Human Rights Council 40: Syria
The UK thanked the Commission for its latest updates, but raised concerns regarding arbitrary detention and restrictions to humanitarian access.
Thank you, Mr President,
The UK reiterates its support for the important work of the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria. We are grateful for the latest update, including its focus on the plight of Syrians in areas recently recaptured by the regime. It is clear that Syria is far from returning to normal, with citizens’ rights routinely violated and access to basic services denied.
The UK shares the Commission’s concern about arbitrary detention, including in recently-recaptured areas. We note the Commission’s finding that those most likely to be victims of arbitrary detention include activists, civil defence volunteers, recent returnees and others perceived to be opposition supporters. This has often happened despite prior commitments and subsequent denials by the regime and its backers. Such behaviour will do nothing to alleviate the legitimate fears of Syrian IDPs and refugees hoping to return to their homes.
We also welcome the continued focus on humanitarian access, including to Rukban camp. The report is clear that the Syrian authorities have routinely and arbitrarily denied consent for aid deliveries. The UK wholeheartedly endorses the Commission’s call for unimpeded, unconditional and sustained humanitarian access.
Mr Pinheiro,
Given further appalling reports about killings of detainees, will the Commission continue to investigate this practice and be in a position to estimate the numbers who have died in regime detention since 2011?
Thank you.