Mr. President,
Estonia aligns with the EU statement.
We sincerely thank the High Commissioner and his Office for the commitment to protect and promote human rights worldwide. We reaffirm our support to the independence and integrity of your office. We are alarmed by the global suppression of fundamental freedoms and persistent violations of human rights.
Allow me to highlight a few contexts:
First, we express our concern regarding the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. The use of humanitarian aid for political or military purposes is a violation of international law.
Second, we are strongly committed to ensuring full accountability for all crimes committed in connection with Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. Recent escalation through intensive rocket and drone attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity and are part of a broader genocidal strategy. It shows Russia has no intent towards genuine conflict resolution and sustainable peace.
Third, in Russia itself, all human rights have been suppressed – a state that violates international law abroad does so also at home.
Finally, we must commit to international law, not depart from it. We agree, High Commissioner, that we need more human rights – not less – to the benefit of all rights-holders everywhere. The UN80 exercise should be used to protect and strengthen the UN human rights pillar.
Thank you!