Human Rights Council 40: Introductory statement on human rights resolution in Syria
Statement on the the Human Rights situation in the Syrian Arab Republic which remains a grave concern.
The Human Rights Council takes place in Geneva, Switzerland.
The UK has to the honour to present draft resolution L.7 on the human rights situation in the Syrian Arab Republic, on behalf of a group of states: France, Germany, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, the Netherlands, Qatar, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Mr President, the human rights situation in Syria remains of grave concern. In updating this resolution we have sought to again reflect the situation on the ground, and incorporate the most recent key findings of the Commission of Inquiry, including their findings on the human rights situation in areas recaptured by the Syrian authorities, where arbitrary detention has increased, and where legal obstacles increasingly affect displaced Syrians’ ability to return. We have strengthened the language on sexual and gender based violence, on the rights of persons with disabilities, and the need to ensure child protection. The resolution also reflects the most recent findings of the OPCW regarding the use of chemical weapons.
Many of these details would not be possible without the work of the Commission of Inquiry. Extending its mandate for a further year is essential. The adoption of this resolution will allow the Commission of Inquiry to continue the essential work of undertaking investigations, listening to the voices of the victims, with the ultimate aim of securing accountability for the crimes that have been committed.
The negotiation process for this resolution has been open and transparent. We have reflected many of the key concerns raised by states during the informal negotiation process. Once again we would like to thank member states for their constructive participation.
Mr President,
This text should be adopted without a vote being called. As we have said before, this resolution should enjoy the support of all at this Council. We urge all member states to put the plight of the Syrian people first, to support the UN-led political process under the auspices of the Special Envoy of the Secretary General, and adopt this text by consensus.
In the event we must have a vote on this text, we urge all delegations to vote in favour of the text as drafted.