51st Session of the Human Rights Council: Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression

Human Rights Council - 51st session

Item 4: Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression

Statement by Iceland

23 September 2022

Mr. President,

We thank the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine for the oral update.

We continue to witness systematic violations and abuses of international humanitarian law and human rights law by Russia in Ukraine. Russia´s complete disregard for human lives is appalling, confirmed by sickening reports of mass graves and atrocities in areas recaptured by the Ukrainian armed forces.

Evidence of filtration camps in Russian occupied territory in Ukraine are extremely disturbing and bring back painful memories of Europe´s past. Reports of forced transfers of unaccompanied Ukrainian children to Russia are likewise chilling. These cannot and will not be tolerated.

Along with the immediate damage and destruction, where civilians and civilian infrastructure, are the primary victims, Russia’s war will have devastating long-term consequences on the Ukrainian population, not least young people and future generations. Scars caused by war take long to heal.

Mr President.

Iceland strongly condemns Russia´s plans for "referendums". They are a clear violation of international law and their outcomes can never be respected.

We once again call on Russia to respect international humanitarian law and human rights law.

Iceland stands in full unity with the people of Ukraine and demands the withdrawal of all Russian military personnel and equipment from Ukraine.

Thank you.