21st Meeting - 63rd Session of Human Rights Council

Excellencies, distinguished and delegates, a very good morning to one and to all. I hereby call to order the 21st meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. We shall continue this morning with our interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. And I will now return to the list of speakers, picking up where we broke off yesterday afternoon. And I begin by giving the floor to the Distinguished Representative of the Republic of Moldova.

President, we welcome today's dialogue and the update provided by the Commission.

We encourage the Commission to continue investigating

all violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Four years of armed conflict have had a devastating impact on civilians. Massive attacks targeting the country's energy, economic and other civilian infrastructure cause increasingly difficult living conditions for the population. Let me highlight that the Republic of Moldova is

experiencing an increased number of airspace violations by various types of Russian drones.

This year alone, we have already recorded 39 incidents. In August of this year, we had as many drones overflying or falling on our territory as we did during the entire year of 2025. We call on the Russian Federation to cease the deportation and forcible transfer of children from Ukraine. We underline the need for reliable information on all children deported to Russia or transferred within the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, including their whereabouts,

legal status, and well-being, as well as the mechanisms for their safe return.

In this regard, I would like to ask whether the Commission cooperates with the Council of Europe Consultation Group

on the Children of Ukraine, whose work we commend, and whether more can be done to strengthen cooperation and coordination.

Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Germany.

Mr Vice-President, Germany aligns itself with the EU statement and the Group of Friends of Accountability statement following the aggression against Ukraine. We thank the Commission of Inquiry for their update. We are on the brink of entering the fifth winter of Russia's illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia continues to viciously target urban centers far from the frontline, supermarkets, train stations, homes, places where civilians should be able to feel safe are increasingly under attack. We are also alarmed by Russia's practice of recruiting foreign nationals from Asian, African and Latin American countries, often against their will, to fight in their war against Ukraine. And we condemn the indoctrination and militarization of children. Germany reaffirms its firm and unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Commissioners, how can those affected by Russia's indiscriminate attacks against civilian targets be better supported and protected? Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the Ambassador of Montenegro. You have the floor, Jovcenski.

Gro, thanks the Commission for its update and continued engagement. We underscore, in particular, three pressing issues: ongoing attacks on civilian infrastructure, Russia's deceptive recruitment of foreign nationals and its state strategy targeting Ukrainian children. Disruption to electricity, heating, and water services threaten the lives and livelihoods of millions of civilians. As winter approaches, these risks escalate, also jeopardizing Ukraine's recovery and carrying broader global implications, including for food security. Russia's coercive recruitment of foreign nationals exploits vulnerable individuals through false promises, raising serious trafficking concerns. This must end immediately. Russia should cease these practices and facilitate safe repatriation, while countries of origin should help disrupt recruitment networks and assist their nationals in returning home. Children are among the most affected. We unequivocally condemn their unlawful deportation and forcible transfer, which may amount to war crimes. We demand their immediate and safe return. The indoctrination and militarization of children through Russia's so-called patriotic education must end. Children must never be exploited or weaponized. Montenegro stands firmly with Ukraine in defending its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We will continue to advocate for accountability and work towards a just and lasting peace. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Slovakia.

Mr. Vice President, Slovakia aligns itself with the EU statement. We thank the Commission for its important work and reaffirm Slovakia's support for its mandate. The report documents serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law that continue to cause suffering and loss of life. We call for accountability for all perpetrators and for investigations into all crimes committed during this conflict. Slovakia remains deeply concerned by the reports of torture, sexual violence, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and other forms of ill treatment.

We also particularly are alarmed by the deportation and transfer of children, their separation from

families, and the lasting psychological impact of these actions. The rights and well-being of children, including their access to education and the preservation of their identity, must remain a priority. We also emphasize that prisoners of war must be treated with dignity and in full compliance with international law. Slovakia supports all efforts towards a just and lasting peace based on diplomacy and the principles of the UN Charter,

as well as the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. I thank you.

Thank you. Next on the list is the distinguished representative of the Council of Europe.

Honourable Mr Vice-President, A durable and lasting peace in Ukraine can only be achieved if it's based on truth, accountability for perpetrators and justice for the victims. The Commission of Inquiry's efforts to document and investigate great violations of human rights therefore deserve full support. Recently, Russia has expanded its attacks against life-sustaining systems and services in Ukraine, adding to the unspeakable devastation. In the occupied territories of Ukraine, the systematic repression and violence, as well as erasing Ukrainian identity, have caused profound harm and trauma to adults and children. Establishing a comprehensive accountability framework for Russia, Russia's internationally wrongful acts, remains at the core of the Council of Europe actions. The Register for Damage caused by the Russian aggression has just completed the launch of all categories of claims designed for individuals and legal entities. As of today, there are 40 signatories of the Open Convention establishing the Claims Commission, and the enlarged partial agreement on the Special Tribunal has so far been endorsed by 38 countries and the EU. These legal mechanisms are open to all countries who have voted for the respective resolutions of the UN General Assembly. On behalf of the Council of Europe, we encourage all those countries to join to ensure that fundamental principles of international law can prevail. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of the United Kingdom.

Mr. Vice President, the reporting before us is stark. Russian armed forces systematically and repeatedly target energy facilities across Ukraine throughout the 2025-2026 winter, leaving millions facing electricity outages and hundreds of thousands without heat during Ukraine's coldest winter since 2010. These attacks undermine access to essential services, disrupting healthcare and water supply, while increasing humanitarian need for millions. July was the deadliest month for civilians in over four years, with 437 killed, including a record number of children. Russia's attacks place civilians and humanitarian workers at unacceptable risk. The UN's humanitarian chief described a dystopian landscape. where technology able to protect civilians is instead used to hunt them with ever greater precision. Russia struck Ukraine's energy infrastructure over 130 times in August alone. We cannot allow this cycle of harm to continue and reiterate our call for Russia to accept the full and unconditional ceasefire offered by Ukraine to enable negotiations towards a just and lasting peace. Russia's abuses extend beyond the battlefield. It is deceiving foreign nationals into fighting its illegal war while militarizing a generation of Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories. Mr. Mercer, how can the Council strengthen accountability and help deter further attacks on essential infrastructure? Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of Switzerland.

Vice President, Switzerland thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its oral update and reiterates its support for this body and its activities. We are deeply concerned by the findings contained in your most recent report, which described the deportation and forced transfer of Ukrainian children, actions that may very well be tantamount to crimes against humanity. Switzerland calls upon the Russian authorities to guarantee the return of these children and their reunification with their families, and to do so in the shortest possible period of time, and to respect their rights throughout that process. The practices described in the context of the trials of Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war are also deeply troubling. The use of evidence obtained through torture and the erosion of fair process guarantees are incompatible with obligations stemming from international humanitarian and international human rights law. It's vital that steps be taken to continue to document these violations and to independently and impartially investigate them and to prosecute the alleged perpetrators thereof. Switzerland calls upon the Russian Federation to put an immediate end to all attack targeting civilians, as well as to put an end to any indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks. We reiterate our call on all the parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law, including the rules on the conduct of war, and to protect civilians and civilian assets and infrastructure. Ladies and gentlemen, members of the Commission of Inquiry, a question. What measures can be taken to guarantee to the relatives of the victims of enforced disappearance their right to truth? Thank you very much.

Thank you, says the Vice-President. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Belgium.

Thank you, Vice-President. Belgium thanks the Commissioner of Inquiry for its oral update. Belgium is appalled by the continued rise in civilian casualties in Ukraine, including children, which has reached its highest level since 2022. The summer saw yet another escalation in attacks. We condemn the deceptive recruitment practices and exploitation of foreign nationals by the Russian armed forces in Ukraine, including coercive practices that have resulted in the deployment of these individuals to hazardous frontline roles. Belgium is deeply concerned by Russia's systematic efforts to reinforce its control over temporarily occupied territories notably by reshaping society under occupation, including through the imposition of patriotic and military education programmes designed to prepare children for future enlistment in the Russian armed forces. We recall that the Commission of Inquiry has previously concluded that the deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children by Russia constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. We urge the Russian authorities to facilitate without delay the return of transferred or deported Ukrainian children and their reunification with their families or legal guardians. Belgium reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and for full accountability. in order to ensure justice for all victims, especially children, including where necessary by pursuing same through the ICC and the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression. Thank you very much.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Albania.

Vice President from Albania thanks the International Independent Commission of Inquiry in Ukraine for its oral update and moreover for its essential work documenting the facts on the ground. We condemn in the strongest possible terms the war of aggression led by the Russian Federation targeting Ukraine, a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter and of international law. The findings of the Commission of Inquiry concerning attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, executions, torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearance, and the transfer or illegal deportation of children are deeply troubling. These violations need to come to an immediate halt. All illegally detained persons must be released, and those Ukrainian children who have been transferred or deported must be returned to their families in complete safety and security. Albania emphasises that the perpetrators of international crimes must be held accountable for their actions. We fully support those international mechanisms which are responsible for preserving evidence, for identifying those responsible, and for ensuring justice to victims. We call upon the Russian Federation to put an immediate end to its war of aggression, to completely withdraw and without conditions attached from Ukrainian territory. Finally, Albania will continue to support all those efforts intended to bring about a holistic, just and lasting peace. Thank you very much, Vice-President.

Thank you, says the Vice-President. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bulgaria.

Bulgaria aligns itself with the EU statement. We welcome the update provided by the independent international commission of inquiry on Ukraine. We commend the commission for its dedicated work aimed at collecting and recording evidence of human rights violations caused by the war against Ukraine. Bulgaria is outraged by the numerous cases of crimes and violations of the international law committed over the course of the hostilities. We share the suffering of the Ukrainian people, victims to killings, enforced and involuntary disappearances, forced displacement, unlawful deportation, arbitrary detention, torture, and persecution of civilians in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. As a co-founder and an active member of the International Coalition for the Repatriation to Ukraine of Illegally Deported and Forcibly Displaced Ukrainian Children, Bulgaria strongly condemns the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children and demands their immediate and safe return to Ukraine. We reiterate our call for unhindered access of the Office of the Human Rights of the OHCHR, as well as international and regional human rights organizations and mechanisms to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. Bulgaria insists on full accountability for all the breaches of the international law committed in Ukraine and expresses firm support for the sovereignty, independence, and territory integrity of Ukraine and the rights of its people within its territory-recognized borders. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statements of the EU and a group of friends of accountability and thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its oral update. Once more, the Commission's update illustrates Russia's total disregard for international law and civilian lives. At the same time, it highlights how important accountability for these gross violations is. We wish to draw particular attention to the appalling situation in Ukrainian territories temporarily occupied by Russia. Civilians are subject to a long list of discriminatory policies that violate their fundamental freedoms and human rights. Ukrainian children from the youngest age are exposed to indoctrination and militarization in schools, institutions that should be safe spaces where they can learn and develop freely. Taken together, these measures reflect a broader effort to suppress and erase Ukrainian identity. Mr. Vice President, the Netherlands once again urges Russia to end its war, withdraw from Ukrainian territories it temporarily occupies, cease attempts to erase Ukrainian identity, and grant independent monitors full and unhindered access. Moreover, we do not recognize the so-called State Duma elections held by the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied territories. Commissioners, What are the long-term human rights implications for the indoctrination and militarization of Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories, and how can accountability for these practices be strengthened? Thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, Croatia aligns itself with the EU statement. We thank the Commission for its oral update and its continued efforts to document violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law in Ukraine. We remain deeply concerned by the impact of Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine on civilians. Continued attacks affecting energy infrastructure disrupt access to electricity, heating, water and healthcare, affecting the most vulnerable in particular. We are also deeply concerned about Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories, including their forcible transfer and deportation, the imposition of military patriotic education, and the denial of access to Ukrainian education. Their safe return and family reunification must remain a priority. Croatia reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. We would welcome the Commission's view on what further measures are needed to strengthen the protection of children in the temporarily occupied territories, including in relation to their education and exposure to militarisation. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Vice President. It aligns itself with the EU statement and thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its oral update. We express our deep concern for the continuous widespread violations of international humanitarian and human rights law committed by Russia in connection with its war of aggression against Ukraine. High numbers in civilian casualties have been recorded following indiscriminate use of drones and explosive weapons in urban areas and civilian infrastructure. Numerous cases of torture and forced disappearances, arbitrary arrest and detention continue to be reported. We once more condemn the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children, and we underline the urgent need to ensure their immediate and safe return to their families. In the same vein, we condemn Russia's recruitment of third country citizens through coercion and deception.

Greece

supports a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine in full conformity with international law, the UN Charter, and relevant UN resolutions, and in full respect of Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. We call on Russia to fully comply with its obligations under international law. Gracias.

Thank you very much. Next on my list is the distinguished Ambassador of Ireland.

President, Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU and thanks the Commission for its update. Ireland reiterates its condemnation of Russia's occupation of Ukrainian territory and the continuation of its illegal war of aggression in Ukraine. We deplore the human rights violations that have been committed since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion and call on Russia to end its war. We note the stark findings of the Commission of Inquiry that Russian authorities in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine have committed crimes against humanity of torture and forced disappearances, murder and forcible transfer of population, and war crimes, including deliberate and intensified targeting of civilians. We strongly condemn Russia's increasingly reckless drone and missile attacks on civilian targets and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine, which continue to inflict unjustifiable suffering. Among the most egregious crimes found by the Commission to have been committed by Russia is the enforced disappearance of the children deported or transferred from Ukraine, and the war crime of unjustifiable delay in their repatriation. We call for immediate steps to return these children to their families and communities. Ireland also condemns the introduction of militarised subjects into formal schooling and extracurricular activities. We fully support the demands of Ukrainians for justice and accountability for the many illegal acts committed since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. Commissioners, what steps can the international community take to ensure accountability for Russia's indoctrination of Ukrainian youth? Thank you.

Thank you very much. I do not know whether the delegation of Canada would like to take the floor once again. or if you would like to come back later. Canada, you're excellent, so you have the floor now. I see you're nodding.

Thank you, Vice-President. Canada reiterates its unwavering support for the mandate of the International Independent Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. We remain deeply troubled by the treatment meted out to Ukrainian prisoners of war, to civilian detainees, and to those children who have been illegally deported by the Russian Federation. Canada will host in Toronto at the end of this month the second international conference intended to further the process of the repatriation of these children, prisoners, and detainees, and to ensure accountability for those who have treated them. in an inhumane way. We must all pull our efforts to make sure that they can go home. Since the most recent appearance of the Commission before this Council, Russia has intensified its missile strikes and drone strikes targeting Ukraine. Canada remains deeply troubled by the increased harm suffered by civilians, as well as by the growing attacks on access to housing, food, transport, and essential services, all of which have been disrupted as a result of these attacks. These strikes, which go on day and night alike, have killed and injured Ukrainian civilians, a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law. High Commissioner, what impact might the findings of the Commission regarding these increasingly sustained and extensive strikes targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure and assets may have on future accountability efforts. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of UN Women.

Thank you, Mr. President, Mr. Vice President. UN Women commends the Commission of Inquiry for its continued documentation of grave violations arising from the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine. We remain deeply concerned by conflict-related sexual violence, including sexual violence used as a form

of torture against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war in detention. Survivors, women and men, face profound physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences. Accountability must be accompanied by survivors' effective access to comprehensive assistance, justice, and reparation. Ukraine has taken important steps to advance survivors' rights to reparation, including through legislation on urgent interim reparations. The priority now is implementation, ensuring that mechanisms are accessible, adequately resourced, gender responsive, and grounded in survivors' rights, needs, and agencies. UN Women remains committed to a survivor-centered, rights-based response to CRSV, advancing both the human rights and women,

peace, and security agendas.

Through its

Women Protection Advisor, UN Women works with Ukrainian authorities and women-led organizations to advance effective reparations, strengthen access to legal and physiosocial support, and ensure that survivors' meaningful participation and leadership in the policies and mechanisms affecting their lives. It is important to understand that recovery of each survivor is vital to Ukraine's broader recovery efforts. Justice for survivors is integral to any peace effort.

Thank you. Gracias.

Tiene la palabra la representante de Bielorrusia.

Bogdary, gospodin, zamistitel, pritsedatela. Komisija poroslya dovinyu vichyudnara, demonstriru dvani standardy svoe robotsya. Ее доклад построен на однобоких обвинениях и полностью игнорирует реальные причины продолжения конфликта. Власти Украины развернули открытое гонение Украинской Православной Церкви, закрепив это на законодательном уровне. Прихожане и священнослужители подвергаются физическому насилию, арестам и принудительной мобилизации. In turn, the deeply entrenched corruption in the military sphere, the cover-up of fraudulent schemes, and the system of bribes for redemption from conscription only

accelerate the breakdown of the legal system. This is a gross violation of human rights. countries that ensure the functioning of the commission and declare the commitment to the protection of human rights are in fact turning a blind eye to legal arbitrariness, blocking diplomatic solutions, and continuing the deliberate militarization of the country, in fact supporting the continuation of the armed conflict. We call for an end to supplying Ukraine with weapons and redirect all efforts to support the process of negotiations in order to put an end to the suffering of civilians. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Vice President. Luxembourg aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. We take this opportunity to thank the Commissioner of Inquiry for its presentation, as well as for the essential work that it undertakes. The presentation of the Commission highlighted once again the persistent and systematic violations of international law, as well as the perpetrating of war crimes and crimes against humanity. We are particularly concerned by crimes committed targeting children, and in particular the forced deportation of Ukrainian children, a vehicle intended to ensure their forced integration into Russian society and to eradicate their Ukrainian identity. We also robustly condemn the ramping up of strikes targeting civilian infrastructure, including those that took place at the end of the month of August, targeting Kiev and other regions of Ukraine. brunt of these attacks is borne by the civilian population, in particular by children, who are too often killed or mutilated or injured. These strikes also further exacerbate the suffering that's already considerable and that has been caused by this illegal war of aggression. We're also deeply concerned by the testimonies and evidence that has been brought to light that indicates the occurrence of torture, forced disappearances, as well as sexual and gender-based violence. committed by the Russian armed forces in a context marked by persistent impunity. We reiterate our call for an immediate cessation of these violations and for the full respect and upholding of international law obligations. Thank you very much.

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

Thank you, Vice-President. Romania aligns with the EU statement. We thank the Commission of Inquiry for its update today and its continued work. Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine continues to have a devastating impact on the civilian population. Damage to electricity and heating infrastructure has disrupted access to essential services and increased the vulnerability of civilians in the face of yet another winter. Furthermore, the documented increasing use of drones against civilians and humanitarian workers creates dangerous obstacles for relief efforts and puts local residents, rescue teams, and humanitarian staff at greater risk. Beyond this humanitarian crisis, Romania remains concerned about: the situation of children in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, with reports stressing the ongoing enforcement of the Russian curriculum, bans on the use of and education in the Ukrainian language, and the militarization of children through weapons and drone training. And on this point, could the distinguished Commissioners elaborate on the extent to which these practices have been reflected in your findings and investigations? Romania stands in full solidarity with Ukraine. We reiterate our support for continued international monitoring that seeks to document and investigate human rights violations in Ukraine and to promote justice for victims. And we stress the importance your findings will play in supporting future accountability frameworks. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Republic of Korea thanks the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine for its oral update. As the protracted war in Ukraine continues, the suffering of civilians and the overall humanitarian situation are further deteriorating. We express our deep concern over the attacks on civilians and critical civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities, ports, and railways. Adding to these hardships and challenges, we remain gravely concerned by reports of enforced disappearances, widespread and systemic torture and ill-treatment, as well as the denial of fundamental trial guarantees for civilian detainees and prisoners of war. We are equally troubled by continued reports of sexual and gender-based violence against civilians and prisoners of war, as well as by widespread violence within the armed forces, including against foreign nationals recruited to fight in Ukraine. In order to bring an end to the suffering of civilians, we underscore the urgent need for full compliance with international human rights and humanitarian law by all parties and urge the prompt resumption of peace negotiations. The Republic of Korea will continue to stand with the international community in support of peace, recovery, and reconstruction in Ukraine. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Liechtenstein thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its oral update and continued work. Since the Russian Federation launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the civilian cost of the war continues to grow. We are deeply alarmed by the recent surge in civilian deaths and by the continued attacks by the Russian Federation affecting civilian infrastructure, including residential areas, supermarkets, gas stations, and other objects indispensable to civilian life. Civilians and civilian infrastructure are strictly protected under international humanitarian law, and any deliberate attack may constitute a war crime. We are also deeply concerned by the growing impact of drone warfare on civilians. Advances in military technology must not come at the expense of accountability or adherence to international humanitarian law. Further, we are deeply appalled by continuing reports of widespread and systematic conflict-related sexual violence, including against prisoners of war and civilians. We stress the urgent need for accountability, effective prevention measures and access to justice for all victims. Mr. Vice-President, Liechtenstein expresses its firm support for the Commission's work and its contribution to accountability. Those responsible for the aggression and the subsequent crimes must be held accountable. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Australia.

Thank you, Vice-President. Australia thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its update. Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine violates international law and continues to infringe on the human rights of all Ukrainians. Australia is appalled by consistent reports of systematic torture, forced disappearances, summary executions, sexual violence, and the deportation of Ukrainian children. The targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure is a blatant disregard of international humanitarian law and violates the human rights of Ukrainian civilians. Russia maintains its relentless missile strikes against residential buildings, hospitals, and schools. Russia also continues strikes on Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure. With winter approaching, we are concerned that ongoing Russian strikes will again limit civilian access to essential services, food, water and heating. Each day Russia continues this conflict is another day it prolongs human suffering. Australia calls for Russia's immediate withdrawal from Ukraine, perpetrators to be held to

account and an end to this senseless war.

Commissioners, what can the international community do to preserve the rights of all Ukrainians against Russia's aggression? Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice-President. Venezuela regrets deeply the loss of human lives and the suffering related to the continued conflict in Ukraine. Currently, we are concerned that while the need to achieve peace is proclaimed, confrontation continues. The rhetoric of confrontations reduces the space for understanding and creates difficulties for building trust that is required for reaching a peaceful and negotiated solution. This Council should contribute through a balanced understanding of the situation, recognizing the complexity of the circumstances led to the crisis and avoid selective approaches. Venezuela states that lasting peace can be only based through dialogue and negotiations and on the basis of a settlement that takes into account the security concerns of all parties. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We would like to thank the Independent International Commission of Inquiry of Ukraine for its important work and for its overall update on the human rights situation in Ukraine. We are appalled by the findings in the Commission's March report, including its conclusion that Russian authorities have carried out deportations and transfers of Ukrainian children following a consistent and carefully organized plan and modus operandi, which constitute crimes against humanity and war crimes. We once again condemn in the strongest terms the actions of the Russian forces, which have inflicted widespread suffering on the people of Ukraine. We appreciate that the Commission continues to collect evidence concerning a wide range of crimes and violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law in the context of the ongoing aggression. We also express our respect for the Ukrainian people, who continue to demonstrate immense bravery in standing up against Russia's aggression day after day. Japan will continue to stand firmly with Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is achieved. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. My delegation rejects the establishment of the work and the work of the International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. We have consistently opposed the creation of country-specific human rights mechanisms without the consent of the state concerned. Such mechanisms are politically motivated from their inception, and they cannot provide an objective and impartial assessment of the human rights situation. The establishment of this commission was itself a politically driven decision. It was aimed at singling out and pressuring the Russian Federation. Its mandate and working methods reflect a confrontational approach, rather than genuine efforts to promote human rights through dialogue and cooperation.

We therefore do not recognize the legitimacy of the Commission's politically motivated conclusions.

Information presented by one side cannot serve as a sufficient basis for making judgments against a sovereign state.

Human rights must not be politicized or used as a tool of pressure against sovereign states.

The Council should reject double standards and country-specific mechanisms and uphold the principles of objectivity, impartiality, and non-selectivity.

I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We align ourselves with the statement by the European Union and by the Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine. Slovenia reiterates its condemnation of Russia's full-scale invasion and war of aggression in Ukraine. We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia's continuing violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law in Ukraine. Amongst the gravest crimes found by the COI to have been committed by Russia are the crime against humanity of enforced disappearance of children deported or transferred from Ukraine, and war crime of unjustifiable delay in their repatriation. Slovenia reiterates its call on Russia to immediately end its grave violations of child deportation and forcible transfer, and to stop the imposition of patriotic and military education on children in the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine. Slovenia remains firmly committed to ensuring full accountability for all international crimes and human rights violations and abuses stemming from Russia's war of aggression. Could the Commission further elaborate on the foreign recruitment in the armed forces by the Russian Federation? I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Turkey has consistently advocated for a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in Ukraine that can only be achieved through diplomacy and negotiations. We have firmly supported Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence since 2014 when the attempted annexation of Crimea had happened. We underline the severity of humanitarian crisis and the urgent need to address its consequences. Dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to the international law should be our guiding principles. In this regard, Turkey hosted Istanbul negotiations, which resulted in advances on the humanitarian issues, such as prisoner exchanges and safe return of children. Direct engagement and dialogue between the parties is vital for meaningful progress on these issues. Turkey stands ready to continue facilitating contacts and dialogue between the sides whenever possible. We will continue our efforts to support a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in Ukraine. Thank you.

Gracias. Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished Deputy Ambassador of Spain.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Spain aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union and the Group of Friends. We thank the Commission for the rigorous work related to the documentation of violations of international law related to the Russian aggression against Ukraine. The findings that are presented continue to confirm systematic patterns of serious violations of human rights. Continued attacks against energy and civilian infrastructure seriously aggravate the humanitarian situation of the population. The continued cruel treatment, torture in centers of detention, and the patterns of forced transfers and deportation of Ukrainian children to the Russian Federation represent a serious violation of international humanitarian law. Spain continues to demand that the Russian Federation to stop its aggression, facilitate the safe and conditional return of all deported minors, and free all civilians that have been detained. There'll be no lasting or just peace without real accountability. We reiterate our full support to the indispensable work of the Commission and mechanisms of international criminal justice. to investigate responsibly and guarantee reparation focused on victims. Finally, I can question what specific measures that you find to be a priority to strengthen international coordination mechanisms and to promote compliance with mechanisms of repatriation and family unification of Ukrainian children. Thank you.

I give the floor to the senior representative of China.

Mr. Vice President, the Ukraine crisis has been evolving rapidly in recent days, with frequent attacks and ensuing civilian casualties.

The hostilities have also had serious repercussions for third countries.

This is deeply troubling.

China's position on the Ukraine issue has been consistent and clear. President Xi Jinping has solemnly stated that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, the purposes.

And principles of the UN Charter.

Should be observed, and legitimate security concerns of all countries should be taken.

Seriously, and all efforts conducive to the peaceful resolution of the crisis should be supported. These four shoulds constitute the fundamental guidance for China's approach to the Ukraine issue. There's no simple solution to a complex problem. Dialogue and negotiation are the only viable path forward. As a permanent member of the United Council and a responsible major country, China has consistently upheld an objective, impartial position, remained committed.

To promoting peace and facilitating dialogue, supported all efforts conducted for the peace, and.

Advocated addressing the root cause of the crisis. We stand ready to work with the international community and continue playing a constructive role in pursuing a political settlement.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Islamic Republic of Iran expresses deep concern on domestic human rights challenges in Ukraine, especially disregard of internal demand for presidential election. It is deeply regrettable that instead of seriously addressing human rights concerns within its own territory, Ukraine continues to shift blame and direct false allegations against other states. Of particular concern are attempts to draw third states into a conflict to which they are not parties by raising false claims. Such conduct that is undertaken to avert attention from internal challenges only widens confrontation and undermines efforts toward dialogue and the peaceful settlement of the conflict. This approach has now gone beyond political rhetoric. The recent Ukrainian attack against an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, which resulted in the death of an Iranian sailor and injured another to another, is a deeply troubling example. Iran strongly condemns this hostile and outlawful attack, an outlawful act, and stresses that attacks against civilian commercial vessels are a serious violation of international law. The Human Rights Council must not be used to drive such conduct or to advance geopolitical narrative through accusation against other states. Its work must remain from this.

Thank you. That was the last speaker representing countries. on my list and now we'll turn to list of speakers National Human Rights institutions and non-governmental organizations first we will listen to a video statement of Frontline AIDS Limited.

Mr. President I'm Tetyana Deshko Alliance for Public Health speaking on behalf of civil society organizations in Ukraine on 19th of July The warehouse near Kyiv containing HIV commodities for 2027 for 300,000 key vulnerable populations of Ukraine has been destroyed by Russian missile. The warehouse contained 30 million syringes, 15 million condoms for people who are at highest risk of HIV in Ukraine. Now they have no access to these critical commodities. This is a denial of right to access to critical services for most at-risk populations. How can the Commission ensure that this crime is being investigated and patients need their critical commodities to prevent HIV?

Next speaker on my list is the representative of Human Rights Research League.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Human Rights Research League is deeply concerned by the seeming normalization of attacks on civilians in Russia's full-scale.

War of aggression against Ukraine.

As we're about to enter the sixth winter of this war, the number of civilians deliberately targeted by Russia is on the rise. According to UNHCR, in the first eight months of 2026, more civilians were killed and injured in Ukraine than during the whole of 2024. 2025 current figures more than doubled compared to 2024, reflecting ever more ruthless attacks on civilians, despite the fundamental prohibition of targeting civilians enshrined in international law. Ukraine recently introduced a two-tier air alert system, with a yellow label indicating less encompassing attacks. The two levels were not introduced because drone raids alone may not be deadly, but because closing down the country for every air alert would render life impossible. Even civilians in need of mental health services are increasingly treated with basic operative resilience training techniques. meant for restoring soldiers to a minimum functional level on the battlefield, because the need for standard treatment far exceeds time and resources available. While Ukraine has to normalize extraordinary circumstances out of sheer necessity, we do not have the right to normalize grave breaches of international law, including armed attacks on civilians.

Thank you.

The next speaker on my list is representative of Human Rights House Foundation.

Thank you, Vice President. New monitoring by our Ukrainian partners highlights the urgent need for accountability for enforced disappearances in occupied areas of Ukraine. Research coordinated by Human Rights House Crimea documents a systematic, centrally coordinated practice in Crimea and occupied Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Civilians are abducted, held incommunicado and tortured, their whereabouts concealed, and their detentions sometimes legalised through Russia's criminal justice system. The wider analysis of one of our partner organisations, Zmina, shows that these violations occur across occupied Ukraine as part of a broader policy of persecution increasingly aimed at erasing Ukrainian identity and preventing future resistance. Approximately 16,000 Ukrainian civilians have been unlawfully detained or remain missing. Our partners identify the Russian Federal Security Service as a key perpetrator and coordinator. Alongside arbitrary detention, torture, killings, and denial of fair trial rights, these acts may amount to the crime against humanity of persecution. Furthermore, a process of accountability must also deliver remedy. Ukrainian survivor groups and civil society organizations call for meaningful participation in designing the International Claims Commission for Ukraine. Vice President, we ask the Commission what is needed to establish institutional and command responsibility for this policy of persecution, while ensuring that evidence supports not only criminal accountability, but also.

Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of War Resisters International.

WRI, with connection to the expresses its solidarity with the people of Ukraine suffering from the military aggression of the Russian Federation. We are concerned of the ongoing forced mobilization and militarization of education in the Russian-occupied territory. We are also concerned by the ongoing violations of the human right to conscientious objection to military service by Ukrainian authorities and by the forced mobilization through the so-called pacification. There are reports of ill treatment during mobilization and documented arrests, the forcibly transportation to territorial conscription center, detention,. Conscientious objectors are also victims of violent treatment during mobilization, as previously reported by the Commission. We regret that the State Bureau of Investigators apparently failed to investigate violent deaths of conscientious objectors, Dmytro Koval and at the Skelya assault regiment. The case of the human rights defender and scholar, Yuriy Sheliatsenko, a victim of cruel treatment while arbitrarily detained by the military, was also not investigated. He has been repeatedly fined for conscientious objection, still faces criminal charges for advocacy for peace. Following International Peace Day, we reiterate our urgent call to all member states to immediately prioritize peace and negotiation to end wars. We urge Russia to implement international humanitarian law and cease its war of aggression in Ukraine. We call on Ukraine to cease persecution, criminalization of Yuriy Shchelytsenko and other conscientious objectors, and ensure investigation, accountability for the above-mentioned cases. Thank you.

Thank you. The next speaker is a video statement by the Next Century Foundation.

The Next Century Foundation is deeply concerned about the severe impact of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on civilians. The war has generated economic insecurity, military escalation, and rising child poverty. It has become one of the deadliest conflicts in Europe, and an immediate move.

Towards a peace settlement is in Ukraine's best interest to prevent further casualties.

Neither nation has the sustainable resources to prolong this conflict. We find that an armistice is the optimal resolution for ending the war diplomatically.

While there is no guarantee of resolving territorial.

Disputes, this approach must be considered an essential first step to prevent further breaches of international law.

That are designed to protect civilians.

By establishing this, Ukraine would have a greater chance at the social, economic and environmental reconstruction it urgently needs. Civilian protection has been neglected in favour of economic and territorial interests. Ukraine's human resources are limited, and it cannot withstand the Russian Federation's onslaught much longer. Without decisive action, there is little prospect that this conflict will end soon or on mutually agreed terms. We encourage the international community to support efforts in securing an armistice, monitored by independent actors and followed by structured peace negotiations. This will lead to prioritizing civilian protection, reconstruction planning, and diplomatic engagement aimed at achieving a lasting peace. Thank you.

Now, another video statement by the European Union of Jewish Students.

Mr. President, not easy, but move. This is the slogan that accompanied Lviv as European Youth Capital, a city that we visited earlier this month during an EUDS-led solidarity mission to Ukraine. Across the country, young people and youth organisations demonstrate incredible resilience. They organise, they support, they volunteer and they lead their own communities to maintain their country's future while many of their peers are fighting to defend it. But resilience should never become the reason for the international community to look the other way. The Commission of Inquiry has documented grave violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law, including torture, unlawful killings, sexual violence, and the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children. The Commission's findings must lead into accountability. Those responsible for violations must be investigated and prosecuted, while international accountability mechanisms must receive the critical support they need to continue their work. EOGS thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its continued documentation and calls on the Council to ensure that this critical.

Work translates into accountability.

The international community must also maintain its support for the Ukrainian civil society.

They are not asking us to admire their resilience.

They are asking us not to forget them. Thank you.

Thank you. Next video statement, Physicians for Human Rights.

Mr. President, distinguished commissioners, Physicians for Human Rights and our partners have documented over 3,300 attacks on healthcare in Ukraine since Russian full-scale invasion in February 2022. In addition to attacks on hospitals and health workers, a recent increase in attacks on the medical supply chain limits access to care for millions of Ukrainians and threatens the essential health system infrastructure. In just 12 days this September, multiple medical warehouses were destroyed or damaged, including Ukraine's largest pharmaceutical distributors and a major WHO humanitarian medical supply hub. One such facility reported to us that about 90% of their supplies belonged to international humanitarian organizations, and most were burned in the attack. These facilities stored insulin, vaccines, antiretrovirals, reproductive health medicines, first aid kits, high-cost surgical equipment, power generators for hospitals, and other critical supplies. This infrastructure cannot simply be replaced. Specialist storage, refrigeration, regulatory procedures, and distribution networks can take months or even years to rebuild while millions of patients suffer without access to medicine. Commissioners, we urge the Commission to investigate attacks on healthcare, including medical warehouses and distribution infrastructure, and their reverberating, cumulative, and longer-term impacts on the right to health. Thank you.

Now we'll listen to another statement, International Bar Association by video. The International.

Bar Association's Human Rights Institute and the Ukrainian Bar Association commend the continued work and efforts of the Commission of Inquiry. The full-scale invasion remains marked by widespread violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, many amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Civilian harm has escalated sharply, driven by intensified long-range missiles and drone attacks on urban centres, as well as short-range drones targeting civilians at the front line. We condemn the documented patterns of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, torture, and ill-treatment of civilians and prisoners in Russian-occupied territories. Thousands of Ukrainian civilians remain unlawfully detained, many incommunicado. We are further alarmed by attacks on energy and humanitarian infrastructures, and we recall that these acts may constitute war crimes. We reiterate our grave concerns over the deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children. The Commission has now concluded that these acts and the children in forced disappearances amount to crimes against humanity. While Russian Federation continues to actively obstruct their safe return and their unification with their families, these issues must remain an international priority. We urge this Council to continue supporting the international accountability efforts, including to the COI, International Criminal Court, universal jurisdiction, and the operationalization of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression.

I give the floor now to the Danish representative of Human Rights Watch.

Thank you, Vice-President. Russia's war against Ukraine continues to devastate civilian lives. Since February 2022, at least 16,800 civilians have been killed. Civilian casualties rose 37% in the first half of 2026. amid Russia's intensified use of missiles, long-range drones, and other explosive weapons in populated areas. July was the deadliest month for civilians since May 2022, with at least 437 killed. Russian attacks have repeatedly struck schools, markets and shopping malls, buses, humanitarian and healthcare facilities, as well as energy and railway infrastructure. Many of these attacks may amount to war crimes. In Russian-occupied areas, occupation authorities continue to violate the rights of Ukrainian civilians under their control. They've seized tens of thousands of Ukrainian properties through a sham process, coerced residents to acquire Russian citizenship, unlawfully conscripted residents, and sought to suppress Ukrainian language and identity. Russia has also deported or forcibly transferred thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia or other areas under Russian occupation. The Commission of Inquiry has verified 1,205 of such cases, with 80% of those children still not returned. It found that these acts amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. We urge this Council to press Russia to end unlawful attacks, cease crimes against Ukrainian children and ensure their return, and to support the Commission's continued mandate and broader international efforts towards accountability. Thank you.

Thank you. Now we'll listen video statement by the I mean.

Vice President, I'm founder of IPPO. Paragraph four of the report says the OHCHR unable to access the occupied territory for unsigned verification. In these circumstances, report based on solely unverified application allegation provided unilaterally by Ukraine seriously violate the fundamental rules of your investigation, not merely hearsay evidence, but rather to a Western countries for opinion warfare. We cannot but ask why does report and focus solely on Donbas while turning a blind eye to illegal military presence of the U.S. in Syria and to the situation in Syria. This deliberate blindness is naked double standards. The true new order of peace should be built on not on prejudice. We call for rejection of ports on lack on, on site verification must stop turning the council into an arena for geopolitical maneuvering, thank you, Vice President.

This was the last speaker that we could accommodate at this interactive dialogue. With that, I will now give the floor once again to the commission of inquiry to make its concluding remarks. You have almost six minutes for that purpose. Please, the floor is yours.

Thank you, vice-president. Thank you to the council's members for their comments and questions. I will start with the questions relating to accountability issues, which partly covered specific issues in the current oral update and partly more general questions. Let me say that right away that our General Assembly report will be available in four weeks' time. and some of the specificities with respect to these issues that we have dealt with in this oral update will be more thoroughly and more detailed dealt with in that connection. But still on the accountability, let me stress that, of course, our investigation strategy highlights the need to seek for perpetrators and to preferably seek for persons at the higher echelons of the chain. We have over the years assembled a lot of information concerning accountability of the National Left, a lot of perpetrators. both for the international and national accountability mechanisms in accordance with our mandate. And we are available to then give answers to questions coming from them. Let me first mention that the ICC's investigations are ongoing in spite of their very difficult situation, which is known to everyone. and we are noting their progress with previous issues and new ones. We also note the Ukrainian prosecutorial authorities, which have so far registered about 260,000 war crimes. That's a considerable task under difficult conditions. We also want to reiterate that we are available for questions, both from national jurisdiction, where prosecutorial or judicial authorities would wish our information in connection with their criminal jurisdiction. And as also said in March, we are available for the Special Tribunal for Ukraine, the special tribunal for aggression, in case they want us once they are fully operational. One issue of the three I want to comment on specifically, given the stress by several delegations, and that's foreign fighters in the Russian Federation. In our March report, we mentioned that there was fighters from about 17 countries at three continents. Now we are deepening these investigations and more will follow in the General Assembly report. As mentioned in the oral statement, it would be helpful if the states could, who have not answered our request for further information sent to a large number of states, including members of the Human Rights Council, could respond to our questions. Now to my colleague.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President and Member States. On the concern expressed with regard to children and our conclusion with respect to the deportation and forcible transfer of children, we reiterate the obligation of the Russian Federation to provide reliable and comprehensive information about children in such circumstances, including their present status and whereabouts, and also the recommendation made earlier to the international community to impress upon the Russian Federation to fulfil its obligation and coordinate the various initiatives to facilitate the return of the children. On the issue of mandatory patriotic education and military imposition of military training on Ukrainian children in temporarily occupied areas. We will be reporting in greater detail in our October report, in which we will also be examining through our investigations the authorities of the Russian Federation responsible for this curriculum and imposition of the militarization of education. With regard to critical energy infrastructure, for which concern has been expressed by many Member States, particularly with the approaching winter, we are continuing our investigations and we have mentioned in our reports from since 2022, October, about the systematic waves of attacks on civilian energy infrastructure by the Russian Federation. In the October report, next month, we will be through our investigations, reporting in greater detail on the cumulative impact on civilian life, as well as examine individuals and entities responsible for these waves of attacks which impact civilian life as well as energy infrastructure. Thank you.

Thank you very much. With that, we have come to the end of our interactive dialogue with the Commission. I wish to thank the members of the Commission of Inquiry for their presence with us and for their active participation in this dialogue. Thank you very much to both of you, and thank you not just for being with us, but also for the work that you carry out on behalf of the Council. We will now take a very short technical break before hearing the oral report of the Group of Experts on Human Rights on Nicaragua. Thanks very much.

Excellent yes.

Your excellencies distinguished delegates thank you very much for your patience we will now turn our attention to the oral report of the group of experts on human rights regarding Nicaragua and it's a great pleasure to be able to welcome the members of the group beginning with the chair Mr. John Merkel Simon who now has 15 minutes to make the presentation on behalf of the group of experts you have the floor Mr. Simon

thank you thank you very much vice President, Your Excellencies, I present this oral update in accordance with resolution 58/18, and I do so in my capacity as chair of the Group of Experts. The update is delivered together with and on behalf of my colleagues, Ariella Peralta Di Stefano and Reid Brody. The situation in Nicaragua has continued and continues to deteriorate. Since March, the repressive apparatus in the state has further refined its methods. Arbitrary detentions have continued as a practice. Enforced disappearance has become a deliberate instrument of control. And death in custody is a foreseeable consequence of a system that places those detained on political grounds beyond the reach of the law. On the 31st of May of this year, the authorities announced the death of Brooklyn Rivera Bryan. Mr. Rivera Brian was a Miskito leader, a former member of parliament and president of the political party Yatama. Mr. Rivera Brian was arbitrarily detained for 32 months. For the majority of that time, he was essentially forcibly disappeared. He passed away whilst in state custody. In the wake of his death, eight of his relatives and associates were arrested and disappeared after demanding the return of his remains. Your Excellencies, it is against that backdrop that today we published the document entitled "Anatomy of State Cruelty in Forced Disappearance and death in custody in Nicaragua. As a group of experts, we have verified 161 cases of enforced disappearance that have occurred in Nicaragua since April 2018. From 2023 onwards, long-term disappearances became a pattern. The victims and their identity are kept carefully off any public records. Many of these disappeared persons are elderly, with chronic illnesses, and they lack access to the necessary attention and care. And their relatives live in a state of permanent uncertainty. we have been able to map and trace back the responsible chain of command for these disappearances. The cases are not isolated events. Rather, they form part of a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population, an attack that we have documented and that constitutes prima facie crime against humanity. Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished delegates, in June of this year, we published the document Nicaragua: Repression through a Gender Lens: Women and Human Rights Violations. This document showcases multiple human rights violations to which hundreds of women have been subjected. the state has used specific forms of gender-based violence against those women who play a visible role in public and political life. We have concluded that gender-based discrimination exacerbates political persecution. Distinguished delegates, The violations documented since 2018 have systematically undermined civil and political rights in Nicaragua. Political participation and the freedoms of expression, assembly and association only exist today in theory, on paper. And in certain prominent cases, these rights do not even exist in theory anymore. This in the wake of constitutional reforms that were adopted at first reading a scant three weeks ago. Co-President Ortega's announcement two months ago that there will be no more elections in Nicaragua makes something crystal clear. This is a state that has systematically dismantled the rights upon which democracy depends, and it no longer feels the need to continue pretending to the contrary, and is prepared to be quite flagrant and open about that dismantling of democracy. Democracy is like a house and elections are the roof of that house and political rights its foundations. Without rights, without human rights, the roof cannot stand, it cannot be self-supporting. It is abundantly clear that no electoral process would meet the minimum international standards under the current conditions that prevail in Nicaragua. And it is equally abundantly clear that free and fair elections cannot be postponed indefinitely, nor can they be endlessly simulated. replaced by an endless cycle of sham elections. The roadmap ahead is clear. End in forced disappearances, release all those arbitrarily detained, and restore civic space. That is what must and should be done. At the same time, the transnational persecution of exiled Nicaraguans and their relatives who remain in Nicaragua must stop. The cases of this ilk that we continue to document are of major concern. All of the measures that I just referred to in the roadmap are not just legal obligations, but they also need to be understood as essential conditions, a set of sine qua non for the credibility of any political system. Your Excellencies, The Government of Nicaragua continues to refuse to cooperate with this group of experts. This refusal constitutes yet another element of its deliberate policy of international isolation. The victims of rights abuses and their families deserve effective measures to end impunity and to support their demands for truth, justice, reparation and non-recurrence. Transitional justice is a challenge, and steps will need to be taken to make sure that the foundations for that transitional justice are already laid now. That cannot be put off for the future. We urge the government of Nicaragua to, firstly, immediately disclose the fate and whereabouts of all disappeared persons, of whom there are at least 30 today. Secondly, we urge the Government of Nicaragua to immediately and unconditionally release all persons deprived of their liberty on political grounds. And third, I use this opportunity on behalf of the Group of Experts to urge the Government of Nicaragua to ensure prompt, independent and effective investigations into all deaths in custody. We recommend, first.

To contribute to combating impunity through the.

Exercise of territorial or universal jurisdiction, strengthen international cooperation, and, where applicable, the recourse to the International Criminal Court.

In line with the principle of complementarity. Second, adopt and coordinate targeted sanctions against those responsible for enforced disappearances and deaths in custody. Third, considering decisions on financial engagement and preferential market access, verifiable progress.

In clarifying the fate and whereabouts of disappeared persons as well as in conducting independent investigations to determine responsibility.

Fourth,

protect Nicaraguans in exile by facilitating their regularization, monitoring reprisals against their relatives in Nicaragua,

and refraining from returning people who may be at risk, in particular journalists.

Fifth, ensure that the situation of Nicaragua remains under active consideration

at the Human Rights Council, the General Assembly, and relevant regional fora, including the Organization of American States.

Excellencies, our mandate is to investigate the facts and contribute to accountability.

We will continue to do so independently and impartially.

However,

Accountability requires action by States.

The people of Nicaragua suffer serious human rights violations.

Each enforced disappearance and death in custody underscores the urgency of action.

After almost four years of mandate, the facts are clear.

The challenge is no longer to understand the situation, but to respond to it effectively. Without respect for human rights, there can be no credible democratic progress.

More determined and coordinated actions is now imperative.

Thank you. Thank you very much, Mr. Simon, for your update. In line with our established practice, we should now hear from the delegation of the country concerned, to wit, Nicaragua. However, I note that Nicaragua's seat in the room is empty, from which I deduce that it is not their intention to participate in this dialogue. So, this concludes this interaction and I take this opportunity once again to thank the group of experts not just for being with us but for your work done on behalf of the Council. Your Excellencies, distinguished participants, we will now begin the general debate under agenda item 4. Let me remind you that requests for a right of reply will be accommodated exclusively at the end of the general debate. I would also remind all speakers to comply with the allocated speaking time, which is one and a half minutes for all. As is the practice, full statements can be uploaded on the extranet. The list of speakers under the general debate under agenda item 4 We'll close in 15 minutes. We will start with a list of members of the Council, and I begin by giving the floor to the distinguished delegation of Pakistan, who will be speaking on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the OIC. You have the floor, Pakistan.

Mr. Vice President, the OIC group reaffirms its support to the Council in promoting universal respect for all human rights. The mandate requires upholding the interdependence indivisibility and interrelatedness. Selectivity in approaches risks undermining these principles. We note with concern the continuation in perpetuity of country-specific mandates that do not enjoy the support of the country concerned. Politically driven and selective initiatives consume an outsized share of the resources and have little impact on the situation on the ground at a time when the need for greater efficiency and coherence is keenly felt. Conflicts, disputes and situation of foreign occupation lie at the root of many human rights situation of concern and must not become a blind spot for this Council. Crises around the globe are either the direct consequences of or are aggravated by the non-resolution of conflicts or disputes in a manner consistent with. international law. Yet we also see in some parts of the world that Islamophobic narrative underpin indifferences towards certain situation of armed or foreign occupation. The amplification of hateful Islamophobic expression through the misuse of social media and biases in AI system has become a factor that allow alarming human rights situation to worsen. The continued mainstreaming of Islamophobia and political discourse is therefore a grave threat to enjoyment of human rights by all and warrants this Council's attention. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor next to the distinguished delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, who will also be delivering a statement on behalf of a group of countries.

Thank you, Vice-President. Venezuela has the honor to deliver the statement on behalf of the Like-Minded Group. The Like-Minded Group reject the growing politicization of agenda item 4 of the Human Rights Council. We resolutely oppose country-specific mandates and resolutions, which are often politically motivated and have been imposed on the country against their will. This selective and discriminatory practice is a double standard and undermines and contravenes the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, non-selectivity, and non-bias, non-politicization. We are likewise deeply concerned by the proliferation of country-specific mandates without the consent of the state concerned, to which has demonstrated being ineffective, inefficient and to consume significant financial resources, which is particularly worrying given the current liquidity crisis faced by the United Nations. We'd also like to voice our concern in the light of the naming and shaming practice, which is an attempt to interfere in the sovereign affairs and domestic affairs of states, a violation of the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. Finally, we call upon the member states and observer states of the Human Rights Council, as well as call upon the OHCHR to promote constructive and respectful dialogue and genuine cooperation with all governments. in line with those governments' priorities and national realities. We also call upon the Office and the Council to strengthen the UPR process, avoiding selectivity, double standards and politicisation. Thank you very much indeed.

Thank you, says the Vice-Chair. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of the European Union, who will speak on behalf of a group of countries.

Mr. Vice President, I speak on behalf of the EU. Albania, Montenegro and Liechtenstein align themselves. We resolutely condemn Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine and the deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure. The EU condemns the structural human rights violations in Russia, intensifying state-sponsored internal repression and acts of transnational repression. Strongly condemning gross human rights violations, we urge the immediate release of all political prisoners in Belarus. The EU is gravely concerned over the situation in the OPTs and calls on Israel to allow unimpeded humanitarian assistance in Gaza. We call on Israel to reverse the expansion of settlements and to refrain from annexation and hold violent settlers accountable. Regarding Iran and Sudan, I refer to our earlier statements. We reiterate concerns about the situation in China, including in Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia and about the ethnic unity law. HRDs must be released. We urge effective cooperation with OHCHR, including towards implementation of the assessment report recommendations. We are concerned about repressive use of national security legislation in Hong Kong. We reiterate our serious concerns about deterioration in the areas of democracy, rule of law, human rights, and independence of the judiciary in Turkey. We reaffirm our unwavering support to the international criminal justice system, particularly the ICC. Our full statement is online. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Uganda, who will be speaking on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the NAM.

Mr. President, the Non-Aligned Movement reaffirms that human rights issues must be addressed within the global context through a constructive, non-confrontational, non-politicized, non-selective, and dialogue-based approach in a fair and equitable manner. We reiterate that in addressing human rights situations, this Council needs to do so with objectivity, respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states. The movement emphasizes that the Universal Periodic Review affords a platform for constructive dialogue and a platform for the Council to review the human rights situation, enhancing cooperation and a non-confrontational approach.

In this regard, the Movement expresses its deep concern over the proliferation of selective adoption

of country-specific resolutions in the Council, which is a tool that exploits

human rights for political purposes and breaches the principles of universality, objectivity and unselectivity in addressing human rights. We encourage the Council

in the discussion on human rights to give

adequate attention to the issues of poverty, underdevelopment, marginalization, climate change, digital divide, instability, foreign occupation, and illegal settlements. In conclusion, the movement calls upon members of member states of the Council to promote international cooperation and constructive dialogue and prevent occurrence of practices of double standards, selectivity, and.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to the State representative of Belarus to speak on behalf of a group of countries.

Mr. Vice President, we deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. The group attaches the utmost importance to the promotion and protection of all human rights in accordance with the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, transparency, non-selectivity, non-politicization, and non-confrontation. The group stresses the importance of respecting the principle of sovereignty and all other principles and obligations arising from the the Charter of the United Nations, including the obligation to refrain from intervening in matters which are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any state. We reiterate our categorical rejection of double standards in the field of human rights and express our deep concern at the continued and growing proliferation of mechanisms and reporting procedures that purport to carry out selective and supposedly impartial assessments of the human rights situation in certain countries without their consent. It is unacceptable to persist in imposing such interventionists and costly mechanisms on certain countries, despite their demonstrated ineffectiveness and their incompatibility with the principles of respectful and genuine dialogue that should guide the Human Rights Council. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of Bahrain to speak on behalf of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf.

Thank you, Vice President. I have the pleasure to make this statement on behalf of the states of the GCC to express our position related to the recent developments in our region. the events that give rise of concern related to the security of GCC countries and the safety of civilians. We are in favor of dialogue on international issues. This is the only way to overcome the current crisis and preserve regional security and the security of our populations. We are committed to the territorial integrity of states and their sovereignty and the respect of the international and the UN Charter, and we're opposed to any initiative that may undermine the security of countries of the region. Mr. Vice President, we strongly condemn the continued attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia carried out by terrorists against civilians and civil infrastructure using drones and missiles, especially the most recent attempt to target with a drone of Mecca. This is a violation of the security of the sacred sites. This is a provocation. related to the emotions of Muslims throughout the region, undermining the stability and security in the region.

Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of the United Kingdom on behalf of group of countries.

Vice President. I deliver this statement on behalf of a group of 11 countries that remain firmly committed to the two-state solution in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the New York Declaration as the only credible path to a just and lasting peace, security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians. Israeli settlements are illegal under international law and constitute a serious obstacle to peace. Continued settlement expansion, the establishment of new outposts, land seizures and rising settler violence further threaten the viability of a future Palestinian state. With the rapidly deteriorating situation on the ground, we have taken new measures, supported by European restrictions, or are actively considering measures to defend the viability of the two-state solution, including restrictions targeting settlement activity and those who support, facilitate or profit from it. We call on Israel immediately to fully comply with its obligations under international law, halt settlement expansion, prevent and punish settler violence, and investigate allegations against Israeli forces. We also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Israel's security and our condemnation of terrorism, including the Hamas terror attacks on 7 October. We will continue to work to uphold international law and protect the two-state solution. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative Arec on behalf of a group of countries.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Preserve human dignity is duty related to human rights. We condemn the violation of fundamental freedoms and human rights wherever this takes place. We stress the rights of everyone to have access to all rights without any discrimination. We are concerned with the politicization here in the Council, and we reject practices that will move the Council away from its reason for existence, the protection and promotion of human rights. We insist on the need for the Council to preserve the principles of objectivity and non-politization and double standards. That should be avoided. And we regret the approach of double standards that is presented by some countries for example in connection with Palestine all countries should be treated on an equal footing we have to move away from these double standards and politization under agenda item four or any other agenda item of the council we urge member states and the office of the High Commissioner and mandate holders to deal with human rights issues in a constructive manner with a view of promoting and protecting human rights of all countries based on their particular needs. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished representative of Kenya on behalf of the African

Mr. President, The African Group recalls the inalienable right to self-determination and the heroic struggles of our peoples for independence, dignity, and economic emancipation. Our resolve to promote and protect human and people's rights predates multilateral fora, and our countries remain committed to strengthening rights and freedoms in line with the UN Charter. Human rights and fundamental freedoms must be respected for all, everywhere, without distinction of race, colour, sex, language, religion, opinion, origin, property, birth or status. In today's global challenges, the African Group reaffirms the importance of multilateralism that fosters dialogue and trust, including within the Human Rights Council. As General Assembly resolution 62/51 makes clear, the promotion of human rights must rest on cooperation and genuine dialogue aimed at strengthening States' capacity to meet obligations. Regrettably, politicization in the Council undermines our common goals. It is too often

used for political objectives.

The African Group stresses the Council must function cooperatively, non-confrontationally and objectively while giving due attention to African priorities and initiatives. We call on all states to promote solidarity and cooperation, focus on technical assistance and capacity building, and avoid selectivity and double standards. The principle of universality, objectivity, and impartiality must be upheld alongside respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the primary responsibility of states.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of Saudi Arabia on behalf of a group of countries. I have the honor to deliver

the statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of states drawing attention to the dire humanitarian and human rights situation facing seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. We are deeply concerned by their prolonged exposure to insecurity and difficult living conditions, attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran on civilian vessels have resulted in seafarer death and injuries, while many face uncertainty over access to food, water, fuel, medicines, and medical care. Recalling Human Rights Council resolution 56/18, we underscore that seafarers are workers who need special protection and bear no responsibility for the circumstances they currently face. Their lives, health, safety, and dignity must be protected in accordance with international law. We welcome efforts by all stakeholders to this end and particularly commend the life-saving initiatives carried out so far by some States in the Arabian Gulf through their port and maritime authorities, including search and rescue, vital supplies and medical assistance, administrative flexibility and facilitation of crew changes. In conclusion, we call for the protection of seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz, which remains inseparable from the safe and unhindered maritime navigation in accordance with the international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Republic of Korea is gravely concerned about the human rights situation in many parts of the world, where protracted armed conflict, an intensifying global climate crisis, and the disregard for international law are posing unprecedented threat to the universal value of human rights. Regarding Belarus, we remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation and the continuing prosecution of its people, including human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society representatives. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained and urge the authorities to fully cooperate with OHCHR and all relevant UN special procedures. With regard to Burundi, while we acknowledge the improvement in specific indicators such as school enrollment and Burundi press freedom ranking, we remain concerned over reports that torture, arbitrary arrest, and detention are being used as instruments of political repression, and that the fear of reprisal continues to suppress independent reporting and testimony of these violations. Finally, We note some positive developments in Venezuela, including the resumption of cooperation and dialogue with OHCHR, the recent release of persons arbitrarily detained. We encourage the Government to build on this progress and pursue genuine institutional reform that strengthens the rule of law and brings an end to the culture of fear. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran continues to decline. Iceland is deeply concerned by the escalation in the use of lethal force and mass arrest to suppress protests. We further call on all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and human rights law. In Russia, the continued crackdown on civil society is of serious concern. We urge Russia to cease its violations of freedom of opinion and expression and its dismantling of all forms of independent civic activity and political opposition. Iceland further reiterates its condemnation in the strongest possible terms of Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. In Afghanistan, the Taliban's institutionalized and systematic repression of women and girls is intensifying. Iceland supports Afghan women in calling for the codification of the crime of gender apartheid in international law. The situation in the West Bank is deteriorating with unprecedented levels of settler violence and settlement expansions are undermining the possibility of two-state solution. Iceland yet again calls on Israel to comply with its obligation under international law. Iceland remains concerned about the targeting of CSOs and human rights defenders in Turkey and calls for respect for the human rights of everyone, including LGBTQI+ persons. In closing, Iceland refers to Nordic-Baltic statements made under item 4. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Switzerland.

Mr. Vice-President, Switzerland is concerned by the growing and institutionalized repression of rights and fundamental freedoms in Afghanistan, especially for women and girls. The decree on separation of spouses did not establish any minimal age for marriage, legitimizing in this way child marriage that is early and forced. We urge Afghanistan to combat impunity of perpetrators, guarantee the rights of women and girls during the dissolution of marriage. Switzerland expressed its concerns about the consequences of a new law on ethnic unity in progress in China. Implemented in the current form, it will seriously undermine linguistic, cultural, and religious autonomy of ethnic minorities, especially Tibetans, Uyghurs, and *******. Switzerland deplores the continued deterioration of the human rights situation in Libya and strongly condemns recent executions. We urge the authorities to guarantee the right to fair trial and judicial guarantees, and also guarantee the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Switzerland remains seriously concerned with the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories and condemns settler violence, confiscation of land, industrialization, destruction, expulsions, and forced displacements. We urge Israel to respect its obligations under international law, especially put an end to the illegal occupation of occupied Palestinian territories and hold those responsible for crimes accountable. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Estonia.

Mr Vice-President, Estonia aligns with the EU statement. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine continues with dramatic increase of long-range missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilians. inflicting widespread damage on critical civilian infrastructure and also impacting global food security. July marked a month with the highest number of civilians killed since May 2022. Thousands of Ukrainian civilians remain in Russian detention, facing torture, enforced disappearance, sexual and gender-based violence and death in custody. The systematic deportation of forcible transfer of Ukrainian children, coupled with attempts to erase their Ukrainian identity, is a grave violation of international law. Within Russia, the Kremlin has criminalized dissent and dismantled civil society. At the state duma elections held last weekend, all those opposed to Russia's illegal war of aggression were sidelined by extensive misuse of administrative and judicial measures and procedures. Estonia also condemns the illegal organization of so-called elections in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. In Belarus, repression targets political opponents, journalists, and human rights defenders through arbitrary detention, prosecution, and ill-treatment, extending beyond borders. Released political prisoners are forcibly deported without official pardoning, their passports are invalidated, and they are sentenced in absentia. With regard to other serious human rights situations, I refer to Nordic-Baltic States.

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

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Russia continues to commit mass violations of human rights in the context of its war of aggression against Ukraine. The whole set of International law, international humanitarian laws should be respected, and we express our solidarity. And the human rights situation in Russia also is concerned. Over the last year, Russian authorities increased their repressions and banning the only country opposed to the war in Belarus. The repression continues against dissidents and civil society in the country and in exile. France urges the authorities of Belarus and Russia respect international obligations in the area of guarantees of fundamental freedoms and fundamental rights, and free all political prisoners. We express our serious concerns related to deterioration of the situation in Palestine, the continued of colonization in the West Bank, and the continued humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The continued attacks of Israel against Palestinians forced France to join the UK initiative. The two-state solution is the only one that can lead to lasting peace, with two democratic states living side by side within safe and recognized borders. France condemns the generalized violations of IHL committed by all parties in the conflict in Sudan and calls upon all sides to guarantee the safety of civilians. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Cyprus.

Mr. Vice President, Cyprus aligns itself with the European Union statement. We attach particular importance to accountability, prevention, and the effective protection of civilians. These principles must remain central to our efforts. In Ukraine, Russia's ongoing aggression continues to result in grave violations of human rights, with civilians bearing the consequences. In Sudan, civilians remain exposed to violence, displacement, and severe humanitarian suffering. In Venezuela, the protection of civic space, democratic institutions, and human rights must remain a priority. At the same time, accountability for violations committed within and beyond Belarus' borders remains essential. With regard to Turkey, Cyprus deplores continued democratic backsliding and stresses the importance of ensuring human rights, fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, judicial independence, democratic institutions, and an enabling environment for civil society and human rights defenders. We expect Turkey to uphold its international human rights and humanitarian obligations, including in areas under its military occupation and effective control. cooperate fully with international and regional human rights mechanisms and implement all European Court of Human Rights judgments, including those pertaining to Cyprus. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of the Netherlands.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We strongly condemn Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and its systematic grave human rights violations, including in the temporarily occupied territories. Russia must cease its aggression, withdraw all military forces, stop attacks on civilian infrastructure, release unlawfully detained civilians and prisoners of war, and ensure return of all forcibly transferred persons, especially children. We strongly condemn the widespread violations of international law committed in Sudan and remain committed to securing justice. We are concerned about differentiated harm inflicted on women and girls and continued use of conflict-related sexual violence as a weapon of war. We call on external networks fueling the war in Sudan to immediately stop their support. We condemn all violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territory by all parties, and remain gravely concerned by the devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, growing settler violence in the West Bank, and expansion of settlements. We reiterate that Hamas must disarm immediately and cannot play a role in the future of Gaza. We call upon Israel to immediately allow unhindered and safe humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip and end its expansion of settlements in the West Bank. We remain committed to the two-state solution. We call on China to implement UPR Treaty Body and Xinjiang report recommendations. The Promoting Ethnic Unity Law raises concerns about further curbing of rights. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Chile.

Muchas gracias, Senor Vice-Presidente. We affirm our full support for the Council's accountability mechanisms.

Accountability and the fight against impunity lie at the core of the Human Rights Council mandate. With reference to our statements on Ukraine during this Council meeting,

we call for a swift end to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and a just, stable and sustainable peace.

We are alarmed by the widespread violations of human rights in Sudan. We urge all external actors of the conflict to stop fueling it and to support the work of the fact-finding mission.

In Afghanistan, we are particularly concerned that girls are denied education and excluded from public life, while the dismantling of child protection mechanisms leaves them increasingly exposed to abuse. We further call for the immediate release of all political prisoners and persons arbitrarily detained in Cuba, including Felix Navarro Rodriguez, and stress the importance of international scrutiny of the human rights situation.

We call on China to implement the OHCHR's recommendation and ensure respect for human rights of all the people of China, including all religious and ethnic groups. Regarding other situations, including in Belarus and Russia, we refer to our statements

during the respective dialogue. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to distinguished uh, vice ambassador of Spain.

Thank you very much. Spain aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union, and we reaffirm our commitment to international legality. For that reason, we condemn the systemic violation of human rights in occupied Palestinian territories and urge Israel to reverse the measures to de facto annex Palestinian territory to comply with international law. A two-state solution remains the only way forward. Spain condemns Russia's illegal aggression against Ukraine, reaffirms support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity. We We condemn and urge Russia to stop the illegal displacement of children. We call for negotiation as the only way to escalate in the Middle East. We demand that Iran respect fundamental rights and put an end to repression against women, girls, and minorities, and also the systemic violations of rights of women in Afghanistan. Spain repudiates the atrocities committed in Sudan, including the use of hunger and sexual violence. as well as ethnic violence which shows signs of genocide. We urge real accountability in Ethiopia for the killing of doctors and aid workers. We regret the authoritarian drift in Nicaragua and dismantling of the rule of law. We condemn the repression of dissent, demand release of political prisoners, and end to deprivation of nationality and seizure of property. Thank you.

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

Thank you very much, Vice President. Chile, I'd like to use this opportunity to thank the update by the Group of Experts on Nicaragua. We received with concern the information about forced displacement as a means to suppress human rights and the Mosquito Law. We are especially concerned with the conclusion that these facts is prima facie represents crime against humanity. that also in which the highest levels of government are involved. Mr. President, my delegation sees was concerned that while the situation in Nicaragua is aggravates, the attention paid by the Council is diminutions. The 33 countries took the floor in 2025. This year, 17. This is one of the objectives of the group of experts in the face of the deterioration of the situation, the response of this Council should not be a lack of attention. We need to continue international vigilance. This is one of the remaining guarantees to ensure the safety of the populations. We have to raise our voice and communicate with the group, and we cannot let a situation of silence prevail. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Japan remains deeply concerned about the serious human rights violations across the world. Regarding Russia's aggression against Ukraine, we once again call on the Russian Federation to fulfill all its obligations under international human rights law. We have witnessed a number of serious human rights violations by Russia, including abduction of children. We urge Russia to repatriate all abducted children to reunite them with their loved ones immediately. On China, Japan is concerned about the recent trend of tightening restrictions on human rights defenders, intellectuals, and other individuals. Freedom, respect for fundamental human rights, and the rule of law must be ensured in China, including Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Tibet. We strongly urge China to take further constructive and concrete actions, including enhancing transparency. The issue of abductions by North Korea relates to the sanctity of human life and must be resolved without delay as the abductees and their families continue to age. In close cooperation with the international community, including through the resolution on the situation of human rights in the DPRK, Japan continues to strongly urge Pyongyang to resolve the abduction issues immediately. Given the High Commissioner's statement that the situation surrounding North Korea remains firmly on the agenda, Japan counts on the international community's cooperation in resolving the abduction issue. I thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, it has been a consistent and unwavering position that the Council must remain free from politicization and polarization. That objective continues to elude us. As we renew our call for a more constructive, non-confrontational and objective discourse, we would invite the Council's attention to its core mandate, the promotion and protection of the human rights of all. We reiterate that enhancing State capacities through technical assistance and capacity building, undertaken with the consent of the country concerned,

together with the effective

implementation of accepted recommendations under the Universal Periodic Review, represents the most productive path available to this Council. The continued proliferation of country-specific mandates has not, in our assessment, advanced the objectives of this agenda item. A selective focus on the situations in a few countries takes away from the council's time and diverts attention from the range of pressing challenges that the world continues to confront, such as terrorism, conflict and the lack of development. We therefore urge that the principles of fairness, objectivity and impartiality be reflected not only in the council's words but in its actions.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. We give special importance to the international system of human rights and to the role played by the Council. The Council should implement its mandate in line with the agreements reached. This is a very delicate balance that should be respected. States should preserve the principles of objectivity, non-partisanship, far from any politization and double standards. We have to use dialogue and cooperation. We need to keep that in mind when we create new mandates or continue existing mandates and have the agreement of the country concerned. We should provide technical assistance and build capacities. in order to respond to the needs of countries. And we believe that we have to rationalize the resources available to the Council in light of the liquidity crisis. We should avoid the duplication of mandates in order to ensure that the Council can play its role and implement its mandate without wasting the resources and efforts. thank you

I give the floor distinguished delegation of Ethiopia

thank you Mr Vice President Ethiopia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights both nationally and globally we underscore the work of this Council must be guided by the principles of objective non-selectivity, and non-politization. Any deviation from these principles risks undermining the credibility and effectiveness of the Council. It also underscores that the promotion and protection of human rights require genuine dialogue, cooperation, full respect for national sovereignty, and country-led approaches grounded in national ownership. To this end, mechanisms established without the consent of the concerned states risk as being under counterproductive, undermine trust and compromise the council's credibility. Ethiopia acknowledges that lasting human rights progress cannot be achieved in isolation from development, peace, and security. We emphasize the importance of technical assistance and capacity building in strengthening national mechanisms and advancing the implementation of Universal Periodic Review recommendations. In closing, Ethiopia reaffirms the value of multilateral cooperation and the importance of strengthening national and regional mechanisms that advance sustainable peace development and the protection of human rights. I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Indonesia.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Indonesia remains concerned with the escalating use of the Council platform to advance geopolitical interests, selective naming and shaming, and entrenched.

Double standards under the pretext of advancing protection of human rights. Such practices risk eroding this Council's foundational credibility and deepen division, the very problems that impelled the reform of the former Commission on Human Rights in the first place. Scrutiny under this agenda item should serve as a catalyst for meaningful progress, not an end in itself.

True impartiality mandate the consistent application of objectivity, universality and non-selectivity, the very condition that enable meaningful engagement from the countries concerned.

Scrutiny must not disproportionately burden developing nations already struggling to deliver essential services and decent life for their people. The Council must therefore systematically assess whether existing mechanisms are fulfilling their mandate and consider recalibrating its focus and resources toward technical assistance and capacity building.

Sustainable progress cannot be coerced.

National mechanisms remain the primary tool for protection and remedy. We therefore call upon our Member States to embrace constructive dialogue and genuine cooperation and to ensure limited resources yield tangible, lasting results. I thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the Distinguished Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. This Council must continue to address grave country situations. In Iran in January, thousands of peaceful protesters were brutally killed in the streets by Iranian security forces. At least 30 protesters have since been executed. Many more remain on death row. Reports of torture and ill treatment of detainees, including women, ethnic minorities and religious communities such as the Baha'i and Christians, are deeply concerning. We fully support accountabilities for these heinous acts. In Hong Kong, the recent convictions of the leaders of the Hong Kong Alliance and Joshua Wong are further examples of how the national security law is being used to target individuals for political expression and participation. We call again for this Beijing-imposed law to be repealed and for the release of Jimmy Lai. We urge China to uphold its international commitments. And finally, the UK is alarmed by the deteriorating situation in Palestine. In Gaza, the basic humanitarian needs remain unmet. In the West Bank, the settlement expansion and settler violence is undermining the viability of a two-state solution. The UK has taken recent steps to address this priority. We call on all parties to uphold international law, protect civilians, and facilitate humanitarian access. We also condemn abuses by Hamas and other non-state actors.

Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of China.

Mr. Vice President, this year marks 20th anniversary of the Council. All sides should take the opportunity to revise original aspiration of protecting human rights, conduct dialogue, cooperation on an equal footing, deliver tangible results to advancing human rights cause. Regrettably, human rights are increasingly politicized, instrumentalized, plagued by double standards. Some countries readily engage block confrontation, naming and shaming, political pressure in the Council, while human rights issues that truly deserve attention fail to receive adequate focus. EU, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Japan, UK, based on false information, hyped-up information on China, Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong, and other legislation of China, and smear and attack China, China firmly opposed, will never accept such allegations. We urge these countries examine the long historical crimes of colonialism, racism, and Japanese militarism, the legacies, and also racial discrimination and other violations, and to Reflect on their own and the allies' disregard for health, excessive use of force in law enforcement, arbitrary enforcement, human rights abuse. Take concrete action to promote and protect human rights. China will continue to stand firmly on the right side of history, uphold true multilateralism, implement the global governance initiative, and make efforts to contribute to the sound development of global international. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. Human rights situations requiring this Council's attention are best addressed through dialogue and constructive engagement, but situations of protracted foreign occupation are the real test of that approach. When this Council fails to act on such situations, impunity is entrenched. Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir is one such situation. After nearly eight decades of occupation, India continues to flout international law, defy UN Security Council resolutions, and violate IHL, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, with respect to the territory of Jammu and Kashmir it has occupied. India's settlers colonial project in the occupied Jammu and Kashmir is accelerating with 4.2 million fake domiciles, land seizures, gated colonies, temple constructions, and liquor shops, demographic reengineering underway in the territory can be a prelude to ethnic cleansing. To cement India's illegal occupation, over 900,000 Indian troops continue to violate every right of the Kashmiri people, starting from their inalienable right to self-determination. Avenues of remedy have been foreclosed with draconian laws and a pliant judiciary. The human rights situation in the occupied Jammu and Kashmir meets every objective criteria for consideration by this Council. We therefore urge the Council to consider the human rights situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and establish a committee commission of inquiry as the OHCHR reports have recommended. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of Cuba.

Thank you very much indeed, Vice President. One part of the world is looking to the other side when the horrors of genocide are being unleashed in Gaza, sweeping it under the carpet. We all need to accept our responsibility for the terrible consequences of indifference and silence that have been the characteristic of far too many. The United States claims, or is it rather intending, that Cuba will be a second silent Gaza, we're being subjected to a silent genocide. The deliberate purpose of this second silent genocide in Cuba is to completely asphyxiate Cuban families and our society. They intend to bring about a humanitarian tragedy in Cuba in order to destabilize our country and to achieve their own political objectives in so doing. They have imposed a brutal energy blockade on Cuba. The lack of fuel has had a demoralizing impact on the Cuban society. Sophisticated means of asphyxiating our country and economy deployed by the United States over the last few months. add to the pressure that they've already brought to bear upon us for decades now. As a result of this collective punishment that we're the victim of, the Cuban people are suffering incalculable humanitarian damage. And all of this is happening under the absurd pretext that our small island is a threat to the national security of the world's nuclear superpower. We urge for an immediate end to this cruel policy which violates the human rights of the Cuban people. Thank you very much.

Thank you, says the Vice-President. The next speaker on my list is the distinguished representative of Kuwait.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. My delegation would like to align itself with the statements by the groups to which we belong. The region is witnessing an accelerated escalation politically and militarily speaking, which affects directly the security of the region and the safe navigation therein. We stress that political dialogue and the political solutions are the two main foundations to solve international conflicts and to achieve sustainable stability within countries. We stress the importance of respecting the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of states, and to abide by the international law principles, as well as the UN Charter, and to avoid any steps that would increase tension and to subject the stability and security of the region to further risks. We express our strong condemnation of the ongoing aggressions on the Kingdom of Arabia by the Houthi militias that affect civilians and civilian infrastructure. This is a cowardly act that's an aggression on the sanctity of the worshiping sites for Muslims and under statement of its religious status. We stress the importance of...

Thank you. I give the floor to the.

Gracias. The Vice President. the growing structural imbalance within this Council. According to reports, nearly 60% of resources are directed toward the mechanisms under items 2 and 4, severely compromising the Council's core preventive mandate. When item 3 and 9 receives a fraction of this support, and item 10 receives less than 10% of funding, we fail the most vulnerable. This distortion impairs our ability to prevent human rights violations before they occur and suffocates the critical capacity building that enables civil society organizations to thrive. A human rights system focused primarily on reactive scrutiny rather than constructive engagement erodes its own foundations. We must aim instead for investment in technical assistance, capacity building, and civil society empowerment. Moreover, this financial concentration under item 4 heightens the risk of politicization within the Council. Selective scrutiny undermines the universality of human rights, deepens geopolitical polarization, and erodes trust among member states. We must restore a truly holistic approach, one that prioritizes prevention and supports civil society. I thank you.

Thank you. I had forgotten to say that the list of speakers is formally closed, as was intended, 15 minutes after we began our debate under agenda item 4. Apologies for not flagging that in due course. With that, we have ended the list of speakers who are members of the Council, and we shall now proceed with the list of observers of the Council, and I begin by giving the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Australia reaffirms its steadfast support for Ukraine and calls on Russia to end its war of aggression and to fully comply with its international obligations. We continue to unequivocally condemn Iran and Afghanistan's brutal oppression of their people, including persecution of women and girls and targeting of minorities and activists. In the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, we continue to see widespread human rights violations, aided by technological advances. Australia remains gravely concerned about the human rights situation in Gaza. We repeat calls for the protection of civilians, including aid workers, and for unimpeded humanitarian access. In the West Bank, we reiterate calls on Israel to take immediate action to uphold human rights. end impunity for settler violence, and cease illegal settlement expansion. The people of Myanmar continue to endure human rights abuses, escalating violence, oppression, and severe humanitarian suffering. We continue to call for the release of the thousands who remain unjustly detained. We remain gravely concerned by ongoing human rights violations against Uyghurs and Tibetans. Consistent with international law and norms, governments should not interfere in the selection of religious leaders, including the Dalai Lama. We are deeply concerned by the broad application of national security legislation in Hong Kong, including to target democracy advocates extraterritorially. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor next to the distinguished Ambassador of Norway.

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Journalists and media workers play a key role in holding power to account and defending human rights. For this very reason, many are forced into exile. Journalists in exile increasingly face transnational repression. Many states seek to deter, silence or punish critical independent reporting across borders. This is done through acts of violence, intimidation or harassment. surveillance and cyber attacks, as well as pressure on relatives directly or by proxy. We are deeply concerned by Russia's targeting of journalists abroad. Reports document surveillance, cyber attacks, intimidation and violent plots, as well as misuse of domestic legislation. Iranian authorities persecute exiled media and journalists through threats of violence, hacking, surveillance and infiltration. Similar patterns of transnational repression have been reported in several states, among them Belarus, China, Egypt, Nicaragua, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan and Turkey. Norway calls on all states to protect journalists in exile, investigate threats and attacks, and hold perpetrators to account. States must take effective measures to prevent and respond to transnational repression. Thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, in an increasingly fragile international environment, respect for human rights and humanitarian principles remains essential to the creation of conditions conducive.

To sustainable peace, security and stability.

Humanitarian issues that persist after the cessation of hostilities require sustained attention.

In this context, the continued detention of 19 Armenians is an important humanitarian issue. Their release would contribute to strengthening peace, building trust and confidence, as well as advancing reconciliation. The unresolved fate of missing persons and cases of enforced disappearance likewise remain a profound humanitarian issue. Families have the right to know the fate and whereabouts of their loved ones.

Armenia stands ready for constructive engagement and practical cooperation to advance the resolution of these outstanding humanitarian issues. Mr. President, the protection and preservation of cultural and religious heritage in territories affected by conflict also require continued attention. Respect for cultural heritage and cultural rights can contribute to reconciliation and mutual understanding.

Cultural and religious heritage constitutes a shared legacy of humanity and must be protected and preserved for future generations. Respect for international human rights law and international humanitarian law must remain at the core of our collective efforts and of the work of this Council. Thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, Finland aligns itself with the EU statement. Finland strongly condemns Russia's systematic violations of international human rights and humanitarian law in Ukraine. Ukrainians continue to suffer torture, the forced deportation of children, and unlawful civilian detention. Russia has also held parliamentary elections in illegally occupied Ukrainian territories. In Russia, repression is intensifying through increased torture and the misuse of security-related charges to silence dissent and target minorities. We are also deeply concerned about the ongoing repression in Belarus and call for the release of all political prisoners. In the Middle East, lasting peace requires diplomacy and readiness to negotiate. Finland condemns Iran's indiscriminate strikes. International law needs to be respected at all times and civilians protected everywhere. We urge Israel to halt the continued settlement expansion and call for swift implementation of the Gaza peace plan and unhindered humanitarian access. Afghanistan under the Taliban remains among the world's most repressive countries, with the rights of women and girls particularly repressed. In Sudan, resolving the conflict requires restraint by external actors. Finland remains concerned about the erosion of civil and political rights in Xinjiang and Tibet, as well as restrictions in Hong Kong. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of Sweden.

Mr. Vice President.

The EU and the Nordic-Baltic countries have raised human rights concerns which Sweden shares, including regarding Afghanistan, Myanmar and Sudan. Sweden condemns Russia's continued war of aggression and its deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. We demand full accountability for Russia's violations of international law. Those responsible must be held accountable. We also remain deeply concerned about the escalating repression in Russia. We urge Russia to cooperate fully with UN human rights mechanisms. We strongly condemn Belarus' support to Russia's aggression against Ukraine and internal repression. The situation in Gaza remains appalling. Israel must live up to its obligations to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and reverse its settlement policy and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. In Gaza, Hamas must disarm and Israeli forces withdraw. In Iran, the situation is deeply concerning. The violent repression of peaceful protesters and the increasing use of the death penalty is alarming. We also remain seriously concerned about the situation in China, not least in Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang. We urge China to implement the recommendations from the UPR, the OHCHR report on Xinjiang, and special procedures. And finally, we demand the release of those arbitrarily detained in several countries. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Lithuania.

Thank you, Mr. President. We unequivocally condemn Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, which continues with near-constant air attacks against innocent civilians and civilian infrastructure. In July and August, the UN recorded the highest casualties since 2022. It constitutes a systematic assault on human dignity and an overt violation of the UN Charter. Russia's war of aggression is inseparable from transnational repression and mass human rights violations at home. We are concerned about the complete crackdown on civil society, human rights defenders, LGBTI persons, indigenous activists, lawyers, journalists, independent media, and political opposition, and by misuse of foreign agent and extremist designation. Belarus, which is complicit in Russia's aggression, has weaponized its judicial system to target any form of dissent. We call for release and safe rehabilitation of political prisoners and urge Belarus to halt transnational repression, the instrumentalization of migrants, and persecution of human rights defenders and civil society. Continuous suppression of civil society, media, and political opposition by the current Georgian government is also of our concern. Lithuania is alarmed by the continuation of systematic repression and gender persecution in Iran, Afghanistan, and sexual violence that continues with impunity in Sudan, inflicting suffering on already vulnerable populations. We condemn torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment and punishment, and call for release of all arbitrarily detained in Cuba. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Canada.

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President. A series of human rights situations require this Council's urgent attention.

In Lebanon, Canada echoes concerns raised by UN experts regarding the mounting civilian toll.

Large-scale displacement, and extensive destruction of homes and civilian infrastructure resulting from Israeli military operations in densely populated areas. In Palestine, extremist settler violence and settlement expansion continue to escalate, despite firm opposition by the international community. In response to Israel's decision to advance the E1 settlement project and the broader deteriorating situation, Canada announced on September 8th that it will take steps to ban the importation of goods from settlements, while also pursuing targeted measures against settlements and those who facilitate them or profit from them.

In Yemen, renewed hostilities threaten the safety, security, and human rights of civilians, and is worsening a severe humanitarian crisis. We also call for the safe and unconditional release of 73 UN employees held by the Houthi.

Canada reiterates concerns raised by UN human rights mechanisms regarding the use of national security legislation to target individuals for political expression and participation in Hong Kong and is troubled by recent verdicts. The Commission of Inquiry found that Russian authorities committed crimes against humanity through the deportation, forcible transfer, and enforced disappearances of Ukrainian children. We call for their return. We share the Special Rapporteur's concern regarding the intensifying repression in Russia, including the misuse of national security laws and arbitrary detention.

Thank you. Thank you. I give the floor to the Distinguished Ambassador of Ireland.

Thank you, Vice-President. Ireland aligns with the EU statement. Ireland condemns all violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, wherever they occur. We have highlighted the human rights situations in Burundi, Iran, Russia, Ukraine, and Venezuela in their respective dialogues. Ireland calls on Russia to end its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine and condemns Russia's violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We condemn the widespread and systematic human rights abuses and violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territory. Alan calls on Israel to comply with international humanitarian law and allow unimpeded access to increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, to cease all settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territory, which is illegal under international law, and to rescind its recent laws expanding the scope of the death penalty. In Sudan, perpetrators of serious human rights violations and abuses must be held accountable and brought to justice. Ireland condemns absolutely the Taliban's systematic repression of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, and calls for the immediate reversal of all laws that deny their human rights. On China, we remain concerned over restrictions on civic space in Hong Kong, the treatment of Tibetans, repression of Uyghur people in Xinjiang, and the potential impact of the new law on promoting ethnic unity and progress. Thank you.

Thank.

You. I give the floor to the Deputy Representative of Belarus.

Distinguished Mr. Vice President, the discussion on agenda item 4 demonstrates a serious imbalance in the work of the Human Rights Council, where Western countries abuse consideration of country situations in a negative context and ignore the positive developments seen in many developing countries. We condemn the West's unfounded criticism of China's national policy that is balanced and fully meets the interests of Chinese people and the state. At the same time, these countries do not resolve human rights problems at home. There's a growing number of European countries in which freedom of opinion is restricted. The media are blocked and undesirable NGOs are liquidated. In many EU countries, inequality is increasing and the income gap between the rich and the poor is growing. Ill-treatment of illegal migrants and their forced expulsion continues on the borders of European states. Special attention be given to overcrowding in prisons and also the practice of extraterritorial movement, the export of prisoners to other states. We call for an end of the practice of double standards and for all human rights issues to be considered on the principles of impartiality and universality. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of the Maldives.

Mr. Vice President, the Maldives takes note of the updates from the High Commissioner and echoes his call for the international community to confront the grave human rights violations across the globe. In Palestine, Israel's continued expansion of illegal settlements by forcibly removing Palestinians from their land threatens ongoing international efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region. With more than 1,600 incidents of settler violence across the West Bank in 2026 alone, Israel's intent is clear, to systematically erase Palestinian existence. The Modi strongly condemns the forced displacement of the Palestinian people and calls for full respect for their rights, dignity, and inalienable right to self-determination. In Myanmar, Rohingya Muslims have faced widespread violation by the military and Arakan Army. The destruction of Rohingya homes, religious sites, and healthcare infrastructure further undermines the conditions necessary for them to exercise their inalienable right to a safe, dignified, and sustainable return. Mr. Vice President, we once again reiterate our call for the protection of civilians, restoration of democracy and rule of law, and remain steadfast in solidarity with the people of Palestine and Myanmar. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Austria.

Mr. Vice President. Austria wishes to draw particular attention to some of the worst, some of the most severe situations of media repressions and threats to the safety of journalists worldwide. In the DPRK, the near total absence of independent media forms part of a much broader system of pervasive state control and repression in which independent voices have virtually no space to operate. In Russia, independent media have been systematically dismantled, while journalists and media outlets face criminal prosecution and censorship aimed at silencing critical reporting. We are equally concerned by the situation in Iran and Saudi Arabia, where journalists and media workers continue to face detention, prosecution, and severe restrictions for carrying out their work or expressing critical views. In China, extensive censorship, surveillance, and the imprisonment of journalists continue to severely restrict independent reporting and access to information, including in Hong Kong, where media freedom has been significantly curtailed. Finally, we remain deeply alarmed by the situation in the OPT, particularly Gaza, which has become the world's most dangerous environment for journalists. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, more than 200 journalists and media workers have been killed since October 2023, while international journalists continue to be denied independent access to Gaza. Austria calls on all states to protect journalists, release those arbitrarily detained, end censorship and intimidation, and ensure that journalists and media workers can operate freely, independently, and without fear of reprisals. I thank you.

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

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice-President. We would like to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to all rights based on principles of impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity. The Council was established to be a space for constructive dialogue and multilateral cooperation. However, we note the resurgence of the transfer politicization, confrontation, double standards in dealing with human rights situations. Multiple unilateral initiative without the consent of countries concerned seriously damaged the credibility of the Council and the principle of consensus. We believe that sincere interactive dialogue, capacity building, and technical assistance in line with the requests made by concerned countries are the only effective and sustainable means for supporting states in achieving their human rights obligations. No real progress in the field of human rights can be achieved without strict respect for national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the rights of peoples' self-determination in line with the UN Charter. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Belgium.

Mr. Vice.

President, Belgium aligns itself with the EU statement and refers to its interventions during dialogues on Interrelia, Iran, Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine, and Russia. As the High Commissioner expressed in his global update, conflict dynamics and diminishing respect for international law have a disastrous impact on human rights. We remain profoundly alarmed by the developments in Palestine. The settlement expansion needs to be reversed. Safe, sustained, and unhindered humanitarian access throughout Gaza must be ensured. Hamas and other armed groups must permanently disarm, while Israeli forces should withdraw, paving the way for Palestinian self-governance and a two-state solution. Cooperation with UN entities and mechanisms and other humanitarian actors is key in this pursuit. Respect for international law should equally extend to Lebanon and Syria, first and foremost their sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ceasefire agreement in Lebanon must be implemented, including the disarmament of Hezbollah. We trust that the deployment of the impartial and independent assessment mission by OHCHR will contribute to ensuring accountability. In Syria, non-interference will allow for the further stabilization of the country. We also call on the transitional government to continue working with UN mechanisms in order to facilitate an inclusive, participatory, and transparent Syrian-led democratic transition. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Malta.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Malta aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU. We remain concerned about several human rights situations around the world. In Ukraine, Russia has continued its illegal war of aggression with unabated targeting and destruction of civilian infrastructure and killing of innocent civilians. Now, well over four years since the Russian invasion, Russian violations in the temporarily occupied regions of Ukraine are well documented, also by this Council's investigative mechanisms and special procedures. We call upon the Russian Federation to immediately halt its illegal war, retreat all its forces to within its internationally recognized borders, return forcibly transferred children back to their families in Ukraine, and return all prisoners of war. We also call upon Nicaragua to re-engage with the Council and OHCHR and to take steps to fulfill its obligations under both international covenants to which it has freely subscribed, as well as all other human rights conventions which it has ratified. Citizens of Nicaragua are rights holders, and it is the obligation of the State to promote, protect and defend these rights. In conclusion, Mr. Vice President, Malta reaffirms its unequivocal support to the High Commissioner and the OHCHR, including its independence in conducting their work in defense of human rights. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Iran remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation of indigenous people, migrants, and refugees in Australia. the shrinking civic space in Germany, particularly regarding the right to peaceful assembly, including for pro-Palestinian activities and human rights defenders, and persistent discrimination, xenophobia, and Islamophobia in France, the United States, and Canada warrant the urgent attention of this Council. We are equally gravely concerned about the continuing violation of the human rights of the Palestinian people. Despite the seriousness of the situation, concrete and effective measures remain inadequate, and even certain Western states continue transferring weapons to Israel. aim the ongoing crisis. Mr. Vice President, item four remain among the cost earliest, least effective and most politicized aspect of the Council's work. Effort to enhance the Council's efficiency, effectiveness and credibility should therefore be accompanied by addressing politicized and selective scrutiny, particularly under item 4. The continued renewal of the certain country-specific mandate for more than a decade without adequate consideration of their effectiveness, added value, or tangible impact is regrettable. Maintaining selective monitoring risks over-monitoring monitoring some countries while grave violation elsewhere remain.

Thank you, Agir. The word to distinguished representative of Azerbaijan.

Thank you.

Mr. Vice President, the contamination of huge territories of Azerbaijan with landmine is one of the significant.

Challenges faced by Azerbaijan today.

My country is among the most heavily mine contaminated countries globally.

Millions of landmines and other remnants of war continue to pose.

Severe risks to civilians, hinder reconstruction and rehabilitation work, and return of IDPs. The end of war in 2020 marked the beginning of an extensive humanitarian demining in Azerbaijan. Consolidated efforts are needed now to support humanitarian mine action in Azerbaijan in areas such as financial support to demining action, mine victim assistance, including psychological support, rehabilitation, and reintegration. The need to clarify the fate and whereabouts of about 4,000 missing persons also remain a pressing humanitarian issue in Azerbaijan. My country continues to take all possible measures to bring clarity to the fate of the missing persons and bring to an end the suffering and the psychological trauma of their relatives. Sharing information on the location of mass graves and mines planted with the Azerbaijani side would significantly facilitate the search for the missing. And once again. The persons referred to by the Armenian delegation were prosecuted for crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, financing terrorism, and other offenses against the Azerbaijani population during the Armenian occupation of the internationally recognized territories of Azerbaijan.

Thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, I would like to once again draw the attention the degrading situation with the human rights in Ukraine. We've raised this question here in the Council many times on the persecution of Russian speakers in this country. For example, the representatives of the Ombudsman on the protection of language, together with the language ombudsman, not only not deny that they continue to persecute their Russian-speaking co-citizens, but present glamorous reports about all of this work. Special attention is given to the education sphere, the beginning of the school year's instructions for teachers related to the use of state languages in the educational process. Today, Ukrainian is mandatory not only during lessons, but during all types of interaction between teachers pupils and their parents. The non-use of Ukrainian language leads to fines that exceed three times the living minimum. Also, the situation of great concern in the health sphere. Patients that even require extreme medical assistance must be able to speak Ukrainian. This shows that unprecedented linguistic discrimination is the basis of state policies in Ukraine. And we urge the Council to pay special attention to this problem. Thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, Germany reiterates its condemnation of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. We also condemn the constant tightening of Russia's measures of internal and transnational repression.

Russia has significantly restricted the space for media and civil society. It is not only the use of bombs and drones, but also this kind of repression that helps Russia conduct this war. That is why we will continue our support for human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society actors, both those in Russia and those in exile. We express our grave concern over the situation in the occupied.

Palestinian territories, including the continued humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as well as the expansion of illegal settlements and the settler

violence in the West Bank. We condemn any incendiary rhetoric, as well as violations of international human rights law and humanitarian law. In China, the space for freedom of speech and peaceful assembly is as restricted as ever. With great concern, we note that the law on promoting ethnic unity and progress further reinforces existing restrictions of cultural and religious freedoms, particularly in the Tibet Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. In Hong Kong, we take serious note of the eroding civil and political rights. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Denmark.

Vice President, Denmark aligns with the EU statement. We thank the High Commissioner for his work and reiterate our full support to OHCHR. We strongly condemn the atrocities committed by Russia in Ukraine in the context of its illegal war of aggression. We are concerned about the severe human rights violations in Russia, Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine and Belarus. In Iran, we condemn in the strongest terms the ongoing executions of protesters protesters and the use of death penalty, and we call on Iran to comply with its international obligations. In Gaza, despite the ceasefire, the humanitarian situation remains deeply concerning. In the West Bank, we are deeply concerned about the illegal expansion of settlements and increased settler violence. We reiterate our serious concern over the human rights situation in China, in particular in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong. We also express serious concern for the human rights situation in the DRC, Afghanistan, Myanmar, DPRK and Sudan. Finally, we reiterate the call for the release of all arbitrarily detained persons in Bahrain, including Mr. Al-Khawaja, without further delay. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Five years of the Taliban rule have resulted in a profound and systematic human rights crisis in Afghanistan, requiring the sustained attention of this Council. The continued erosion of fundamental rights and freedoms remains deeply concerning and requires a principled and consistent international response. Women and girls are systematically excluded from education, employment, healthcare, justice, and public life. Journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society actors face censorship, arbitrary detention, intimidation, and reprisals. Children face exploitation, forced marriage, and other abuses, while the institutions established to protect them are dismantled. As corporal punishment and the death penalty expand, inaction cannot be the answer of an international community that claims that uphold human dignity. We therefore call upon the Council and the international community not to accept the Taliban's grave human rights violations and to make any engagement conditional upon measurable improvements in the rights and dignity of the people of Afghanistan. We further call for sustained political and financial support for the implementation of the Independent Investigative Mechanism. The people of Afghanistan deserves our continued attention, our principled engagement and our commitment to human rights and accountability.

I thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, the government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea remains fully committed to promoting and protecting the rights and the.

Well-being of its people.

This year, we have continued to make concrete progress in improving the living standards of our people through housing construction, the development of agriculture and local economies, as well as continued advances in health, education and culture. These efforts reflect our commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of the people and advancing sustainable national development. Mr. Vice President, my delegation is deeply concerned about the continued politicization of human rights by the Western countries, despite the persistence of serious human rights challenges within their.

Own societies, including discrimination against migrants and refugees, racism and xenophobia, and restrictions on the freedoms of expression.

Human rights should not be instrumentalized as a means of political pressure or confrontation. We therefore call for an end to politicization, selectivity, and double standards in the consideration of human rights issues. We urge the Western countries, especially Australia, Austria.

And Denmark, to address human rights concerns within their own societies before passing judgment on the human rights situations of others. My delegation firmly believes that the promotion and protection of human rights should be advanced through constructive dialogue and mutual respect, rather than confrontation.

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

Mr. Vice President, we live in an age of wars. Children are starved, cities are flattened, and in Gaza, a genocide has unfolded before our eyes. Amid all this, the gravest injustice will be selective scrutiny, to look away from the greatest crimes while training a microscope on chosen targets. In Gaza, those responsible must answer, and lasting peace requires an end to the occupation. Israel's aggression has spread across the region. Its continued attacks on Lebanon and its strikes on Syrian territory must stop. Closer to this chamber, the European Union's own Fundamental Rights Agency and Parliament document democratic backsliding, shrinking civic space and rising hatred against Muslims within the Union. Judgments of the European Court of Human Rights bind all the parties equally. Those who scrutinize others would do well to look inward. Against this background, we consider all references directed at Turkey null and void. It is a right as well as an obligation for everyone, when necessary, to account for and present defense before the judiciary. The principle of preventing discrimination does not confer the right on certain individuals and organizations to be exempt from investigations and judicial proceedings in the event that they are involved in a crime. Turkey remains a democratic state under the rule of law, open to genuine dialogue, not to selective scrutiny. Thank you.

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

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Several states in their presentations under agenda item 4 mentioned my country, my country that is involved in a war by a militia supported by those who we know about. All countries should assume their responsibilities. in connection with the operations of these militia and those who support them. We have shown that we have achieved progress in the Council and other organizations. Now, one should not condemn those that are involved in violations, Mr. Vice President. Sudanese institutions respect their constitutional obligations. and we're combating the violations committed by the militia. We're in favor of stability. Multilateralism is important, just like the role of the United Nations. And this applies to different conflicts throughout the world. We support the territorial integrity of China, and we praise the role played by China to support international peace and security. The promotion of human rights means that all human rights should be respected in order to ensure life and dignity for everyone. This Council is a forum for dialogue in line with the resolution that established the Council. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Saudi Arabia.

Mr. Vice President, we condemn strongly the violations committed by Israel against the Palestinian people. It is important to stop the fighting, destruction, and forced displacement, where we see civilians as the main victims. The destruction of the infrastructure leads to the worsening of the humanitarian situation. The International Committee should assume its responsibility to put an end to these crimes. We see that hatred is increasing in different societies as a result of racism and discrimination based on religion, race, and gender. The international community has to see how it can deal with these growing phenomenon. We're concerned with the growing rise of racism and xenophobia. For example, we have examples from Belgium and Austria. We believe that we should continue our efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and racism. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the delegation of Eritrea, but I do not believe they are in the room.

The Council's current practice increasingly raises questions about consistency in how its work is prioritized. Requests for new activities under thematic mandates, particularly those with a developmental focus, frequently encounter obstacles, with the Organization's liquidity situation cited as a reason to scale back, delay, or at times discontinue them. We fully acknowledge that the financial constraints facing the Organization must be taken seriously. Our opposition, however, to country-specific mandates does not depend on the organization's financial situation. We oppose these mandates on principle and question the necessity and utility of such mechanisms on substantive grounds, irrespective of their cost. At the same time, it is difficult not to note the repeated references to financial constraints when discussing development-oriented mandates. by country-specific mechanisms with significant financial implications continue to be created, renewed, or expanded, in some cases at a cost of millions. The Council must apply greater consistency, transparency, and equal consideration in determining its priorities and allocating its limited resources. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Georgia.

Mr. Vice President, continued disregard for international humanitarian law and systemic human rights violations represent serious threats to international peace, security and human dignity. The human rights and humanitarian situation in Georgia's Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions illegally occupied by the Russian Federation remains deeply concerning. People continue to face arbitrary detention, torture and ill treatment, violations of the rights to life and health, restrictions on freedom of movement, ethnic discrimination, and denial of education in the native language. Judgments of the European Court of Human Rights and the proceedings of the International Criminal Court have established Russia's responsibility for grave violations in the context of Hundreds of thousands of people also remain displaced, while their right to return in safety and dignity continues to be denied. Against this background, Russia continues to prevent OHCHR and other international human rights mechanisms from accessing the occupied regions, obstructing independent monitoring and accountability. We remain deeply concerned by Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and its devastating impact on civilians. Georgia supports international efforts to document violations and and ensure accountability. Regarding Nicaragua, my delegation has already expressed its concerns. Thank you.

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

Mr. Vice President, South Sudan aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the African.

Group and the Non-Aligned Movement.

We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights.

However, we reiterate that this Council can only fulfill its mandate effectively when its actions are grounded in the principle of universality, impartiality, non-selectivity, non-politicization.

And non-interference in internal affairs of sovereign states.

The persistent trend of targeted.

Politically motivated mechanisms and establishment of country-specific mandates without explicit concerns of countries concerned undermine the fundamental spirit of constructive dialogue and international solidarity.

South Sudan firmly believes that the most sustainable path.

To strengthening national human rights institutions and capacities worldwide are constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and international cooperation. South Sudan reaffirms its unwavering support to the One China principle and rejects any interference in China's internal affairs.

In conclusion, we call.

Upon the Human Rights Council to uphold its founding principles and to support, in collaboration with the international community, countries facing human rights complex situations, including my country, South Sudan, through technical assistance and capacity building aligned with their specific national priorities. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Ukraine.

Mr. President, we thank the OHCHR and UN special procedures for continued monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation requiring the Council's attention. Taken together, their findings reveal a disturbing pattern.

The systemic, systematic repression of dissent, persecution of political opponents and civil society, restrictions of fundamental freedoms, and the use of state institutions to sustain repression and shield perpetrators from accountability.

The situation in the Russian Federation demonstrates where such policies can ultimately lead. We are particularly alarmed by the growing militarization of Russian.

Society, including through education and the indoctrination of children, normalizing war and violence from the early age.

Equally appalling are the findings concerning the participation of health professionals in torture.

And ill-treatment, turning those entrusted with protecting human life and dignity into accomplices to crimes.

Recent State Duma elections, including arrests of opposition leaders, also raises serious concerns about democratic processes within the country.

These patterns remind us that where accountability disappears, violators become entrenched with consequences that can extend far beyond national borders. Russia's aggression against Ukraine is a stark example.

And we urge the Russian Federation to put an end to use the Human Rights Council to spread disinformation. Thank you.

Thank you. Ukraine was the last observer state that participated in this debate. And now we turn to the list of speakers, national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations. First, I give the floor to Christian Solidarity International.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. This month marks three years since Azerbaijan conquered Nagorno-Karabakh and emptied it of its entire Armenian Christian population. To this day, Azerbaijan continues to block all 150,000 displaced Armenians from returning to their homes, in defiance of the International Court of Justice order of November 17, 2023. Azerbaijan is also unlawfully holding 20 Armenians captive for political reasons and continues to demolish Armenian heritage sites, most recently a medieval cemetery near Shushi. We are deeply concerned by the fact that this month a group of 150 diplomats took part in a tour of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnically cleansed cities, a tour in which Azerbaijani officials falsely presented medieval Armenian churches as belonging to another people group. Peace in the South Caucasus cannot be built on ethnic cleansing, politically motivated unlawful detention, and cultural destruction. We call on this Council to take meaningful measures to ensure the safe return of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh to their homeland, with guarantees for the full enjoyment of their human rights. One practical way to do this would be by supporting the Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh mandated by the Swiss Parliament. The statement is co-sponsored by the World Evangelical Alliance and the European Center for Law and Justice. Thank you very much.

Thank you. I give the floor, rather, we give the Public Institution for Human Rights Protection video statement.

Distinguished members, like to draw your attention to continued pressure on the clergy and faithful Orthodox Church of Moldova. The Orthodox people of Moldova, organized in a church structure for more than 200 years ago, is increasingly presented in the public space as a threat because of its canonical affiliation. This is at the time when canonical identity cannot turn a believer into a person with fewer rights. We have documented cases of restrictions on the freedom of movement of the clergy, obstructions of religious travel and pilgrimage, administrative pressure on clergy and believers, as well as state interference in conflicts over Orthodox churches. These facts have already been presented to UN mechanisms and included in the materials of the fourth cycle of the UPR of the Republic of Moldova. We urge the Moldovan authorities to ensure real equality of religious organizations, stop the practice in which canonical affiliation becomes a basis for suspicion, stigmatization, or limitation of rights. We expect an attentive and timely response from relevant UN procedure. Freedom of religion also means the freedom to preserve one's religious and canonical identity without pressure of the state.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, we'll be adjourning our meeting right now. 00 PM to continue the general debate under agenda item 4, to be followed by a closed meeting in relation to the complete procedure of the Human Rights Council. I hereby close the 21st meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council.