and transitional justice process, alongside a sustainable political settlement with engagement of all Libyan stakeholders, Deputy High Commissioner. What more can be done to strengthen the role of Libyan civil society in the pursuit of justice and accountability for human rights violations and abuses committed in the country? I thank you.

Thank you very much.

We'll continue with the European Union.

Madam Vice President, the EU thanks the Office of the High Commissioner for their important work and welcomes the report. We commend Libya's decision to renew the mandate and welcome the extended cooperation with OHCHR. We call on Libya to continue expanding its cooperation and granting full access throughout the country. Strengthening the accountability and criminal justice architecture remains key, and we commend the decision to accept the ICC's jurisdiction until 2027. The human rights situation is extremely concerning. The reports of deaths and significant destruction during the May clashes are dire. We condemn the human rights violations and abuses and the systematic repression of civic space, and call for accountability. We urge Libyan authorities to respect freedom of expression, the press, assembly and association, to respect, protect and fulfil human rights. Inhumane conditions in Libyan detention centres continue to be of deep concern. The EU strongly echoes OHCHR's call to immediately close all unofficial detention centres and urges Libyan authorities to end all enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions. The EU stands ready to work with Libya, hand in hand with OHCHR and UNSMIL, in improving the human rights situation and supporting the path to a safe, peaceful and united Libya.

I thank you.

Thank you very much. We continue with Ghana, on behalf of the Group of African States.

Madam Vice-President, Ghana is honoured to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Group. The group takes note of the report of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in the context of implementing Human Rights Council Resolution 5626 regarding providing technical support and capacity building to the State of Libya in the field of human rights. and highly appreciates the cooperation of the Libyan authority with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The African group also commends the efforts of the Government of National Unity in the field of promoting and protecting human rights, including efforts of the judicial authorities in prosecuting those responsible for human rights violations and fighting impunity. Madam Vice President, the African group stresses the need for the High Commissioner for Human Rights to continue to provide technical support and build the capacity and capabilities of national institutions in accordance with the priorities and needs determined by the government of Libya. The group believes that the technical support to the state of Libya in the field of human rights is the correct path that will support the national institutions. It enhances its capabilities to prevent violations, promote the rule of law, and respect for human rights. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you very much.

We'll continue now with Algeria on behalf of a group of Arab states. Please go ahead.

Vice President, the Arab group takes note of the report by the High Commissioner with regards to technical support and capacity building for Libya in the field of human rights. We acknowledge the cooperation of Libya with OHCHR. We applaud the authorities' efforts in improving human rights and implementing recommendations by international mechanisms, and also prosecuting perpetrators of violation of human rights. Our group stresses that the international community should provide support to Libyan institutions to support human rights and ensure the transition just in transitional justice because it is authorities that can guarantee human rights we underscore that the ohr continue providing technical support and building capacities of national institutions in line with the Libyan authorities needs and priorities we support the draft resolution tabled by the African Union group in order to provide technical support to Libya in the field of human rights with the aim of bolstering the country's capacities to protect the human rights and reinforce the rule of law and avoid violations.

And thank you, Vice President.

Thank you very much. I now give the floor to Algeria once again in their national capacity.

Vice President, we welcome the efforts deployed by the OHCHR in providing support and technical assistance to Libya in order to build its capacities with regards to the enforcement and promotion of human rights. While assisting Libya to live up to its relevant international commitment. We applaud cooperation between Libya and the OHCHR, never mind the challenges. We call upon OHCHR and the international community to continue cooperation with Libya in line with the country's priorities and in a way to build its institutions and ensure the rule of law and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms. Vice President, we welcome the revitalization of the tripartite mechanism for Libya, including Algeria, Egypt, and Tunisia, which is key for diplomacy and ending the crisis. We're calling for the relaunch of a new Libyan-led political process that will lead to elections and to unite institutions without foreign intervention. In closing, we express our support for all peaceful resolution that ensure the stability and unity of Libya and achieve the aspirations of Libyans for peace and prosperity. And thank you very much.

Yes.

Thank you very much, and I give the floor to Belgium.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Belgium welcomes the report and commends the Libyan authorities for their constructive engagement with OHCHR and UNSMIL. Fostering an environment conducive to rights-based reconciliation, prevention of, and accountability for violations and abuses remains of utmost importance. Belgium is deeply concerned by the human rights situation in Libya, including by cases of arbitrary detention and forced disappearance and human rights violations and abuses in the context of deprivation of liberty. We regret that in many cases, the requests to address alleged violations remain without response. While we acknowledge the enhanced engagement of the Libyan authorities, which resulted in the granting of partial access to some places of detention throughout Libya, we call on the authorities to increase their cooperation with OHCHR and UNSMIL and to grant full access to all locations and places of detention. Indeed, to ensure the sustainability of the technical assistance and capacity-building efforts, the human rights challenges in the country must be addressed. including to a commitment from the authorities to advance justice and accountability for violations and abuses. I thank you.

Thank you very much.

And I give the floor to Qatar.

Vice President, we welcome the efforts and activities conducted by the OHCHR in cooperation with the Libyan authorities in order to provide technical assistance and build capacity in order to improve human rights and counter challenges in this transition period that the country is facing. We condemn all violations against Libyans and call upon Libyan parties to respect their commitment and the international agreements and to reinforce national reconciliation and transitional justice and ensure accountability with regards to violations. We call upon the OHCHR office to continue providing technical support and cooperate with Libyan authorities in order to define the priorities and needs and ways to respond to them in order to achieve positive results and help the country to live up to its human rights commitment. We support the political path and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and all solutions that preserve the stability and sovereignty of and ensure there is a realisation of Libyans' aspirations for development and prosperity.

I thank you, Vice-President.

Thank you very much. This was the last speaker that we could accommodate this evening. Excellencies, distinguished participants and friends, this brings us to the end of our meeting. We will reconvene tomorrow at 10 in the morning to continue the interactive dialogue on technical cooperation in Libya. to be followed by the interactive dialogue with the special rapporteur on Cambodia and the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's oral update on Ukraine. I hereby close the 38th meeting of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. Thank you and a very good evening.