Human Rights Council 39: Interactive Dialogue with UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria
This UK statement was delivered at the 39th session of the Human Rights Council during the Interactive Dialogue with UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria.
The Human Rights Council takes place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva
The United Kingdom reiterates its support for the important work of the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria. We are grateful for the Commission’s latest update, including its focus on internally displaced persons. The UK shares the Commission’s concerns around forced displacement, and agrees that the displaced must have the right to return voluntarily; in safety and dignity.
We note the Commission’s comments on the very difficult conditions already facing the large number of internally displaced persons in Idlib. The UK is gravely concerned about the risk of a military offensive by the Syrian authorities and Russia in Idlib, and the potential mass displacement that it could cause. Such a disaster is avoidable: all actors must respect the previously agreed ceasefire, and heed the recommendations in the Commission’s report.
We welcome the Commission’s investigation into the use of chemical weapons, and take clear note of its conclusion that Syrian authority forces or affiliated militias committed the war crime of using prohibited weapons on two occasion in Eastern Ghouta. We note the Commission’s finding that a vast body of evidence suggests that a gas cylinder containing chlorine was delivered in Douma on 7 April by helicopter, recalling that the only party to the conflict operating helicopters are the Syrian authorities.
Mr Pinheiro,
The UK shares the Commission’s concern at recent reports of death notices issued by the Syrian regime. The families of the deceased plainly deserve truth and justice. Are you planning any further written updates on deaths in detention?
Thank you.