18th Meeting - 63rd Session of Human Rights Council

Good afternoon, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues. I hereby open the 18th meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. We will now continue the interactive dialogue with the group of independent experts on the situation of human rights in Belarus. I invite interested delegations to ask questions and make comments on the oral update. The speaking time is one minute, 30 seconds for all. So now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia on behalf of a group of countries. Video statement.

Mr. President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states.

We thank the group of independent.

Experts for your relentless work to document the systemic human rights violations and abuses in Belarus.

We reaffirm our full support for your mandate.

We express concern over new arrests and restrictions on the human rights and freedoms of those who have been released as well as over forced expulsion and deportation of former political prisoners. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and urge Belarus.

To end all forms of repression.

We strongly condemn persecution of exiled Belarusians, including arrestment, asset freezes, in absentia trials and other forms of transnational repressions. This summer, once again, we have witnessed Belarus using migration as a tool of political pressure. The instrumentalization of persons in vulnerable situations for political purposes is unacceptable and must cease.

What else can the international community do to sustain scrutiny and documentation of human rights violations in Belarus? I thank you.

I would like to thank His Excellency Mr. Margus Sikk, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, for the video statement. I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of the European Union.

President.

The European Union thanks the group of independent experts for their report.

Acts which constitute gross, systematic and widespread human rights violations continue unabated. There is no justice in the Belarusian criminal justice system due to systemic.

Violations of due process and the right to fair trial.

It is therefore essential that we support this mandate. Belarusian authorities continue to arbitrarily arrest and detain individuals for their actual or perceived opposition to the government. The EU calls for accountability for all cases of torture, sexual and gender-based violence, and inhumane detention conditions that may have led to deaths in custody. The EU also calls on Belarus to release all political prisoners and to cooperate fully with your mandate. The experts documented a pattern of transnational repression, including a pervasive culture of impunity, and made recommendations in that regard. The EU urges the Belarusian authorities to end their domestic and transnational repression. This includes all forms of harassment or pressure that may result in forced departure, deportation, or deprivation of consular services.

We refer to our previous.

Statements on the Belarusian authorities' involvement in Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, their instrumentalization of migrants.

And targeting of minorities.

Independent experts, could you elaborate on the impact that transnational repression has on the rights of the child?

As many families remain forcibly separated? Thank you.

Thank you.

The list of speakers is now closed. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg on behalf of a group of countries.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. I have the honour to deliver the statement on behalf of Belgium, the Kingdom of the Netherlands and my own country, Luxembourg. We align ourselves with the statement of the European Union. We thank the group of independent experts on the situation of human rights in Belarus and for their report. It presents a deeply concerning picture of the continued and coordinated repression of individuals who oppose or are perceived to oppose the Belarusian authorities. It documents persistent patterns of arbitrary arrest and detention, torture and ill-treatment, violations of fair trial guarantees, discriminatory conditions of detention, post-release harassment and surveillance, and cases of forced expulsion from Belarus. We are particularly concerned by the findings regarding the persistent impunity, the systematic lack of accountability, and the continued persecution of human rights defenders and other civil society actors. We are deeply alarmed by the deliberate targeting of human rights organizations aimed at silencing all the activities and erasing civic space. The continued repression of individuals for exercising their fundamental rights and freedoms must end. We call on Belarus to immediately and unconditionally release all persons arbitrarily detained to ensure independent and impartial investigations into all alleged human right violations. and to cooperate fully with UN human rights mechanisms, including the group of independent experts on the situation of human rights in Belarus. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Czechia.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Czech Republic aligns itself with the EU statement. We thank the group of independent experts for their important work. The latest report demonstrates that repression in Belarus is not the result of isolated abuses, but a coordinated system involving law enforcement bodies, prosecutors, courts, and penitentiary facilities. Together, these institutions have turned the criminal justice system into a tool for silencing dissent. This machinery of repression continues to produce arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment, politically motivated imprisonment, acts of transnational repression and serious consequences for children and families. The report shows that the persistent lack of accountability is not merely a consequence of this system, but one of the factors that allows it to endure. We continue to stand in solidarity with the Belarusian people, reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including Stepan Latipov, Eduard Babarika, and journalist Igor Ilyash, and urge the Belarusian authorities to cooperate fully with UN human rights mechanisms. Dear experts, what accountability measures should be prioritized to address the responsibility of state institutions sustaining repression in Belarus? I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine.

Mr. President, Ukraine thanks the Group of Independent Experts for its comprehensive update and stands in solidarity with people of Belarus in their pursuit of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The findings are deeply alarming. They demonstrate that repression in Belarus is not isolated misconduct, but is enabled by coordinated action across state institutions throughout the criminal justice process. The report documents arbitrary arrests, torture and ill-treatment, violations of fair trial guarantees, incommunicado detention, and continued harassment after release. It concludes that some violations committed since May 2020 amount to crimes against humanity or of persecution and imprisonment. We are particularly concerned that accountability remains systematically denied, enabling further violation. While welcoming the recent decision by Alexander Lukashenko to release 25 political prisoners, Ukraine echoes the group's call for the immediate release of all persons detained or convicted on politically motivated charges, independent investigations, full reparation for victims, and unhindered cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms. We also underline the importance of preserving evidence and pursuing accountability, including through extraterritorial and universal jurisdiction mechanisms. Distinguished experts, how to pursue accountability in Belarus, including those exercising command or superior responsibility? What could be done additionally by the international community? Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland.

Mr. Vice President, independent experts, Poland aligns itself with the EU statement and wishes to thank the group for today's update. UN reporting has documented arbitrary detention, torture and other ill treatment, denial of medical care, punitive isolation and forced labour in detention facilities in Belarus. Despite the release of more than 500 political prisoners in 2025 and 2026, the fact which is noticed by Poland, new arrests continue. The number of political prisoners is again on the rise, particularly of those supporting Ukraine, media workers, book publishers, religious figures. The regime also continues to target human rights defenders, academics, artists, national minorities, and all those who refuse state propaganda. In addition, at least 2,033 Belarusian civil society organizations have been forced to close since 2020. Though more than 235 released political prisoners were allowed to stay in Belarus, many of former detainees were forcibly expelled from the country, deprived of the identity documents or having their passports invalidated. Such measures remain in violation of international law. Those secondary transnational repressions should end. Moreover, we urge Belarus to abandon its repressive practices, release all political prisoners, stop supporting Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and cease all hybrid attacks against its neighbors. I thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Romania.

Thank you, Vice-President. Romania aligns with the EU statement and thanks the Group of Experts for its update and recent detailed documentation of how the involvement of Belarusian state institutions in the criminal justice process since May 2020 has systematically shaped the system into an instrument of political repression. As highlighted in the paper, the ongoing human rights violations and abuses are not isolated procedural incidents, but a widespread and systemic state policy. From arbitrary arrests in broad daylight, systemic ill-treatment in detention facilities, weaponization of pre-trial detention, disbarment of defense lawyers, and trials behind closed doors, every stage of the judicial process has been transformed to crush dissent. We also note with concern the continuing repression of individuals after their release, including through surveillance, restrictions and other forms of pressure. Romania joins the call for thorough investigations into all these severe human rights violations, as well as for the release of all persons detained on political grounds. Accountability for those responsible is compulsory, as well as granting effective remedies and reparations for victims. We call on Belarus to abide by its international obligations under international and human rights law and to cooperate with your mandate and the UN mechanisms. Distinguished experts, building on your findings, could the group elaborate on how ongoing post-release measures and forced exile disproportionately affect women and what institutional safeguards are required to address the specific gendered impact?

Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bulgaria.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Bulgaria aligns itself with the EU statement. We welcome the conference room paper of the Group of Independent Experts on the Situation of Human Rights in Belarus, and we reiterate our support for its work. Bulgaria remains deeply concerned about the ongoing violations of the human rights and fundamental freedoms in Belarus. We are particularly concerned about the continued involvement of Belarusian state institutions in human rights violations, committed at all stages of the criminal justice process against individuals who criticize the government and are perceived as doing so. We continue to call on Belarus to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and to comply with its obligations arising from the international human rights treaties to which it is a party. Bulgaria takes note of the release of 25 political prisoners, which was secured through the mediation of the United States of America two days ago. We call on the Belarusian authorities to unconditionally release and rehabilitate all individuals held in pre-trial detention or convicted on politically motivated charges. We urge Belarus to conduct impartial and effective investigation into all alleged human rights violations to ensure full accountability for the perpetrators and to guarantee timely justice, adequate remedies and compensation for all victims. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia.

Mr. Vice President, Slovenia aligns with the EU statement. We thank the group of independent experts and express our strong support for their work. Slovenia remains deeply concerned by persistent deterioration of the human rights situation in Belarus, where widespread and systematic repression continues unabated. We strongly condemn the ongoing arbitrary detentions and the continued repression on those who have been released, including the transnational repression targeting individuals who have been forcibly expelled. We strongly condemn the government's recent decision to invalidate their passports. Slovenia urges the Belarusian authorities to halt the internal as well as transnational repression and to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights, including of persons belonging to minorities, and to cooperate fully with all relevant international and regional human rights mechanisms. Distinguished experts, could you further elaborate on how the international community can advance the accountability efforts and Belarusian victims' rights to truth and justice? I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Malta aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU and thanks the group of independent experts for their work and update. We remain deeply concerned by the findings presented by the group of experts, which point to the continuing restrictions on the enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms in Belarus, including reports of arbitrary detention, ill-treatment and inadequate conditions of detention affecting individuals perceived to be critical to authorities. Malta is also concerned by persistent reports pointing to shortcomings in accountability and the effective investigation of alleged human rights violations. Ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law remain essential for the protection and promotion of human rights. We further note with concern reports of pressure and intimidation directed at Belarusians residing abroad for exercising their fundamental freedoms. Respect for these freedoms should be guaranteed both within and beyond national borders. While welcoming the release of some individuals recognized as political prisoners, we reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained on political grounds. We also encourage Belarus to engage constructively with international human rights mechanisms. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Albania.

Thank you, Vice President. Albania thanks the independent of experts for its report and commends the work that it carried out, despite the on-going absence of co-operation from the Belarusian authorities. The findings confirm the widespread systemic nature of repression against any person who is perceived as opposed to the Government, including arrests, arbitrary detention, secret detentions Undue process and abusive use of laws on national security and extremism continue to make civic space shrink. We are particularly troubled by ill-treatment, protracted isolation and the refusal to provide adequate medical care to political prisoners, including to minors, the elderly or the disabled. We call on the authorities to release unconditionally all persons arrested for having peacefully exercised their rights. Albania also condemns transnational repression against Belarusians in exile. We call on Belarus to fully cooperate with the UN mechanisms and to bring its legislation into line with its international obligations. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Montenegro.

President, as reported, gross, systematic and widespread human rights violations continue unabated in Belarus, some of which may amount to crimes against humanity, while civic space and fundamental freedoms remain under sustained attack. Anti-extremism and anti-terrorism legislation is increasingly used to repress political opponents and civil society actors. The growing use of extremist designations, including against the use, support in information and educational platforms, undermines access to independent information, education, and academic opportunities and must be reversed. Recent release of political prisoners are welcome, but cannot mark improvement while hundreds remain arbitrarily detained and politically motivated prosecutions continue. Reports of torture, ill-treatment, sexual and gender-based violence, and other serious violations remain alarming. All political prisoners must be released and rehabilitated. Yet, release does not end the repression. Former political prisoners and their families continue to face pressure, while Belarusians abroad are increasingly targeted by transnational repression. Breaking these cycles require ending persistent impunity through accountability and effective remedies for victims. We remain firm in our call on Belarus to end its involvement in Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and ensure the safe return of unlawfully deported or forcibly transferred Ukrainian children. Esteemed experts, what could help effective engagement by the Belarusian authorities with you and other international human rights mechanisms? Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Council of Europe.

Mr. President, Council of Europe thanks the group of independent experts for the oral update. Unfortunately, the findings leave no place for doubt as to the role and responsibility of Belarusian authorities' systematic human rights violations across the criminal justice process. The Council of Europe notes with great relief the release of 25 additional political prisoners on 15 September. However, in the light of the concerning findings, this is a stark reminder that the injustices they suffered are the result of coordinated action intended at sustaining a system of repression in Belarus. We call for all political prisoners in Belarus to be immediately and unconditionally released. It would reflect well on the Belarusian authorities to accept the findings and the recommendations of the group of independent experts, cease the violations and ensure accountability and redress. While Belarus is not a member state of the Council of Europe, our organization will continue to stand by those who are working to raise awareness and promote the human rights and freedoms for all Belarusian citizens, despite the extraordinary challenges and transnational repressions. This includes our work in consultation with our member states on identifying practical solutions aimed at supporting Belarusian citizens who have been forced into exile. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Austria aligns itself with the EU statement and thanks the group of independent experts for its update. Austria is deeply concerned by the picture set out in your report of a criminal justice system in which law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, and prison authorities act in ways that reinforce the same repressive pattern. Repression does not end with arrest. It continues through investigation, prosecution, trial, and imprisonment, and in many cases, through surveillance and harassment after release. We are particularly concerned by the role of the judiciary. Courts should provide protection against arbitrary state action. Instead, the report documents systematic violations of fair trial guarantees, routine approval of prosecutorial requests, and the failure to provide effective remedies. The harassment and disbarment of lawyers further erode the possibility of an effective defense. Austria is also seriously worried by the persistent lack of accountability. The report documents a consistent pattern of shielding perpetrators from investigation and prosecution, including the dismissal of thousands of complaints concerning torture and excessive use of force. Where institutions implicated in violations also prevent their effective investigation, domestic avenues for justice are effectively closed. Austria calls on Belarus to end politically motivated persecution, ensure judicial independence and access to effective legal representation, investigate serious violations and provide victims with effective remedies and reparation. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, Vice President. Members of the group of experts, I reiterate first of all our full support for your work. Your latest report highlights that human rights violations committed by the Belarusian Government, especially when it comes to criminal and correctional justice, are coordinated and systematic, with complete impunity. France condemns continued repression against all forms of political dissent and intimidation measures targeting critical voices both in Belarus and abroad. It profoundly regrets ongoing arbitrary detentions. that the International Criminal Court has opened an investigation into the crimes committed in Belarus against civilian populations that have a link with the territory of Lithuania. France urges the Belarus authorities to authorise detainees to be able to communicate with their loved ones, to give them due medical attention and to think about humanitarian measures as a priority for the benefit of political prisoners whose health conditions are fragile. We pay tribute to all of those who continue to defend the rights and fundamental freedoms be it in Belarus or abroad or in exile. France finally welcomes the release of 25 prisoners recently announced thanks to US mediation and again calls on Belarus to put an end to arrests, persecution and detentions of a political nature. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Germany aligns itself with the EU statement, and we thank the Group of Independent Experts on Belarus for their tireless work. Your conference paper once more exposes the system of abuse created by Belarusian authorities, illuminating the integral role of the justice system within the broader machinery of repression. It is being weaponized against its own people to crush any form of dissent, real or perceived, at home or abroad. The Belarusian regime is keeping its people hostage in a climate of fear, stifling human rights and fundamental freedoms. No one is safe anywhere, a simple like on social media or a subscription to the so perceived wrong channel is enough to be arrested, detained or tried in absentia. We welcome the recent release of some political prisoners, yet we condemn continued restrictions and repression after their release, including subsequent forced exile, arbitrary confiscation of identity documents, and repression against their loved ones in Belarus. We are also alarmed by the growing number of new arbitrary arrests replacing those released. The accounts of cruel and abusive detention conditions, including torture, are deeply worrying. Finally, we regret Belarus' continued lack of cooperation with the group of experts. Independent experts, how can we further support your work in ensuring accountability for perpetrators and justice of victims?

Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Thank you, Vice-President. Switzerland thanks the Group of Independent Experts on Belarus for its oral update. We are alarmed by reports of new arbitrary detentions of people for exercising their right to freedom of expression. Despite some releases, the number of persons detained arbitrarily remains high and seems to be on the rise again. Recent arrests also show that those who protect the rights are targeted themselves. Lawyers, who must be able to exercise their profession independently without intimidation reprisals are on the contrary persecuted and imprisoned for defending the human rights of their clients. We share the concerns of the group of experts concerning the utilization of the judicial system to persecute people abroad. The group has documented judicial procedures conducted in the absence of the person's concern, forced expulsions and arbitrary confiscation of ID documents. We call on Belarus to put an end to arbitrary detention, guarantee freedom of expression and protect lawyers in the independent exercise of their profession. We also call for the need to guarantee a right to due process and rights of persons forced into exile. What specific measures does the group recommend to better protect lawyers and people who have been subjected to transnational repression. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The United Kingdom thanks the Group of Independent Experts for its update. We remain deeply concerned by the systematic repression of fundamental freedoms in Belarus, arbitrary arrest and detention, Politically motivated prosecutions, torture and ill-treatment all remain tools to silence dissent, while independent media, civil society and trade unions continue to face severe restrictions. We welcome the recent release of political prisoners. However, these releases do not address the structures that enable repression, and many others remain unjustly detained. We call for their immediate and unconditional release, full rehabilitation, and access to effective remedy. We are particularly concerned by the continued use of incommunicado detention, denial of adequate medical care, and intimidation of prisoners' families. The UK continues to support the UN's accountability mandates and the International Accountability Platform for Belarus, which collects and preserves evidence of alleged crimes under international law. We will continue working with partners to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive justice. We ask the Group of Experts, how can states best strengthen accountability pathways while ensuring that victims, survivors and Belarusian civil society remain central to these efforts? Thank you.

Thank you.

That was the last speaker on my list. We will now proceed with the list of speakers from national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations. I now give the floor to the representative of National Human Rights Civic Association, Belarusian Helsinki Committee. You have the floor.

Distinguished President, Excellencies, Colleagues, while we welcome the release of political prisoners, as well as individual steps such as the return of journalist Andrey Pechrobout to Belarus, these developments do not amount to fundamental or systemic change in the human rights situation. Around 900 political prisoners remain behind bars. New cases continue to be initiated. Dmitry Laievsky, former defense counsel for Viktor Babariko, was sentenced to three years in prison simply for carrying out his professional duties just the day after Andrey Pechrobout returned to Belarus. At the same time, independent monitoring of the human rights situation has become increasingly difficult. Access to reliable information is severely and intentionally restricted by the state. While political repression in Belarus is widely documented, its impact on economic, social, and cultural rights receives less attention. Restrictions on access to education, employment, professional opportunities, and cultural life have become an important part of the repressive system. Many Belarusians experience suppression exactly through these less visible restrictions affecting everyday life. We therefore call on Council members to urge Belarus to release all political prisoners, end politically motivated persecution, and stop repression in all its forms. We also call on States to support independent monitoring and ensure that the human rights situation in Belarus remains under close international scrutiny. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of Human Rights House Foundation.

Thank you, Vice-President. We welcome the experts' oral update and the excellent new conference room paper. Belarusians themselves continue to be targeted at home and abroad, including through denial of consular services and the recent placement of Ales Bialiatski on the CIS interstate wanted list. Furthermore, the arbitrary invalidation of passports may be viewed as a contextual element of crimes against humanity under the qualification framework of the ICC. The Belarusian Helsinki Committee has been designated an extremist formation, effectively criminalizing interaction with one of the country's oldest human rights organizations. And despite releases, our partners continue to document new cases of arbitrary detention. We welcome the release of journalist Andrei Aleksandrov this week from prison, among others, but highlight their immediate forced deportation from Belarus. Human rights defender Marfa Rabkova described being forced to leave Belarus after her release from prison this year as being a harder blow than accepting a 15-year prison sentence. Further releases are very welcome, but cannot constitute justice alone. Political convictions must be annulled, victims rehabilitated, allowed to remain in Belarus and provided effective remedy. We ask the experts, how can states pursue releases while ensuring that such negotiations strengthen prospects for accountability, rehabilitation, and non-recurrence? Thank you.

Thank you.

I'll give the floor to the representative of Article 19 Intervention by Video.

Our steadfast support for the work of the Group of Independent Experts. We remain deeply concerned about the continued transnational repression of Belarusian civil society actors in exile, including through digital means. Our recent research with Belarusian human rights defenders, journalists and digital security experts shows that exile does not end in repression. Digital technologies allow threats to follow people across borders, into their homes, workplaces and personal networks. Belarusian actors in exile report phishing and account compromise, attempts to obtain sensitive information, impersonation, malicious reporting of social media accounts, online harassment and smear campaigns, as well as threats directed at relatives, colleagues, and organizations connected to them. These tactics rarely occur in isolation. Digital attacks can be an early warning sign or an enabling element of a broader campaign of transnational repression. Information obtained through compromised accounts may expose networks inside Belarus. extremism-related designations and other forms of criminalisation can amplify digital targeting and create serious risks for people who remain in the country. Our research documents increased self-censorship, withdrawal from public activities and disruption of civil society and independent media work. We therefore urge states to recognise the digital dimension of transnational repression in their responses to the situation in Belarus. This means ensuring that police, cybersecurity bodies and other relevant authorities can identify and respond to digital attacks linked to transnational repression, providing legal, technical and psychosocial support to those targeted, improving cooperation with civil society and trusted digital securities providers, and ensuring effective accountability. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of the Law Society for a joint statement intervention by video.

President, The Law Society of England and Wales, Lawyers for Lawyers, Lawyers Rights Watch Canada, and Judges for Judges thank the group of independent experts for their important work. We remain gravely concerned by the repression of the legal profession in Belarus, including reprisals against lawyers, the erosion of judicial independence, and arbitrary interference by the Ministry of Justice in licensing and disciplinary proceedings. Currently, at least seven lawyers remain imprisoned for reasons connected to the exercise of their professional duties, while the intimidation and disbarment of others continue. Our organizations are dismayed by the sentencing of lawyer Dmitry Laevsky to three years imprisonment by the Minsk City Court on 9 September 2026. He was found guilty of facilitating extremist activities and discrediting the Republic of Belarus, based on interviews he gave to independent Belarusian media outlets in 2020 and 2021, in which he commented on the criminal proceedings against his clients, the persecution of lawyers representing government critics and opposition figures, and the revocation of his own license to practice law. We call for an end to reprisals against lawyers and their families. the release of all those detained for carrying out their professional duties, and an end to state interference in the judiciary and the legal profession. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of War Resisters International.

Together with its partner, Connection EU, thanks to the group of independent experts for its report. Repressive laws and policies continue to target grassroots civil society organizations and human rights defenders in the country. Additionally, this report documents cases of Belarusians who have fled the country or were residing abroad being tried in absentia, including human rights defender Olga Karach. Transnational repression is affecting many human rights defenders seeking protection. Among those forced to seek protection, there are conscientious objectors to military service and deserters, who refuse to be involved in the Russian war of aggression. They can face criminal prosecution, torture, and long-term imprisonment. We are witnessing a worrying trend regarding the lack of protection for those seeking refuge and for those who continue to work to defend human rights from abroad. There are reports of Belarusian conscientious objectors facing deportation, as well as practices aimed at discrediting Belarusian human rights defenders and organizations that have relocated abroad, including debunking. This is consequently limiting their ability to effectively assist refugees and human rights defenders, as in the case of our house in Lithuania. We highlight the concluding recommendation of the group of independent experts regarding the international refugee protection for victims and witnesses of human rights violations who have fled Belarus. and call individual member states to grant asylum to Belarusian conscientious objectors and human rights defenders in line with UNHCR guidelines and to effectively remedy the vulnerability of their forced exile. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of International Bar Association for a joint statement, intervention by video.

The International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute and the International Commission of Jurists condemn the ongoing repression of civil society in Belarus and in particular systematic attacks and judicial harassment against lawyers. We deplore the subordination of the judiciary to the executive, then the Minister of Justice control of the legal profession, including lawyers licensing and disciplinary proceedings, and the Bar Association's failure to protect its members. Affected lawyers have no remedy left. Since 2020, at least 600 lawyers have been forced out of the profession through arbitrary disbarment, prosecution, or fear of persecution. We condemn the sentencing of Dmitry Laevsky, a former lawyer who represented, among others, Alex Byalevsky, Viktar Bardarika, and Maksim Snark. On September 9, he was sentenced to three years' prison for interviews in which he discussed their criminal cases. We denounce the systematic persecution of Belarusians abroad. including trials in absentia and the forced expulsion of released prisoners, the invalidation of their passports and the denial of consular services. We urge Belarus to immediately and unconditionally release Dmitry Lyavetsky and all those that are arbitrarily detained, including human rights defenders and lawyers. reinstate arbitrary disbarred lawyers and guarantee an independence of governing legal profession. Cease all acts of persecutions and reprisals, including those targeting Belarusians abroad, and ensure prompt, thorough, independent, impartial investigations into these violations. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of European Union of Jewish Students. Intervention by video.

Mr. President, The European Union of Juristudents remains deeply concerned by the continued repression of fundamental rights in Belarus. For more than three decades, democratic freedoms, independent media, political opposition and civil society have been systematically suppressed. Following the fraudulent presidential election of 2020, tens of thousands of peaceful protesters were detained, many subjected to torture and other forms of ill-treatment. Today, hundreds of political prisoners remain arbitrarily detained, while journalists, students, activists, and members of the democratic opposition have been forced into exile. This repression does not stop at Belarus' borders. The Belarusian regime's continued support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine demonstrates the connection between authoritarian regimes, regional instability, and violations of fundamental rights. As a Jewish student organization, we know that defending minority rights cannot be separated from defending democracy at large, human rights, and the rule of law. We therefore call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and for continued international support for Belarusian civil society, independent media, students, and human rights defenders, both within Belarus and in exile. Their voices must remain at the center of international efforts concerning their country. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of International Federation for Human Rights Leagues.

Mr. Vice President. FIDH and VESNA thank the group of independent experts for their conference room paper and reiterate their deep concern over the systematic politically motivated repression in Belarus. According to VESNA, over 880 political prisoners, including journalists, lawyers, and human rights defenders, currently remain imprisoned in Belarus. While welcoming the recent releases, FIDH and VESNA underline that those prisoners should never have been detained in the first place. Moreover, many of those released been expelled from the country, a practice that may amount to the crime against humanity of deportation. FIDH and VESNA therefore urge the Belarusian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all those persecuted on politically motivated grounds and to put an end to politically motivated repression, including criminal prosecution, in absentia trials, intimidation and harassment by the state security services targeting Belarusian abroad. FIDH and VESNA urge the international community to maintain pressure on the Belarusian authorities and to stand with the victims of repression, including by ensuring accountability for the perpetrators of international crimes on the national and international levels. This must include referring the situation of Belarus to the International Criminal Court and taking all measures necessary to support the ongoing investigation into the crimes against humanity of deportation and persecution committed by the Belarusian authorities. I thank you.

Thank you.

That was the last speaker on my list. I now give the floor to the chair of the group of experts for her concluding remarks. You have four minutes and 35 seconds.

Mr. President, distinguished members of the Council and NGOs, thank you for your intervention. In our report, we document many forms of persecution and repression done by the Lukashenko regime. The use of children as hostages is one of them. While we welcome and appreciate releases from penal institutions, we remain mindful that those labeled as extremists should never have been imprisoned in the first place. Moreover, being in fact forced to leave the country does not necessarily bring their persecution to an end. They are evicted against their will with no proper documents and resources to rebuild a normal life. For many, this results in a devastating separation from aging parents and children. The group is concerned about presidential decree restricting the issuance and renewal of Belarusian passports abroad. Children abroad and those born abroad to Belarusian citizens have trouble obtaining identity documents. It places them at risk of statelessness and limiting their access to fundamental rights. These are a stark illustration on how persecution continue beyond Belarusian border and affects also children. Freedom and care, the basic values guaranteed by UN standards, are deprived from people the Lukashenko regime. Our conference room paper highlights how the state institution within what is called criminal justice are used as tool to crush those labeled as dissidents. So to reverse that, effective measures must be in place ensuring justice, independencies and advocates' right to represent their clients without facing the arbitrary disbarment or often imprisonment. Also, banned media, NGOs and trade unions should be restored, for as for now, the citizens and workers are in fact with no defense and no representation. We ask state hosting Belarusian facing transnational repression to ensure them access to protection without fear of retaliation. Lukashenko regime repress Belarusian in the country and abroad. The criminal trials in absence and confiscation of exiled people's property is just an example of it. It evidences that this regime is crossing the borders and infiltrate the territory of UN countries. No business with such a partner is safe. No liberty as well as conservative values respected.

Addressing the question of strengthening accountability measures, we state that we encourage states to initiate proceedings against perpetrators wherever possible, pursuant to extraterritorial and universal jurisdiction. States should prioritize support for organizations and mechanisms engaged in documentation, preservation, and sharing of evidence. Accountability efforts should be victim-centered, ensuring meaningful participation of survivors and Belarus civil society, especially those forced to flee or forcibly deported. States should provide sustained support, protection, and ensuring effective accountability, remedies, and reparations, and consider the key pillars of transitional justice. We urge documentation to place particular priority on identifying state officials who are carrying out functions and abuses without independence, impartiality, or legal obligations under international or national law. Regarding the question on releases and negotiation, The release of detainees who have been arbitrarily and criminally detained should remain an urgent priority. Any engagement with the Belarus state should be firmly grounded in its international human rights obligations and should ensure that release means genuine restoration of all rights, not forced exile or continued coercion or the ongoing weaponization of this system of legalized repression. We want to reinforce our findings that this is not a system of isolated abuses. It's a coordinated state system of legalized repression. Accountability must address all components of the system, keeping the victims, the Belarus citizens, at the center. And this has a huge human rights violation impact on the broader Belarusian society. We find that the impact of these violations has extended far beyond the direct victims and their families. The cumulative effect of arrest, prosecution, conviction, imprisonment, and the imposition of post-release measures has deterred others from exercising their civil and political rights and undermined their willingness and ability to participate in public life. By making the consequences of criticism, opposition, and civic engagement visible not only to those directly targeted but also to their families and the wider community, authorities have fostered a broader climate of fear and self-censorship. In this way, violations committed against individuals have wider societal consequences, contributing to the suppression of civic space and limiting the meaningful exercise of civil and political rights by all the population at large. Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

This brings us to the end of this interactive dialogue. I wish to thank the group of independent experts for their participation. will now take a short break before holding the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi. Kindly take your seats. We will resume now. We will now begin the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi. Let me welcome the mandate holder, Mr. Fortune Katan Zongo. The list of speakers will close in 15 minutes. I now give the floor to Mr. Fortune Gitansongo to present his report.

Thank you. I come before you to present my report on the human rights situation in Burundi in line with the parameters of my mandate as Special Rapporteur. This rapporteur has been drafted without any cooperation from the Burundian government. I'd like to draw your attention to a specific date, and that is May 2027, when the presidential elections will be held. I'd like to make the following observation: the precursors of an electoral crisis are already palpable. The window of prevention remains open, but it is swiftly closing. Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Burundi is a party, requires equal and secret voting, participation without discrimination, and effective protection against pressure brought by state or non-state actors. You can't have a free election if you exclude the main competitors even before campaigning starts or if the electoral institutions lack the trust of the population. There are four major warning signs which we've seen with regard to the 2027 vote. The first concerns severe restrictions on political pluralism and The second is that the presidential election next year will bring to the end a cycle which has been characterized by the domination of the party in power, CND, DFD, which took 96.5% of the votes in the general elections last year and all 100 seats in the National Assembly. The second signal or sign concerns obstacles to real competition, prohibitive fees have been imposed to stand for election and you have to wait two years to stand as an independent after having left a political party. This is disproportionate in view of Article 25 of the Covenant and these restrictions could exclude credible candidates even before the campaign begins. The third sign is the coercive environment characterised by extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture and arbitrary detention. According to the information that my mandate has collected, 402 people lost their lives last year and 182 this year. They can be attributed in particular to the National Intelligence Service police and Imbonerakure. Imbonerakure's growing power is of particular concern. Several sources describe them as a paramilitary force which undertakes surveillance, intimidation, repression. And when such actors can control the population full impunity, then you really can't have a free vote. The fourth signal is the same scheme we saw before the elections in 2015, 2020, and 2025, political exclusion, intimidation, violence, and impunity. In the previous cycles, there was pre and post electoral violence, and nothing at this stage would lead us to conclude that the same won't happen next time round. These four signals or signs have been compounded by persistent closing of civic space and for the media. Journalists, human rights defenders and opposers are watched, they suffer reprisals and pushed into exile, whilst Self-censorship is widespread, and the independence of the justice system is compromised. Economic and social rights cannot be disassociated from the political context. Closing civic space means that vulnerable people cannot contest decisions or claim corrective measures. Over the past four years, the consumer price index rose by 143 per cent and the Burundian franc fell by over 87 per cent. compared to the dollar. That's since 2015. This economic and social distress only compounds electoral risks. When you don't have access to food, jobs, or essential services, unless you're linked to the party in power, then you're unlikely to vote freely either. In this context, President, I would nevertheless like to hail a positive development, and that is the release of journalists Kenny Claude Nduwimana and Sandra Muhosa. This gesture shows that things can improve when the political will exists. The presidential election could be an important step towards building peace rather than a downward spiral into further violence. Nevertheless, in order to do so, we must immediately reopen civic, political and media space and stop the arrest, threats and exclusions of political opponents, journalists, human rights defenders and independent organizations to review the electoral code to ensure the independence and transparency of the Electoral Commission and to set up an inclusive dialogue in order to restore trust in political parties. among the population. Obviously, it goes without saying that the Inbonerakure who are involved in security functions must be demobilized. So I would like to reiterate my appeal to the government to reopen the country office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and accept a long-term independent international electoral observation mission. Cooperation is neither a concession nor interference. It is a tool for trust and prevention. The international community is called upon to act preventively and in concerted fashion before 2027 by supporting independent electoral observation. President, distinguished Council members, the risk factors have been documented. We know what preventive measures should be taken. What's lacking is the political will to act consistently before the human costs become irrevocable. Prevention today is to protect the right of every Burundian woman and man to freely choose their leaders. It means protecting journalists who should be able to report without fear and to allow opponents to compete without being persecuted and young women to live with out violence refugees to not fear reprisals and families to finally aspire to peace. The time has come for prevention. Thank you very much for your kind attention.

Thank you.

According to our practice, we will start by hearing the delegation of the country concerned. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Burundi. You have five minutes.

Thank you, Vice-President. We cannot say enough. This country mandate, running since 2015, is beyond just being a hostile mechanism; it is an evident manifestation of a targeted witch-hunt and of hegemonic interference by certain Western powers, whose goal is to isolate Burundi from the international scene and to suffocate it economically under the pretext of protecting human rights. Burundi has been on the agenda of this Council for 12 years, at the initiative of the European Union. An agenda that is meant to address grave human rights violations cannot be interpreted by any objective analysis as anything other than a diplomatic weapon exercised to weaken the republican institutions of my country and to impose an internal governance favourable to its strategic ideological interests. An illustration of this was the thwarted coup in 2015, which was tacitly authorized by it, and in its continuity, served to legitimize before this tribunal to exercise constant constraint over Burundi, a lever of geopolitical diplomatic pressure at low cost, consisting of tarnishing the reputation of my country with international fora. Today, Everyone is speaking frankly, and like an open secret, the leadership organ of the Red Tabara terrorist group, carrying out its incursions from the DRC, displaying its complicity with the AFCM23 rebel coalition, with the logistic military support of Rwanda, which serves moreover as a rear base, boasts loudly of its collusion with certain European capitals. undermining the economic and social development of our populations and deliberately sabotaging the initiatives of our institutions. How does the council intend to preserve its credibility when some of its mechanisms are serving to harm those that it is meant to protect, exploited to impose barely disguised political sanctions and flouting the sovereignty of certain states, my own included? I would that those same norms applied equally to all states. When will we hear condemnation of the rebel group the Red Tabara, armed by Rwanda, for its terrorist acts committed in Burundi that have taken innocent human lives, including those of children? Endless reports submitted to this Council are the visible manifestation of the outright disdain towards my country, which is laid bare by a concerted, orchestrated, ongoing denigration of its sovereign institutions as Burundi prepares in May for presidential elections, having successfully concluded legislative elections, which were deemed as regular according to international observers, and having which saw a massive turnout in a peaceful climate last year, we are witnessing through this mechanism a campaign that has already been hatched to prepare public opinion to contest the legitimacy of all elections. In that regard, we see a sad attempt to vilify the party in power, CND. and FDD, giving credit to an Opposition of no stature whatsoever. Whether we like it or not, that is the reality that, for better or worse, we need to be aware of and take into account. Vilifying and blackening our imbonerakori youth, which in my mother tongue means those who see far, extends a day that includes 96 per cent of our children. I trust that you are aware of that and that you shoulder your responsibilities for Whether we like it or not, our children are brought up to be true patriots, united, passionate about the history of our ancestors and ready to serve their country. Whether we like it or not, our brothers and sisters who previously took refuge in Danzig are returning massively and voluntarily to their country, and repatriation operations are in line with the tripartite agreement between the Governments concerned and the UNHCR, as is customary. It is absurd to read that the mechanism is calling into question the affirmation of the voluntary nature of the repatriation, yet it is maintained by an organisation as lofty as the UNHCR. However, when the desperation to harm is the sole leitmotif, why not? I take this opportunity to recount the history of my country. At the end of the 19th century, German colonial forces carrying guns and machine guns sought to impose their domination over the Kingdom of Burundi, and to their great surprise, they entered into a war of ferocious resistance. waged by a people united around King Mwese, carrying but arms, bows and arrows, lances, using guerrilla tactics of attrition and cunning, without forgetting the ultimate sacrifice of their own lives to defend their sovereign from capture by the enemy, and this for seven long years. You have an insight into who we are. You come and corner us, you rough us up, and yet we do not bend. United behind the same shield, There's no telling what we are capable of doing today. I thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Independent National Human Rights Commission of Burundi. You have three minutes.

Vice President, the INCHR of Burundi would like to begin by congratulating Mr. Volker Turk on his re-election to the post of High Commissioner for Human Rights. We'd like to express our solidarity with the High Commissioner's desire to contribute to a world in which human rights are promoted and protected and protection networks are reinvigorated. We would like to wish him every success in his new mandate. We have taken note of the report presented by the Special Rapporteur covering the period between July 2025 and June of this year. We congratulate him on the report. Nevertheless, we'd like encourage the Special Rapporteur to consult our annual report covering the period 2025-2026. The INCHR, during this year, led a joint visit with the UNHCR and the the Office of the High Commissioner to refugee camps and host communities for returnees. Urgent needs were identified and responses proposed. A report on the matter was submitted on 4 September this year to the ministries, responsible development partners and certain diplomatic representatives. Nevertheless, we've seen a large number of Congolese refugees, a swift return of Burundians, and a cut in the UNHCR's budget. So these are major challenges for our country. In order to ensure humanitarian assistance, the INCHR wishes to encourage the government to make every effort to mobilize the necessary resources and partnerships in order to combat impunity of public officials, the INCHR has documented 148 police officers who are being charged with criminal offenses. Some have been sentenced to prison sentences and six have been dismissed. The INCHR would encourage the state to continue to act against miscreant public officials, particularly when they're uniformed. We would like to refer to 27 cases of torture, two acquitted and the rest should be closed, 37 cases of abduction, either followed by enforced disappearance or not, Seven have been closed because the people have been found. Thirteen cases are with the prosecution service. Further 11 have been referred to them, but five have not yet been identified. When it comes to illegal detention, there have been 223 cases. Ninety cases have been closed. A further 124 are being dealt with. For acquitted detainees, those who have already completed their sentences, those with mental illnesses and those who have benefited from presidential pardons. The INCH is going to recommend the government take all the measures to release them. When it comes, the speaker is interrupted.

I now invite interested delegations to ask questions and to make comments on the report. The speaking time is one minute and 30 seconds for all. Before I give the floor to the next speaker, Let me remind you that the list of speakers is now closed. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union.

Vice-President.

Special Rapporteur, the EU thanks you for this report and expresses its support to your mandate that you have implemented in difficult conditions. The EU is profoundly concerned by the human rights situation in Burundi. Despite certain positive developments in recent years, violations and abuses of human rights remain numerous. With presidential elections coming up in 2027, we are particularly troubled by growing restrictions towards the opposition parties, media, human rights defenders and civil society. An open, pluralist political environment, which is crucial for the holding of free, inclusive, credible elections, is lacking. The EU remains troubled by information noting summary or extrajudicial executions, arbitrary detentions, arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, sexual violence, and restrictions towards political actors and civil society. We urge the authorities to guarantee independent, impartial and effective investigations and to combat impunity. We encourage Burundi to step up its co-operation with UN mechanisms, especially with the special rapporteur, and to guarantee his access to the country. We reaffirm our full support to the Burundian people, as borne out by the fact that we are the top ODA contributor to that country.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Norway on behalf of a group of countries.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his latest update and for his valuable efforts to monitor the human rights situation in Burundi. We remain deeply concerned that the Special Rapporteur continues to be denied access to the country. We call on the Government of Burundi to grant him unhindered access to the country and to provide him with the information necessary to fulfill his mandate. We further call on the Government of Burundi to engage constructively with the UN human rights mechanisms, including by reopening the OHCHR country office in Burundi. We are deeply alarmed by continued reports of violations such as enforced disappearances, extrajudicial executions and widespread sexual and gender-based violence in Burundi. As Burundi approaches the 2027 presidential elections, we also reiterate our concern over restrictions on civic and political space. We urge the Burundian authorities to uphold their international human rights obligations and to prioritize safe and open civic space for this electoral cycle. Special Rapporteur, which concrete measures should the international community take to support civil society and independent media ahead of the 2027 elections? Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Belgium on behalf of a group of countries.

Monsieur le Vice-President, Vice-President, it's my honour to speak on behalf of the Benelux countries. We support the EU statement. We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report and regret the lack of cooperation from the Burundi authorities. We urge the government to step up its cooperation with UN mechanisms in the field of human rights, especially by giving them access to the territory. We also call for tangible measures to be taken to reopen the UNHCR country office. Human rights violations documented in the report, especially cases of torture, enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention and sexual and gender-based violence, are troubling. Combating impunity, with holding credible, impartial, independent investigations should therefore constitute a priority. Ahead of the 2027 elections, the Benelux countries call on the authorities to combat resurgence in hate speech and incitation to violence, to guarantee political pluralism, to lift obstacles to participation in the elections and to lift restrictions on civic space, especially for civil society, human rights defenders and journalists? Special rapporteur, what actions should be the priority so as to guarantee effective access to justice for survivors of human rights violations? Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Mr. Vice-President, my delegation thanks the Special Rapporteur for the report. The DRC commends progress made by Burundi in the field of human rights, despite a complex socioeconomic context, tangible progress can be seen, including through its 2024-60 vision on the ground. The national independent human rights commission is fully exercising its statute 8 mandate. Moreover, school enrolment continues, health coverage is extending and numerous people have been repatriated with success. At political level, my delegation commends the joint declaration of the 32 political parties signed on 15 May. That strong commitment guarantees a transparent, democratic, peaceful electoral process. We encourage the Government to pursue its reforms to consolidate rule of law and judicial independence. DRC is convinced that, to better support Burundi towards true human rights progress, it would be preferable to move through dialogue and technical cooperation, especially through the UPR. Finally, my country thanks Burundi for hosting Congolese refugees and calls on the international community to provide necessary assistance to this brother country to enable it to confront the aggression carried out by Rwanda. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Rwanda thanks the Special Rapporteur on the report on Burundi. We encourage Burundi to engage constructively with the human rights mechanism. Rwanda recognizes that peace, security, and respect for human rights in Burundi matter to the stability of the Great Lakes region. Regional concerns should be addressed through dialogue on the basis of facts and in a spirit of good neighborliness. We encourage continued efforts to address human rights concerns through effective, institutional and inclusive dialogue alongside cooperation among neighborhood states. Rwanda remains committed to the dialogue and cooperation in support of peace, security and stability in the region. We will come back to the unfounded allegations by the countries concerned. I thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. The United Republic of Tanzania takes note of the report of the Special Rapporteur. We are, however, concerned by the allegations and conclusions concerning Tanzania in paragraphs 62 to 68 and related recommendations, which we do not accept. Serious allegations should not be presented as established facts without a sufficiently balanced and verified basis. We strongly reject allegations of enforced disappearances of Burundian refugees. We emphasize that repatriations are undertaken within the tripartite framework involving Tanzania, Burundi and the UNHCR, guided by voluntariness, safety and dignity. Indeed, the report itself acknowledges that UNHCR facilitates and describes these returns as voluntary. We also wish to remind that the Burundian refugee situation in Tanzania has persisted for decades, yet receives declining international attention and support. In these circumstances, and as Tanzania continues to shoulder this burden, it is misleading to construe camp consolidation or closure in pursuit of durable solutions as coercion. Special procedure mechanisms should protect refugees without frustrating legitimate voluntary repatriation. We call for objective and balanced reporting, constructive engagement, and specifically allocated international resources for refugee protection, durable solutions, and sustainable integration in Burundi. Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

Thank you.

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

Vice President, we listen with interest to developments in Burundi. We note the consistent work of the government on the field of human rights, despite the difficult humanitarian situation caused by refugees from the DRC. In the country, there's a National Council for National Unity and Reconciliation, monitoring centre for eradicating genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity. There is a national independent human rights commission, an ombudsman and a truth and reconciliation commission. We welcome the efforts towards preventing discrimination towards religious minorities, including in the context of learning lessons from past ethno-political crises in the country. We note measures towards upholding maintain the gender and minority quotas in the government and police. We welcome the efforts of the government to maintain dialogue with the opposition and with civil society, and the practice of regular discussions with the population on issues of socio-economic development of the country. All those measures merit a positive response from the international community. which should refrain from its pressure of exerting pressure on the government on the pretext of human rights. We're in favour for respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country and non-interference in the internal affairs of that country. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Greece.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Greece aligns itself with the EU statement and thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report. Greece remains deeply concerned about the situation of human rights in Burundi, as presented by the Special Rapporteur in his report. Despite some positive developments, there are still numerous violations of human rights and a further shrinking civic space. More specifically, reported acts of arrests and arbitrary detention, of torture and restriction of fundamental freedoms are deeply concerning. Moreover, there are numerous restrictions to the parties of the opposition, medias and the human rights defenders. We strongly encourage Burundi's authorities to set in place an independent mechanism for identification and conservation of evidence regarding human rights abuses. After all, accountability and justice are sine qua non for reconciliation and social cohesion. Last but not least, we encourage the authorities in Burundi to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur, allowing him access to the country and, in view of the presidential elections in 2027, to ensure civic space for all voices to be heard. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Sudan.

Mr. Vice President, South Sudan takes note of the Special Rapporteur's report on the human rights situation in Burundi. We commend Burundi for the concrete efforts it has taken to promote and protect human rights of its people, including guaranteeing peace, opening democratic space, and freedom of expression and association. We further commend Burundi for being a pillar of peacekeeping, serving as a leading troop contributor in several UN and AU operations. South Sudan reaffirmed that the promotion and protection of human rights are most effectively advanced through constructive engagement, mutual respect, and genuine technical cooperation and capacity building in full alignment with national priorities of state sovereignty. Establishment of country-specific mandates without prior consent of country concerned is counterproductive. In conclusion, we urge the Council to acknowledge and support the progress achieved by Burundi in the promotion and protection of human rights And in this regard, we call upon the Council to reassess the continued consideration of Burundi under agenda item 4 with a view to end this mandate. I thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

Thank you.

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

Thank you, Vice-President. Venezuela appreciates the efforts and commitment of Burundi to further the promotion and protection of the human rights of its people. In that respect, we reiterate our rejection of the political and selective use of item 4 on the agenda of this Council, as well as the establishment of mechanisms that lack the consent of the country concerned. These practices run contrary to the spirit and fundamental principles of the UN Charter, in particular respect for sovereignty and non-intervention in the internal affairs of states. We are concerned that this Council continues to promote initiatives which, far from contributing to improving human rights situations on the ground, instead hinder dialogue, cooperation or cooperation with the State concerned, which are all indispensable elements to be able to constructively and sustainably tackle existing challenges. Venezuela reaffirms that the The legitimacy and credibility of the council depend on its ability to act with impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity. Promotion and protection of human rights should constitute a space for dialogue and co-operation, and not an instrument for political pressure or intervention. Finally, we urge Burundi to continue its efforts to promote the human rights of its people.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chad. I understand the delegation of Chad is absent. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Yemen via video statement.

My delegation acknowledges Burundi's commitment to internal stability and national reconciliation, as well as its effort to implement its development plan and improve the living conditions of the people. We reaffirm that constructive technical cooperation and positive dialogue based on the consent of the concerned country and understanding its national priorities as per item 10, is the only and best way to build national institutional capacities and protecting human rights, while refraining from pressure and political polarization, which disrupt stability. We call upon the international community and partners to give necessary institutional and development support so that Burundi can counter the current economic challenges. Thank you, Vice President.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus.

In the spirit of the consistent position of Belarus against politicisation and double standards in international co-operation on human rights, we think that it is counterproductive to impose on states mechanisms in which they are not interested. We view those as an attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of states, which runs counter to the UN charter. As are the comments about country mechanisms and selective processes in countries, we think that it is necessary to make full use of the national efforts and conduct constructive dialogue with the Government, which is interacting with universal mechanisms on human rights, including the UPR and the treaty bodies, to support activities of national institutes working in the sphere of human rights and conducting internal national dialogue for discussing political and socio-economic issues. That is the approach that can guarantee constructive international cooperation, which is a prerequisite for progress when it comes to promoting and protecting human rights. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. My delegation is concerned that the report of the Special Rapporteur relies on selective allegations and one-sided assessments to portray the human rights situation in Burundi while lacking of taking into account the country's own circumstances, efforts, and legitimate development priorities. We believe that human rights issues should be addressed through genuine dialogue and constructive cooperation, rather than through country-specific mechanisms based on confrontation, pressure, and politically motivated allegations. Burundi, as a sovereign state, has the right to determine its own political, economic, and social development path, and such sovereign rights must be fully respected in accordance with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The TPRC reaffirms its support for Burundi's efforts to safeguard peace, stability, and national development, and calls for an approach based on cooperation, mutual respect, and noninterference, rather than selective scrutiny and political pressure. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Vice President. Cuba reiterates its rejection of punitive mechanisms imposed on Burundi as a result of a selective partial resolution by this Council. Those mechanisms, which do not have the consent of the country concerned, have repeatedly demonstrated how ineffective they are. They have no real impact on the ground. Instead of promoting co-operative or respectful constructive dialogue with the national authorities, the only legitimate and effective means to further the cause of human rights in any country. These impositions perpetuate confrontation and antagonism, depleting the limited financial resources of this organ. Attempts to undermine the sovereignty of Burundi and impose on that country external mechanisms that ignore their national realities are unacceptable and incompatible with the UN charter. with international law. We reiterate our call to respect the principles of impartiality, objectivity, non-interference in the sovereignty of states. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Eritrea via video statement.

Mr. President, Eritrea believes that the Human Rights Council should facilitate constructive engagement and cooperation with concerned states rather than perpetuate approaches that risk politicizing human rights or placing countries under prolonged external scrutiny without demonstrable added value. Burundi, like every sovereign state, has the primary responsibility for addressing its human rights challenges. International engagement can be useful when it is based on equal partnership, respect, and genuine cooperation, and when it strengthens national and regional capacities rather than substitutes for them. Eritrea attaches particular importance to African ownership and to the role of relevant African mechanisms and institutions in addressing situations on the continent. Eritrea also cautions against selective application of human rights standards. The credibility of this Council depends upon applying the same principle consistently, irrespective of geography, political alignment, or the strategic interests of powerful states. Eritrea encourages constructive engagement between Burundi, the Council, and relevant UN and African mechanisms, with a view to supporting nationally owned efforts to strengthen human rights and institutions. The Council must be a forum for cooperation, not confrontation, for dialogue, not political targeting, and for universal principles, not selective application. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Sudan.

Thank you, Vice-President. We've taken note of the report of the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Burundi and we take note of the recommendations and observations. We welcome efforts made by Burundi when it comes to promoting and protecting human rights and we encourage it to continue its efforts to strengthen governance, judicial reform, socio-economic development, national reconciliation, dialogue and transitional justice. We encourage it also to pursue its preparations ahead of general elections in 2027. Burundi has shown its willingness to cooperate and to speak with human rights mechanisms, especially as its current capacity as a member of the council, its constructive participation in the UPR, the presentation of its reports to the treaty bodies and its front-line role within the African Union and at regional level. We support the recommendations calling for technical assistance to be given to Burundi to meet its national priorities, particularly by bolstering the human rights mechanisms, supporting judicial institutions and law enforcement institutions.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Ethiopia reaffirms its principal positions as the promotion and protection of.

Human rights should be guided by the core principles of universality, objectivity, impartiality, non-selectivity, and constructive engagement.

States bear the primary responsibility for promoting and protecting the human rights of their people.

And national ownership remains essential to achieving sustainable progress. Ethiopia welcomes the positive steps undertaken by Burundi, including.

Efforts to strengthen national institutions, governance, the rule of law, and access to justice.

We also recognize Burundi's continued engagement with the United Nations human rights mechanisms and relevant regional frameworks, including the African Union, and encourage the government to build on this constructive engagement. We emphasize the importance of strengthening national capacities through dialogue, technical cooperation, and capacity building undertaken in consultation with and where appropriate as a request of the state concerned in support of efforts to advance human rights, peace, and sustainable development. In closing, Ethiopia reiterates that human rights are best advanced through dialogue, cooperation, national ownership, and context-specific technical assistance. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. Iran reaffirms the primary responsibility of a State to promote and protect the human rights of their populations, as well as the right of every sovereign State to engage and protect and cooperate with United Nations human rights body and mechanism on the basis of consent and mutual agreement. Country-specific resolution and the mechanisms created under them are inconsistent with these principles. Mandate imposed through non-consensual resolution do not provide a sound basis for genuine human rights cooperation. The growing reliance of such mechanisms has increasingly turned the Human Rights Council into a forum for disputes and confrontation rather than dialogue and cooperation. Iran acknowledged Burundi's effort to strengthen human rights institutions, including its ombudsman. and independent human rights commission, and welcome Burundi's protection of Congolese refugees, including the current of primary fishy status and progress in integrating refugees into national education and registration systems. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ghana.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ghana takes note of the oral updates by the Special Rapporteur. We acknowledge the efforts of the Government of Burundi towards social and economic renewal, as well as initiatives to address the country's political, security, and development challenges. We encourage sustained dialogue amongst national stakeholders and closer collaboration with the African Union and relevant partners to strengthen national institutions, advance legal and judicial reforms, and enhance the protection of human rights. Burundi stands at an important juncture. Sustaining peace and development requires strong national institutions, an inclusive civic environment, and effective access to justice. We therefore encourage the Council and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to enhance technical assistance and capacity building in consultation with the government to support Burundi in fulfilling its international human rights obligations. Ghana remains convinced that constructive engagement, cooperation, and capacity building offer the most sustainable pathway to strengthening human rights protection and advancing peace and development. Mr. Vice President, as Burundi prepares for the 2027 presidential elections, continued regional and international support will be important in fostering a process that is fair, free, inclusive, transparent, and peaceful, while respecting national ownership. I thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Kenya takes note of the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi. As a member of the East African Community, Kenya continues to closely follow developments in our sister country, Burundi. We encourage continued engagement and dialogue while recognizing ongoing efforts to strengthen national institutions. Kenya underscores the importance of continued efforts to strengthen access to justice and the enjoyment of fundamental freedoms, including freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, particularly as Burundi prepares for the 2027 electoral period. The East African Community and the AU have vital roles in supporting Burundi's progress. We encourage continued engagement with these regional mechanisms, which provide important avenues for dialogue and cooperation. In this context, the East African Community conflicts, early warning systems, and the AU's panel of the wise are examples of regional tools that could contribute to the preventing tensions and supporting a peaceful and inclusive political process. A stable and a prosperous Burundi remains the interest of our entire region. I thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland.

Thank you. Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU and thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report. Ireland is deeply concerned by the reported human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests, principally attributed to members of the National Intelligence Service, police force and Inbunnaire Ceara. Ireland echoes the Special Rapporteur's concern at the persistence of sexual and gender-based violence. Ireland urges the Government of Burundi to ensure that all such violations are fully investigated and the perpetrators held accountable. The repression of civic space for civil society, human rights defenders, journalists and political opponents is also of concern. In advance of the presidential elections in 2027, Ireland calls on the Government of Burundi to ensure the necessary conditions for credible, inclusive and transparent elections by upholding the fundamental freedoms of association, assembly and opinion and expression. Ireland calls on Burundi to engage meaningfully with the UN Special Rapporteur and other human rights mechanisms and to grant them the appropriate access, information and protections required to fulfil their mandates. We also call on Burundi to reopen the OHCHR country office. Mr. Special Rapporteur, you note the risk of conflict during the election period. How can the international community support Burundi in organizing transparent, free, fair, and peaceful elections? I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The UK thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report. Ahead of Burundi's 2027 presidential election, his findings are concerning, with reports of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, and the shrinking of civic and political space. The UK calls on Burundi to protect the rights of all citizens to participate freely and peacefully in public life. We encourage Burundi to continue supporting the safe return of Burundian refugees and asylum seekers in line with international law. Burundi continues to welcome refugees from DRC, and we thank Burundi for its work in the UN, in particular to support their presence in Burundi and ensure any returns to DRC are voluntary, safe and dignified. We remain concerned by the Ebola outbreak in DRC and the risk of spillover to other countries. We commend Burundi for prompt work to strengthen surveillance and preparedness, and emphasize the importance of protecting human rights during public health responses. Special Rapporteur, what practical steps can the international community take to support conditions for a credible and inclusive 2027 presidential election in Burundi? Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cameroon.

Thank you, Vice-President. Cameroon would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting his report. My delegation has taken note of the concerns raised, and we'd like to encourage the Burundian authorities to pursue their efforts to build peace, strengthen the rule of law, and to protect human rights. Furthermore, Cameroon believes that any assessment of the human rights situation in Burundi must take stock of the significant economic, social and humanitarian challenges facing the country. We remain convinced that sustainable progress in the area of human rights can be fostered through constructive dialogue with the State concerned, national ownership of the reforms and international cooperation which is tailored to the needs and priorities of the country. Thus, we encourage further dialogue between Burundi, the High Commissioner and other UN mechanisms in a spirit of trust and mutual respect. Along the same lines, the international community should support Burundi's efforts, notably through technical assistance and capacity building. To conclude, Vice-President, Cameroon appreciates the Special Rapporteur's readiness to renew constructive dialogue with Burundian authorities. And we would like to reiterate our commitment to peace, stability and sustainable development in Burundi. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of China.

Mr. Vice-President, China has taken note of the ICIHR's report. In recent years, the Burundi government has actively worked to safeguard national stability, advance the socioeconomic development, and promote and protect various human rights. China welcomes and commends these efforts and achievements. China reiterate that the international community should fully respect Burundi's sovereignty and independence, as well as its efforts to resolve domestic issues independently and contribute positively to its realization of national stability and sustainable development. However, some countries have ignored Burundi's progress, disregarded its wishes, and steamrolled country-specific mechanisms, exacerbating confrontation within the Council. China has always advocated addressing human rights differences through constructive dialogue and cooperation, while opposing the politicization of human rights. We urge relevant countries to stop interfering in Burundi's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights, return to constructive dialogue, and generally contribute to the sound development of human rights cause in Burundi and worldwide. Thank you.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker on my list. We shall now turn to the list of speakers for non-governmental organizations. I now give the floor to the representative of East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project.

Vice President, Special Rapporteur, thank you for your report. The Council set up a commission of inquiry 10 years ago for documenting crimes committed in Burundi, but the situation remains alarming. Recent developments such as enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings recall the crimes that were committed in 2015-16, which led to the Council putting Burundi on its agenda. Since the commission of inquiry concluded its work and handed over to a special rapporteur in 2021, no structural reforms have been undertaken, no progress reported. There is an electoral cycle ongoing in Burundi now which will end with the presidential election last year, whilst the party in power is trying to completely cordon off civic space and dismantle the Arusha agreements, the risks of violations and atrocities are proliferating. This is why we need to extend the mandate in a letter published before this session, we detail a long list of violations of economic, social, cultural, as well as civil and political rights. We've insisted that in view of atrocities before, during, and after cycles, the international community must strive to ensure that Burundi continues under the radar. So, Special Rapporteur, how can you ensure that the Burundi won't be a forgotten crisis, and what will lead the international community to wake up? Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of International Federation of Acat.

Vice President, Special Rapporteur, as we approach the 2027 presidential election, ACAT and FIAKAT are convinced that the experiences from the general elections in 2025, which were characterised by severe repression of critical voices, should set the alarm bells ringing. We'd like to draw the Council's attention to ongoing political arrests and detentions. People who have been acquitted already served their sentences remain in prison, whilst as real or presumed opponents continue to be targeted. This situation occurs when the security role of the Imbonerakure, the militia of the party in power, is growing through their paramilitary structure and their integration into the reserve forces. There's added repression against dissenting voices, so organisations also raising the alarm about risks linked to the forced returns of Burundian refugees. They could be persecuted again, so they have to hide or leave the country again. But others are being arrested or even disappeared. Special rapporteur, how can civil society in exile and those in host countries support your mandate in order to prevent new forced returns, particularly worrying in the light of the upcoming election? Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of CEJA. Intervention by video.

Vice President, dear delegates, dear colleagues, the African Legal Study Center, CEJA, would like to thank the Special Rapporteur and takes note of his observations and recommendations concerning the human rights situation in Burundi. CEJ is convinced that promoting and protecting human rights requires a global approach based on universality, indivisibility and the interdependence of all human rights. From this point of view, CEJ already had the opportunity to contribute to a number of awareness-raising capacity-building initiatives for national institutions and Burundian civil society stakeholders over the past four years, notably in the areas of forensic medicine, preventing violence and access to justice. This experience had us note that the There are a number of institutional, university and professional stakeholders that were engaged in protecting fundamental rights. We're convinced that constructive and enhanced cooperation between Burundi, UN mechanisms and Special Rapporteur can make a useful contribution for the whole country, notably through sharing experience, technical assistance and supporting the necessary reforms. Thank you, Vice-President.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the representative of International Federation for Human Rights Leagues.

The human rights situation is deteriorating in Burundi as we approach the presidential election of next year. The FIDH and its member organizations in Burundi have noted that there have been summary executions, abductions, and enforced disappearance, particularly of opposition figures and former military officials. In view of the repression surrounding last year's elections at local and legislative level, we're worried that there will be further violations in the run-up to the presidential elections. Furthermore, the armed conflict in neighboring DRC, armed groups activities, including that of Red Tabara, a risk factor for peaceful elections in Burundi. Impunity and lack of independence of certain institutions ensure, with the rule of law, obstacles to accountability and respect for human rights. Our organisation is particularly worried about the situation of Burundian refugees who are being forcibly returned from Tanzania. Some of them have real reasons to fear further persecution Burundi. Furthermore, the situation of Burundian nationals in Kenya, particularly worrying as well, because there's been a government instruction calling on foreign citizens with small businesses to stop their activities. We're particularly worried about this development as anti-migrant feeling grows. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of International Service for Human Rights.

Thank you, Vice-President. We'd like to thank the Special Rapporteur for presenting his report and particularly for his highlighting of discretionary restrictions facing civil society in Burundi. In fact, ISHR, our organization, SOS Torture Burundi, would like to draw the Council's attention to the worsening human rights situation in Burundi. Over the first eight months of this year, SOS Torture Burundi documented 216 cases, compared to 180 in the whole of last year. Attacks on the right to life have risen from 88 to 106, and arbitrary detention arrests have almost trebled, going from 32 to 90 cases. as we run up to the elections, which is characterized by a lack of independent internal mechanisms. We're also very worried about persistent transnational repression against human rights defenders in exile, as well as Burundian refugees generally, who are subject to surveillance, intimidation, attempts to forcibly repatriate them. Our organizations call upon the Council to renew the mandate and to provide the necessary resources for him to discharge it. We also urge Member States to protect Burundian defenders and refugees from all forms of transnational repression. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of CIVICUS, intervention by video.

Mr. President, CIVICUS appreciates the work of the Special Rapporteur. Civic space in Burundi remains a concern, marked by suppression of the freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly. In the past year, authorities have persistently suppressed fundamental rights and escalated their use of unlawful detentions. Serious concerns of human rights abuses raised by the mandate in the 2025 report have continued unabated, while international civil society remains concerned about the government's refusal to cooperate with the Council's mechanisms, including the Special Rapporteur, despite numerous requests. Burundi continues to suppress basic rights with heightened restrictions on core civic freedoms. Many civil society activists and independent journalists remain in exile, while those in Burundi continue to face intimidation, detention, or trials on trumped-up charges. We particularly express concerns around the widespread arbitrary arrest and detention as a systematic tool of intimidation to deter civic engagement and citizen activism. The perpetrators of these human rights violations, abuses, and crimes continue to operate in a climate of impunity perpetuated by the lack of an independent judiciary. We call on the Government of Burundi to uphold Council membership obligations and cooperate fully with the mandate, to reopen the OHCHR office, and to promote respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including by releasing all detained human rights defenders. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of World Organization Against Torture. My apologies.

Thank you, Vice-President. We are particularly concerned about persistent human rights violations in Burundi. The video has stopped.

Apologies, Mr. First, the World Organization Against Torture. So you have the floor now?

Thank you. The OMCT and its Burundian structures are particularly concerned about persistent human rights violations in Burundi. Since January 2026, we've documented 216 violations, particularly attacks on the right to life, arbitrary detention and arrest, cases of enforced disappearance as well. Since April 2026, we've also documented 76 violations of women's and children's rights. We're particularly worried about the practice of the swift burial of victims, often without prior inquiries into the circumstances of their death. This compromises preservation of evidence and families access to justice, and it also stokes impunity. We'd like to draw the Council's attention to shrinking civic space, intimidation, arrests and of dissidents in particular, as Burundi approaches a new presidential election. I would like to draw the Council's attention to the Committee against Torture decision concerning communications submitted by our organizations. The Burundian government cannot undertake the necessary investigations where victims are abroad, the authorities must carry out effective impartial investigations regardless of the place of residence of the victims, ensure justice and reparations. So we'd like to call upon the Council to keep up its monitoring of the situation and renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Human Rights Research League, intervention by video.

Thank you, Vice President. We remain deeply concerned about persisting serious human rights violations in Burundi, particularly extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, torture, and widespread and structural impunity. And we'd like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his detailed report corroborating this. In this context, in view of the oppressive climate, which has allowed the party in power to take 96.5% and all the seats in the elections, the National Assembly. All hope of holding a plural election was wiped out, so these. Conditions don't augur at all well for the upcoming presidential elections to be held next year. The Special Rapporteur has highlighted the persistent denials by Burundian authorities, including the judiciary, of any practices of torture or enforced disappearance. Nevertheless, despite the threats of reprisals striving to deter victims, health professionals, lawyers, and other stakeholders of speaking out, which contributes to concealing the violations and perpetuating impunity. Evidence is piling up. Mr. Zongo, so what should the Council and its member states do in view of these persistent violations of democratic rights? Thank you.

Thank you.

This was my last speaker on my list. I now give the floor to Mr. Fortune Gaitan Zongo. for his concluding remarks. You have seven minutes and 50 seconds.

Thank you, Vice-President, distinguished members of the Council. A number of statements have been made following my presentation. So what we could do is we could divide the statements into two categories, observations and questions. I've taken note of everything which has been said. Now with regard to the questions, I think that they can be divided into three categories. The first concerns justice, responsibility and cooperation with authorities. Could we please ask members of the podium to stop rustling the papers so the interpreters can hear properly, thank you. Secondly, presidential elections in 2027. And thirdly, vulnerable groups, civil society, exiles and refugees. So with regard to the first category, effective access to justice for survivors, I think that there are three possible avenues to answer. The first is to retain independent documentation of violations. This should be used as evidence in regional and global courts when the Burundian commissions for human rights do not intervene. Also, extraterritorial jurisdiction should be used as much as possible, notably to bring cases before the African court or the Committee against torture when victims are unable to refer their cases to national courts. And thirdly, ensure witness and victim protection for those who have remained in Burundi because they're becoming more and more vulnerable as we approach the presidential elections of next year. Now, the second question concerned priorities for cooperation with the Burundian authorities. Now, what I would say is that we have to have a holistic approach. You can have political and technical cooperation, but the two aspects should be combined, ideally. Firstly, technical cooperation is quite possible, but we must ensure that it's implemented, such as civil registration, detention, and cross-checking compared to previous records. There could also be cross-border cooperation, notably when it comes to the return of refugees from neighboring countries. So these are aspects which I think could be pursued as there are already some grew green shoots there and this can be pursued while also waiting for political cooperation to take place or take shape. Thirdly, transparency, media coverage of the upcoming elections in 2027. So I think that there are three levers for the international community. Firstly, early deployment of independent election observers before the campaign begins in order to document the conditions for the registration of candidates and voters. Secondly, financial and logical support for local civil society for electoral monitoring, because very often there is considerable intimidation, can sound surrounding these activities and there should also be enhanced monitoring of the in Bonar a's role in local administration because this was a factor for violence in previous electoral Cycles now a question concerning support for civil society and independent media. With regard to this question, what I'd say is that most independent media and human rights defenders in Burundi are actually working in exile. So you must target editorial outfits working in exile. for your assistance. We see that there should be quick access to assistance for threatened media professionals. Now, with regard to civil society activists and their forced return, One of the NGO speakers mentioned that I had used the term forgotten crisis. I didn't really want to underscore that because there is a true crisis and what we have to do is we have to prevent the situation from getting worse rather than reacting to a deterioration after it's happened. The title for my report is act before it's too late. So I think that there should be particularly monitoring of the situation in Burundi before the elections are held, rather than waiting for the next annual report to come out once the elections have happened. Now, with regard to civil society in exile and forced return, what I'd say is that the civil society in exile can, in real time, Urge the authorities to act now with regard to. Individual risks. I think that the. summary reports on them should be activated prior to the elections being held, because we don't want to have more activists being forcibly returned, because that's a real risk. Now, distinguished members of the Council, I think that I've gone over all the questions that were asked. Thank you very much.

Thank you.

This brings us to the end of this interactive dialogue. I wish to thank Mr. Fortune Gaitan Zongo for his participation. We'll take a short break before holding the interactive dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Excellencies, distinguished participants, we shall now begin the interactive dialogue on the report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The list of speakers will close in 50 minutes. It is my pleasure to welcome the distinguished members of the Commission, Ms. Sophia Masheh, Chair, Mr. Alex Neve and Ms. Maria Eloisa Quintero. I now give the floor to the Chair of the Fact-Finding Mission to present the report.

President, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela presents its annual report to the Human Rights Council pursuant to resolution 57/36. The report contains updates on the human rights situation in Venezuela from 1 September 2025 to to 31 July 2026. The report is accompanied by two session documents. The first examines developments in the main human rights violations that occur in the context of the mandate of the mission and the continuity of the repressive apparatus of the system. The second the so-called colectivos and their links with the state authorities, and the role of the colectivos. Both investigations are in line with the mandate of the council. In the reporting period, an extraordinary event occurred: the military intervention by the United States of America on 3 January, which led to the apprehension of President Maduro and opened a new political milestone in the country. The mission described that event as being contrary to international law. With respect to the reporting period between September and December 2025, the findings of the mission confirmed that human rights violations continued to take place at the same scale in line with patterns that are fully consistent with those that have been documented in previous reports. The change in Government and the political events that have occurred since 3 January have led to observable modifications in the human rights situation. The interim Government introduced changes in the cabinet the highest levels of the armed forces and within the structure and composition of the Supreme Court of Justice. They modified the political discourse, emphasizing messages of peace and national reconciliation, and adopted measures of political liberalization, which has reactivated public activity in Venezuela. The government opened a process of releases from prison which was covered by a new amnesty law that was adopted. Starting at the end of January, the mission detected a significant drop in arbitrary detentions on political grounds, especially those of longer duration, as well as enforced disappearances. The mission recognises that those qualitative changes have genuine consequences for many Venezuelan people and families. The names of the persons released have not been made public, and in the absence of transparent, verifiable data, the number of people released continues to be uncertain and subject to controversy. We estimate that between 800 and 1,000 people were released between 25 September and 26 August. The mission continues to document new arbitrary detentions from 3 January. There have been at least 17 in the first eight months of this year, according to our estimates. That represents a marked reduction compared with the same period last year. Nonetheless, it has been accompanied by an increase in short-term arbitrary detentions, where the authorities have recurred to as a form of intimidation against opposition or persons perceived as being opposition, including some who have who have long been subjected to longer detentions. That has particular resonance in the context of the widespread abuses that have been committed during the past decade, which constitute a powerful reminder to political activists and human rights defenders that their activities are being followed and that the repressive apparatus is still in place, despite significant releases of detainees in the past eight months. Hundreds of people continue to be arbitrarily deprived of freedom and subjected to tough conditions in centres where mistreatment and torture continue to be endemic. In the absence of public data, NGOs place up to 500 people detained on political grounds. That is a reminder of the the conditions between the elections of 2024. The mission is profoundly troubled about the situation regarding the possible continuity of systematic attacks against the population in the sense of article 7 of the Rome Statute of the ICC. Although certain violations have decreased, the mission continues to document cases of enforced disappearance and deaths of persons in detention, in custody since the 3rd of January. The mission in particular, is troubled by the persistence of torture in a number of detention centres in Venezuela. We are concerned in particular by facts that we have documented in the maximum security prison of Rodeo I and in the Forto Waipuro military prison, where the highest number of prisoners in detention on political grounds are kept. We have had extensive interviews with persons who have been released. That has allowed us to learn more about the frequency of the practice of torture and the nature and especially the special cruel practices and methods used, including methods that the mission had not previously documented. That is what we learned from those interviews. The central question in the mission report this year has been: "If the perceived changes in the political situation and the human rights situation have been accompanied by any change in the structures that made possible the repression for many years. Thus far, the mission has not found sufficient indicators of a genuine, sustainable break." when it comes to the government of Maduro and the patterns of repression that characterised that period. On the contrary, we noted that the structure of the repressive apparatus of the state has stayed completely intact. The persistence of the repressive apparatus is manifested in the continuity of the same legal framework that was used to coerce the autonomous functioning of operators in the civic and democratic space, in the lack of reform in police, security and intelligence services involved by action or omission in repression, in the lack of accountability for perpetrators of the gravest human rights violations and international crimes, in the continued restrictions on the functioning of civil society organisations, media and political parties, in the harassment that leaders and social activists continue to face, political leaders, and also in the ongoing surveillance and social control that the population is subjected to. Perhaps the best expression that the repressive apparatus is still intact and continues to affect decision making at the highest level is the continuance of the actors who perpetrated repression in the civil and military hierarchies. Uncertainty, which currently is present in the country, and the limited, easily reversible nature of the changes noted, is manifested in two events yesterday. One, the national communications commission announced, in the context of political dialogue between Government and Opposition, the formal restoration of access to various national and international media platforms. At the same time, we found out about the detention of Javier Ropesa, a former Opposition politician. He went into exile in 2024, returned to Venezuela and was He was released a few hours later. In the current cycle, the mission continued its investigations into armed civilian groups, these groups that are called colectivos. We have reasonable grounds to believe that those colectivos have supported repression through surveillance and through identifying objectives for repression, as well as through their participation in overseeing protests, in the security apparatus and in selective political repressions, in a climate of practically complete impunity. At the same time, the everyday presence within communities has allowed them to exercise other forms of control. Colectivos participate in the management and distribution of food, fuel, services and social benefits. They oversee political activities and mediate in conflicts, and that is done through coercion. The mission documented various forms of ties between the colectivos and the state, including public support from the highest authorities to those armed groups when it comes to resources and financing, the integration of members of the colectivos in public institutions and within security entities, and also the presence of officials or ex-officials within the colectivos themselves. The mission was able to conclude that there is an express and implicit overlap of functions related to public order and social control. The colectivos cannot be considered formal organs of the state. Nonetheless, the mission has reasonable grounds to conclude that certain conduct by members of the colectivos can be attributed to the state. Independent of attributing a concrete act, a state has an obligation to prevent abuses by those groups, should investigate acts, sanction perpetrators and ensure reparations for the victims. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela today has an opportunity to move towards genuine change. sustainable change in the human rights situation and to make genuine progress in restoring the rule of law and democratic governance. What is needed is reform of institutions and laws that are linked to the political repression of the past decade. that the perpetrators of grave international violations should be brought duly to account before the justice system, and the victims should be recognized as such and receive compensation. I thank you.

Thank you.

According to our practice, we shall start by hearing the delegation of the country concerned. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. You have five minutes.

Thank you very much, Vice-President. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela attends this Council today with a clear conviction: promotion and protection of human rights is strengthened through dialogue, genuine cooperation and through developing national capacities on the basis of mutual respect and the principles and purpose enshrined in the UN Charter. This conviction is reflected in concrete action. Venezuela maintains channels of dialogue and technical cooperation with OHCHR and makes progress in preparing for its next UPR, an intergovernmental mechanism to which we attribute special relevance owing to its cooperative nature based on equality and non-discrimination between States. It is because we want good-faith co-operation that we are troubled by statements made against Venezuela by the high commissioner during the opening of this session. Genuine co-operation should be able to recognise progress, generate trust and constructively support national efforts. Venezuela has adopted tangible measures that merit being considered objectively, the amnesty law for national reconciliation, democratic coexistence and peace, the program for peace and democratic coexistence, the judicial reform proceedings, application of non-custodial measures, which have benefited 8,743 people, and the on-going review of cases to address existing concerns. All that is in the context of the process of national political dialogue that guides the actions of the Venezuelan State. We trust that that progress can also be recognised and supported. Co-operation cannot be built on predetermined perceptions or through pronouncements that offer a piecemeal vision of the national reality. With respect to requests for access to detention centres, it is important to point out that Venezuela maintains fluid, constructive dialogue with the Red Cross. In the context of protocols agreed with national authorities, the Red Cross has been developing technical visits, providing cooperation and assistance with a feeling of humanity and dignity. That same logic that was shown after the earthquakes of 24 June through the Venezuela renaissance plan, with the support of the UN system, cooperation based on respect and national ownership can yield tangible results to protect rights and preserve human dignity even in the midst of tragedy. President, based on that conviction, Venezuela rejects any attempt to extend the mandate of the so-called International Independent Fact-Finding Mission. For almost seven years, that mechanism, established and extended without the consent or the cooperation of the Venezuelan state, has raised serious concerns as to its objectivity, impartiality and non-selectivity, key principles to avoid politicisation of human rights. Its reports are grounded on secondary and tertiary sources and on methodologies which our country believes raise major question marks as to their rigour, verifiability and objectivity. After almost seven years, what concrete results has this structure yielded to improve promotion and protection of human rights in Venezuela? Has it generated better cooperation? Has it strengthened national capacities? Has it helped build trust? Our response is clear. Perpetuating confrontational mechanisms is no substitute for cooperation, nor does it bring us any closer to genuine solutions. These thoughts are all the more necessary given the grave financial crisis at the UN. It doesn't seem reasonable to continue attributing increasingly scarce resources to structures that undermine existing institutional mechanisms. And also, we shouldn't ignore the impact of UCMs on the full enjoyment of human rights of the Venezuelan people. Venezuela aspires to a multilateral system of human rights that's robust, credible and effective. We believe the time has come to move towards the conclusion, the closure of this mechanism to prevent its indefinite perpetuation. Therefore, we make a call to members of this organ not to support any further extension of the mandate of the so-called International Fact-Finding Mission. Instead, we should move towards the orderly closure of this mechanism, preferring, rather, the UPR, technical cooperation, genuine dialogue and universal mechanisms able to effectively support states and yield tangible results in the field of human rights. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela reaffirms its will to work with the international community on the basis of mutual respect, sovereign equality and non-intervention. Cooperation requires trust. Trust is built through respect, objectivity and dialogue. That is the path that our country offers and that it is ready to continue moving there. Thank you.

Thank you.

The list of speakers is now closed. I now invite interested delegations to ask questions to the fact-finding mission and to make comments on its report. The speaking time is one minute and 30 seconds for all. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Norway on behalf of a group of countries.

The Nordic-Baltic States thank the Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela for the update and reiterate our full support for its important work. Despite recent political developments, we remain deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Venezuela. Years of dismantling of democratic institutions, economic collapse, and humanitarian hardship have left millions in a situation of severe vulnerability. Both this situation and the developments following the devastating earthquakes in June underscore the importance of a humanitarian response firmly grounded in human rights. Lack of judicial independence continues to be a fundamental challenge in Venezuela. While we welcome the adoption of the general amnesty law and the release of a number of political prisoners, we reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all persons arbitrarily detained, including those deprived of their liberty for exercising their human rights and fundamental freedoms. We call on Venezuela to uphold its international human rights obligations, implement systemic reforms of the judicial system, and advance investigations into human rights violations to ensure accountability. We further urge the Government to fully cooperate with the UN human rights mechanisms, including granting full, safe and independent access throughout the country to the fact-finding mission, facilitate the UN-led humanitarian response. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union.

Mr. Vice President, the European Union thanks the Fact-Finding Mission for its report and reiterate its full support for its mandate. We urge Venezuela to engage constructively with all human rights mechanisms and to grant the FFM access to the country and ensure the continued presence of OHCHR.

The EU remains concerned by the human rights

situation in Venezuela and by reports of ongoing repression, including against political actors, civil society, human rights defenders, and independent media. We're also concerned by the role of so-called colectivos in violence and repression, as well as the collaboration between these organizations and the authorities. The EU regrets Venezuela's withdrawal from the Rome Statute and calls on it to remain a state party

to the International Criminal Court.

The EU welcomes the release of political prisoners, while regretting that many of those released remain subject to restrictions. We call on the authorities to release all remaining political prisoners unconditionally and to dismantle the repressive security apparatus. We reaffirm our solidarity with the Venezuelan people following the June earthquakes. We support an inclusive, Venezuelan-led dialogue for a democratic transition that restores democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. Ms. Macha, what steps should the Venezuelan authorities take to facilitate the restoration of democratic institutions? I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg on behalf of a group of countries.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I deliver the statement on behalf of the Benelux countries. We align ourselves with the EU statement. We thank the fact-finding mission for its report. We acknowledge the continued release of political prisoners in Venezuela. At the same time, more than 300 people among the many elderly and sick persons, as well as dual citizens, remain arbitrarily detained, while many of those released continue to be subject to restrictive and conditional measures. In particular, we are deeply concerned about the cases of Veronica Sanchez, Oswaldo Castillo, Rolando Guevara, Franklin Duran, and many others. We call for the immediate and unconditional release and for the prompt release of all persons arbitrarily detained. While we welcome the ongoing dialogue between the Venezuelan authorities and representatives of the 2015 National Assembly, including its focus on the judicial system, press freedom, and the rule of law, we urge the authorities to restore civic space, press freedom, and inclusive political processes by ensuring the full participation of all political and civic actors in Venezuela, including women, youth, and marginalized communities. We appreciate the authorities' technical cooperation agenda with the ICRC on detention centres and encourage them also to cooperate fully with the fact-finding mission. Changes on the ground make their independent monitoring for accountability all the more important. Therefore, we strongly support the extension of the mandate. We reaffirm our solidarity with the Venezuelan people following the devastating June earthquakes.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, Vice-President. Chile thanks the International Independent Fact-Finding Mission for its report, and we recognise the importance of this mandate for documenting violations and contributing to accountability in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. We've taken note of the release of many political prisoners and the reduction of long prison sentences and the opening up of space for civil society. those are positive steps nevertheless this has not been accompanied by sustained institutional reforms there are hundreds of people who arbitrarily detained they're exposed to torture ill treatment they don't have medical treatment and their prison conditions are not in line with international standards there are patterns of repression which continue and there is a lack of investigation and accountability. In the same vein, we're worried about the findings on the Colectivos, their links to state authorities and their intimidation, attacks on opposition figures, journalists and human rights defenders, as well as repression of demonstrations. We support your recommendations, notably the release of those arbitrarily detained, hold investigations, reform institutions which have been involved and strengthen cooperation with international human rights mechanisms. Thank you very much.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Paraguay.

Thank you, Vice President. We thank the mission for presenting its report, as well as the updated information on the human rights situation in Venezuela and the progress made. We acknowledge the gradual release of political prisoners. Nevertheless, we urge the Venezuelan authorities to release all those who are arbitrarily detained and adopt tangible measures on accountability, judicial independence, and strengthening the rule of law. We reiterate the importance of ensuring full respect for human rights and the will of the Venezuelan people. We'd like to ask the mission what information you have about prison conditions following the earthquakes in June and what risks are there to the personal integrity and safety of those in detention. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you, Vice-President. Brazil stands in solidarity with the Venezuelan people following the earthquakes on 24 June. We are carefully monitoring the human rights situation in Venezuela. We have seen the first steps towards the opening up of civil and political space and reforms in the judiciary. We welcome the release of political prisoners, and we urge the authorities to go further in this process. Brazil also welcomes the start of the dialogue between the government and certain sectors of the opposition. We encourage this to be continued. We believe it's important to follow up on measures such as the programme for peaceful and democratic coexistence as well as fully restoring the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in the country. There must be legal institutional reforms such as bringing laws on NGOs and the constitutional law on hatred in line with international human rights standards. We regret Venezuela's decision to withdraw from the Rome Statute and We are concerned about the effects of unilateral coercive measures on the human rights situation in the country. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Thank you, Vice-President. Colombia would like to thank the mission for its update, and we've taken careful note of the presentation's conclusions. The international community must remain committed to promoting, protecting and defending the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. We urge Venezuela to respect due process, the right to defence and consular assistance rights in line with the 1973 Vienna Convention. This must cover all persons in detention, including Colombian nationals who are being held incommunicado. The release of prisoners following the adoption of the amnesty law and certain opening up of civic spaces are positive signs, but there must continue to be monitoring because there continues to be many people in detention incommunicado. Sometimes people are being transferred between prisons without information being provided to their family members. We urge Venezuela to fully cooperate with the Office of the High Commissioner and other international human rights mechanisms in order to implement their recommendations as part of the preparations for Venezuela's UPR. We would like to express our solidarity for the effects of the earthquakes from June of this year.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Organization of American States Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. Okay, I understand that they were supposed to send a video statement, but we haven't received it yet. So we go to move to the next one. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.

Mr. Vice President, Portugal thanks the fact-finding mission for its report and supports the renewal of its mandate. We express our solidarity with the Venezuelan people following the devastating earthquakes of 24th June. Portugal notes recent signs of political opening, including greater space for civil society and political actors and increased engagement with relevant stakeholders. We encourage the Venezuelan authorities to build on these positive developments and translate them into sustained and meaningful institutional reforms. At the same time, Portugal remains deeply concerned about continued reports of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, torture and ill-treatment, as well as restrictions on civic space. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained, including dual nationals, and for full respect for fundamental freedoms. Portugal remains confident that a peaceful and sustainable democratic transition is possible. The way forward must be Venezuelan-led and grounded in an inclusive process engaging all political actors, both within the country and abroad, as well as civil society, in a process that leads to fully democratic elections. What steps should we prioritize to promote human rights and consolidate recent signs of political opening? Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.

Thank you, Vice-President. Spain endorses the EU statement and would like to thank the mission for presenting its report. We reiterate our full support for the mission. We appreciate your technical, impartial work in rigorously documenting the human rights situation. The report concludes that there is little civic space and there is still arbitrary detention, harassment of political opponents, restrictions on the freedom of expression and association, Whilst we have taken note of the recent release of those arbitrarily detained, we recall that there must be a full, immediate and unconditional amnesty, and all foreign citizens in detention must have access to consular assistance. We call for an end to political persecution, the release of political prisoners. These are prerequisites for a return to full democracy. We reiterate our commitment to a peaceful, democratic solution which is negotiated by and for the Venezuelan people themselves. We reiterate the importance of the International Criminal Court for the defence and respect of international law, and we urge the authorities to resume full co-operation with the United Nations and other international protection mechanisms. We would also like to express our solidarity with the victims of the June earthquakes. Mission members, what are the most effective recommendations for preventing violence perpetrated by non-state actors and ensure effective accountability? Thank you.

Thank you.

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

Vice-President, Russia continues to advocate a deeply subjective assessment of the situation in Venezuela. We categorically reject the use of the Council to exert pressure on a sovereign state. We note that the main threat to human rights in Venezuela is posed by the ongoing internal pressure through UCMs. This fateful practice has a negative impact on the well-being of Venezuelans, restricts their access to services, healthcare, creates risk of degradation of the humanitarian situation and in so doing as a driver of migration. Therefore we welcome the authorities attempts to reduce the degree of opposition with the political opposition to achieve political stability, inclusivity and protect the rights and freedoms of citizens. The country is implementing this year the law on amnesty for democratic coexistence. It's taking efforts to address migratory problem including significant success in implementing its programme on repatriation of illegal migrants. This deserves a positive assessment from this Council. We call on human rights mechanisms to, instead of criticising Caracas, focus on providing actual assistance to Venezuela to bolster its capacities in the human rights sphere. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Eritrea via video statement.

Eritrea is concerned by continued approaches that assess the human rights situation of a sovereign state in isolation from its broader political, economic, and international context. The consequences of unilateral coercive measures, external political pressure, and economic restrictions on the enjoyment of economic and social rights should not be ignored when assessing the conditions confronting the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Human rights cannot be advanced by creating additional political confrontation, nor should the Council become an instrument for exerting pressure on governments that pursue independent national policies. Eritrea therefore encourages engagement with Venezuela on the basis of sovereign equality and mutual respect, while recognizing the primary responsibility of national institutions for addressing human rights challenges. Eritrea further believes that the Human Rights Council should prioritize constructive cooperation and technical assistance where requested and mutually agreed, rather than mechanisms that risk becoming instruments of political pressure. Their trial therefore calls for an approach based on dialogue rather than confrontation, cooperation rather than coercion, and universal principles rather than selected country targeting. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Albania.

Vice President, Albania would like to thank the independent international fact-finding mission on Venezuela for presenting its report. Despite political developments since the start of this year, the structural factors which facilitated serious human rights violations largely continue in place. The lack of deep-seated judicial reform of the electoral system and the security sector, as well as institutional frameworks which facilitated political persecution remaining in place are all sources of serious concern. We're particularly worried about arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, torture, ill treatment and restrictions on journalists, human rights defenders and dissidents. The releases of prisoners are a positive step, but they must be fully implemented without any conditions or control measures, which would be a de facto continuation of their deprivation of liberty. We call upon the international monitoring to ensure that there is real progress, that there are no further violations and that evidence is retained. We reiterate our support for the mandate.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay.

Thank you, Vice-President. Uruguay would like to thank the Mission for presenting its reports, and we reiterate how important this mandate is. We welcome releases of prisoners and other measures adopted in recent months, opening up the political sphere, at the same time, there hasn't been the necessary structural reform which would ensure lasting improvements in the human rights situation. We're worried about information according to which hundreds of people continue to be arbitrarily detained, and the persistent reports of torture, ill treatment, and prison conditions which fell well short of human rights obligations. We believe that there should be effective investigations and accountability for serious violations. There must be freedom for civic space, fundamental freedoms and independent judicial system. Democratic reform must be achieved peacefully, inclusively, and with full respect for the will of the Venezuelan people and human rights in line with the United Nations Charter and international law. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka.

Mr. Vice President, Sri Lanka recognizes Venezuela's sustained and constructive engagement with the regular human rights mechanisms. Submission of treaty body reports, facilitation of special procedures visits, and active involvement across three cycles of UPR review by Venezuela demonstrates a clear commitment to cooperation. Sri Lanka reiterates its fundamental concern regarding the adoption of the country-specific resolutions without the consent of the country concerned. We maintain our principal stance that such country-specific mandates are inherently uncounterproductive and do not translate to tangible human rights improvements on the ground. Moreover, imposing parallel mechanisms on a state that is already cooperating with the established frameworks creates an unnecessary burden on the multilateral system, particularly at a time when resource rationalization is paramount. It is imperative that this Council remains guided by its founding principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity. Progress requires peaceful, domestically driven, democratic processes free from externally imposed mechanisms. To conclude, Sri Lanka calls upon the Council to prioritise genuine partnership with Venezuelan authorities, as this remains the most effective avenue to safeguard and advance the rights of its people. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

As a party to the European Union statement, Italy reaffirms its strong support for the work of the fact-finding.

Mission, whose effectiveness on the ground is an essential prerequisite to ensure accountability.

We encourage Venezuela to engage constructively with human rights mechanisms and to grant them complete and unhindered access to the country, also allowing the Office of the High Commissioner to fully operate.

We welcome the recent.

Releases of political prisoners and stress the need to ensure complete and unconditional release of all political prisoners and those arbitrarily detained. Italy calls on Venezuela to respect all human rights and fundamental.

Freedoms, including the rights of peaceful assembly, association and freedom.

Of expression, and those of political opposition, human rights defenders and representatives of independent media and civil society. These are essential conditions for a genuine path of freedom and democracy for the Venezuelan people. We reiterate our solidarity for the devastating earthquake that recently hit the country. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Greece.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. Greece aligns itself with the European Union statement and thanks the Fine-Fact Emission for its report. We stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela, whose prolonged hardship has been compounded by June's devastating earthquakes. Greece has contributed to the humanitarian response through OCHA. We welcome the steps taken to release political prisoners. The adoption of the amnesty law offers an opportunity to rebuild public trust and advance national reconciliation. Its implementation should be prompt, transparent, and non-discriminatory, consistent with international human rights obligations. All those arbitrarily detained for political reasons should be released. We encourage the government to build on these steps and accelerate reform and democratization through meaningful, sustained dialogue with the opposition, with the participation of civil society. This dialogue should deliver an agreed roadmap with concrete measures and clear timelines to strengthen the rule of law, safeguard fundamental freedoms, and create the conditions for credible, inclusive elections. Continuing reports of repression and restrictions on freedom of expression remain deeply concerning. Political actors, journalists, and human rights defenders must be able to operate freely and without fear. Accountability for human rights violations and respect for victims' rights are essential to lasting reconciliation. Sustained cooperation with the OHCHR and full engagement with the Fact-Finding Mission can help translate commitments into tangible progress. Greece supports a peaceful, inclusive and Venezuelan-led democratic process.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Peru.

Thank you, Vice-President. Peru would like to thank the Mission for presenting its report. We've taken note of the positive signs of political opening up, including the release of detainees. better opportunities for public assemblies and demonstrations, as well as initiatives focusing on dialogue and democratic coexistence. We believe that this progress could help improve the living conditions of the people as part of the path towards strengthening the rule of law, institutional independence, and respect for human rights. At the same time, We hope that the political transition will lead to improvements in such as releasing the arbitrarily detained and reducing violations of human rights. There must be independent, impartial investigations, more accountability and effective access to justice, truth and reparation. We have taken note of the conclusions about colectivos and the role that they had in monitoring intimidation and violence. We believe that they must be reformed because otherwise they will contribute to new violations. The mission must be able to implement its mandate independently, impartially, and objectively. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We reiterate our principal concern over the continuation of a country-specific mechanism established without the consent and cooperation of the state concerned. as it raises serious questions regarding objectivity, impartiality, non-selectivity, and non-politicization. We are also concerned by the serious questions surrounding the verifiability and objectivity of the sources and methodologies reflected in the mission's reports over nearly seven years. The Council should promote genuine dialogue and cooperation rather than perpetuate selective and politicized mechanisms that deepen confrontation. For these reasons, my delegation firmly opposes the extension of the mandate of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Sudan.

Mr. Vice President, South Sudan take notes of the report of the fact-finding mission on Venezuela. We reaffirm our steadfast position that selectivity, politicization, interference in internal affairs of sovereign states, double standard, and the position of country-specific mandate without prior consent of country concerned are counterproductive and contrary to the principle of constructive dialogue and mutual cooperation that should guide the work of the Human Rights Council. We commend Venezuela for its commitment to strengthen channels of dialogue with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and its constructive engagement with human rights treaty bodies and mandate holders. We further commend Venezuela for adopting the amnesty law for democratic coexistence, reviewing judicial measures, releasing of detainees, and for the national plan adopted after the earthquakes to assist affected communities and support their recovery. South Sudan remain deeply concerned by any form of external interference in the internal affairs of Venezuela that undermine its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and strongly believe that any comprehensive assessment of human rights situation in Venezuela must be objective and take into account all relevant factors, including the effects of unilateral cohesive measures. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Senor Vice President, Cuba has a principled position against the imposition of punitive mechanisms without the consent of the concerned country. It's the council's duty to promote respectful dialogue and genuine cooperation in line with the principles of impartiality, non politicization, objectivity and non interference. This is the only effective way of furthering the noble cause of human rights. Cuba rejects any interventionism against Venezuela or any other sovereign country. Unilateral coercive measures imposed on the Venezuelan people, violating their rights, must be halted. Thank you.

Thank you.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.

Vice President, we'd like to thank the international independent fact-finding mission for its report. We remain committed to international law and respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Venezuela, including sovereignty over its natural resources. We recall the obligation under Article 2 of the UN Charter of refraining from the use of force and resolving disputes peacefully. This is a prerequisite for strengthening human rights situation. We believe that a democratic solution requires open elections which are inclusive and exclusively led by Venezuelans. We urge the Venezuelan government to strengthen its cooperation with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and to release all people who continue to be arbitrarily detained. Constructive dialogue and strengthening democratic institutions are absolutely vital conditions for ensuring the people's well-being and full respect for their fundamental freedoms. In this regard, we express our full solidarity with the Venezuelan people following the earthquakes. Thank you very much, Vice-President.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker we could accommodate at this meeting. Excellencies, dear participants, I understand that certain delegations have requested to exercise the right of reply. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda. You have three minutes.

Thank you. My delegation took note and would like to take the floor to refute the unfounded allegations made against Rwanda by the delegation of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Assertions made before this Council should be supported by verifiable facts, particularly when addressing a conflict involving multiple States, armed groups and other actors. It is important to recall that Burundi is itself a direct military actor in the eastern DRC. Burundian forces remain deployed in South Sudan and have participated in South Kivu and have participated in military operation alongside the Congolese armed forces. And the coalition, it has been documented. It's created with the Front Democratique de Liberation du Rwanda, the FDLR, and the Wazalendo militia. This involvement has been documented by independent reporting and cannot be overlooked when discussing responsibility for the continuing hostilities. The intensification of military operations in South Kivu, including the use of drones, aircraft and heavy weapons, has placed civilian population at considerable risk. Rather than advancing selective accusations, this Council should insist on credible, verifiable of the conduct of all parties and accountability for violations committed against civilians. Rwanda calls against attempts to deflect responsibility for the complex security and human rights situation in the eastern DRC. The presence and activities of numerous armed groups, foreign forces and other armed actors must form part of any credible assessment on the situation. Burundi should focus on addressing the human rights concern within its own jurisdiction, including strengthening the human rights provided for all its citizens. The Democratic Republic of Congo should contribute constructively to the implementation of existing peace commitment, including the Washington Framework, and refrain from undermining these efforts. Burundi should address the human rights concern with its own jurisdiction, including provide equal protection and opportunities for all citizens. Rwanda remains committed to regional peace. Allegations should not substitute for evidence, nor should this Council be used to obstruct the responsibility of actors directly engaged in the conflict. I thank you.

Thank you.

This was the last speaker on my list. Is there any other delegation requesting to exercise a right of reply in relation to statements made today? I see none.

Thank you.

Excellencies, distinguished participants, this brings us to the end of this meeting. We will reconvene Monday at 10 a.m. to continue the interactive dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, followed by the interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua, and the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Russian Federation. I hereby close the 18th meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council.