48th Meeting - 61st Session of Human Rights Council

Excellencies, distinguished participants, I call to order the 40th meeting of the Human Rights Council. We will continue with our interactive dialogue on the conclusions of the OHCHR on human rights violations in Ukraine. And we will continue with the list of speakers. I will give the floor to now Switzerland. You have the floor.

Vice President, Switzerland would like to thank the Deputy High Commissioner for her report. The suffering of the Ukrainian population caused by the war waged by the Russian Federation continue to worsen. In 2025, the number of Ukrainian civilians killed or injured as part of this conflict has reached unprecedented levels. Switzerland continues to call for the respect for international humanitarian law and international human rights law and condemn their violations. We welcome the last report of the Monitoring Mission in Ukraine on forced displacement in territories that have been temporarily occupied by Russia. As highlighted in this report, this displacement is not a result directly of hostilities, but of discriminatory measures imposed by the occupying authorities, which force individuals to choose between accepting violation of their fundamental rights or forced departure. These acts are violations of international humanitarian law and human rights violations. They tear families apart, deprive them of their housing, and weaken the social and cultural fabric of communities, thereby threatening Ukrainian identity in the territories that are temporarily occupied. We call on Russia to immediately put an end to forced displacement and to remove barriers to the return of displaced persons. Madam Deputy High Commissioner, what measures is the OHCHR taking to gather proof to establish the responsibility of forced displacement? I thank you.

Thank you. I call upon the distinguished Ambassador of Spain, Deputy Ambassador of Spain.

Thank you, Vice President. Spain would like to endorse the declaration of the European Union, and we're grateful for the oral update of the Deputy High Commissioner. We are entering into the fifth year of the large-scale attack against Ukraine. This is carried out by a neighboring country. The Russian authorities could put an end today to this war. However, we see a rise in deliberate attacks against the civilian population and critical infrastructure. These are not isolated incidents. These are acts which require unanimous and firm condemnation. Accountability must be the pillar of international justice. There could be no lasting peace based on impunity. We are particularly concerned about the fate of thousands of Ukrainian children that have been displaced forcibly. Their immediate and safe return is a moral and legal requirement. Spain once again reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders. Given the seriousness of the complaints of torture and arbitrary detentions in the territories under occupation, we encourage the Office to persevere in demanding unfettered access to all detention centres where civilians and Ukrainian war prisoners are held. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Eritrea.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Eritrea is firmly opposed to war. We believe that war and the loss of human life should be avoided at all costs by all. As a nation that have fought for its independence and defended sovereignty against wars of aggression, we fully understand the cost of war. We reiterate that the trilateral West Ukraine UN mechanism is fundamentally flawed, lacking any semblance of balance in its activities, reports or statements. It has repeatedly shown a glaring bias relying on unverified, one-sided information to promote the narrative of a few nations while disregarding alternative perspectives and the broader truth. The international community must focus on addressing the root causes of this conflict rather than reiterating the same narrative, one that has led to no positive outcomes. It is unacceptable that references to international law and the United Nations Charter are selectively applied as it fits to interests of the few. This growing practice of selectivity is dangerous and warrants reassessment. We call for constructive dialogue and genuine cooperation as the foundation for resolving global conflicts. To conclude, item 10 focuses on technical assistance and capacity building. It is designed as a collaborative and non-punitive item to offer support and share best practices. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. With that, we have concluded the list of states who have taken the floor. We will now turn to the list of national human rights institutions and NGOs. I give the floor to World Resisters International, and we'll hear them by the video statement.

WRI, together with Connection B, expresses solidarity with the people of Ukraine suffering from the military aggression of the Russian Federation and calls for an immediate ceasefire. We are concerned by the ongoing forced mobilization in the Russian-occupied territories. There are reports of 600 conscripted people and of coercion to sign contracts. We recall the High Commission and the Council of Europe Commission for Human Rights reporting also forced mobilization in Ukraine. We are alarmed by the reporting of the Commission of Inquiry to this Council regarding this issue and the ongoing violent treatment of conscientious during mobilization. Yuriy Sheletsenko, a conscientious objector and human rights defender, has been forcibly taken by the police in Kyiv on March 19 and arbitrarily deprived of his liberty for over 44 hours without his family or lawyer being able to ascertain his whereabouts or condition. He was taken to the Pechersk district police station and later to the Sviatoshyn military registration enlistment office and reported physical violence and humiliating treatment while arbitrarily detained, which may amount to torture. We would like to name all also Andriy Sklyar, Hryhor Nosenko, Timur Shytov and Vasyl Voloshenyuk, prisoners of conscience. We urge Ukraine to cease forced mobilization, persecution and criminalization of Yuriy Shmyrlynsky and other conscientious objectors and call for their immediate acquittal. We urge Russia to cease its war of aggression and stop forced mobilization and registration in the occupied territories. We urge Member States to fully implement the right to refuse to participate in war and to fully support diplomatic avenues to immediately stop the war. Thank you.

Now we will hear another video statement by the public organization Public Advocacy.

Distinguished participants, I am a Metropolitan of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. I ask you to pay attention to cruel and systematic oppression of the faithful of our church in modern Ukraine, which has been going on for several years. Among other things, today we're talking about the next step in the development of this religious genocide. We're talking about the physical liquidation of priests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. How is it done? In Ukraine, special discriminatory legislation has recently been adopted, which prohibits the clergy of our Church from exemptions from mobilization, unlike other Ukrainian confessions, which have the right to be completely exempt from the army. Well, we believe that this is done with the obvious goal of decapitating the church, communities, and depriving believers of their pastors. Today, throughout our country, our clergy are forcibly seized from the streets and sent to the front. There are dozens of such cases, the numbers growing every day. Some priests die quickly on the front lines because, according to church rules, they do not even have the right to take up arms. I would like to urge the UN to consider the ongoing genocide of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church as a case of grave violations of human rights. according to UN resolutions, in accordance with the complaints already submitted to the UN Human Rights Council. Thank you.

We will now hear another video statement from the World Federation of Ukrainian Women's Organizations.

Ukrainian women's organizations, thanks the High Commissioner and its office for continued monitoring and reporting on human rights situation in Ukraine. This winter has once again exposed the severe humanitarian consequences of attacks against civilian infrastructure. Repeated missile and drone strikes have targeted energy facilities, leaving millions without electricity, heating and water during the coldest months. In February 2026 alone, Russia launched 288 missiles and more than 5,000 drones across Ukraine. For many families, this has meant prolonged periods of freezing homes, disruption to education, and limited access to essential services. Hospitals, schools, and residential buildings continue to operate under the constant threat of power outages, while many households face extended electricity cuts and sub-zero temperatures. This pattern of attacks, widely described as an attempt to "freeze" Ukraine, go far beyond the military objectives. They place civilians under severe physical and psychological strain and undermine the basic conditions necessary for human dignity and survival. We encourage the Office of the High Commissioner to continue documenting these violations, including their disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups, and to support efforts to ensure accountability of Russia and the protection of civilians.

Thank you.

We will now hear another video statement, Every Casualty Worldwide.

Every Casualty Worldwide thanks the High Commissioner's Office in Ukraine for their continuing efforts to document casualties of the conflict promptly and comprehensively. This work is vital for fulfilling victims' rights to truth and accountability. We urge donor states and other funders to maintain their support for these activities for as long as is required. Casualty records show that the civilian death rate has increased each year since 2023, as the war becomes increasingly deadly for civilians. The deliberate targeting of vital civilian infrastructure, particularly power stations, created blackouts and hundreds of thousands of freezing homes across Ukraine this winter, with children, the elderly and the sick suffering most. Civilians have literally frozen to death in their homes as a result of the weaponisation of weather, known in Ukrainian as 'khlodomor' death by cold. Has HRMMU been able to document deaths caused as an indirect result of the conflict in Ukraine, including deaths from cold, and what demographic patterns do they reveal? What further resources does HRMMU need in order to fully document the human toll of the war in Ukraine? And has HRMMU been able to verify any further casualty information from areas occupied by Russian forces?

Thank you.

We will now hear another video statement, Human Rights Now.

Human Rights Now is deeply concerned by the targeting of civilians in Ukraine. Civilian casualties are increasing not only in front lines, but also in urban areas throughout the country. Attacks by Russian forces on energy infrastructure have also intensified, severely affecting the lives of residents and those living within proximity. For instance, The occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant by the Russian military has led to repeated nuclear-related crises. In Japan, we have experienced the Fukushima nuclear disaster, and because of this, we are deeply concerned by this situation, especially so because Russia is our neighboring country. There are also Russian citizens in Japan who have fled from the Putin regime's attempts to crack down against their speech and freedom. We again urge the Russian government to immediately cease all military operations and withdraw from Ukraine, to ensure accountability for violations of international law, and to stop violations of freedom of expression and physical freedom inside of Russia. We also call on the international community to reaffirm the fundamental principle that any territorial acquisition or annexation resulting from the use of force must not be recognized as legitimate, and to both continue and increase political and economic pressure to end Russian aggression.

Thank you.

I'd like to give the floor now to the representative from Human Rights House Foundation.

Thank you, Vice-President. More than a decade into Russia's occupation of Crimea, violations are entrenched. In other occupied parts of Ukraine, the same methods are spreading, fear and pressure designed to erase Ukrainian identity and force people into submission or to flee. The latest Monitoring Mission report describes how forced displacement is not only about movement, but it is also about constant pressure. People are pushed out or compelled to move by Russian passportization, threats of deportation, unlawful conscription, persecution for pro-Ukrainian identity, attacks on religious communities, and the indoctrination of children. The same report shows that return to the occupied territories is not only unsafe, it is being actively impeded. Everyone, including those who flee and those who remain, are left with a cruel choice, submit to occupation or lose homes and livelihoods. Our Ukrainian partners continue to document the system as well as the continued persecution of journalists, civil activists, and Crimean Tatars. We remain deeply concerned for those who remain unjustly imprisoned, including Irina Danilovych, Emir Hussein Kuku, and members of Crimean Solidarity, including Ahmet Suleymanov and Tofik Abdulgazyev. President, we ask the Deputy High Commissioner what more can the UN system do to document confiscated property and support remedies for Ukrainians from occupied territory who have been displaced and denied the right to return. I thank you.

Thank you. We will now hear a video statement by Frontline AIDS Limited.

This statement is issued on behalf of local and international civil society organizations working in Ukraine to address the consequences of Russian's aggression. Four years into Russian Federation full-scale invasion, the human cost continues to rise. In 2025 alone, civilian causalities reached their highest level since 2022, with over 2,500 killed and more than 12,000 injured. This is not de-escalation. It is an intensification of harm. Civilians continue to face sustained attacks, particularly on critical infrastructure. More than 2,500 healthcare facilities have been damaged or destroyed, severely limiting access to essential services. Large-scale missile and drone strikes continue to hit residential areas, schools, and energy systems, leaving communities without electricity, healthcare, and protection. These patterns raise serious concerns regarding compliance with international humanitarian law. They also have clear gendered impact. Women and girls face heightened risk of gender-based and conflict-related sexual violence, with over 300 cases under investigation, while many remain underreported. Destruction of infrastructure further restricts access to healthcare, including reproductive and psychological services. Ukraine also reflects a broader global challenge. Delayed international response enables prolonged violence and normalization of violations. We call for stronger protection of civilians, full accountability, and sustained support to Ukraine, grounded in international law and women peace and security commitments. Thank you.

We'll now hear another video statement from the Human Rights Research League.

Mr. President, I'm documenting war crimes in this war that Russia has launched against Ukraine. I would like to draw attention to the problem of illegally detained civilians. According to international law, Russia has no right to do it, but tens of thousands of men, women and children are illegally detained in occupied territories. I spoke with hundreds of them. They told me how they were beaten, raped, their fingers were cut, their nails were torn away. One woman told me how her eye was dragged out with a spoon.

Last year, I met a five-year-old girl.

We work with the case of her mother. Her mother was a civilian. She was abducted and tortured. Frankly speaking, I don't know how she survived because she went through the multiple gang rape and then she was illegally transported to Russia and faced with fabricated criminal case. Probably someone told this girl that I'm a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and can do something. So she reached me, hugged me, started crying and begging, please return my mom. It has to be some conclusion here. But instead of this, I have just two questions. First, are we doing enough to release these people? And second, what do I have to answer to this five-year-old girl?

To conclude, we will hear another video statement from the Shanxi Patriotic Volunteer Association.

Mr. President. Special Rapporteur, distinguished delegates, we are deeply concerned about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. We highly commend the tireless efforts of the UN Humanitarian Coordinator and the emergency responders, and we strongly call on the international community to spare no efforts in ensuring the safety of civilians and humanitarian access. The current crisis is a clear warning. National security and development must never come at the expense of the rights and interests of other countries. Any decision made solely based on one's own national interests can only lead to disaster. We propose the International Patriotic Act. pact initiative in 2022 and adopted the pact in 2025. To date, 296 NGOs from 67 countries have signed and joined this pact. We believe that true patriotism means safeguarding the well-being of one's own people while respecting international rules and the rights of other nations. The mechanism for reviewing national rights to development that we have proposed is designed precisely on the principle of loving one's own country without harming other nations' interests. Its purpose is to examine whether in one's own development process, one has harmed the interests of other countries. Finally, please allow me to invite all delegates, including the President and the Special Rapporteur, to attend our spring forum of the International Patriotic for PACT Organization on April the 1st in Room 5.

With that, we have gone through the list of our speakers, and I'll give the floor to Madam Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, for her concluding remarks.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice-President. Thank you, distinguished delegates, for your queries and your contributions to this debate. I will answer in clusters of themes. First, on what the international community can do to support people living in the occupied territory. The international community should continue to engage with the Russian Federation to urge full compliance with international humanitarian and human rights law in line with OHCHR's recommendations. Also, to support civil society organizations that are working with people in and from the occupied territory. And most of all, I think the international community should really make sure that peace negotiations include a very strong focus on the rights of both people who remain in the occupied territory and those who have left. It should also sustain advocacy for the establishment of humanitarian corridors across the contact lines between the occupied territory and government-controlled territory to facilitate civilian movement. On forced displacement, I can say these policies and practices have targeted in particular people who refuse to obtain Russian citizenship and people with particular political opinions, those perceived as disloyal, non-compliant with the occupying authorities. They have targeted people who wanted to express their Ukrainian cultural or political identity, sometimes the religious communities and LGBTQI+ persons. Within these groups, both men and women have been affected, as well as children, when their parents no longer could stay in occupied territory or when they wanted to obtain a Ukrainian education. On assistance to Ukraine for accountability efforts, it's very important that we continue to strengthen the capacity of Ukrainian institutions to investigate, document and preserve evidence regardless of the perpetrator. That would include strengthened forensic and investigative capacity, for example, mobile teams operating near the front lines, robust protection of victims and witnesses, and secure systems for the preservation of digital and physical evidence. Regarding monitoring and access to occupied territory, Just to be clear again, we do not have access to territory occupied by the Russian Federation, and so OHCHR applies our remote monitoring methodology to the extent possible to verify human rights violations and civilian harm, including civilian casualties. We continue to ask the Russian Federation for access to both the Russian Federation and the occupied territories, and all public reports of the Office are shared with the Russian Federation before publication, in line with our usual methodology and the practice for all OHCHR reports. Regarding establishing the responsibility for forced displacement, in general, we identify patterns of forced displacement, including coercive environments, transfers and deportations, and obstacles to return. Our latest report, I should note, is only focused on displacement from occupied territory due to conduct that may amount to forcible transfer or deportation under international humanitarian law. There are other reasons for displacement, of course, and many civilians have fled fighting both internally within Ukraine and externally, but this report does not focus on that. On the impact of civilians of attacks on energy infrastructure, you will have recognized this is a theme we have been covering and systematically documenting civilian deaths and injuries directly caused by hostilities since 2014, in line with our established methodology. So while we do not document indirect civilian casualties, which may have multiple contributing factors, the Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine closely monitors the broader impact of hostilities on human rights, including on access to an adequate standard of living, of healthcare, and of education. Regarding property confiscation and remedies, the international community should continue to strengthen documentation efforts and support to comprehensive accountability and reparation frameworks, including access to restitution and compensation mechanisms. We call on the Russian Federation to stop confiscating private property in occupied territory. In government-controlled territory of Ukraine, compensation mechanisms should be accessible to all affected persons. Additionally, we encourage the international community and Ukraine to include people who lost their property in occupied territory before 2022 in all compensation and reparation measures in order to ensure equal treatment of all victims. Regarding support for the Human Rights Monitoring Mission, documentation work. As you know, sustained and predictable resources are essential for OHCHR to continue its monitoring and reporting on the human rights impact of the war in Ukraine. Flexible funding in particular allows us to maintain a strong field presence, which is critical to the work that we do to reach communities and hard to access areas and to expand our data collection and analysis. Needless to add In the current global climate with a lot of financial uncertainty, where we have had to scale back activities, such support is more critical than ever. And obviously, this should be complemented by full, safe, unfettered access to all areas of Ukraine, including territory of Ukraine that is occupied by the Russian Federation. Regarding the situation of civilian detainees in the Russian Federation and their release, There was a question. More must be done, and of course, we believe that more can be done. Civilians must always be released as soon as the reason for their detention ceases to exist. The international community should also renew its calls for effective investigations into allegations of torture against civilian detainees. and bring perpetrators to account, regardless of their affiliation. Finally, Mr. Vice President, on human rights accountability and peace talks, as mentioned before on several occasions by the High Commissioner, peace must be grounded in the UN Charter and international law, including in the principles of accountability, non-discrimination, and participation. There can be no sustainable peace without justice for an inclusive participation of victims and affected communities. In practical terms, negotiations about peace in Ukraine should prioritize the protection of civilians, particularly giving special attention to the rights of people remaining in occupied territory, as well as those who were forced to leave. I mentioned already the importance of humanitarian corridors, both for the delivery of humanitarian assistance, but also for people to be able to reunite with their families. They should guarantee the all-for-all exchange of prisoners of war, in addition to the return of civilian detainees and those forcibly transferred or, indeed, deported children. finally, peace negotiations should ensure access to reparations for victims of serious rights violations, and by doing so, lay the foundations for durable solutions for all displaced persons, including, of course, vulnerable persons like older persons and persons with disabilities. Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much indeed. We will then conclude our interactive dialogue. We'll take a very, very short break before holding the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's report on the situation of human rights in Haiti with the participation of the designated expert on human rights appointed by the High Commissioner. Thank you very much indeed.

Thank you very much for your patience. And we shall now start with the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's report on the situation of human rights in Haiti with the participation of the designated expert on human rights pursuant to Council Resolution 58/32. The Deputy High Commissioner will be presenting the report. And also, I would like to welcome Mr. William O'Neil, the High Commissioner's designated expert. And the list of speakers will be closed in 15 minutes. Deputy High Commissioner, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates. The human rights crisis in Haiti has reached disastrous levels. The report before you today documents a vortex of violence fueled by gangs and so-called self-defense groups, but also associated with operations by the security forces, resulting in serious human rights violations and abuses. According to data verified by our office, between 1 March of last year, 2025, and 15 January of this year, at least 5,500 people were killed and some 2,600 were injured in gang-related violence. The data shows that 65% of these casualties took place during operations by the security forces against gangs. More than one in five of these victims, including children, were struck by stray bullets in their homes or on the streets. Gangs control most of the capital, Port-au-Prince. They are now expanding into its outskirts and moving north into the Artibonite and Centre departments. They kill, kidnap, beat, and burn the bodies of anyone who gets in their way. This includes people who resist extortion and those they perceive as collaborating with the police. Gang members destroy and ransack property and exert control over the population by starving and extorting them. They restrict access to healthcare and education by destroying facilities and setting up roadblocks. Sexual violence against women and girls is a particularly horrific feature of this crisis, used to spread fear and punish the population. Between the 1st of March 2025 and the end of last year, the 31st of December, our office verified that more than 1,570 women and girls were victims of sexual violence, mostly gang rape. The real figures are likely higher. Gang members coerced others, including children, into relationships and subjected them to prolonged sexual exploitation and abuse. Due to persistent stigma, sexual violence remains underreported and its impact, including on men and boys, is largely hidden. There are serious concerns that gangs are trafficking children for exploitation and criminal activities, although comprehensive figures are not available. Gangs coerce children into committing targeted killings, sexual violence, and kidnapping, as well as destroying property. Children are also forced to run errands, to monitor security forces, and to collect extortion payments. This gang violence is enabled by the use and threat of firearms. We urge all States to implement the Security Council's arms embargo in full to prevent the illicit trafficking of firearms and ammunition into Haiti. Mr. Vice President, during the reporting period, security forces intensified ground and air operations against gangs in Port-au-Prince and sought to prevent gang expansion in the city. This includes law enforcement operations conducted by the Haitian National Police on the ground, sometimes with support from the Haitian Armed Forces and the Multinational Security Support Mission, the MSS. There are serious concerns that state law enforcement have used unnecessary and disproportionate lethal force against gangs and individuals accused of providing support to those gangs. I call on the authorities to investigate all deaths that take place in such circumstances. A foreign private military company contracted by the Government has used drones and helicopter gunfire against gangs since March 2025. Our Office has verified that at least 60 people with no affiliation to gangs, including 13 children, have been killed in these operations. Most of these strikes may amount to targeted killings in violation of international human rights law. We have no indication that judicial authorities are investigating the legality of these killings. Our Office has also documented that during the reporting period, Police officers summarily executed some 196 people accused of belonging to or collaborating with gangs. Some people were targeted solely because of where they lived or because they lacked identification. Self-defence groups and mobs continued to carry out so-called popular justice, lynching people and burning their bodies. These groups have killed almost 600 people, some accused of being affiliated to gangs, others suspected of having committed common crimes. Mr. Vice-President, gang violence has deepened instability in a country already marked by fragile governance and huge humanitarian needs. Years of corruption and impunity have eroded the effectiveness of the police, the judiciary and other state institutions, and have weakened public trust. While there has been some progress, including the launch of investigations into corruption and gang financing, much more is needed to restore the rule of law. Escalating gang violence in the Centre and Artibonite departments has contributed to the dire humanitarian situation, which is exacerbated by extreme weather events, including storms and floods. As of September of last year, more than 1.4 million people were internally displaced. a 36% increase in less than one year. Water, food, healthcare, and education are out of reach for millions of Haitians, further undermining social cohesion and the rule of law. We recognize the efforts by the Haitian authorities to fulfill their obligations to ensure law and order in such a challenging environment. However, to build lasting security in Haiti, the authorities need to anchor their responses in human rights, prioritizing prevention and protection, including community-based approaches to countering violence. This requires focused efforts in three areas. First, law enforcement operations must be conducted in line with international human rights law. Police and security forces may only use potentially lethal force when it is unavoidable to protect life and only as a last resort. This saves lives and it builds public trust. More violence only increases people's feeling of insecurity. It is critical to ensure that the Haitian police and security forces, as well as the gang suppression force, operate in full compliance with international human rights law, and our office remains ready to support this work. Second, strengthening state institutions and pursuing accountability. This means bolstering judicial independence, tackling corruption, and investigating the serious human rights violations and abuses that have been committed over many years. We urge the authorities to ensure that the two specialized judicial units established to address human rights violations and corruption are able to begin their work as soon as possible. Third, and most importantly, protecting the population, including through addressing the trafficking of children by gangs. Deep inequalities are part of the root causes of the crisis in Haiti. The authorities must tackle extreme poverty and invest in meeting people's basic needs. The human rights economy that we have put forward can provide a helpful framework to ensure that all economic and financial decisions focus on advancing human rights for all. Our office is ready to support the authorities in these efforts. Support programs for survivors of sexual exploitation and abuse and others affected by gang violence are a crucial piece of breaking the cycle and building resilience. Mr. Vice President, years of armed violence and human rights violations and abuses have destroyed and upended lives across the entire country. At this moment, as Haiti stands once again perilously close to the brink, only a renewed commitment to principled, rights-based protection and responsible, accountable law enforcement can put the country onto a more stable course. Bringing about real change in Haiti requires sustained financial and political commitment on behalf of the entire international community. Together, let's support the Haitian people to open a path towards lasting peace and security, to hold free and fair elections, to rebuild the safety, and restore the dignity that they so well deserve. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. I give the floor to Mr. O'Neill.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President, and greetings, excellencies, distinguished delegates, friends. It's a pleasure to be here with you today. I've just returned from a 10-day visit to Haiti to assess the human rights situation in the country. I am honored to present a few reflections on this visit. I saw glimmers of hope, some territory liberated from gang control, a motivated and more visible police presence, and a determined and more unified political leadership. Yet, I am alarmed by the ongoing human rights crisis that creates massive suffering for the Haitian people, especially the most vulnerable. Violence has forced at least 1.4 million people to flee their homes, an unprecedented level of internal displacement in Haiti. Many families live in extremely precarious conditions without access to health care, clean water, toilets, food, schools, or adequate shelter. In camps and makeshift settlements, people struggle every day simply to survive. Sexual violence is rife in these sites. Meanwhile, thousands remain trapped in areas controlled by gangs or along shifting front lines. Young people in these communities live under constant threat. They are also frequently stigmatized or suspected simply because of where they live, sometimes by security forces, sometimes by others in the population. This places them in an impossible situation, caught between violence and suspicion. As a young girl told me, young people in Haiti face many invisible borders in their lives.

And for the girls, these barriers are even higher. They're facing discrimination due to the simple fact that they are girls, to live in areas controlled by gangs, and because they're poor. "I want to simply live well and in security," a young girl told me, "because this is my country." The.

Situation is fragile. I heard serious concerns about police operations and the reported use of drones that have resulted in deaths and injuries. Efforts to restore security are essential and desired by many, but they must fully respect international human rights law. Security measures, however, are never enough. Haiti must also invest urgently in violence reduction and prevention, particularly for young people. I was encouraged to hear the Prime Minister's commitment to programs focusing on rehabilitating young gang members. Many children and adolescents have been recruited or coerced by gangs and are growing up in communities where violence has become part of daily life. Haiti is a dangerous place to be a child. Haiti urgently needs rehabilitation and reintegration programs for children associated with gangs, as well as real alternatives for all young people through education, employment, and access to basic services. Institutions responsible for child protection, including the Institut du Bien-Etre Social et de Recherche, must receive greater support to respond to the urgent needs of children and youth affected by violence.

I am also convinced that the creation of a corps of Haitian youth can give young people a constructive role in the reconstruction of their communities and to contribute to the future of the country. This will also make it possible to avoid the renewal of the operation of gangs.

Years of violence Haiti has talented professionals who can help address this challenge. Haitian psychologists, social workers, and community leaders should be mobilized to support victims, promote reconciliation, and help rebuild trust within communities. They can help repair what many Haitians told me is a shredded social contract. I'm deeply concerned about corruption, impunity, and the weakness of accountability mechanisms. During my visit, I visited the prisons in Port-au-Prince and in Cap-Haitien.

The conditions that I have observed have been inhuman and degrading. Adults and children, as well as women and men, are detained in the same institutions, often in conditions of extreme overcrowding and unhealthy conditions. Such treatment is unacceptable and shows the structural problems in the system of justice and detention.

Accountability and ending impunity will be essential. I welcome initiatives such as the new specialized pole judiciaire, which offer hope for progress in the fight against corruption and human rights violations, including sexual violence. The Unite de Lutte Contre la Corruption must receive the support necessary to combat corruption, and the Haitian justice system must prosecute these cases vigorously. The UN Security Council should impose sanctions against those responsible for corruption and human rights abuses. and all UN member states should enforce the Council's arms embargo on Haiti. Distinguished delegates, I met many courageous Haitians, human rights defenders, journalists, community leaders, health care workers, educators, government officials, and ordinary citizens who continue to work tirelessly for their country. Their commitment is remarkable. We can't let them down. There is no more time to lose. As a famous Haitian Creole says, "Kembay fem, pa lage." Stay strong, do not give up. Thank you.

Thank you. In line with the practice of the Council, we will now listen to the delegation of the country concerned. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Haiti.

President, Madam Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Independent Expert, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, There are moments in the life of nations when time is no longer measured in days or months, but in accumulated suffering, in suspended hopes, in upset lives. Haiti is living through one of these moments. I would like to thank the High Commissioner for the detailed report on the human rights situation in Haiti. the Independent Expert for his continued commitment, and I would also like to thank the Council for the continued attention that it gives to my country. The report highlights the seriousness of the situation on the ground, marked by the growing influence of armed groups, massive population displacements, the collapse of essential services and the increase in extremely brutal violence. We know that, and we do not seek to dispute that. In Haiti today, fear has become a daily reality. It is experienced in forced displacement, in closed schools, in limited access to health care, but also in the violence inflicted on women and girls, in a cruelty that nothing can justify. This is a situation is not that of an ordinary crisis. It reflects a profound security breakdown fueled in particular by illicit flows of arms and transnational criminal networks that far exceed the capacities of a weakened state. In the face of this reality, the Haitian state has not remained inactive. In the area of security, the government of Haiti, with the support of international partners, has taken specific steps to gradually regain control of the territory and to reestablish state authority in the most affected areas. The operational capacities of the national police of Haiti have been significantly strengthened. in particular by providing specialized equipment, providing armored vehicles, the rehabilitation of police infrastructure, and the improvement of field projection capabilities. This support has enabled targeted operations to be carried out that have led to the gradual recapture of strategic areas and reopening of several essential roads. particular in the Carrefour airport region as well as in the districts of Solina, Cite Soleil and Bas Delmar. At the same time, a major program to increase the number of staff is underway aimed at training 4,000 anti-gang police officers. Supported by several international partners, this program has made it possible to ensure the training and deployment of new police officers, including in the areas that have been hardest hit by violence. At the same time, Haiti is resolutely pursuing its efforts to return to a constitutional order. The adoption of electoral decree and establishment of relevant type table is a decisive step towards presidential and legislative elections in 2026. Numerous parties, groups, and political organizations have been registered, showing the true will to participate in the democratic process despite the circumstances. Excellencies, Haiti remains deeply committed to multilateralism and continues to cooperate with the United Nations in a constructive spirit. Nevertheless, the challenges that we are facing go beyond our national capacities. We call for increased international support, especially in the area of security, in the area of judiciary, and humanitarian support, as well as the effective implementation of an arms embargo in order to put an end to the source that feeds into violence. Mr. President, despite these challenges, the Haitian people continue to demonstrate a moral strength and dignity that command respect. We simply aspire to live in security, to rebuild our institutions, and to resume the normal course of national life. Haiti is not a problem to be managed. It is a nation to be supported. Thank you.

Thank you very much. The list of speakers is now closed. And now I'd like to invite interested delegations put questions to the Deputy High Commissioner and to the designated expert and to comment on the report. The first speaker on my list is the delegate of the European Union.

Thank you. Madam Deputy High Commissioner, dear independent expert, the European Union welcomes the resolution submitted by Haiti to renew your mandate and we reaffirm our full support to the mandate. The international community must help Haiti to put an end to the massive human rights violations. This situation must go hand in hand with sustained efforts by the Haitian authorities to uphold human rights and fight impunity. The situation of children is of particular concern. Trafficking of children by gangs is on the rise and has grown by more than 200% in 2025, according to UNICEF. Women and girls continue to live under the daily threat of sexual and gender-based violence. The EU is committed to the protection of the Haitian people. It supports the Haitian national police and the deployment of the gang repression force in Haiti. At the same time, the EU underlines the importance for these forces to respect international human rights law in their operations and to support international law. Now, to respond to this crisis, the EU has allocated nearly 40 million euros in humanitarian aid to Haiti in 2025. And for 2026, 33 million in humanitarian has been allocated. We're working with Haiti to build stronger foundation for development and restoring services, strengthening education and food security. Madam Deputy High Commissioner, the mandate for your work is needed to document violations, identify and support Haiti in implementing necessary reforms. How can the fight against impunity in Haiti be strengthened? Thank you.

Thank you. I now give the floor to Distinguished Ambassador Wistort.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I deliver the statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States. We thank the High Commissioner for the report and affirm our support to ongoing stabilization efforts in Haiti, including through the United Nations Security Council Gang Suppression Force. We remain seriously concerned about the dire human rights situation and persistent security challenges in Haiti, including ongoing pervasive gang violence and other that fuels insecurity and instability, driving a dramatic surge in internally displaced people now exceeding 1.4 million. Women and girls are particularly affected by this crisis and face alarming levels of sexual and gender-based violence, particularly in displaced and gang-controlled areas. In this context, we strongly emphasize the need to ensure the safety of women and girls, to strengthen prevention and response measures, and to ensure accountability for these grave violations. Equally alarming are reports of children being recruited and trafficked by gangs, highlighting their increased vulnerability to abuse and exploitation. We stress the urgent need to place children at the center of the response to the security crisis in Haiti. Deputy High Commissioner, how can it be ensured that human rights, including children's rights, are fully protected at all times, including during the planning and conduct of operations by the gang suppression force? I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bahamas on behalf of the Caribbean community.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of CARICOM states in Geneva.

We thank the High Commissioner for his report and Mr. William O'Neil, designated expert, for his contributions and insights. CARICOM remains gravely concerned by the human rights, security, and humanitarian situation in Haiti. Widespread gang violence continues to result in loss of life, displacement, and serious.

Human rights violations, including sexual violence and the recruitment and exploitation of children.

We welcome the areas of progress by the Haitian authorities highlighted in the report, including efforts to strengthen the operational.

Capacity of the Haitian police and steps to restore the functioning of judicial institutions, which should be further supported.

In this regard, we echo the conclusions of CARICOM heads of government at their February.

2026 meeting, which noted the commitment of Prime Minister Fisseh M. to ensuring stability.

In Haiti and working towards free and fair elections. CARICOM heads further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Haiti.

To meet these objectives, including through strengthened collaboration with the UN and the OAS.

CARICOM underscores the urgent need for coordinated and sustained international action, including predictable financial support for security efforts.

In full compliance with international human rights law.

We also stress the importance of addressing root causes, including.

Persistent inequalities and illicit arms trafficking, alongside the need for strengthened technical assistance and capacity building.

In closing, we reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with the people of Haiti and our firm commitment to supporting a Haitian-led.

Path toward peace, stability, democratic governance, and the full enjoyment of all human rights.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium. We have a group of Francophone ambassadors.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. This statement is delivered on behalf of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors. We remain concerned about the continued gang violence and serious rights violations, particularly against women, children, and IDPs. Given the magnitude of the challenges, we encourage the authorities to strengthen the rule of law, undertake penal reforms, improve access to justice, and cooperate with UN mechanisms. The Francophonie provides support for the transition process and concrete support for women and civil society. On the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly, the OIF and CARICOM co-hosted a high-level meeting aimed at mobilizing international solidarity to support political dialogue, strengthen security, and create the conditions for a successful transition. On this occasion, financial support was announced for the La Francophonie avec Elle fund to finance local initiatives that strengthen women's resilience and economic independence of women. Training continues for the staff or the gang repression force to strengthen their cooperation with Haitian forces. In conclusion, we reaffirm our determination to stand by the Haitian people and our readiness to support efforts and the different initiatives to emerge from the crisis in a sustainable manner. Thank you.

Now I give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Kenya on behalf of a group of countries.

Mr. Vice President, we thank the High Commissioner for the report and take note of the presentation by the designated expert. The African group remains concerned by the scale and persistence of violence in Haiti, including its expansion beyond the capital. We note with concern the reported high number of casualties, including among civilians, as well as the continued impact on women and children. The situation continues to affect access to basic services, exacerbate humanitarian conditions, and constrain prospects for elections. We welcome the recommendations contained in the report and take note of the challenges highlighted, including the strain on national institutions. In this context, we stress the importance of advancing efforts to restore peace and stability, including through strengthened law enforcement and judicial institutions to address insecurity and impunity. We underline that all measures to improve security should undertaken in full respect of international human rights law. The group further highlights the need for sustained international support, including through the gang suppression force, aligned with national priorities, including addressing and underlying socioeconomic challenges that contribute to instability. We reaffirm the importance of Haitian-led process towards stability, including the holding of inclusive and credible elections. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil. Brazil, you have the floor. Brazil, you have the floor. You don't wish to take the floor? Okay. The distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic has the floor.

Thank you, Vice-President. The Dominican Republic takes note of the report, which sets out a deeply alarming reality. The multidimensional crisis that Haiti is experiencing requires greater attention by the international community. Thus, we welcome the support of the Security Council to deploy a force to disperse the gangs, and we hope that this will contribute to re-establishing minimum conditions of safety by strictly abiding by international law. But to guarantee a sustainable solution, this also means that there needs to be international co-operation that adds to the efforts of the Haitian authorities to strengthen their institutions and combat impunity. At a time when credibility in multilateralism and the effective action of the international community is being challenged in the face of serious humanitarian crises across the world, we mustn't forget that the same credibility is also at play in Haiti. It is vital to fully shoulder one's commitment in favor of a Haitian population which is exhausted and requires urgent support. Lastly, we would be grateful to the designated expert. if he could share his opinion as to the process in preparing for the forthcoming elections in Haiti and the prospects that this would entail. Thank you.

Thank you. I'd like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

Thank you, Vice-President. The Kingdom of Morocco would like to voice its support to the efforts of the government of Haiti to strengthen human rights protection. We welcome the measures taken to advance democratic governance, particularly with the adoption of electoral timeline on 23 December 2025. We also voice our concern at the serious human rights violations committed by gangs, in particular voluntary homicides, abductions, extortion, and barriers to access to essential services. My delegation would like to express its full solidarity with Haiti in its efforts aiming to reestablish stability and security across the country, in particular by strengthening operational capacities of the police force. We also welcome the legal reforms and political frameworks adopted by Haiti to strengthen protection of human rights through the reform of the justice system. Thank you very much, Vice-President.

Thank you. I'd like to call upon the Distinguished Representative of Chile.

Vice-President, Chile would like to thank the High Commissioner for her update and the designated expert for their valuable contributions. The persistent crisis affecting Haiti is a source of major concern. Despite the headway made, the situation continues to worsen, causing immense suffering for the Haitian people, particularly the most vulnerable. Currently, 5.4 million people require humanitarian assistance. However, only 3.6 million will receive the aid that they need. This gap is worsened because of the rise in IDPs, which affects at least 1.4 million persons. Added to this is the growing insecurity and the expansion of the areas controlled by gangs, which only worsens the situation in the country. Vice President, we are particularly concerned about the situation of women and girls who face discrimination and sexual violence. Also, we are concerned about the persistence of trafficking and smuggling and recruitment of children by gangs, which exposes them to serious forms of violence and exploitation. In this context, we would appeal for the situation of these children to be addressed using a human rights-based approach, which would recognise them first and foremost as victims. It is vital, therefore, to tackle corruption, combat impunity and bolster accountability mechanisms. Therefore, we urge the international community to support the Haitian people on the path to peace and security and to give them effective and sustained assistance at this critical time. Thank you very much.

I call upon the Permanent Representative of Kenya.

Mr. Vice-President, Kenya aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Africa Group. We thank the High Commissioner for the report and take note of the presentation by the designated expert. Kenya continues to be concerned by the evolving situation in Haiti, including the persistence of armed violence, the continued loss of civilian lives, and the heightened vulnerability of women and children. The widening reach of armed groups, rising displacement, and the strain on essential services underscore the severity of the crisis and the pressing need for sustainable peace and stability. Kenya, through its leadership of the Multi-Security Support, MSS mission, has taken concrete steps to support the restoration of security in Haiti and contributed to supporting Haitian national police operations, enhancing security in key areas and facilitating improved access along critical routes. While the MMS has made important contributions towards stabilizing affected areas and supporting the gradual restoration of public order, significant challenges remain. In this context, Kenya welcomes the transition from the MSS to the Gang Suppression Force, which is expected to build on these efforts by strengthening operational capacity, enhancing coordination, and creating conditions conducive to sustainable peace, including the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Kenya reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting Haiti and underscores the importance of sustained international support, in full respect of international human rights law, towards the Haitian-led process for lasting peace and stability.

I think...

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Thank you, Vice-President. We would like to thank the High Commissioner for the report and the presentation given by the expert on Haiti, which reports on the challenges Haiti faces in strengthening its institutions, the respect for the rule of law, the control of its territory, and the achievement of the human rights of its population. We acknowledge the efforts and progress made by Haiti. However, much remains to be done to eradicate the harmful effects of gang violence and overcome the economic, social, and cultural inequities that are intrinsically linked to the human rights situation. We fully agree with the Deputy High Commissioner and the independent expert on the need to strengthen democratic institutions with support from the international community for the benefit of their efforts in the area of security and well-being. And thus, Colombia will continue to provide cooperation to Haiti. It is only in this way that we'll be able to make headway on issues of major concern, such as the territorial expansion of gangs, the spiral of violence they lead to, and the hindrances to implementing the political transitional agreements, including the electoral timeline, which was planned for 2026. We are concerned about the multiple expressions of sexual violence, particularly against women and girls, as well as the growing smuggling and recruitment of minors. The illegal trafficking of firearms exacerbates violence, and thus we must all co-operate genuinely and exercise the maximum diligence to eradicate it. Thank you.

Thank you. I'd like to call upon the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, Vice President. Madam Deputy High Commissioner, independent expert, criminal groups continue to mete out violence in Haiti. Women and girls are the first victims of this, by using sexual violence, by destroying schools, and massively recruiting children into armed groups. Gangs destroy children's opportunities, in particular girls, as you were saying, in Haiti, to have a better future. In the face of these mass human rights violations, France stands in solidarity with the Haitian people. It is committed on the ground with humanitarian emergency aid standing at 17 million euros in 2025 to provide assistance to displaced populations and to combat against food insecurity that half of the Haitian population suffer from, to provide temporary learning spaces or provide psychosocial support to children. France is also actively cooperating with the national Haitian police through training and the donation of equipment and contributes to the training of the Haitian armed forces to facilitate the relationship of strength with the gangs. France also supports the deployment of the gang repression forces through financial contributions starting at $12 million since 2023. 2026 could mark a turning point, with a stabilization brought by the deployment of the repression forces. Progress made by the Haitian securities and the announcement of general elections are held once the security conditions allow for this. France iterates the importance of reestablishing democratic institutions and the rule of law in Haiti. I thank you.

Thank you. I call upon the Permanent Representative of Costa Rica.

Thank you, Vice President. Costa Rica would like to thank the High Commissioner and the designated expert on their reports for the serious situation of human rights in Haiti. We continue to be concerned about the unprecedented levels of gang violence, sexual and gender-based violence, and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of Haitians. The figures presented in the report are devastating, particularly if we bear in mind that a significant proportion of the victims affected by this widespread violence are girls, boys and children. We are particularly outraged by the use of children by gangs. We note with deep concern that the gangs continue to use violence to consolidate their control over the population. submitting people to executions and arbitrary detention, we are also alarmed about the territorial expansion of these groups into other regions of the country and their control over strategic routes, which strengthen their operational and financial abilities. This is seen in the widespread use of armed forces, which have been trafficked illegally from abroad, and also the persistence of security operational forces, which continue to claim lives, including women and girls. We take note of the establishment of the gang suppression forces and the efforts underway to provide an international response, as well as the role of the OHCHR. Nonetheless, given the seriousness and expansion of violence in the report, the challenge persists, meaning that we need coordinated efforts from the international community. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I now call upon the distinguished delegation of Mexico.

Thank you very much, Vice-President. We are thankful to the Deputy High Commissioner and the designated expert for presenting their reports, which voice concern at the violence of armed groups, the territorial expansion of criminal gangs, and the severe impact on the civilian population, which continues to suffer high levels of displacement, sexual violence, trafficking, and forced recruitment. Mexico appreciates the efforts of the Haitian authorities to combat impunity and the illicit trafficking of weapons. These are elements which feed into violence. We also agree that institutional strengthening, including the justice sector, social services and protection mechanisms, is vital to move towards a environment that would be conducive for free and credible elections. We restate our commitment to the stability and development of Haiti. We continue to promote bilateral cooperation to strengthen national capacities in full respect for Haitian sovereignty and giving clear attention to the defined priorities and a focus which places human dignity at its core. We support multilateral efforts, including the UNSO and the reactivation of the Group of Friends of Haiti. We would like to ask what measures should be taken to protect the civilian population during security operations, including those with the participation of non-state actors, and ensure that violations are prevented, such as those described in the report. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I call upon the distinguished delegation of Uruguay.

Vice-President, Uruguay is extremely concerned at the serious human rights violations and the humanitarian critical situation faced by the Haitian people, we would underscore the alarming situation that children and adolescents face. Millions of them are victims of extreme violence, malnutrition, impoverment, and forced recruitment by armed groups. The alarming levels of violence of groups and gangs, which have been documented, together with the excessive use of force by the security forces, further worsen the suffering of the population. The information set out in the report highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response, spearheaded by Haiti and based on a comprehensive view providing solutions in the short, medium and long terms. We regret the fact that, despite the efforts carried out by the Haitian authorities, corruption and impunity continue to weaken institutions, eroding the rule of law and hampering the full enjoyment and the exercise of human rights. The current multidimensional crisis requires collective efforts, comprehensive view and effective international coordination. And thus strengthening democratic institutions with support from the international community will be fundamental to pave the way towards security and progress in Haiti. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I call upon the Permanent Representative of UNICEF.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Almost six months ago, UNICEF warned this Council about the grave situation facing children in Haiti. Since then, the situation has deteriorated. Armed violence has forced families from their homes, with more than 741,000 children now displaced, many living in overcrowded sites. Data from the Security Council-mandated monitoring and reporting mechanisms on children and armed conflict indicates a 200% increase in child recruitment and use between 2024 and 2025, alongside increases in killing and maiming and in the abduction of children. As the Gang Suppression Force deploys to Haiti in the coming weeks, all actors must treat children encountered in operations as victims of grave violations. These children must be handed over to civilian actors to ensure their safe return and reintegration into their families and communities. At the same time, acute food insecurity is deepening. Nearly 130,000 children under five are suffering from acute malnutrition, threatening their right to survival and development. UNICEF calls on national authorities to ensure accountability for grave violations against children, strengthen efforts to reintegrate children formerly associated with armed groups, and guarantee children safe access to education and essential services. We also call on the international community to provide flexible funding and sustained support. Without urgent action, the rights and futures of millions of Haitian children remain at risk. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Ecuador.

Vice-President, my delegation would like to thank the High Commissioner for his report and we express Ecuador's deep concern at the alarming levels of violence in Haiti and the expansion of areas of control of criminal gangs, including corridors and smuggling routes for their financing and operational capacity by gangs self-defence groups and unorganised members of the population. While millions of Haitians currently require humanitarian assistance and many have been displaced internally, murders continue as well as abductions, trafficking in human beings, violations and sexual exploitation, among other types of violence exercised particularly against women and girls. There is a need to ensure that all operations of the authorities, including those delegated to private agents, be adapted fully to international human rights law. Also, I should point out that Ecuador continues to support the Multinational Support Security Mission and the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. It is essential that the international community contribute with all types of assistance and support to Haiti on its path towards lasting peace and security. This can be done by strengthening security and the reestablishment of the rule of law, as well as the democratic order, and giving priority to protecting the human rights of persons who are particularly vulnerable. Thank you.

Thank you. I'd like to call upon the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone.

Mr. Vice President, Sierra Leone thanks the High Commissioner for the report on the human rights situation in Haiti and for the continued engagement in supporting an inclusive and stable path forward. We express grave concern over the escalating levels of gang terror, gender-based violence, and widespread human rights violations across the country. The expanding territorial scope of these violations, coupled with increased illicit arms trafficking, has significantly intensified the scale of insecurity and fatality. We note with appreciation the progress achieved by the Transitional Presidential Council towards restoring order and judicial processes and organizing democratic elections. We call for the strengthening of this progress, especially in judicial processes, to ensure meaningful accountability for past human rights violations, to enhance protection for women and children and other vulnerable groups affected by gang violence. In line with Security Council resolution 2794 of 2025, CERL welcomes the transition from the Multinational Security Support Mission to the Gang Suppression Force and calls upon the government and the international community to support its effective deployment and integration with the Haitian National Police. Israel stands in solidarity with the people of Haiti and calls for sustained technical and capacity building assistance to support the country's path towards lasting peace, stability and respect for human rights. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. The distinguished representative of Malta has the floor.

Mr. Vice President, Malta aligns itself with the EU statement and thanks the Deputy High Commissioner and the independent expert for their update. We remain gravely concerned by the continued deterioration of the human rights and humanitarian situation in Haiti. Gang violence continues and humanitarian needs remain acute as essential services of education, health and justice are collapsing. We condemn human rights violations and abuses, particularly extrajudicial killings, torture and conflict-related sexual violence that remain largely unpunished, and we reiterate that accountability must be central to any response. Haiti saw one of the highest verified numbers of grave violations against children. We call upon Haiti to sign an action plan with the United Nations to end and prevent these grave violations. We encourage the Haitian political actors to engage constructively in a credible, inclusive, and transparent transitional process leading to free and fair elections. The reestablishment of democratic and constitutional order is an essential part of Haiti's long-term recovery and stability. In conclusion, we continue to express our full support to all UN structures working in Haiti, including the UN Integrated Office in Haiti, and look forward to the future deployment of the Multinational Gang Suppression Force. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the Permanent Representative of Ghana.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ghana thanks the High Commissioner for the report on human rights situation in Haiti and acknowledges the call for strengthened support to the Haitian authorities to implement public policies to tackle corruption and impunity. We remain deeply concerned about the worsening security situation as armed gangs continue to use violence to exert their dominance over the population, displacing citizens from their homes and communities, further compounding the already dire humanitarian situation. Mr. Vice President, we call for an end to these worsening acts of impunity and emphasize the need for accountability. It is also imperative to intensify global support for the efforts of the Haitian authorities to restore order and uphold the rule of law. Ghana calls on the international community to extend its support to the gang suppression force and other relevant institutions in advancing Haiti's efforts towards peace and security, and to assist the country in achieving a smooth democratic transition through the conduct of free and fair elections. In conclusion, Ghana stands in solidarity with the people of Haiti in their pursuit of peace and security.

I thank you. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Peru.

Vice President, Peru would like to thank the Deputy High Commissioner for presenting the report and the designated expert for his commitment. Peru views with growing concern the alarming deterioration of the human rights situation in Haiti, marked by the expansion of violence of gangs, which continue to carry out systematic violations against the civilian population, including homicides, displacement, and sexual violence. This dynamic erodes the social fabric, weakens institutions, and compromises conditions for a political transition and reconciliation. Peru is concerned about the implications of this crisis for the hemisphere because it deteriorates security with the illegal smuggling of firearms. We reaffirm also our commitment to peace, stability and institutional reconstruction of Haiti, as well as our support for international efforts and regional efforts also. We express our firm support for the implementation of the gang suppression force. pursuant to the Security Council. We would appeal to the international community to step up efforts to strengthen democratic institutionality and guarantee human rights in the country. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.

Spain would like to endorse the European Union statement. We thank the High Commissioner and the designated expert for presenting their report. We note with major concern the devastating impact of violence on the civilian population. We are particularly alarmed by sexual violence against girls and women and the documented rise in forced recruitment of minors by armed groups. This is a flagrant violation which jeopardises the future of the country and requires an urgent response. We believe that the work of the Gang Suppression Force and the Support Office of the United Nations in Haiti is a necessary step. Spain highlights that its effectiveness requires sufficient, predictable and sustainable funding. Any security action must be closely linked to the full compliance with international human rights standards. We urge the Haitian authorities to maintain their commitment to the electoral timeline and strengthen the judicial system. It is vital to guarantee a safe environment for civil society and promote the political participation of women. Given the persistent fragility of the judicial system and the lack of resources, what specific progress has been achieved through technical assistance of your office to strengthen the ability to carry out criminal investigations and guarantee the effective prosecution of perpetrators of serious human rights violations. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I'd like to call upon the distinguished representative of the UK.

Mr. President, the ongoing human rights crisis in Haiti remains deeply concerning, with criminal gangs continuing to commit horrific abuses, including killings, kidnappings, and sexual violence. Over 1.6 million Haitians have been displaced, with many forced to flee their homes in search of safety. We are particularly alarmed by reports of children being recruited by armed groups, exposing minors to grave risks and perpetuating cycles of violence. We recognise the Haitian government's efforts to dismantle gang networks. Internationally, the impending transition to the Gang Suppression Force from 1 April is a critical moment in re-establishing lasting security. It is essential that the GSF has a robust human rights compliance system embedded from the outset, building on the lessons learned from the UK-funded human rights support to the Multinational Security Support Mission. All security forces must conduct themselves in accordance with human rights standards and be held to account for any violations. We urge all actors to protect vulnerable groups and to prioritise the prevention and survivor-centred management of sexual exploitation and abuse. The UK stands ready to support coordinated, targeted international action to help Haiti restore security and uphold human rights for all. Thank you.

Thank you. I call upon the Permanent Representative of Ireland.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ireland aligns with the EU statement and thanks the Deputy High Commissioner and designated expert for their updates.

Ireland is deeply concerned by the ongoing severe humanitarian and human rights crises in Haiti.

Particularly the high numbers of civilian casualties and internally displaced persons as a result of widespread gang violence.

Ireland condemns the systematic use of sexual violence against women and girls.

Across the country and calls for accountability for perpetrators and justice and comprehensive support for victims. Ireland is gravely concerned by reports of the disproportionate use of force and extrajudicial killings in security operations. and calls on Haiti to ensure that all law enforcement operations, including those delegated to private actors, fully comply with international human rights law. It is also critical that the gang suppression force conduct its operations in strict compliance with international law and adhere to the protocols on the care of children associated with armed groups. Ireland supports the ongoing leadership of the Caribbean Community and the Organization of American States in Haiti.

Ireland echoes the High Commissioner's call on the Haitian authorities.

To continue making progress towards the establishment of the transitional governance arrangements providing for a democratic transition leading to free and fair legislative and presidential elections, ensuring women's participation and in strict compliance with international law, including international human rights law. I thank you.

Thank you. I call upon the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Thank you, Vice-President. Switzerland thanks the High Commissioner for his report. Switz is alarmed by the extent of the human rights violations committed on a daily basis in Haiti. According to available data, serious offences committed against children and adolescents have increased by 500% since 2023, the recruitment of minors by 700% and sexual violence by 1000%. The fight against gangs is vital to overcome the current security crisis. Recent months, however, have shown that civilian victims also pay the price. In some areas of the capital, security operations restrict access of humanitarian players, worsening the situation of the affected population. Switzerland recalls that military and police interventions will not be enough alone. An overall response is necessary. We must understand the causes of violence, provide reintegration prospects for children who are involved in armed groups and provide medical and psychosocial support to victims. The Haitian population and the authorities must be at the core of solutions. Switzerland will continue to be committed to Haiti through programmes in the country, particularly to prevent violence and protect victims. Madam Deputy High Commissioner and Designated Expert, in your opinion, what are the key stages to build a common and global response to the crisis in Haiti? I thank you.

Thank you. I call upon the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Thank you, Deputy Vice-President. Haiti is suffering a multidimensional serious crisis, worsened by centuries of plundering by colonisers and foreign intervention. We have an historical debt towards the Haitian people. It's urgent to provide cooperation assistance to Haiti in full respect of their sovereignty. and self-determination. The first nation in breaking away from the colonial tiles and eliminating slavery in our hemisphere requires better and more international solidarity to overcome their difficulties and socio-economic disparities, which prevent the progress and development of their people. This Council must dedicate to Haiti at least one portion of the millions of funds that it invests in We show our solidarity with Haiti, and this since the 1980s. Our doctors have remained in the country, even in most difficult circumstances. Hundreds of Haitian students are trained free of charge in our universities. The Haitian people will always be able to rely on Cuba. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. The human rights situation in Haiti remains extremely difficult. The greatest concern is the high level of street violence, about 6,000 killed and more than 2,500 injured in 2025 alone. Despite the efforts of law enforcement bodies, armed forces, and international forces to combat banditism, criminal groups continue to control large parts of the capital and suburbs. There's still a high level of sexual violence and the involvement of children in gangs and criminal activities is widespread. The root causes of Haiti's systemic human rights crisis lie in the country's chronic neocolonial subordination to US geostrategic interests. As a result of the political engineering practices used in the Republic by the Americans, the institutional foundations of the Haitian state are collapsing. internally controlled chaos is being artificially created with corresponding humanitarian consequences. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, the problem of smuggling weapons into the country, mainly from the United States, remains unresolved. Without a targeted approach to this problem and the suppression of criminal supply chains, the beneficiaries of which operate from the United States, there is no reason to count on a qualitative shift in the fight against banditry in Haiti. In this regard, we believe that it is necessary to resolve the crisis in Haiti on the basis of the real needs of citizens, we're convinced that the main effort should be focused on eradicating its root causes, otherwise everything will again come down to unsuccessful attempts to resolve it. Thank you.

I now give the floor to the same representative of Egypt.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We welcome the Deputy High Commissioner. We have taken due note of the report submitted by the High Commissioner on supporting institutions and capacity building in Haiti. We thank the High Commissioner for his continued support to Haiti. We have taken due note of the update of the independent expert at the same time. We encourage the government to continue building its own capacities and cooperating with the United Nations human rights mechanisms in order to promote and protect human rights. We also reaffirm the importance of the technical support in this respect. We would like to highlight the need to support technical assistance and capacity building at the national level being one of the most important means to support the national efforts to improve human rights. We reaffirm that the consent of countries must be considered in line with its national priorities and needs in order to realize the targets and to continue effective programs, capacity-building programs. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Mr. Vice President, Haiti occupies a place of honor in our history as the region's first independent nation, beacon of freedom. Venezuela remembers the gesture of solidarity of President Pition with the liberator, Simon Bolivar, in the most difficult moments of our liberation fight, a historical debt that we have honored over the years with genuine initiatives of cooperation and support of the Haitian people. Unfortunately, these cooperation efforts were affected by the unilateral cursive measures imposed against Venezuela, which in solidarity and respectfully of the Caribbean peoples. The current situation of the Haitian people is a result of destabilization, coup d'etat, and foreign interventions that have impeded their development. This is why we reject any external interference. We value the cooperation and technical assistance provided to the people of Haiti, provided that it is carried out with the consent of the state from an approach aimed at meeting their growing needs but above all with full respect for their sovereignty Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to support the people of Haiti ensuring stability and full well-being they deserve thank you

thank you very much I give the floor to the singed delegation of China.

Mr. Vice President the China delegation has taken note of the report of the High Commissioner on the human rights situation in Haiti. Haiti's political situation continues to face an uncertain future. Its security situation has grown more complex. Its humanitarian crisis has further deteriorated. Large numbers of people, including children, have been forced to join gangs in order to survive. The Council's deliberation should focus on the root cause of the crisis and provide constructive support for Haiti. In providing security assistance, the international community must fully respect Haiti's sovereignty strictly observe international law, exercise utmost caution in the use of force, and ensure the effective protection of civilians, particularly children and other vulnerable groups. Development is the fundamental safeguard for lasting peace and for improving livelihood. China calls on Haitian authorities to increase investment in development, urges the international community to work in concert to support Haiti's efforts to advance development and improve living conditions as well as eliminate the breeding ground for violence. Thank you.

Thank you. I have exhausted. Thank you very much. We would like to thank the High Commissioner for the presentation of the report. We're seriously concerned with the continued deterioration of human rights in 2025. continuation of extreme violence requires an urgent and coordinated response by the international community. We note with deep concern that armed gangs continue to control territory, especially in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, and systematically use sexual violence as a tool of terror. We reaffirm that any responses by the authorities should reconcile the imperatives of security with the strengthening of the rule of law and the rigorous protection of human rights. Brazil follows with particular attention the process of political transition in Haiti. We stress the fact that stabilization of the country should be based on a true national ownership with technical support of the international community. Public security, institutional strengthening, economic development, social inclusion, and human rights are the pillars and should be part of collective efforts. Brazil is committed with specific solidarity-based actions in terms of humanitarian assistance and institutional strengthening of Haiti. Thank you.

That was the last speaker representing states that was on my list. Now we move to national human rights institutions and NGOs. Now I give the floor to the Catholic International Education Office.

Mr. Vice President, the International Office of Catholic Education expresses its deep concern related to the dramatic situation affecting thousands of vulnerable children in Haiti. These children live in constant fear of armed violence. Going to school has become dangerous, sometimes impossible. fundamental right to education is under serious threat. According to UNICEF, one in seven children is out of school, and many may never return to schools. Between 2024 and 2025, more than 300 schools were destroyed or burned. Many displaced families are taking refuge in schools that are overcrowded, with overcrowded classes. families no longer the financial means to send their children to school. Now, without education, these children are particularly vulnerable to recruitment by the gangs and subject to sexual, physical, and psychological violence with long-term trauma. In the face of this crisis, UNICEF and UNESCO warn of the lack of international funding severely limiting humanitarian actions. My organization calls upon international donors and institutions to mobilize additional resources to protect these children, guarantee their access to education, and ensure that it's safe to go to schools. And we urge the High Commissioner to strengthen the monitoring of violations of children's rights.

I give the floor by video to Shaanxi Patriotic Volunteer Society.

President, Our organization is saddened by the suffering of Haitian people. Mr. Alneault's report sheds light on the atrocities by gangs. Yet focusing on symptoms alone is not sufficient. We must focus on the root cause, which lies in the long-lasting external intervention and arms smuggling, in particular the US-based undeniable responsibility. First of all, arms fuel violence. UN confirms that over 70% of the arms are from illegal smuggling in The international community must not remain silent. Secondly, a political vacuum results from imposition of actions, as external intervention undermines Haiti's domestic capacity. We appeal the Council should investigate the source of illicit arms and urge the US to dismantle the smuggling chain. International actions must not become de facto occupation. The solution to the crisis does not lie in Port-au-Prince, but in Washington. Only when the major power squarely faces its responsibility could Haiti find a path to recover, and we hope a switch, a focus from symptoms to the root cause. Lastly, we invite everyone to attend our forum to be held on the 1st of April at 10:00 a.m. in room 5 to discuss the new concept of global governance. Thank you.

Thank you. We will now listen to a statement by Edmund Rice International Limited.

Mr. President, despite ongoing efforts by many groups to bring peace and stability to the state, grave concerns still exist regarding human rights violations in Haiti. Since the assassination of President Moise, and especially over the last year, gangs have increased their hold on territories around Port-au-Prince, and with this expansion has come increased violence, kidnappings, sexual violence, food insecurity, the closing of schools, and outbreak of disease. Simultaneously, the increased use of drones by Haitian authorities to dispel gangs has only exacerbated this violence and loss of life. Approximately 60 civilians have been killed from drone strikes during this last year. Unfortunately, this humanitarian crisis disparately affects boys who have been recruited by gangs to fight alongside them, and women and girls who have been dehumanized by sexual violence or sexual slavery. And forced into domestic labor while fully appreciating the complexity of the crisis in Haiti, Edmond, Rice, international and V. international call upon the international community and regional partners, particularly the United States to stem the flow of illegal weapons and funds and to investigate and prosecute those responsible for providing support to gangs. These partners must also sufficiently support Haitian authorities and the GSF, who must comply with human rights safeguards and work to support free and fair elections, which are a vital step toward restoring stable leadership, protecting human rights, and bringing hope to the people of Haiti. Thank you.

The next pick on my list is the representative of Geneva.

Thank you. The situation in Haiti has reached catastrophic proportions. In 2025, OHCHR documented more than 4,300 killings, nearly 1,300 cases of sexual violence, and more than 1 million IDPs. Criminal groups now control 90% of Port-au-Prince, 40% of health facilities are closed, the justice system is effectively paralyzed. This is not a situation in transition. This is a situation of collapse. Technical assistance and capacity building are urgently needed in Haiti to rebuild judicial institutions. strengthen civil society documentation capacity and sustain the human rights monitoring infrastructure that BINUH and Haitian defenders have maintained at extraordinary personal risk. We praise the work of human rights defenders and 98 civil society organizations that have received capacity building support. Nevertheless, this cannot substitute accountability. The pattern of impunity and in Haiti. The documented complicity of political, economic, and security elites with criminal groups requires accountable measures, not only technical cooperation. Designated expert mandate must be preserved and provided with sufficient resources. Selective engagement driven by geopolitical convenience is incompatible with the Council's founding principle that Haitian people are our own rights, not charity. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative Radhu.

Mr. Vice President, Radhu welcomes the work carried out by the Office of the High Commissioner the expert on the human rights situation in Haiti. We also commend the efforts taken by the Haitian police force and the Multinational Security Support Mission to contain armed groups. We deplore the massacres and systematic violence that is used to control different communities. This courage particularly affects women, girls, and children. We also condemn development of corruption networks, as well as the total impunity for abuses of human rights violations police operations causing many victims among civilians. We express our concern about the erosion of the state affected by the destruction of public infrastructure, especially hospitals, schools, health centers, and courts. ARAD calls for an urgent strengthening of mechanisms for the protection of civilian populations, guarantee their access to humanitarian assistance. We encourage the authorities of the country to support programs of prevention of recruitment of young people. in order to offer them alternatives to gangs. Finally, we call on authorities to resolutely fight impunity and corruption by conducting credible investigations into those responsible for human rights violations, including within the security forces. We call for effective gun control, implementation of a regime of sanctions. Thank you.

Thank you. Next is a video statement by Amnesty International.

A human rights crisis of the scale seen in Haiti cannot be normalized or ignored.

According to BNO, more than 5,900 people were killed and 2,700 injured in 2025 due to gang violence.

Many of the victims were children.

Amnesty International documented the devastating impact of this violence on children, including trafficking, exploitation, sexual violence, and killings. The children's testimonies were harrowing.

A recent report by BINO and OSCHR reinforced these findings. Children continue to be recruited by the gangs.

Dozens of boys remain in pretrial detention in inhuman conditions with little to no access to rehabilitation services.

More broadly, specialized judicial chambers to combat serious crimes, including sexual violence and child trafficking, are still not operational.

Similar to the recommendations in the Bino and OHCHR report, we too.

Have urged the Haitian government to adopt and implement a comprehensive child protection plan. Haitian civil society must be included in the design and implementation of these measures. We ask the High Commissioner and the designated expert, how can the international community best support the Haitian state and civil society to this end? Thank you.

The next speaker on my list is a representative of Interfaith International.

Mr. Vice President, Interfaith International would like to thank the High Commissioner for the report on the situation of human rights in Haiti, as well as the independent expert for his continued engagement. The findings presented are deeply concerning. The ongoing deterioration of the security and human rights situation, driven by widespread violence by armed gangs, has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. The control exercised by these groups over the large parts of the country, including the capital, has seriously undermined the rule of law and the ability of the population to enjoy their fundamental rights. We are particularly alarmed by the impact of the violence on civilians, especially women and children. Reports of killings, abductions, sexual violence, and the recruitment of children by armed groups highlight the urgent need for stronger protection measures. The widespread use of sexual and gender-based violence is especially troubling and requires immediate attention. We also note with concern the limited capacity of national institutions to respond effectively to this crisis. In this context, international support and cooperation remain essential to restore security and strengthen the protection of human rights. At the same time, we recognize the important role of civil society and regional partners in supporting the Haitian people during this difficult period. Their efforts are crucial in addressing both the humanitarian and human rights challenges. We therefore call for strengthened international support and coordination with the Haitian authorities to restore security, combat gang violence, and ensure the protection of civilians. We also stress the importance of creating the conditions necessary for a return to democratic governance. The international community must remain engaged and act in a spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. We have listened to the last speaker for this dialogue. I would like to now give the floor to the Special Representative. Microphone, please.

One theme came up was how to fight impunity. Several of you asked about that. I think there's several ways that have already been undertaken. One is the that have already been mentioned, and Amnesty just asked about that, and they're not yet operational, but they're about to be operational. I can just tell you, I was there two weeks ago, and there are now judges and prosecutors, Haitians, who've been identified by the National Council of the Judiciary. There's a building, there's equipment, and so the hope is, and I can't predict, but I would hope in the next month or two or three that the that to fight corruption and financial crimes and the gang violence and sexual violence will be up and running. That will be very important to address this question of impunity, accountability, and enhanced oversight, which is sorely needed in Haiti. And it loops back to the question of root causes. I mean, this is not dealing with the symptom. This is dealing with one of the primary reasons you have the catastrophe in Haiti today. It's corruption alongside impunity, getting away with it. The other questions that came up from several delegations Estonia Mexico and the least and maybe others uh was operations how to enhance or improve or mitigate um the risks that harm may be done to innocent bystanders in operations either by the police uh or by the gang suppression force or by the private military company that the Haitian government has contracted um there's several steps that can be taken already that will need to be enhanced and followed through one and I know the colleagues the human Service in Haiti and officers also here in Geneva and human rights officers in New York have been working very closely with those who are creating the gang suppression force to inform them, first of all, the briefings about what is the reality in Haiti. It's not an easy area to operate in. You have densely populated urban areas where the gangs don't follow any rules. I mean, they could care less about human rights or any other laws that we would try to observe ourselves. But we obviously, the force and and all of us have to follow rules. And one is to use force with extreme discrimination, care, and only based on solid intelligence, and also be prepared for the fact that in Haiti, as we've heard, half the gang members are minors, 12, 13, 14 year olds. So to inform these troops that are coming and police that they may be facing a teenager. And also people, the gangs use civilians or bystanders as shields. as a way to help maybe deter being attacked. So this type of planning, scenario-based, intense information about the operating environment is a vital step to try to mitigate any harm that could come. The second is to try to get the children out of the gangs so that by the time these operations may take place, We hope many children will have been able to leave the gang. So the government and civil society, and back to their participation, Amnesty's question about how to involve civil society here, is vital to plan safe pathways for these teenagers to be able to leave a gang. And many of them are victims. They've been forced, coerced, threatened. I mean, I've interviewed some former gang members, and they all have the same stories of both coercion and desperation. So they need to have a safe place to go where they can get psychological counseling, education, all types of rehabilitation so that they may be able to reenter society at some point. So that would be another aspect to this problem of how do we try to avoid any harm, especially to youth who are-- and again, if you go into a slum area in Haiti, 60% of Haiti's population is all under 25 years old. So just a lot of young people everywhere you go in Haiti. So I think I hope I answered those two clusters of questions and I'll stop there.

Thank you very much. Now I give the floor to the High Commissioner.

And thank you to the independent expert. Let me try to complement. There was a specific question from Spain about the progress that we've achieved through technical assistance. Let me say we have made tangible progress in strengthening Haiti's capacity to investigate and prosecute serious human rights violations. I'll use the example of the work that we've done on investigating sexual and gender-based violence. We developed and distributed a practical manual working with police stations nationwide, standardizing survivor-centered interviewing, evidence collection, case documentation. Also, we helped create a secure digital SGBV data system, again, validated by the Haitian National Police. And we supported, working in several high-risk communes, the establishment of SGBV coordination platforms, and those are improving communication, again, between law enforcement, service providers, civil society. We've already heard about the two specialized judicial units and, you know, hopeful that those will be up and running and dedicated to corruption and financial crimes and to gang-related violence and other serious violations, with, again, training delivered to magistrates and police officers on investigation and prosecution techniques. to strengthen the handling of human rights-related crimes more broadly. We have helped to adjudicate 79 criminal cases, reducing the judicial backlogs, and we have strengthened police accountability. We heard a lot about accountability. By documenting and transmitting over 220 cases of alleged summary executions and unlawful use of force to the Inspector General of the Haitian National Police, all of which are now under investigation, and that's very, very tangible. Finally, of course, we are very much engaged on supporting human rights compliance and security operations. Over 70% of MSS personnel have received human rights training, and nearly 400 human rights defenders were trained to monitor operations and advocate for accountability. Switzerland asked the question on what is needed to build a common and comprehensive response. I would say very briefly, the restoration of security, first and foremost, through operations that fully comply with international human rights law, as Bill just outlined, strengthening accountability and governance. We have all spoken to the importance of tackling corruption and impunity. And finally, the investment in prevention, that's not just civil and political, that is very much social, economic, and cultural, the expansion of access to basic services. And let me, Mr. Vice President, just by concluding, reiterate our appreciation to the government of Haiti for its openness and its very constructive engagement. We, of course, have taken note and accompanied the Haitian National Police in their efforts to strengthen their operational capacity Again, we just want to reiterate that respect for human rights is not secondary to security. It is at the heart of the quest for stability and development and certainly for tackling root causes. We urge once again continued support from the international community to the Haitian National Police and then to address the root causes of violence that all prevention strategies support the reduction of community-based violence, disarmament, demobilization, recovery, and reintegration, all together, along with the required economic conditions that will provide this alternative path to the future that we all seek for the people of Haiti. Thank you very much.

Muchas gracias, Conakry.

Thank you. This brings us to the end of this interactive dialogue. And I'd like to thank the designated expert and deputy high commissioner for the work carried out and wish them full success in the future work. Now we'll take a short break before holding the interactive high-level dialogue on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic.

Thank you for your patience. We will now begin the high-level interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic pursuant to resolution 60/34. It is my honor to welcome our distinguished presenters who will take part in this dialogue. Ms. Marit Kohonen-Shirif, Director of the Global Operations Division of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. His Excellency Mr. Arnaud Djoubaia Abazen, Minister of State in charge of Justice, Human Rights and Good Governance, Keeper of the Seals of the Central African Republic. Mr. Aristide Nonotse, Independent Expert on the Human Rights Situation in the Central African Republic. Mr. Mohammed Ag Ayoya, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the CAR, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator. His Excellency Mr. Francis Che, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Head of the African Union Mission for the CAR and Central Africa. And Madame Diane Perpetue Adoum Tanoudjou, President of the NGO FEE Femmes Vaillantes de Centrafrique. I would now like to give the floor to Ms. Marit Kohonen-Sherif for her presentation.

Thank you, Sir Excellency, ladies and gentlemen. First and foremost, may I acknowledge the ongoing efforts of the Central African Republic to protect and promote human rights in line with its international obligations and its national policy in the field of human rights. The presidential, legislative, regional, and municipal elections of the 20th of December 2025 unfolded without any major incidents on the human rights situation, despite the specific tense political situation. In parallel to this, some progress has been made in the peace process, in particular as a result of the disarmament operations and the return of patriarchal movements for the CAR on the 19th of December, 2025, for the peace accords in the CAR dating back to 2019. I'm pleased to note the release of at least over 900 detainees across the country following presidential pardons granted in November. This is the beginning of a response to the persistent problem of prison overcrowding. The first criminal session of 2025 of the Bambari Appeals Court was concluded with the conviction of a number of individuals, eight of those for sexual crimes. This is a significant step forward in the fight against impunity. This progress, even though it is fragile, highlights the importance of ongoing partnership between the national authorities, MINUSCA, and all international partners. Vice-President, the human rights situation in the CAR is, however, alarming. In the recent trimestrial reports of 2025, the Human Rights Division of MINUSCA documented 639 human rights violations affecting over 1,000 civilians. Several human rights violations are attributed to armed groups, the UPC and the three Rs. This continues to be documented. But despite their return to the political body for peace in CAR, a significant drop has been noted. Nonetheless, human rights violations linked to the deprivation of liberty and detention conditions, as well as violations on physical and mental integrity and recruitment and the use of children remain amongst those that are most documented. Furthermore, the pursuit of clashes between the Anikpikpi and the Ifaka Akpays, and the growing number of attacks committed by the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan in the Kaga region are of concern and continue to have an adverse impact on the human rights situation. The Human Rights Division of MINUSCA pursues its support to the national authorities to prevent violations, protect civilians and strengthen accountability, including by taking disciplinary and judicial measures in line with international standards, and approaches that are based on the victim, in particular the survivors of sexual violence and children. Furthermore, Ongoing support is given to the National Human Rights Institution so as to assist it to be in line with the Paris Principles, particularly by reviewing its operational framework and by facilitating implementation and the preparation of its reports. Vice-President, on 30 October, the Special Criminal Court opened the Gwen trial. They were six members of an anti-balaka group accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in 2014 in the Gwengwomo villages. This is a trial of transitional justice, which is vital in terms of peace and sustainable development, and also to meet the expectations of victims. In that respect, the Human Rights Division of the UN strengthened its support to the Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission. particularly by ensuring that there is ongoing strengthening of technical operational capacities for those who are appointed in November 2025. By way of conclusion, I reiterate our appeal to the international community to be mobilised and provide the necessary support to the Central African Republic on the path of reconstruction of a country which is peaceful and stable. governed by the rule of law and the respect for human rights for all individuals. I thank you for your attention.

Thank you.

And I'd like to give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Arnaud Djouba Y. Abazin to make a presentation.

President, distinguished delegates, the current work of the 64th session of the Human Rights Council is an opportunity to report on the human rights situation in my country, the Central African Republic, by particularly focusing on the implementation of peace instruments and disarmament, demobilization, reinsertion, and repatriation, as well as national reconciliation and the establishment of the rule of law. It is a great honor and pleasure to state that it is my duty to present to the Members of the Council and the efforts undertaken to re-establish and achieve reconciliation of peace, as well as the restore of democracy through the key peace instrument, which is the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the CAR. Indeed, about 10 years ago, the security context in the CAR was marked by the proliferation of armed groups across the country. Since His Excellency came to power, President of the Republic and Head of State, through its policy to bring the country towards an inclusive peace sustainable process, things have changed. And following the negotiations, which lasted several months, the PPRS was signed in Bangui on the 6th of February, 2019, by the government and 14 armed groups. This is made-up of three components, disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation. The reform of the security sector, national reconciliation, the joint roadmap of Luanda and the Djamena agreement of 19 April 2025, facilitated by the sisterly Republic of Chad, have been additions to this key agreement, which has been made necessary because of the developments of the context and its implementation. The Government began implementation with the ongoing support of technical and financial partners and the guarantors and facilitators, the significant outcomes were achieved to the satisfaction of those in the country and internationally, and are as follows. When it comes to the disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and repatriation process, At the beginning of the disarmament operation, demobilization up until October 2025, the date of the last assessment of the implementation unit of the program, it recorded over 9,000 individuals who were disarmed, at least 45,000 vulnerable people, and Those who were holding illegal weapons in the Cir. were cared for as part of the project to reduce community-based violence implemented by MINUSCA. To strengthen the DDR process, the Government has set up the National Commission to Combat the Proliferation of Light Weapons and Small Arms. This is a structure that also carries out disarmament and implements awareness-raising campaigns for the population, with a view to a voluntary surrender of weapons. The return of the three Rs following the Djenné agreement made it possible to disarm about 1,000 combatants. There are about 49,000 people who have been trained in various areas, and they were reintegrated into the national security sector. Over 2,000 former combatants were incorporated into the security forces, the police, the gendarmerie, and the security forces. 1,400 former combatants are being trained for the purposes of reintegration. When it comes to repatriation, 150 individuals have been disarmed and demobilized in cooperation with MINUSCA and the Ugandan government and repatriated back to their countries. When it comes to the reform of the security sector, the strategic pillars have been developed, whose priority documents date back to 2025, and the national policy for defense make up a number of pillars which are implemented and target the professionalisation of the security forces through training, equipment and the strengthening of commandments so as to restore discipline. Marshal classes have been imparted and are operational to combat impunity, with a particular focus on the respect for human rights. When it comes to national reconciliation and the restore of the rule of law, national reconciliation depends on the justice system and the reparation of serious violations committed during the crisis that the country has experienced. National courts that have been strengthened by establishing four new appeals courts and 11 new courts, besides the special criminal court, continue to carry out their work tirelessly to combat impunity. The Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission, which has been delayed will very soon begin its hearings. However, public programmes so as to promote reconciliation have been implemented by various ministerial departments, namely the Ministry for Humanitarian Action, National Reconciliation, the Ministry for the Promotion of Gender, Family and Children. Vice-President, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, the actions I've described have been developed as part of an overall development process for peace. and can only be mentioned in the context of the efforts that the Government has made to promote human rights generally speaking. The National Human Rights Policy with an initial five-year plan has been implemented in an ongoing fashion and the steering committee last month in Bangor began its work and we were pleased to note the actions taken. 2027 will be a crucial year because not only will a new plan be adopted, but the CAR will go through its fifth UPR cycle and will look at the over 200 recommendations that were put forward. I would be remiss if I were not to highlight the democratic maturity of the country, which has taken part in the local elections in peace and allowed for the elections of the President of the country to take place for the first term of the Republic. And some members of Parliament, regional and municipal councillors will thereby contribute to the democratic stability across the country. This electoral process is ongoing. and I'm sure will lead to results that will be accepted by all. This has been made possible thanks to the multifaceted support provided to the CAR and the United Nations, the African Union, the EU, the International Francophonie Organization, this ECLAC, and also other bilateral institutions accredited in the CAR. All of our partners We would like to thank all of our partners on behalf of the government and the people of the CAR. I thank you.

Thank you very much indeed, Minister. I'd now give the floor to Mr. Aristide Nononzi. You have five minutes.

Mr. Vice President, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, It is an honor for me to address the Council in order to provide an update on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic and contribute to this enhanced dialogue, which is devoted in particular to the implementation of the tools of peace, the disarmament, demobilization process, restoration of state authority, restoration and protection of civilians, and national reconciliation. I would like to commend the cooperation of the government of the Central African Republic with my mandate since my appointment. I would also like to commend the efforts of national institutions, civil society, MINUSCA, agencies of the United Nations, as well as the humanitarian community in the Central African Republic, as well as other bilateral, regional, subregional, international partners, all committed to peace, stability, and respect of human rights in the country. Mr. Vice President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Since the last discussion in the Council, the situation in Central African Republic continues to show both progress and present challenges. The political and security context remains fragile and requires sustained efforts to consolidate the gains made in the various peace processes, including the 2019 political agreement for peace and reconciliation and the 19 April 2020 25 agreement as well as the Luanda process. Presidential, legislative, and local elections organized on the 28th of December, 2025, were an important step in institutional life of the country. The Constitutional Council proclaimed the final results of the presidential election on January 19, 2026, confirming the re-election of President of the Republic, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, on the first round. However, the electoral process is not fully completed with some constituencies still having to hold the second round of legislative elections or resume voting due to violence or the death of certain candidates. Although the election period remained largely peaceful, concerns were expressed by some political actors regarding this electoral process. In this context, it is important that all stakeholders give priority to political dialogue, restraint, and the use of legal institutional channels for the settlement of dispute. Credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral processes remain essential to build public confidence and trust, consolidate stability, and promote national reconciliation. Mr. Vice President, despite these political developments, the security and human rights situation in several parts of the country remains deeply worrying. In Vakaga Prefecture, for example, the presence and activities of armed elements from the Sudan have contributed to the exacerbation of the human rights situation in border areas. Credible reports of incidents of violence, including conflict-related sexual violence, intimidation, extortion, and forced displacement affecting civilian population do exist. These dynamics have also fostered the emergence or strengthening of community-based self-defense group, increasing the risk of further violence and increasing the exposure of civilians to human rights violations. Tensions related to cross-border movements also continue to fuel insecurity in the same areas. This situation underlies the importance of strengthened subregional and regional cooperation and the mechanisms for the prevention of conflicts related to movements across the border. In the Haut-Boumbou prefecture, the security environment remains very volatile, particularly due to the activities of the armed group Azande Anik Pigbe. Attacks attributed to this group have led to loss of life, population displacement, and intercommunal tensions, particularly affecting the Peulh communities. At the same time, allegations of human rights violations have been reported during security operations carried out by national forces with the support of other security personnel. These allegations include arbitrary arrests, ill treatment, and looting of civilian property. And I'd like to recall that all these security operations should be carried out with strict respect of international human rights law and IHL. Accountability for violations, regardless of who, commitment remains crucial to restore trust between people and state institutions. Mr. Vice President, I am also concerned by the activities of armed groups, return, reclamation and rehabilitation, known as the 3R. Despite the commitments taken under the 19 April 2025 agreement, there continue to be reports of attacks on mining sites, establishment of illegal barriers and extortion of civilian populations and conflict-related sexual violence frustration with the implementation of disarmament and demobilization process seem to contribute to the persistence of these abuses demonstrating the importance of swift and transparent trans implementation of commitments more broadly the process of disarmament demobilization or integration and reparation remains Central and important for establishing lasting peace I would like to reflect positively the adoption on February 12, 2026, by the Ministry of Justice of a circular prohibiting the interference of unauthorized persons in the criminal justice system. This measure is an important step towards strengthening the rule of law and protecting due process. Its effective implementation will be decisive. Mr. Vice President, in light of these developments, several priorities emerge. First, the protection of civilians should be the absolute priority. This includes strengthening early warning mechanisms, effectively deploying civil and judicial administration throughout the country, and supporting local reconciliation, social cohesion efforts. Fight against impunity should also remain a priority. Accountability for human rights violations and abuses, whether committed by armed groups or state agents, is essential. Thirdly, the effective implementation of peace agreements, particularly with regard to disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, Reintegration is essential for the sustainable reduction of violence and strengthening of state efforts. Finally, we need to support the efforts of the country to promote peace, stability, and the rule of law. And all actors should implement all peace-related tools throughout the territory and guarantee respect of human rights for everyone. I remain committed to work with all stakeholders to ensure this progress, and I'm very happy that we're having this enhanced interactive dialogue with the Council. Thank you.

Now we'll listen to the video statement of Mr. Mohamed Ag Aggaya.

President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to acknowledge the Human Rights Council's contribution to promoting and protecting human rights in the Central African Republic, in particular by organizing this high-level dialogue, which promotes constructive commitment between the government and the various stakeholders on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic. First and foremost, I would like to hail the efforts that the government and people of the Central African Republic have undertaken to expedite the implementation of the political agreement for peace and reconciliation, the APPR of the 6th of February 2019 and the Luanda roadmap. The presence of the State Minister for Justice, the promotion of human rights and good governance, the guardian of the seals at this dialogue bears witness to the government's resolve to pursue its commitment with stakeholders, in particular the United Nations, so as to consolidate peace based on the respect for human rights in the country. Indeed, almost or scarcely one year ago, on the 20th of April 2025, your Council considered the human rights situation in the CAR and focus particularly on the decentralization process and on the issues associated with local elections. The smooth running of those elections, which were awaited for a long time, marks an important stage in the implementation of the APPR and the Luanda Roadmap, and in the consolidation of democracy in the CAR. In that respect, with the holding of the local elections, the Central African Republic has come to a crucial turning point in the democratization process. I would like to encourage the bilateral and multilateral partners of the country to continue to support delocalized bodies so as to enable them to act in line with the aspirations of their communities. Distinguished members of the Council, It is important to underscore that human rights remain a factor that contributes to the implementation of the APPR and the Luanda Roadmap. Without the implementation of key human rights APPR provisions, the achievements made may not be sustainable in the long term. The APPR and the Luanda Roadmap require an overall approach to transitional justice. Therefore, It is in the interests of sustainable peace that the Special Criminal Court and the Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission pursue the implementation of their mandates, with support from strategic partners of the Central African Republic. There is no competition or overlap of these institutions. The court and the Commission carry out their work in a positive, complementary fashion for victims of the Central African crisis. Both of them contribute to transformative reforms advocated by the APPR and the Luanda Roadmap, and they aim to appropriately respond to the deep-rooted causes of the Central African crisis. Distinguished members of the Council, The National Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration and Repatriation Program, the DDR, is a vital path to promote the peace process and guarantee security. However, its impact remains limited because of challenges, including the integration of former combatants. MONUSCO and the United Nations Country Team promote an integrated approach linking the DDR the reduction of community violence and stabilization based on local peace mechanisms, such as the prefectural implementation committees. These positive developments, even though they are encouraging, require collective commitment to enable the people and authorities of the Central African Republic to carry out their responsibility to protect and promote fundamental rights. It is vital that we pool our efforts to convert these commitments into specific and lasting actions. Distinguished members of the Council, by way of conclusion, I would like to reassert MINUSCA's resolve to collaborate closely with the Government and all its partners so as to create the necessary synergies to expedite the full implementation of the APPR and the Luanda roadmap, and therefore to consolidate the respect for human rights in the Central African Republic. Thank you for your kind attention.

Thank you. I give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Francis Che. You have five minutes.

Vice President of the Council, Members of the Council, State Minister for Justice from the Central African Republic, dear panelists and participants, the CAR is grateful to you, Vice-President, for having invited it to this high-level dialogue here in Geneva. The CAR, the guarantor of the policy for peace and national reconciliation in the country, signed on the 6th of February in Bangui, hails this initiative of the Council and remains fully mobilized on the ground, together with the people of the CAR, to transform commitments into tangible realities. The year 2025 has marked a historic turning point in the presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections of December 2025. The first municipal elections since 1988 took place in a serene, calm environment observed by international observers, as well as the national defense forces, its allies, and MINUSCA. There, for a number of years, we could note that the authority of the state continues across the country. We are supported by MINUSCA in areas which were uncontrolled, making the population safe and significantly reducing abuses. This significant progress accomplished by the country in terms of security and post-conflict recovery and sustainable development through the National Development Plan 2024-2028, the progressive improvement of the security situation with a significant drop in violence, The implementation of the disarmament process, as well as the demobilization, reintegration, and repatriation process of armed groups, are part of the implementation of the APPR, the political agreement for peace in the Central African Republic, and reflects the determination of the authorities of the country to ensure that peace and stability last. As highlighted in the recent report of the Secretary General, incidents of violence and human rights violations dropped by 24% between October 2025 and February 2026, with a drop of 16% in the number of victims. This specific progress is the outcome of the APPR. The APPR places human rights at the heart of peace. In article 3, it stipulates that respect for human rights is a fundamental principle, as well as international humanitarian law, and this must be upheld by all parties. It requires the protection of civilians in its chapter 3. They fight against impunity by the Special Criminal Court and the Truth, Justice, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission in chapter 6. the reform of the security sector and justice, the strict respect for human rights, disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration and repatriation that are inclusive in nature, with over 7,000 former combatants mobilised since 2019, of whom over 2,500 since 2025, and the effective participation of women and young persons. The Truth, Justice, Reconciliation and Reparation Commission, supported by chapter 6 of the APPR, is an essential pillar of this architecture. In 2025, it was relaunched with a termination following a certain period. It actively pursues its inquiries, even though it has a lack of resources, and its initiatives for national reconciliation, paving the way for a credible judicial system and restored social cohesion. Article 35 of the APPR explicitly provides for measures taken against all parties or armed groups that violate the agreement, particularly the fundamental principle to respect human rights and international humanitarian law. These deterrent measures, considered by the court in the Central African region, range from individual sanctions, and they are a vital tool to respect the commitments undertaken and to protect the civilian population. The Central African Republic, as a guarantor of the APPR, is loyal to its commitments. and is committed to their effective implementation with support from the government and other facilitators. This view is based on the Central African Republic's view of human rights. The African Charter of Human Rights and Peoples, a pillar of our action on the ground, affirms the indivisibility of civil, political, social, economic rights, and guides our post-conflict reconstruction policy and our development and our agenda. which places good governance, peace, dignity, human dignity at the core. And this is our aspiration. Of course, challenges remain. Despite progress made, sporadic progress, sporadic incidents by armed groups continues, particularly sexual violence linked to the conflict. Cross-border crime is particularly worrying. Conflict in neighboring Sudan leads to an inflow of migrants into the country. And over 400,000 IDPs, the movement of this population, which has been worsened by recent incidents in the Umbummu region, with atrocities committed by the groups, are a major pillar to protect civilians and ensure that violence is prevented. The African Union, through its advocacy and its peace commission, calls for the institutional and operational capacities of the Human Rights Commission and the Ministry of Justice This is an opportunity for the CAR to recall the multifaceted commitments entered into by the international community when it comes to our country and expressed in the mandate to fully support the implementation of the agreement. We stand alongside the African Union, and we recall the international community to uphold its commitment, strengthen the national justice institutions financially support this special criminal court and support inclusive reconciliation. I would like to conclude by paying tribute to MONUSCO, to national efforts. Peace in our country is not an option, it's a continental obligation. Together, we will build a CAR where each citizen fully enjoys their rights in dignity and safety and security, in a Central African Republic which is focused on its development, closely linked to fundamental rights. I would recall that the rule of law and human rights in a country depends on the security, humanitarian, and social situation. The people of the Central African Republic have the right to electricity, drinking water, healthcare, education, roads, and other development infrastructures. This is also a fundamental right. That is why the Central African Republic once again launches an appeal from this rostrum to the partners of the CAR to expedite the win-win investments to develop priority projects as part of the national plan to strengthen trust in the peace process and reconciliation. And this in line with the commitments taken by the international community vis-a-vis the APRR and the CAR. We remain determined to shoulder our responsibility. I thank you.

Madame Taluju, you have the floor. Please don't go over your time.

President, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, the Central African Republic, from a political point of view, is in the seventh Republic. The country of peace and light has been facing different crises for decades. In light of its commitment to human rights and humanitarian law and the policies launched a few years ago by authorities, it is important to recognize that even though critical from some points of views, the human rights situation has seen significant progress thanks to the efforts of all actors, including the government, civil society, and international partners. From a human rights perspective, the adoption and implementation since 2023 of a national human rights policy as a framework for coordination that brings together different stakeholders in dialogue, combating impunity, including the creation of new jurisdictions with four additional appeals courts and different tribunals, that will focus on the situation of victims, UNWIS violations in different parts of the country. The implementation of the political agreement for peace and reconciliation signed the 6th February 2019, the Luanda process and the agreement of 19 April 2025 have promoted peace, national reconciliation and the protection of civilians. In all of these areas, we have to praise significant progress, and it is important to stress the scale of certain remaining challenges and encourage the implementation of urgent actions in order to ensure that our hopes and the progress will not be undermined by the lack of answers to legitimate concerns of the population in a specific manner on behalf of different NGOs like mine and as part of this enhanced dialogue have looked at the main pillars such as human rights, political dialogue, the APMR, the rule of law, and the promotion of reconciliations. The situation of human rights on the ground, the reduction of armed violence and the restoration of peace in different parts of the country and different reforms have had a positive impact on numerous victims of human rights violations and overcoming this feeling of impunity. However, the situation in rural areas, the levels of poverty and lack of access to basic services do exist despite the progress achieved. However, we have seen also additional progress related to the submission of the reports, the human rights mechanism, and the implementation of a national human rights policy, the progressive involvement of the state in different parts of the country, strengthening the protection of civilians, with the support of the Multidimensional Integrated Mission of the United Nations for the Stabilization in Central Africa, MINUSCA, we have still been noted continued challenges and violation of human rights in different faraway areas, including the continuation of sexual violence by armed groups, gender-based violence in communities, and lack of institutional and judicial responses, limited access to the judiciary, and weak protection of victims, the lack of participation of women in decision-making processes, the vulnerable situation of human rights defenders, despite the adoption of relevant law in December 2024, we're still awaiting its implementation, and the implementation of political and peace agreements have made it possible amongst other things to achieve the following progress: cessation of hostilities, ongoing political dialogue, reintegration of former combatants, promotion of national reconciliation, reduction of security tensions. We have also noted some challenges, the continuation of the activities of certain armed groups and the process of disarmament and reconciliation is still problematic and repatriation. All of this remains a major element for stabilizing the situation and over to overcome these difficulties. We must continue and finalize the process, increase funding, increase the rates of economic integration, and we have registered some results. Thousands of ex combatants have been disarmed, the social reintegration programs have been established, communities participate in peace initiatives, and we also have noted some difficulties and the delays in different processes in local areas, little levels of economic low levels of economic integrations. Now, in terms of government activities, the government has taken steps to increase its authority throughout the territory, and some actions have been taken, for example, the redeployment of administrative authorities, strengthening of security and defense forces, rehabilitation of the judiciary, All of these actions facilitate the improvement and protection of the population and trust vis-a-vis governmental institutions. Promotion of reconciliations, protection of civilians is a priority for national authorities and international partners. Some efforts have been taken, among them the existence of early warning mechanisms, programs of community mediations, intercommunity dialogue. Madam, the chairman interrupts.

The

president apologizes. I would not wish to interrupt, but please let's wrap up this so we can start the dialogue.

The implementation of these efforts by the government benefits from technical and financial support from our partners. Now, the contribution of civil society, they participate in the promotion of the rights of women, raising awareness on human rights, of combating gender-based violence and participation of women in peace process. And also, it contributes to the empowerment of women through the leadership training, special programs for women supporting survivors of violence, and training of young people. and women mediators in organizing community dialogues and participation in local initiatives for reconciliation. Thank you.

Thank you very much. Now I'd like to invite interested delegations to ask questions and make some comments. The time for speaking is one minute, 30 seconds. Now the list of speakers has been closed. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union.

Thank you very much, independent expert panelists. We praise progress achieved in the CAR in terms of the reform of the judiciary, combating impunity, and protecting the population. Violations of IHL and human rights continue, nevertheless. Civil population, especially women and children, remain the first victims of violence committed by armed groups and mercenaries from the Wagner Group. Their withdrawal is crucial for sustainable peace. The European Union recalls the crucial work carried out by Special Criminal Court and the International Criminal Court. And MINUSCA's work is crucial in the protection of civilians and documenting violence. We call upon all stakeholders to implement the peace agreements and the agreement and the Luanda Roadmap. We praise the efforts of the African Union to restore the authority of the state throughout the territory and holding the general elections on the 28th of December, a very important step towards stabilizing the country. These efforts should be continued with full determination. The European Union is fully committed to support the people of Central Africa. Mr. Independent Expert, what are the existing tools that can help us combat impunity and accelerate the DDR process.

I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Norway.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, and we thank the independent expert for his dedicated efforts. We welcome the local elections held in CAR last year, the first since 1988. Local elections are key to strengthening democracy and restoring state authority throughout the country. We further welcome progress made in the implementation of the political agreement. However, we continue to be deeply concerned about the extensive and serious human rights violations and abuses. We call on the CAR Government to investigate all incidents and hold perpetrators to account. The security situation remains fragile and continues to expose civilians, particularly women and children, to severe protection risks, including sexual violence. The economic and food security crisis places a heavy care burden on women. At the same time, they continue to be largely excluded from peacebuilding and reconstruction efforts. Inclusion of women in such efforts would add capacity and talent. It will also enhance the prospects of durable peace and stability. President, Mr. Independent Expert, how can the international community support the Central African Republic in ensuring full, effective, and meaningful participation of women in the implementation of the peace instruments and in decision-making processes. I thank you.

Thank you. I call upon the distinguished representative of Angola.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Angola aligns itself with the African Group statement and commends the Central African Republic for its continued engagement with the UN bodies, particularly with the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms. In this regard, Angola fully supports the decision made by the HRC in holding this high-level dialogue, bearing in mind the positive steps undertaken by all entities involved for the process of improving the social humanitarian situation on the ground, including through prioritizing the rehabilitation of infrastructure, working towards an effective implementation of the National Development Plan 2024-2028, the National Human Rights Policy and its Action Plan 2023 and 2027, which are crucial for the peace and stability in the Central African Republic. In conclusion, Angola joins all countries that acknowledge the importance of providing technical assistance and capacity building to the Central African Republic. It goes without saying that there remains a need for multifaceted, contribution to address this challenge faced by Central African Republic.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

Thank you, Vice President. My delegation thanks the independent expert for introducing the report and welcomes the significant headway made by the Central African Republic towards peace and stability. In particular, my delegation welcomes the holding of presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections on 20 December 2025. This is an historic stage. given that it was the first regional elections in the history of the country, the first municipal election since 1988. We would also like to commend the headway made in the fields of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of members of armed groups. Also, my delegation would like to hail the government's efforts to re-establish the authority across the country through prevention campaigns involving civil society and religious leaders. We remain committed to mobilising international support for development and stabilisation efforts undertaken by the Central African Republic, particularly within the peace commission and consolidation. We also continue to deploy contingents within MONUSCO to protect civilians. I thank you, Vice-President.

Thank you. I call upon the Tunisian representative of Chad.

Mr. Vice President, the delegation of Chad welcomes the holding of this dialogue related to technical assistance in the Central African Republic while reaffirming a commitment to the principles of sovereignty, national ownership, and constructive cooperation. Technical assistance must remain based on the consent of the country concerned and aligned with national priorities. We welcome the efforts of the authorities of the Central African Republic to restore state authority, strengthen the rule of law, and strengthen judicial institutions. Strengthening national capacities is a key factor for sustainable improvement of the human rights situation. Chad encourages international partners to continue to provide coordinated, predictable support that is tailored to the needs that have been identified, especially in the area of the judiciary, institutional reform, and training of relevant actors. As a neighboring and sister country directly concerned by regional stability, Chad remains ready to support efforts to promote peace, reconciliation, and the effective protection of fundamental rights in the Central African Republic. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of UNICEF.

The situation in the Central African Republic remains fragile, shaped by more than a decade of conflict and further strained by violence in neighboring countries. At the end of last year, the Central African Republic hosted over 47,000 refugees, 83% of whom were women and children. This comes on top of an already severe humanitarian crisis with 2.3 million people in need of assistance. Grave violations against children continue to be perpetrated by parties to conflict, including recruitment and use, rape and other forms of sexual violence, killing and maiming, and abduction. Low birth registration rates continue to heighten protection risk and undermine children's rights. UNICEF welcomes steps to advance the peace process, including the government signing of the 2025 peace agreement. UNICEF urges authorities to integrate child protection into peace building and DDR processes, invest in protection systems, and reinforce accountability. Further, UNICEF urges all parties to immediately and unconditionally release all children and end any further recruitment and use. We also call on donors to provide predictable funding to support recovery of children subjected to violations. Children in the Central African Republic are entitled to safety, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive in peace. UNICEF remains committed to supporting all actors in translating these commitments into lasting results for every child. Thank you.

I give the floor to

the distinguished representative of Cameroon.

Thank you, Vice-President. My delegation hails the ongoing efforts taken by the Central African government to consolidate peace, achieve stabilisation and promote human rights in a context marked by persistent security challenges. We are pleased to note the progress made in implementing the political agreement for peace and reconciliation. particularly when it comes to the disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation process, and also efforts to gradually restore state authority across the country. Cameroon would like to encourage the Central African authorities to pursue their actions to reform the judicial sector, to promote national reconciliation, to fight against insecurity and impunity so as to consolidate achievements in a lasting fashion. In this context, we underscore the importance of constructive and coordinated support by providing technical assistance and capacity building. To conclude, Vice-President, MONUSCO's role, that of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and international partners must be hailed, as well as regional efforts to consolidate peace in the CAR. I thank you.

Thank you. I now go therefore to the Distinguished Representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ethiopia commends the continued engagement of the Central

African Republic in advancing peace, reconciliation, and promotion and protection of human rights under challenging circumstances.

Ethiopia recognizes the progress achieved, particularly in the area of political stabilization, institutional strengthening, and efforts to restore state authority.

We further commend the government's cooperation with international and regional partners, including the United Nations.

and the African Union in supporting peacebuilding and human rights initiatives.

We underscore that sustainable peace and stability requires inclusive national dialogue, strengthened role of law institutions, and continued efforts towards

reconciliation.

Ethiopia recognized the importance of continued technical assistance and capacity building provided in accordance with the priorities and consent of the country to further strengthen national institutions and support long-term resilience.

Predictable and sustained international support remains essential in this regard. We also stress the importance of coordinated approach that aligns humanitarian and development and peacebuilding

efforts, ensuring that progress in human rights contributes to sustainable development and lasting peace.

Ethiopia and Eritrea, its full support to the Central African Republic in their pursuit of peace, stability and development.

Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt.

Mr. Vice President, Egypt is very pleased to be holding this enhanced dialogue in line with the relevant resolutions, focusing on technical assistance and programs aimed at building capacities in the Central African republic and the area of human rights, we are following with great interest the recent developments in the area of human rights in the C.A.R., including the national mechanisms related to human rights. We praise the level of cooperation of the C.A.R. with all the mechanisms of the Councils And we confirm the very important role played by the Council in terms of supporting the technical cooperation mechanisms and building national capacities. And we encourage the continuation of constructive dialogue in order to respond to the concerns and find the best ways to support the country in line with their needs.

I give the floor to the Russian Federation.

Mr. Vice President, we're closely following the situation in the CAR. In general, it is controlled by government forces, but the threats to the population from remaining illegal armed groups have not been completely eliminated. We welcome the successful holding on the 28 December 2020 five presidential, parliamentary, regional, and municipal elections. For the first time in the country's recent history, voting was held in all prefectures. We hope that the Central African society will continue move forward along the path of stable political and social economic develop we note with satisfaction the strengthening of peace process in the country which has a positive impact on the security situation we highly appreciate the bangi's practical steps in this area the work of the un stabilizing mission in the car whose mandate was once again extended on 13 November 2025 also deserves a positive assessment we're convinced that the normalisation situation in the CAR, with the preservation of external support, including from the UN and international financial institutions, will allow Bangui to focus on constructive domestic agenda in the interests of the people in the state. Such support should be based on the principles of non-interference in internal affairs and respect of sovereignty, and should be focused on the priority needs of the Central Africans themselves. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the Chinese representative of China.

Vice President, In recent years, Central African Republic has been working hard to maintain its national stability, promote socio-economic development, improve people's living standard, and actively promote and protect the right to subsistence, right to development, right to education, and other basic human rights. China commends all these efforts. China is always committed to the peace reconstruction in Central African Republic and advocates that people should independently decide their own destiny and security should be achieved through development. We sincerely hope all parties will focus on the long-term interests of the nation and its people, conduct dialogue to achieve political reconciliation, security and stability, so as to create conditions for economic development. China calls upon the international community to respect the country's national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and respect its people's ability to address their domestic issues independently. China stands ready to work with the international community to contribute constructively to the socioeconomic development in Central African Republic. I thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. We will now move to the list of non-governmental organizations. I give the floor to the representative of Association pour la Justice, l'Égalité, Profession, l'Enseignement, la Paix en Afrique.

Mr. President, I give thanks to the High Commissioner and distinguished speakers for their updates on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic. While efforts towards stabilization continue, We wish to highlight the critical link between environmental degradation and the enjoyment of human rights in the country. Illegal exploitation of natural resources, including mining and logging, has fueled conflict, weakened governance, and deprived communities of their right to health, water, food, and an adequate standard of living. Environmental destruction in mining areas, contamination of water sources, and deforestations are not only ecological concerns, they are human rights issues. Rural and indigenous communities are disproportionately affected, facing displacement, loss of livelihoods, and exposure to hazardous conditions. We call on the authorities and international partners to strengthen environmental governance, ensure transparency and accountability in the extractive sector, and protect communities from environmental harm. Sustainable peace in the Central African Republic requires integrating environmental protection into human rights and security strategies. And I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of RADO.

Vice President, RADO welcomes the peaceful organization of the four elections held in December. and this despite some logistical problems and isolated cases of disruptions in some electoral circumscriptions. However, our organization is worried about the fact that sexual violence continues perpetrated by the 3R group and by some elements of the armed forces of the CAR in full impunity. Stability is still fragile. Violence persists in the east and southeast against the backdrop of armed groups and consequences from the Sudanese conflict, our organization believes that to ensure and guarantee fair and lasting peace in the country, that this requires an increase in investment in the peace consolidation program to prevent human rights violations, build robust national institutions, and achieve inclusive governance with a view to reconciliation, social cohesion. RADO requests the various international partners to renew their technical and financial support to support the reform process and the democratic transition of the CAR. To conclude, our organization would like to know what the panelists advocate as a strategy to mitigate the impact of the liquidity crisis on the functioning of the transitional justice system, as well as MONUSCO's ability to protect civilians. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you. We'll now hear from Centre du Commerce International pour le Developpement via video.

Thank you very much, Vice President. In the Central African Republic, speeches about political progress may not obscure the reality experienced by the population, because behind the institutional announcements, human rights violations remain deeply rooted. The beginning of 2026 is marked by abuses committed against civilians, particularly in areas where the state is absent or too weak to protect the populations. Armed groups continue to threaten security and violate basic rights. Sexual violence remains one of the most unbearable forms of this crisis. Women, young girls, sometimes children, continue to be victims. These acts are not just crimes. They are a direct attack on human dignity, the right to physical integrity, security, and right to live without terror. About half of the population needs help to survive, and not simply a humanitarian challenge. It is a specific failure of the protection of fundamental rights, the right to life, health, food, and right to dignity. We cannot be satisfied with relative decrease in fighting. When impunity persists, when civilians remain exposed, and when perpetrators continue to act without fear of accountability, people of Central America do not need reassuring statements. They need protection, justice, and truth. We call on the Council to maintain full vigilance over the Central African Republic, to strongly condemn violations committed. Without justice, there is no peace. Without respect for human rights, there is no rule of law and no sustainable future. We thank the independence expert for his report and ask him what he recommends for the implementation of transitional justice and the fight against impunity.

Thank you to the flexibility of.

The interpreters and conference services. We have a couple of extra minutes. Human Rights Research League has the floor.

Thank you, sir. In the Central African Republic, the foreign armed presence continues, thereby contributing to ensuring that President Touad remains in power. In this context, the institutional process which has led to the deletion of the limit on the number of presidential terms in the constitution that was revised in 2023 in violation of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance, and the subsequent candidacy of Tawadros to a third term during last year's elections continue to spark serious concerns as to the legitimacy of the past elections. We're particularly concerned by information indicating that opposition groups who have boycotted the legislative elections to protest against the anti-constitutional process are now threatened with being dissolved. Whilst we understand that the organic law provides for such measures for parties who are not represented in the National Assembly, however, we believe that the reason for this lack of representation, a legitimate boycott against an illegitimate process, cannot be ignored. We therefore demand that the rights of a legitimate opposition be protected. Without this, political credibility in the CAR will not be re-established. I thank you.

We'll hear another video from the Christian Solidarity Worldwide organization.

Mr. President, CSW welcomes this high-level dialogue on the Central African Republic.

Ahead of the December.

2025 election period, the government of CAR renewed efforts to secure peace agreements with armed groups around the country. The election itself was boycotted by several opposition groups and political parties who raised concerns over freedom of movement restrictions.

That hampered their ability to reach voters.

While we note that the election period was more peaceful than the 2020 elections, we remain.

Particularly concerned about the situation in and around Zimio in the Haut-Mbomou Prefecture, where the Azande Aninkabeye, also known as the Azande militia, launched attacks resulting in the displacement of over 2,000 people.

And an acute humanitarian crisis.

The situation remains tense, with a significant number of displaced persons seeking shelter in Zimio's Catholic church.

And others fleeing to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

We call on the Government to work with partners to meet the urgent humanitarian crisis created by the renewed fighting, and to bring those responsible for targeting.

Civilians in the Haut-Bomol.

Prefecture over the election period to justice, and to take steps to secure sustainable peace so that all.

Citizens in the prefecture can live assured of their security.

In the midst of the crisis, we note the work of the Special Criminal Court, who have visited Zimio for their investigative work to deal with impunity and the growing concerns in the prefecture caused by the AAKG and other armed groups in the past.

We ask what steps can be taken to support the important.

Work of the Special Criminal Court and guarantee it's able to fulfill its mandate. Thank you.

The.

Representative from Interfaith International has the floor.

Would like to thank the independent expert for the report on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic and for the continued engagement on this issue. The findings presented remain concerning. Despite ongoing efforts, the security situation continues to be fragile, with persistent human rights violations and abuses committed by parties to the conflict. These challenges continue to undermine stability and limit the full restoration of the state authority across the country. We are all particularly concerned about the impact of insecurity of civilians, attacks against civilians, humanitarian personnel, and infrastructure, as well as the continued use of sexual and gender-based violence, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen protection efforts. The situation of displaced persons and refugees also remains alarming and requires sustained attention. We note the importance of ongoing efforts towards peace, including the implementation of peace agreements and progress in disarmament. These steps are essential for achieving lasting stability and national reconciliation. At the same time, we recognize the efforts made by the authorities, as well as the support of international and regional partners, to improve the situation and strengthen institutions. Continued cooperation remains key to ensuring progress. We therefore call for increased efforts to protect civilians, ensure accountability for human rights violations, and accelerate the full implementation of peace commitments. Strengthening state presence throughout the country remains essential. The international community must continue to support the Central African Republic in its path towards peace, stability, and respect for.

Human rights.

Thank you. That was the last speaker that we could accommodate during our dialogue. I'll now give the floor to the presenters to make their concluding remarks. You have to be very telegraphic. I can only give you one minute. Madame Pepetu Adoum, you have the floor.

President, Lasting peace in the CAR will depend on our collective desire and will to transform all of these commitments into specific actions. And to do this, we recommend to the government to strengthen the participation of women and young persons in decision-making areas and the peace process to pursue the DDR program to strengthen justice and the protection of civilians. We recommend to the international community to pursue technical financial support that civil society needs and to step up financing for programmes linked to security, justice and national reconciliation. I thank you.

Thank you very much. Your Excellency, you have the floor, Francis Che.

Thank you. Thank you, Vice-President. In conclusion, we can say that significant progress from a security perspective have been seen in the CAR in favor of the political agreement on peace and reconciliation that made it possible to improve the human rights situation in the country. However, numerous challenges remain. And I can simply support what was said by the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, namely to focus on building technical capacity and support the different organizations in the CAR and the Ministry of Justice, because it is very important for the Central Africans themselves to carry out this work. We are talking about their own country.

Thank you very much. I will then give the floor to the Minister now. You have one minute.

Thank you, Vice-President. I would like, on behalf of the CAR, to thank the independent expert and all delegations for their contributions. Above and beyond the analyses that need to be clearly established, the CAR is making progress, and decisively so. The elections on the 20th of December last took place in a peaceful environment, and this marked a decisive step in the consolidation of our democracy and the legitimacy of our institutions. Challenges exist, but they will not be hidden and will not hide the progress made. We are therefore committed with determination and resolve on the path to peace, justice, reconciliation at the national level. And we would call for international partnership that is clear, balanced, and respectful of its sovereign priorities. Thank you very much, sir.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to Mr. Nononzi, one minute as well.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. I'd like to simply point out that everything that was said about the human rights situation in the Central African Republic is shared by the government and civil society. And the answers to these challenges, this has already been mentioned, first and foremost, the protection of civilians, protection of women, access to the justice system, and also another element, the prosecute the perpetrators of violence against the population. So these are all very important elements, and the international community should provide us support on all of these areas, something that we already mentioned. So the full-fledged judiciary and availability of resources as necessary. We need to optimize our approaches to the use of resources and also involve traditional justice related to reparation and guarantee non-repetition. So it is only in this way that our country can move towards peace and reconciliation.

Thank you very much.

President, in order to secure the progress made so far, we would recommend strengthening women's political participation by empowering women community-based organizations, human rights defenders, elected women MPs, and women local officials to ensure their meaningful, informed participation in the structures to implement the APPR and their meaningful participation in local governance processes. The other comment I wanted to make that in order to preserve and sustain and make meaningful progress on transitional justice and to meet the expectations of the population, the Central African Republic's bilateral partners must step up their support to the Truth, Justice, Reparation, Reconciliation Commission. OHCHR, through the MINUSCA Human Rights Division, will continue to play its part and is fully committed on the side of the authorities as well as the people of Central Africa. Thank you.

Thank you. And I'd like to thank all speakers for their participation and for the patience, because we did have very limited time. This brings us to the end of this high-level dialogue, and we're concluding our meeting today, and we resume our work at 9:00 a.m. to hold the urgent debate. I hereby close the 48th meeting of the 61st session of the Human Rights Council.